Autumn term has been busy seeing new riders with enthusiastic parents and new volunteers.

In September YouTube vlogger This Esme came and filmed one of our sessions at Plumpton. Her video is well worth a look as she captured the essence of what we are about.

October saw a fun quiz night evening held at the college. Liz Mills and her family set some great questions. Our master chefs whizzed up platters of food for nearly 50 contenders whilst Frances Hovey proved a wizard at extracting some great raffle prizes from local businesses. It all added up to an enjoyable and successful fund-raising evening.

More recently we have also been generously supported by Lewes Inner Wheel, Waitrose in Uckfield and Lewes as well as Laughton Village Shop and its customers.

The group was especially proud of regular and long-standing rider Willow who ran a half marathon by completing 11 Park Runs. This was not at all easy for her and despite every weather condition imaginable she completed the series and has raised over £1000 for the group. The photo shows her receiving a special rosette of thanks from Hope in the Valley.

William, one of our older riders, organised a table at a local tack sale to raise funds for the group and his contribution is much appreciated too.

The trustees know the lives of these two riders are full of profound challenges so it makes all of us feel exceptionally humbled by what they have achieved for Hope in the Valley.

The generosity of our riders’ families is also much appreciated as we can see how much the riding means to them. Thank you.

Our ponies provide incredible support for the diverse requirements of our riders. The trustees continue to be interested to hear from any owners who may be able to offer their equines for our Wednesday afternoon sessions. Every session is supervised by our experienced and knowledgeable horse advisers who always ensure the welfare of the horse is put first.

Our sessions could not take place without our volunteers so it is fantastic when their efforts are recognised more widely. Coner Crozier was named Volunteer of the Year by RDA South East Region which was a fantastic achievement. Also, it has been great to hear that Jan Abrahams, a former member at Hope in the Valley has been awarded the President’s Award-the highest accolade given by RDA- for her many years of contribution not only to Hope in the Valley but also to RDA national.