Celebrating 50 years of Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled
Osborne attended the Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled (GDRA) 50th Anniversary and the launch of their mechanical horse project recently.
The Riding Centre was established in 1979 and is a dedicated space giving children and adults with special needs and disabilities the opportunity to ride horses and interact with friends.
The school is extremely popular, with a long waiting list of riders who want to have lessons and take advantage of the exercise. Due to high demand, the centre has decided to purchase a mechanical horse. This will mean that more riders will be able to enjoy the centre as it can carry more weight, can be ridden in all weathers as it will be housed, meaning more adults and teenagers can benefit.
At the event, children had the opportunity to ride the horses, a local Ferrier gave demonstrations, and there was a variety of food from local burgers to homemade cakes. There were also a number of activities for all ages to get stuck into including: raffles, tombola’s and guess the weight of Jimbob the horse!
Osborne helped with the side walking of the pony rides, serving refreshments and cleaning up after everyone had gone home.
Chris Grant from the GDRA said: “Thank you for all of your hard work, despite the weather we raised £977 with another £600 from online donations so we have the mechanical horse project off the starting blocks!”
Jo Fletcher, Head of Engagement said; “This centre is absolutely incredible. They offer such a valuable and positive experience for its users. The mechanical horse is a huge investment but know the return will truly be realised. We look forward to continuing to support this project.”
