YOUNGSTERS EXCEL AS THEY TAKE THE REINS WITH THE HELP OF COURT MEADOW

DEMONSTRATION by young local riders with profound and multiple learning difficulties, including a musical ride with its theme taken from Oliver! formed part of celebrations at Ditchling Common Stud to mark the 30th anniversary of Court Meadow Group RDA (Riding for the Disabled).

By The Newsroom

Published 3rd Jul 2007, 18:47 BST

Updated 8th Jun 2018, 03:32 BST

The group was formed in 1977 by Jean Musson and other young mothers with the aim of providing riding as therapy for pupils of Court Meadow School, Cuckfield.

At that time, some 20 children received instruction at Balcombe and 10 special care children went to Hill House Farm , Lindfield.

Later, in 1986 the lessons moved from Balcombe to Ditchling Common Stud and children from the nursery class were encouraged to participate through meeting and riding the ponies on the school grounds. From those early beginnings, more than 60 children now attend the weekly riding sessions during term time.

Throughout its existence, the group has encouraged the children to participate in as many appropriate activities as possible, including RDA South East Region fun days where riders compete to qualify for the annual National Championships held at Harpury, Gloucestershire.

For full story and more pictures see West Sussex Gazette July 4

Youngsters Cuckfield