Riders from Tyne and Wear Riding for the Disabled Group will soon have a new horse to ride, thanks to utility company npower.
The company has donated £3,200 to Washington Riding Centre where the group is based to buy a new horse.
The riding centre has been caring for the needs of disabled people since 1977 and stables 20 horses, one of which, Barney, has been on loan but will be returning to his owner this month.
Centre manager, Jane Cherry, said replacing Barney will be a challenge but thanks to npower’s donation they can start looking.
She said: “Our core commitment is to provide affordable, accessible and challenging riding and horse-based activities for children and adults with physical, mental or learning difficulties.
“Our riders are encouraged and supported to ride at their level of choice and ambition and the temperaments of our horses are paramount to the success of the riders. Barney is a gentle giant and we shall be looking carefully at the personality of his replacement.”
npower’s community investment manager Gary Doig guided the funding application through the company’s donation system.
He said: “Washington Riding Centre provides 130 lessons per week, many for local people, and it relies on the tireless support of volunteers, who give their time and fund-raising enthusiasm.
“It’s great that we have been able to give financial support and look forward to meeting the new addition to the stables.”
