History

Hope in the Valley was founded in 1968 by Mary Gethen, a night nurse at Chailey Heritage who also ran her own riding school for many years. Her experiences as a nurse, caring for disabled children, gave her the vision of what could be achieved by encouraging both mentally and physically disabled children to ride a horse. 

Supported by her godmother, Julia Roper-Caldbeck, Mary recruited anyone who could contribute in any way. She was enthusiastic and instructed with confidence and understanding of the children's abilities.

Her aim was always to enable her riders to compete with their peers. To this end, Hope in the Valley children took part in Pony Club rallies and camps, local gymkhanas, RDA dressage competitions and more.

After Mary's death the Group moved from Lewes to Plumpton College where, since 1990, its activites have been centred in the indoor riding school.

Aims of the group

Hope in the Valley aims to give physically disabled children up to the age of sixteen the opportunity to experience the pleasure, independence and therapeutic benefits that riding a horse can provide.

When & where we meet

Hope in the Valley RDA Group meets in the Audrey Unthank Arena at the back of Plumpton College every Wednesday in term time from 1pm to 5pm. Click here for map

Plumpton College is just off the B2116 between Lewes and Dichling. There are buses connecting the college with Lewes, Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath and Hassocks. If you are driving, there is plenty of car parking close to the arena.

Lesson structure

Every child takes part in horse-care classes as well as having riding lessons. Horse care may include a trip to the College stables to see the farrier at work, or to learn about different types of bedding. At other times, the children may have an opportunity to groom a pony or clean tack, as well as learning about feeding and equipment.

The riding lessons are from 15 minutes to 1 hour, depending on the standard, age and physical strength of each rider. Beginners may have three helpers, one leading the pony and one on either side of the rider, whilst more advanced riders may be able to ride unaided.

Hope in the Valley has a viewing gallery in the arena, where tea, coffee and biscuits are served to the riders after their class. Their parents and the helpers also make good use of these facilities. There is now a lift to enable wheelchair users to access the gallery. 

Trustees