New Lodge RDA centre wins £3,000 Christmas bonus

New Lodge Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) has received a £3000 Christmas bonus after securing a Natwest Community funding award for its riding centre.

New Lodge RDA is a member of the newly reformed London Horse Network (LHN) — a group set up to help local riding centres with fund-raising and marketing.

The centre was a short-listed by its local Natwest branch in Chislehurst and secured the award with the most online votes.

Hilary Crawford, manager of New Lodge RDA said: “I’d like the thank everyone who voted and also the British Equestrian Federation’s HOOF-Ride London Olympic Legacy project for their encouragement with our bid.

Chairman of the LHN, Jodie Maile, added: “This was a great way for the LHN to support one of its members.”

New Lodge RDA will use the £3000 funding to help source better quality, more affordable hay to feed its horses and ponies.

The riding centre provides a service for children and adults with physical and sensory special needs and learning difficulties. It has around 100 regular riders and provides lessons six days every week.

Hilary Crawford added: “I feel as if Christmas has come early. We’re looking forward to the New Year as we have two new horses on the team. We are also hoping to have a representative running in the London Marathon.

For more information on New Lodge RDA, including volunteering and supporting, email: Hilary.crawford@virgin.net or tel: (02088) 516447.

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