Disabled riders' national exposure

Having qualified at a regional event earlier in the year, the riders, volunteers and ponies from Pendle RDA group in Barnoldswick were able to compete having received a travel grant thanks to players of People’s Postcode Lottery.

Coach Kate Bailey said: “It was a fantastic experience for all of us.

“The RDA National Championships brings riders and carriage drivers together from all over the UK and it was a really special weekend. We are grateful to players of People’s Postcode Lottery for making it possible for us to attend.”

The National Championships, organised by the charity Riding for the Disabled Association, is the biggest event of its kind in the world, bringing together hundreds of disabled competitors, with more than 90 classes taking place over three days.

In the past, the event has provided a springboard for Paralympians including Sophie Christiansen, Natasha Baker and Lee Pearson – all of whom started their careers with the support of RDA.

RDA is dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities through horse riding, carriage driving and hippotherapy. The group is reliant on voluntary help, donations and legacies to deliver its services. To donate please visit www.rda.org.uk.