Blairgowrie & Rattray Hub Magazine - Autumn 21

News & Articles
Blairgowrie Riding for
the Disabled is under
starter’s orders to
welcome back riders
– and we can’t wait to
see everyone!
We’re finalising our plans to reopen for
activities now that social distancing rules are
being relaxed and are hopeful that we’ll be
back open for business in the next few weeks.
Rhona Christie, chair of Blairgowrie RDA,
said: “We’re really excited to be taking the last
few steps that will enable us to open up again
for our riders. It’s been a long and difficult
18 months for the charity as we have had no
income from lessons since lockdown began in
March 2020.
“But throughout that time, we’ve had incredible
support from the local community – our virtual
balloon race in June was a great success, we’ve
welcomed new volunteers to our team and we’ve
received a number of generous donations from
local groups and individuals.
It’s hoped that lessons for local
schoolchildren will restart in early autumn
and we’re excited to announce that we will
also be able to offer private lessons for adults
with disabilities now that our lovely new
horse Claire has joined our herd.
As well as preparing for reopening, our group
has been busy with other activities, including
taking part in the Wellmeadow Walkathon
in July to raise funds for ‘Happy to chat,
happy to listen’ benches in memory of local
youngster Jordan Hart.
Rhona said: “As a charity that supports people
with a range of physical and mental health
issues, the Walkathon is a cause that is very
close to our hearts and we were very proud to
be involved in this fundraising venture.”
An event not to be missed is our coffee
morning at Airlie Hall in Alyth in September
(we have some amazing bakers among our
volunteers!) and look out for our charity shop
in Howe’s store in Blairgowrie in October,
when there will be some real bargains on
offer. More details will be posted on our
Facebook page.
The volunteers and ponies at Blairgowrie
RDA at their training session ahead of the
group reopening for lessons
“Thanks to them – and the hard work of our
volunteers – we are in a very good position to
continue our work in the community and are
looking forward to celebrating our belated
Golden Jubilee in 2022. We’re sure it will be
worth the wait!”
Our volunteers – and ponies – have recently
completed two days of training to ensure that
our visitors will be welcomed back to a safe,
secure and fun environment.
Remember, too, that you can help fundraise
for our group without it costing a penny
through the Co-op’s Local Community Fund
and Amazon Smile – visit
https://blairgowrierda.co.uk/support-us/
to find out more.
If you’re interested in finding out more about
Blairgowrie RDA, including volunteering or
lessons, visit our website at
www.blairgowrierda.co.uk, where you’ll also
find details about how to join our popular Clip
Clop Club 100 draw and much, much more.
And check out our Facebook page at
www.facebook.com/BlairgowrieRDA where we
share lots of photos and updates.
Page 42 BRDT Magazine - Autumn 2021