Buses help raise funds for disabled riding centre

16 Jan 2020

A horse riding centre for the disabled has started the New Year with a £1,000 donation.

The Thanet Disabled Riding Centre was presented with the cheque last week by Patrick Clarke from bus company Stagecoach.

“We collected over £600 from public donations on the free park and ride service for Kent County Cricket Club’s charity fireworks evening” said Patrick.

Stagecoach, who run the service on behalf of Canterbury City Council, topped up the amount raised to £1,000.

The riding centre is self-funded and relies heavily on donations to keep going. All money donated goes towards the general running of the stables, feed, insurances, vets bills, equipment and bedding. Each week the centre helps around 50 children or adults who suffer from disabilities by providing riding lessons or just time with the horses.

Nora Setterfield, 80, who runs the centre with the help of a team of dedicated volunteers said, “It really means a lot and has completely lifted all of us. It costs about £150 a day to keep the stables ticking over, so it’s crucial we get regular funds coming in.”

To find out more about the riding centre and how to volunteer or donate, visit www.tdrc.org.uk or call 01843 863481.

From left to right, volunteers Holly Thurman-Newell and Juliette Norris, Patrick Clarke from Stagecoach, centre manager Nora Setterfield and volunteer Dan Collier. Not forgetting the stables dog ‘Fred’ and horses Lola (dark brown) and Bee (Palomino) who are part of a six strong horse team who work so hard to give every child as much fun and enjoyment as possible.