Monday 29 April 2013

Visit to The Brae

The beautiful ponies at the Brae Riding for the Disabled are looking particularly well groomed today after receiving a donation of new grooming kits from Barney’s Fund.     Along with two of my Barney's Fund committee colleagues, we had the pleasure of attending a presentation and photocall at The Brae at lunchtime today - see below:
Over the last 2 years, Barney’s Fund committee have been supporting local groups and charities who demonstrate an active role in fundraising for their group.  The Brae is a fine example of a community based initiative and since they opened their doors 5 years ago over 120 people from the disabled community have been able to ride to their level of ability in a fun and encouraging environment.  A rolling waiting list is testament to the centre’s popularity and also ensures that everyone in the disabled community, young and old, has the opportunity to experience the wide ranging benefits from specially structured riding and carriage driving sessions.  

The centre thrives thanks to the help of over 120 volunteers of all ages and walks of life.  The centre’s youngest volunteer is only 14 and the oldest is an impressive 91!  They do tireless fundraising activities as well as help deliver the riding and carriage driving sessions and carry out day to day horse and centre maintenance.  

Having visited the centre, I pointed out the far reaching benefit for the disabled riders and their families and the excellent community spirit of local volunteers who are more than happy to give up their own time to participate in the centre’s activities. 

“With much needed donation of funds such as the Barney’s Fund donation we can continue to provide a wonderful experience for 700 disabled people living in the Dundee and surrounding areas” said Brae Centre Manager, Mary Sneddon. 

If you would like to enquire about lessons at the Brae, make a donation or if you are interested in volunteering please visit their website at www.brae.org.uk  

Applications for Barney’s Fund donations are always welcome. Please send an application letter to Barney’s Fund Committee, Barnetts Motor Group, Riverside Drive, Dundee, DD2 1UG or email barneys@barnettsmotorgroup.co.uk