We are half way between the Winter Solstice and Spring Equinox this weekend and it’s a comforting thought that it is officially Spring next month. This week, although we were expecting to ride indoors, some unexpected milder winter weather gave us the opportunity to get outdoors and engage with Mother Nature, enjoying the fresh air, the natural daylight and the sounds and sights of the … Continue reading →
It’s been such a mixed bag and a half of weather lately but with the snow slowly lifting and green fields appearing we were delighted to welcome everyone back. Despite the misty, murky, chilly weather everyone came in with bright smiles and one less layer of thermal clothing! Well done to our riders and thank you to the team of helpers, always full of warmth and kindness. As you can imagine, there were countless cuddles … Continue reading →
Brrrr! That was a surprise start to the new term with snow arriving in Sussex meaning LFRDA was cancelled and time off for the team. The horses are being well cared for, keeping on their winter woollies, making snow angels, having extra hay and an extra holiday. Sorry to disappoint riders this week but we don’t want to compromise the safety of anyone involved by taking any risks with humans and horses. Snowfall at the … Continue reading →
Lovely to see the horses and ponies all wrapped up soaking up all the cosy holiday vibes and having a break from their usual activities. It’s valuable time for them to have a rest with their friends and let their hair down. Horses fill their owner’s life, they never stop needing care 365 days a year. It’s a round-the-clock responsibility, even on Christmas Day which, to equines, is simply yet another day for being with … Continue reading →
Dear friends, we hope you had a wonderful Christmas. To anyone who struggles and finds it difficult, for whatever reason at this time of year, we send out love and hugs 💜 As we jump into 2025 we have a whole year ahead of us but, before we leave the old year completely behind, it’s a great time to hit the pause button and just take a moment to reflect and give thanks to all … Continue reading →
Whoo-hoo-hoo! The wait is over, it’s Christmas Eve! The horses and ponies have heard a rumour to look out tonight for that shining light of Santa’s sleigh moving across the sky. We’re sure they will share one or two of their carrots with the reindeer 🦌 Wishing a Merry Christmas to all our friends, supporters and those that visit our website. Wherever, whatever and however you celebrate we wish every single one of you a … Continue reading →
This week we were donning our festive headwear for our end of term fun sessions. Our Christmas-accessorised horses didn’t bat an eyelid decked in all their festive finery, they took everything in their stride, just like another day at the office for them, jingle bells and all! The riders completed an obstacle course against the clock, they showed off their balance, control and steering skills. The riders were very competitive and there was plenty of … Continue reading →
We love a winner! Congratulations to volunteer, Purple Pat, who won our Christmas Raffle after Chestnuts owner, Richard, kindly picked out the winning ticket at our Christmas session. Pat declared she never wins anything so let it be known you can actually win things now and again, never say never! All credit to Secretary, Barbara, for organising and putting together the hamper full of gorgeous goodies. In addition, thank you to the volunteers who also … Continue reading →
The group were saddened to hear of the unexpected passing of Chris, a long time friend and supporter of LFRDA. He was such a gem of a man, very caring and always had a smile for others. It was a pleasure to welcome him to the group when he visited us and he cared deeply in helping others less fortunate. He will be greatly missed by everyone in our community and we are beyond grateful … Continue reading →
When the weather is blowing a hooley it makes us realise how lucky we are to have the facilities at Chestnuts, being able to ride indoors when the weather outside is frightful is such a privilege. This week everyone got warmed up with plenty of exercises and games. The brilliant volunteers, horses and riders did a great job with everyone having a smile on their face and, if that wasn’t enough to smile about, our … Continue reading →
We are ending our fundraising year on a high with a wonderful Christmas raffle! There is something extra special about a festive hamper and Christmas wouldn’t be the same without one. Thank you to group Secretary Barbara for organising this A-MA-ZING hamper which includes additional donations from the volunteers 👏 Tickets are £1 and the draw takes place on the 11 December. By entering our raffle you have an opportunity to win this hamper, which … Continue reading →
Here comes the sun! 🌞 It’s been nice to see the sun and enjoy a break from the gloomy weather. At the stables it’s been a blaze of Autumn glory! Such a treat to be blessed by the November sunshine whilst enjoying some nature therapy. The riders, supported by our amazing volunteers, have been showing us some wonderful riding and the horses have been equally wonderful too 🐴
Continue reading →With Halloween and firework night over, the attention was turned into getting into some Christmas spirit on Saturday at the Henfield Charities Fair. A fantastic morning saw our volunteers being fab festive elves and raising a brilliant £302.50. The amount of visitors coming over to our stall was humbling, several returning again and again, it was a morning full of pleasant moments, festive fun and kind people. Well, that’s a wrap for this year’s Charities … Continue reading →
Remembering and honouring the courageous humans and animals in service 💜💜💜
Continue reading →Christmas is coming and so is the Henfield Charities Christmas Fair, tomorrow 10am – 1pm! We have an amazing selection of tombola prizes that have been donated by the very generous Long Furlong Community. It’s a great opportunity to get a head start on your Christmas shopping, with plenty of crafty creations available whilst feeling good about supporting your favourite charity!! 💜 Please come along with your family and friends and enjoy getting into … Continue reading →