A SINNINGTON stables and riding school has gained accreditation meaning it can offer more riding opportunities to disabled people.

Friars Hill Stables gained the accreditation by signing up for the Accessibility Mark scheme.

The Accessibility Mark scheme was launched by Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), in partnership with Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s (BEF) participation programme. It was designed to encourage those who do not already partake in equestrian activities, or would not usually have the opportunity to do so, to experience the many benefits that riding can bring.

Alison Brown, owner of the family-run stables, said: "Friars Hill caters for riders of all abilities, from complete beginners to the more advanced riders, including disabled riders in our RDA group. We decided to apply for the Accessibility Mark accreditation as we saw it as the next step to providing a wider variety of sessions, offering our clients more choice.

"The training day carried out by our Accessibility Mark Support Officer was incredibly helpful and informative, and the use of role play really helped me and my staff to understand some of the difficulties faced by disabled riders."

Accessibility Mark status is awarded to a riding centre that has been approved by the RDA following training and assessment. The close link with the RDA means that it can offer continuous support to the establishment. There are currently 23 Accessibility Mark approved centres across the country.

Ms Brown added: "Riding can be enormously rewarding as well as a fun way to get fit, promoting a feeling of well-being both during and after riding. The social aspect of participating in any group activity is also a great way of boosting confidence."

Friars Hill has been a Pony Club approved centre since 1999. It has facilities including two indoor schools, run by British Horse Society instructors, which provide lessons all year round and in all conditions.

For more information on the RDA and the Accessibility Mark, visit rda.org.uk