Charity marks 60 years teaching disabled riders
BBCA woman says a riding school gives her "freedom" as it celebrates its 60th year of teaching disabled people how to ride.
Becky Andrews is one of 170 riders who go to Cotswold Riding for the Disabled (RDA) every week, far more than the 12 pupils it taught when it was founded in 1965.
After the lease on its former site expired in 1979, Cotswold RDA was able to reopen at Cheltenham Racecourse in 1982, where it remains.
The celebrations on Sunday included singing, musical riding performances, a garden party and a cake decorating competition.
While it was between sites, riders had their lessons at the field at The Apple Tree in Woodmancote during what Chris Adcock, a former RDA member, described as a "frantic time" for the association.
But in 1982, HRH Princess Anne opened Cotswold RDA's new site at Cheltenham Racecourse.
"She drove herself here, which was a shock to start with," Ms Adcock said.
"She gave a rosette to every single rider... there were 125 present. It was an individual moment for each rider and it's never been forgotten."
Ms Andrews said the ponies at Cotswold RDA were "so beautiful, patient, and kind".
"This is the highlight of my week, to get out of your wheelchair and ride a horse is just an amazing feeling," she said.
"The freedom you get is the one time other than when I'm asleep that I'm out of a wheelchair.
"We're very lucky to have it as part of our community."
Debbie Powell, general manager, said the team and riders were "incredibly excited" to celebrate the 60th anniversary of the RDA which was a "magical" place to work.
"We all know the power of animals but the movement a horse gives a rider is so beneficial and has a huge impact for their disabilities," she said.
"Riding a pony once a week can really maintain somebody's muscle tone and help them go on and do everyday tasks."
"Nearly every day there's a tear in my eye, something incredible happens here."
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