Riding for the Disabled Wilton opens outdoor riding school

Members of Wilton's Riding for the Disabled Group, which works to enhance the lives of disabled children and adults through engaging activities centred around horses, put the new facility through its paces on Saturday, October 26.

A fundraising campaign generated more than £16,000 to allow the group to replace the old riding school, which was not fit for purpose after many years of use.

The group also benefitted from a £7,500 grant from Sport England.

Jackie Worral speaks at the opening (Image: Spencer Mulholland) The new arena, opened by chair of trustees Jackie Worrall and the Earl of Pembroke, will allow outdoor riding to continue in a safe environment “for many more years”.

Work to dismantle and clear the old outdoor school began in August, and the new surface – plus a modern field shelter – were completed earlier this month.

Jackie said: “We are obviously delighted that we reached our target and so have received the £7,500 award from Sport England.

“Thank you so much to all our supporters for their generosity and concern for Wilton RDA (Riding for the Disabled Group) and the Pembroke Centre.”

Crowds watch on as the new facility is opened (Image: Spencer Mulholland) When construction was finished on the new shelter, a Riding for the Disabled spokesperson said: “What a transformation!

“After three decades of loyal service, the old field shelter was finally dismantled, paving the way for a wonderful new addition to the ponies’ home.

“This modern shelter, with its spacious design and wider opening, offers improved access for the bigger ponies, ensuring they can easily seek refuge from the elements.”