Jean Bedford, a lifelong Willington village resident, has been awarded an MBE in the Queens Birthday Honours List 2014 for services to people with disabilities in Bedfordshire.
Jean is a founder member of Bedford and District Handicapped Riders Association and has worked tirelessly as a volunteer for 53 years. Jean, aged 73, is passionate about the charity and remains active on the management committee and on the board of trustees.
Bedford and District Handicapped Riders Association has a purpose built riding centre in Willington and numerous volunteers work together to enrich the lives of children and adults with both physical and psychological disabilities.
Riding and the therapeutic interaction with the horses provides physiotherapy in a subtle and fun way which enables the riders to gain a sense of achievement and enjoyment. BDHRA’s long held aim is that ‘Riding days are always happy days’.
Jean says “It is a great honour to have been awarded an MBE and I am delighted that this worthwhile charity has been recognised. I would like to acknowledge and thank all the people who enable this charity to continue with its good work, especially the voluntary helpers, the trustees, the management committee and the general public who generously support us.”