Horse gifted in memory of late wife

WYFOLD Riding for the Disabled has a new horse thanks to a donation.

John Price, from Henley, made the donation to celebrate his 50 years’ membership of the Freemasons and in memory of his late wife Iris, who was a member and fundraiser for the Chester & Wirral Group of Riding for the Disabled for many years.

The money was bolstered by a donation from the Oxfordshire Provincial Grand Lodge of Freemasons in appreciation of his service.

Mr Price, a member of Regattas Lodge that meets in Henley, said: “It is a proud moment for me to make this donation in Iris’s memory. She held the charity very close to her heart — quite an irony for a lady who was afraid of horses all her life.

“Charity is very important to Freemasons and it’s a lesser-known fact that all masonic donations are made from monies collected from the membership. Through our grants to local and national charities, Freemasons are helping to tackle some of the most important issues facing society. With grants totalling £5.5 million each year, we are helping thousands of people in local communities to live happy, fulfilling lives and participate more actively in society.”

The new driving horse, named Bumble, is a 12-year-old Comtois, a French draft horse known for its pulling power and sturdy frame. He is dark chestnut with a flaxen mane and tail.

Gill Rushworth, fundraising co-ordinator for the charity, said: “This is an amazingly generous donation and we shall keep in close contact with John to let him know about Bumble’s progress. We are so grateful to the wonderful Masons who are always so supportive of our charity.”

Mr Price is also planning to make a donation to Guide Dogs For The Blind.

Pictured with Bumble are, left to right, are Chelsi Gardner (volunteer), Huw Shooter (Regattas Lodge) John Price, Gill Rushworth and James Hilditch (head of Oxfordshire Freemasons).