Ludlow RDA provide riding and carriage driving activities for both children and adults who can benefit in some way, however small, from participation in the activities. They are based at Country Treks, Stottesdon in South Shropshire, where there are excellent facilities for riding and jumping in the large arena, along with an outdoor riding track round a 30 acre nature reserve.

Following the pandemic Ludlow RDA applied for and was successful in gaining just over £800 from the Sport England Tackling Inequalities Fund. This enabled them to purchase a wide range of equipment from straps and reins to dressage markers and even small model ponies to help younger children learn all about horse care. All of this has been vital in ensuring the continuity of high level instruction and effective riding sessions at the centre.

The riders all benefit from the physical exercise provided by the horses, strengthening muscle tone, improving posture, and helping with limb strength. But in addition, it enables them to understand instructions and communicate better in a safe and positive learning environment.

“My daughter really enjoys coming to the sessions, the equipment makes the sessions fun and engaging for her. It has really helped her confidence and she enjoys being able to have this time for her" 

The organisation has also been successful in gaining funding from Screw Fix to build a mounting platform for the riders. Along with Sport England’s Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Activity Funding, this has enabled them to create The Gruffalo Trail. This is a trail, landscaped and stoned, providing a safe footing for both riders and volunteers to walk down the trail and spot the wood carvings along the way. The varied terrain challenges the riders’ balance, posture and their control of the horse, while having fun finding the Gruffalo story characters in the woodland.

Not surprisingly, Ludlow & District RDA now have more demand for places than they are able to cope with.

More information on Ludlow & District RDA can be found on their Facebook page