Grants open up new route for disabled riders

11:58am Saturday 19th July 2008

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A riding group for people with disabilities has been awarded grants worth £15,000.

Haworth Riding for Disabled has been given £5,000 by Bradford Council and £10,000 by the National Lottery.

The money from the council will allow the group to create a fenced countryside walk on one side of its fields.

Association secretary Jackie Butterfield said: "This is unique as it will provide a very interesting activity for the riders to experience, as opposed to a lesson on the flat surface in the school. They'll be riding on a sloping terrain which will require more muscle power and balance.

"It will also be educational as the riders will have the opportunity to experience the delights of nature from the back of a horse on different terrain.

"The group is very fortunate to offer this experience to the riders."

The Awards for All lottery money will pay for an extension to the riding school and NVQ training for volunteers.

Jackie added: "We are looking to recruit more volunteers. This is a very rewarding vocation for anyone who cares to give up a few hours a week to assist in providing lessons to the many children and adults who come to the stables.

"The age limit is from 12 years and upwards and there are many different roles within the group, such as assisting with the horses, taking bookings, office duties and fundraising."

Anyone interested should contact Jackie on 01535 644375.