Forres, Nairn and District Riding For the Disabled receives support from Adam Family plus Gordon and Ena Baxter foundations

A group which uses ponies to enrich the lives of both young and old in Moray has received some welcome support.

Forres, Nairn and District Riding For the Disabled, despite its annual overheads of £27,000, doesn't charge its riders or their schools.

The RDA group's good work has been recognised by two local foundations this month.

Sarah Rollo, manager of the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation, said: "Over the last 40 years, this group has provided hundreds of young people with safe and managed contact with horses, with all the benefits that these therapeutic sessions bring.

"In addition, they are now helping those with dementia through the fantastic Tea with a Pony initiative. We are delighted to be supporting this hard-working team by providing new barriers as well as storage for their essential equipment, which we know will be put to good use."

Lisa Nairn, from the Adam Family Foundation, was also full off praise.

She said: "The physical and mental benefits of being in contact with horses are well known. This group works so hard to make sessions available and, ultimately, it enriches lives."

The Adam Family Foundation has donated £2000 towards running costs, plus £500 for the Tea With A Pony sessions.

Meanwhile, the Gordon and Ena Baxter Foundation awarded just over £800 to pay for equipment.

Emma Gregg, the riding group's chairwoman, said: "We are very gratified that our work is recognised as valuable.

"It is critical that we do not take our foot off the pedal. Continuity is so important for our participants."

Forres, Nairn and District Riding For the Disabled is based at Miltonduff.

To sponsor one of its ponies or to donate funds, visit forresnairnrda.org.uk or email zillahj@btinternet.com