Stables reopens after strangles outbreak

A centre for disabled riders is up and running again after an outbreak of strangles forced it to close.

The Conquest Centre for Disabled Riders at Taunton, Somerset, underwent a six-month shutdown because of the highly infections respiratory disease.

Ten out of the 14 strong herd were affected, with all but one making a full recovery.

Hilary Cumming, stable director, said she believed the strangles had been brought in with a new pony from a dealer in Holland.

Since re-opening the centre is accommodating between 130-140 disabled riders for lessons each week.

A recent Open and Awareness Day, which included the opening of a new isolation stable, raised in excess of £1,000 for the charity.

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