In the mid 1960's nine Riding for the Disabled Groups in Britain united to form a national organisation. By 1969 the Riding for the Disabled Association was formed with 80 Groups. Currently there are over 700 Groups in the U.K offering riding and carriage driving to over 25,000 disabled people, all made possible by the dedication of over 15,000 volunteers.

The Clydesdale Group was formed in 1984 in conjunction with Stanmore House School. The Group met every Monday at the Old Brig Stables, Kirkfieldbank. Demand for riding facilities for the disabled of this Community grew annually and was such that we moved to larger stables in Carluke then in 1993 to Sunnyside where we have sole use of the riding facilities and use of ponies owned by or lent to the Group. We now have a roll of 46 disabled riders and a waiting list.

The Clydesdale Group operates every Monday mornings, afternoons and evenings and Wednesday afternoons and evenings. The riders come from Stanmore House School, Victoria Park School, Craighead School and individuals who come with their parents in the evenings.

There is still room for expansion in this area but we cannot take any more riders until we have more voluntary helpers. Up to three people are needed for each disabled rider. You don't have to know about horses or disabilities, help and training are given. A cheery smile, commitment for 1 or 2 hours a week, a pair of wellies, sensible non-crackly clothes and you are all set to go.

Please join our happy Group. For further information contact -

Mrs Jan Ross 01555 860666

Mrs Margaret Weir 01555 665577

Mrs Marian Maclelland 01555 770857