Harry Hall and Caldene step in to help RDA after £15,000 theft
An equestrian retailer has stepped in to help out after a Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) centre was broken into this week.
More than £15,000 worth of tack — including 14 saddles and 14 bridles — was stolen from Barrow Farm riding centre in Essex.
The theft happened between 10pm on Monday 7 December and 8.50am on Tuesday 8 December.
The centre has temporarily closed. This means the 100 children and adults who have lessons there will be unable to ride until more tack is sourced.
But now Harry Hall and Caldene have donated equipment to the centre.
“Along with other riders, we at Harry Hall and Caldene were appalled to hear about the burglary at this RDA group,” said a spokesman for the companies.
“Our brands encourage participation in horse sport at all levels, and no one does better work on this than Riding for the Disabled.
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“It’s been a pleasure to organise a parcel of new bridles, brushing boots, and other goods to send to the centre to help them get their riders out again as soon as possible.”
The centre is calling for people in the area to keep their eyes open for tack for sale. All the centre’s tack is marked so is identifiable. Essex police are currently investigating the break in.
“We are appalled and saddened by this burglary, which has devastated a vital and much loved charity,” an RDA spokesman told H&H.
“We have offered the group what help and support we can — including an emergency grant — and we understand they are being hugely supported by offers of help and donations in the local area.
“If any good can come of this thoughtless and cold-hearted crime, it is the out-pouring of generosity and kindness shown to Barrow Farm RDA — for which I know they are truly grateful.”
Anyone with any information is urged to contact Essex police on 101.
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A graduate of Exeter University, Amy joined our news team from Redpin Publishing in 2008 as news writer. She was promoted to deputy news editor in May 2013 and became news editor in April 2015. She left Horse & Hound in March 2016 to take up an editorial position in Dubai.