We were so lucky to have a crisp, sunny but very cold day to celebrate Christmas with the children from the Ivel Valley School, Ridgeway, The Grange and Willington CP.
The ponies were tacked up in the new outdoor menage and our Guest of Honour, Mrs Susan Lousada, His Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant, took a close interest being a keen horsewoman herself.
Mrs Susan Lousada, Lord Lieutenant and Sarah Jewers (Elf)
The nativity play was depicted on horseback to the delight of over 100 children and our honoured guests after which the children participated in party games. Santa of course made an appearance and our guests included some very special people who between them have given over 100 years of volunteering to BDHRA but they have recently retired.
Mary Darrington, Helen Dunster and Brenda Woodham
We received a very generous donation from Bill Walker of The Aesopians Golf Society from John O’Gaunt Golf Club which was received on our behalf by The Lord Lieutenant.
Bill Walker and Mrs Susan Lousada , Lord Lieutenant
The Aesopians have been supporters of the BDHRA for many, many years since in fact their formation in 1987.
We also received a donation from Mr Lionel Stewart from NARPO (National Association of Retired Police Officers) who nominated us as their charity this year. We are grateful to both organisations for their continued support because it all really does help us enormously in ensuring Riding Days are Happy Days, for so many children.
Jean Bedford and Lionel Stewart
We are grateful to all our other guests and friends who made donations on the day as well.