The Ruddington branch of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) is among those in the Borough set to benefit from extra cash this year thanks to the current Mayor of Rushcliffe.
Cllr Debbie Mason was elected as Mayor on May 25th 2023 for a period of 12 months. It is customary for the incoming Mayor to select and support a favourite local charity for the year, and Cllr Mason chose RDA – which helps school children with learning difficulties to ride for therapy and enjoyment.
She revealed: “I have a real passion for horses and all animals so my chosen charity is dear to my heart – and a very worthwhile charity that helps all ages and all abilities. Please support them in the next 12 months.”
Recently, representatives from the six RDA Groups based in the Rushcliffe Borough, including Ruddington, were invited by the Mayor to the ‘2023 Rushcliffe Civic Dinner’ held at the Nottinghamshire County Cricket Club at Trent Bridge {top photo courtesy of RDA}. This was an occasion when RDA volunteers were publicly thanked and recognised for all their hard work and dedication.
Acting Regional Chair for the RDA’s North Midlands region, Dawn Whitmore-Kirby, said: “I felt honoured to be invited to represent North Midlands RDA Region with the 6 fellow volunteers – one from each group in the Rushcliffe Borough Council area. It was great to hear how much the RBC values the work done by their local RDA Groups and publicly thanked all the volunteers in every group for making this possible. They also recognising the positive impact the riding sessions have on our participants and the local community. We look forward to the continued relationship and their support.”
RDA Ruddington Group is a registered charity, run entirely by volunteers, and is totally self-funded. It holds fundraising events in our village several times a year. Unfortunately, when the former equestrian centre at Lees Farm on Asher Lane closed down, the Ruddington Group was forced to relocate out of the village – and now operates on a Thursday afternoon during term time at The Meadows School of Riding in Normanton-On-Soar.
Founder member and trustee of the Ruddington group, Diana Haddon, told RUDDINGTON.info: “Riding helps these children with special needs in many ways. It strengthens the body generally, helps with their balance and core strength. It helps with communication, understanding and acting on instructions. According to their teachers, riding is the highlight of the children’s week.”
If you’d like further information about Ruddington Group RDA, or would like to help, you’re asked to please contact Mrs Patricia Steven via patriciasteven@btinternet.com.
