Charity fair success on chilly day

WYFOLD Riding for the Disabled raised more than £2,000 at its Christmas fair.

About 130 adults plus children attended the event in Kingwood, which featured a Santa’s grotto, a raffle, hampers, bottle tombola, lucky dip, games, hot dogs, homemade soup and tea and cakes.

Volunteers were surprised at the size of the turnout on such a cold day.

Gillian Rushworth, the charity’s fundraising
co-ordinator, said: “It felt like arctic conditions so we were amazed at the turnout. It was wonderful.

“We have lots of loyal supporters and we are very grateful. The volunteers were absolutely fantastic too. It was so cold but they stood there all afternoon. They did a valiant job.

“We had a great time. A lot of our disabled riders went to the Santa’s grotto and the sun came out.”

Meanwhile, the charity has received donations to replace out of date and damaged riding hats which are worn by its disabled riders and drivers.

Sonning Common Women’s Institute donated £300, Henley Rotary Club gave £250 and Ray Still, whose granddaughter Lottie Walker rides with the charity, provided £400.

The WI raises money for local charities through its monthly coffee mornings organised by Marion Bayliss and Barbara Saddler.

The two women went to the stables to present a cheque to Jill Goodall, the Tuesday team coach, and the volunteers and riders.

Mrs Rushworth said: “We would like to say a very big thank-you to all these wonderful people.”