Riding for the Disabled students receive awards

FIVE students from the Henley Group of Riding for the Disabled have received awards.

Chloe Greaves, Estelle Quartermaine, Alice Sharman, Marcus Snow and Bella Mays, who are from The Henley College’s Pathways group, were presented with grade 2 disabled proficiency test certificates and rosettes for horse care and knowledge by Jeremy Brazil, the group’s president.

Volunteers run free weekly sessions at Checkendon Equestrian Centre during school term time/

Riding coach Wendy Farmer said: “Many of our riders have mobility issues and riding horses helps them to strengthen their core muscles and improves their co-ordination, which is extremely therapeutic.

“Consultants and physiotherapists often recommend riding as part of the treatment process.

“Also when these riders are on a horse they can move around freely, which they can never do for themselves.”

“They love to ride in the beautiful grounds at the equestrian centre and they love working with the horses as they form a special bond with them.

“To achieve the certificate they have to be able to ride a horse and stop them between poles and have knowledge of horse care.

“To have their efforts awarded is huge boost to their self-esteem.”

The Henley Riding Group for the Disabled meets every Wednesday in term time. The students are taught how to walk, trot and canter the horses.

For more information or to volunteer, email Wendy Farmer on wefarmer@hotmail.co.uk

Above, students and volunteers at Checkendon Equestrian Centre and right, Mr Brazil with Bella, Chloe, Alice, Estelle and Marcus.