St Leonard's Church, Forres coffee morning in memory of Les Clyne raises £1200 for Riding for the Disabled Association
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A LOCAL charity raised a record amount at its annual fundraiser in memory of a much loved horseman.
Forres, Nairn and District Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) held a coffee morning on Saturday, March 26 in memory of the late Les Clyne.
RDA chairwoman, Sonia Howell, said: “We lost a Forres legend when Les Clyne passed away at the age of 91 in 2019.
"He was a man of many parts - actor, soldier, comedian - but horses were such a huge part of his life, starting from his early years in the army.
"He was also very generous so when we were named recipients of his funeral collection we set up an annual memorial fundraiser to continue his legacy.”
Les Clyne set up the Forres Pony Trekking and Riding Centre where many local children learned to ride.
He also helped pioneer long distance trekking in the Highlands and was a member of the Northern Working Horse as well as Horse and Carriage societies.
One of his civic duties was his annual role of Herald on Horseback, announcing the newly appointed Gala Queen each year.
Les was also a supporter of the Varis Players and Forres Drama Group. He performed at Burns Society events and won the Bothy Ballads competition in Elgin.
Forres Nairn and District RDA delivers weekly term-time therapeutic riding sessions for children with disabilities from local primary and secondary schools.
The Covid pandemic prevented RDA from holding the event over the last two years, but they raised a record £1200 last month.
"We are so grateful to everyone who contributed," said Sonia. "The hall at St Leonard’s Church - where Les was also a lay preacher - was buzzing that morning.
"Thank you to those who attended and those who contributed raffle prizes, baking, bric a brac, toys, bottles and plants.
"And thank you to our volunteers for their hard work on the day, both in the kitchen and front of house. Those serving had a great daily steps result that day!"
The funds will continue Les’ legacy and cover the cost of one child’s riding for a year and beyond.
