And that’s a wrap folks for this riding term which has been everything we hoped for and much more! It was great to see everyone getting into the end of term spirit for our fun sessions and whilst the weatherman might have reported one thing the actual conditions were a bit different and yes, we had to dodge the showers at times but we’re going to ignore that and focus on the … Continue reading →
Some of our lovely bright summer rosettes ready for our fun sessions. We’re sure the riders will be very pleased to receive them and the horses will be very proud to wear them! There is just something about a rosette we all love and we can’t wait to hand them out! 😊
Continue reading →We are cantering through this term and we’re in full summer swing with another wonderful week. The horses gave their absolute best, the riders embraced every moment with a smile, all helped by the volunteers’ unstoppable spirit, we couldn’t wish for anything else. There’s plenty more fun and games to come next week but first let’s take a summer slowdown with a peaceful pause this weekend.
Continue reading →This week an absolute glorious morning was made even brighter by a visit from Jo and Sally from the Enjoolata Foundation. Thank you Jo and Sally for making our relationship with Enjoolata that much more special and we were thrilled to show you some of the activities we get up to, you had such a positive interaction with everyone including the foot perfect ponies. We are deeply honoured to be involved with such a … Continue reading →
Wow what a week, summer’s here folks! The weather has been incredible and the horses are looking great. The sun has definitely popped its hat on but luckily there’s always a shady spot nearby. Big praise to our super cool riders, volunteers and all star cast of experienced equines. Some days are full of sunshine, simple joys and little moments that make your heart smile and life magical🌞
Continue reading →Really nice write up here in the local Argus. Although we might not have over 4350 riders (yet!) it’s nonetheless a fantastic promotional piece in building RDA awareness.
Continue reading →Our birthday celebrations continued this week as we rolled out the red carpet for our special guests who came to celebrate with us. We were thrilled that Pauline, South-East Region Chair, and British Olympic, World and European gold medallist Tina Cook were able to join us and their presence made an already special session even more so. Each rider completed an imaginative obstacle course against the clock, well done to everyone, for “knocking it … Continue reading →
We all love a rosette and these yellow and gold beauties are warming things up here at LFRDA HQ! 😎 This week it will be rosettes all round for our lovely riders. Let the summer sessions bloom brightly, who’s excited?!
Continue reading →This week marks not only National Volunteers’ Week but also UK Coaching week and, as we come to the end of this special week, we would like to shine the spotlight and say thank you to our brilliant coaches here at LFRDA. Full credit to them as without their dedication we couldn’t do what we do. The coaches, along with the volunteer teams, make everything we do possible. Today let’s celebrate the invaluable contributions and … Continue reading →
Today marks the start of Volunteers’ Week which is a week-long celebration of the incredible difference volunteers make across the UK. Our dedicated volunteers are without a doubt the backbone of our organisation and we value them enormously. We appreciate everything they do to make LFRDA feel welcoming and like a home from home where everyone feels supported and loved. A massive thank you this week, and every week, to our volunteers, the unsung heroes … Continue reading →
Well done everyone for our super sessions this week, we had the perfect weather for a gentle walk in nature to put a smile on our faces. Even the horses were smiling and glowing with ‘health dapples’ – who doesn’t love a shiny dappled dude. With nature’s blossom falling like confetti into their tails, they looked like they were preparing for an equine wedding photoshoot. We spotted a swarm of bees across the … Continue reading →
Following some serious party planning the Trustees organised a 10th birthday lunch for the volunteers. It’s not often the purple teams get together in a large group without a horse or pony being there! Volunteer Val kindly masterminded not only one cake but two – they tasted as lovely as they looked. They were so detailed, even down to the quirky detail of a pony poop in the corner of the field shelter! A commemorative … Continue reading →
We’re celebrating our 10th birthday in a big way! We have to pinch ourselves that it was 10 years ago this new RDA group came on the block, starting from humble beginnings and, as they say, the rest is history. Our achievements are a credit to the collective efforts of immensely dedicated and talented people, and ponies, who have helped us get to where we are today and where we are going tomorrow. Whether you’re … Continue reading →
Thank you to the South-East Region for organising a training day on Saddlery Fitting which coaches Louise and Sarah-Jane attended. The course was delivered by Frances Roche, SMS Qualified Bridle Fitter, Master Bridle and Harness Maker, registered with the Society of Master Saddlers, and a Fellow of the Society of Master Saddlers and also Catherine Baker, Master Saddler, Master Bridle Maker, Registered Qualified Saddle Fitter, and Registered Qualified Bridle Fitter with the Society of Master … Continue reading →
We hope everybody had a good Easter like these equine superstars who have been enjoying a break from their usual RDA routines. Just like humans a holiday does wonders for their headspace, whether they’re cantering round the field enjoying springtime zoomies, or having moments of stillness lying in the grass watching the clouds drift by. They are receiving excellent daily care keeping them happy, healthy and safe. Just the sight of them with their … Continue reading →