Galloway branch of Riding for the Disabled Association launches appeal for helpers

02.12.2022 - 11:37 / dailyrecord.co.uk

The Galloway branch of the Riding for the Disabled Association has launched an urgent appeal for helpers.

The group, which has been in existence for more than 40 years, is facing closure unless more volunteers come forward.

And that would be a devastating blow for around 20 children and young adults who enjoy horse rides at Barstobrick near Ringford every Wednesday.

Secretary Penny Smith said: “Myself and Lucinda Scott took it on with the understanding it was just to get it up and running again.

“Neither of us is completely dedicated to horses in that respect and it needs someone that wants to do it.

“It’s a worthy cause because we have a lot of children and adults who don’t communicate terribly well but the joy they get out of going a ride on a pony is well worth the effort.

“We just can’t get the volunteers to help. We’re an ageing population of ladies and gentlemen who volunteer but have more and more personal commitments.

“It only needs two people who say they can’t do it and it’s not safe to ride out.”

Galloway RDA began life as Machards RDA in 1981, adopting its new name in 2017.

But if new volunteers aren’t found by the end of May it will be forced to close.

The club needs another coach as well as a chairman, secretary and volunteer co-ordinator.

An EGM to discuss the situation will be held at Barstobrick at 2pm on Wednesday, January 18.

Anyone who feels they can help should call 07765275211 or 01644450201 or email [email protected].