Epsom RDA Awards Event

EPSOM RDA CELEBRATES ‘SELFLESS’ VOLUNTEERS AND OUTSTANDING RIDER ACHIEVEMENTS AT AGM AND AWARDS EVENT Epsom’s Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) held its Annual General Meeting (AGM) and Annual Awards on Sunday. The event, held at Epsom Downs Racecourse, was an opportunity for all participants, their families and volunteers to get together to celebrate the many achievements of the Epsom RDA community over the past year. Over 47 awards were presented by the Deputy Mayor of Epsom & Ewell, Councillor Steve Bridger, who said “Today is about celebrating the achievements of Epsom RDA’s remarkable riders as well as the dedicated team of volunteers that support them, every day of the week come rain or shine.” Volunteer awards went to those who had gone over and above their role as well as celebrating length of service. Riders were recognised for passing nationally recognised riding Proficiency Tests or by gaining an Endeavour Award for meeting a specific challenge set by their own Coach. Epsom RDA, primarily offers riding sessions to those with disabilities, including Autism, Down’s Syndrome and visual impairment, since riding is one of the main ways that they can access physical exercise, which in turn, has a positive, long-term impact on confidence levels, relationship building and enjoyment. Laura Hales, Chair Trustee, said, “The charity we are today wouldn’t be possible without the dedication of our volunteers and supporters, which include the Jockey Club for donating the Diomed Room at Epsom Downs Racecourse to host the event. Our volunteers turn up all year round, to lead and look after our ponies, coach participants and keep our stables and grounds running and looking great.” Established in 1969, Epsom RDA is run and managed entirely by volunteers, operates from a 14-acre site in Epsom, Surrey, running sessions run seven days a week, including evenings, 50 weeks of the year. The charity has provided over 3,000 riding lessons for 350 disabled adults and children. All made possible by over 200 volunteers. Epsom RDA is currently looking for new volunteers and trustees. To find out more about current vacancies visit www.epsomrda.org.uk/ For more information, contact [email protected]