For over 30 years, the volunteers, horses and ponies at Horsley, Bookham & Leatherhead Riding for the Disabled Association (the “RDA”) have provided therapy, achievement and enjoyment to children as young as four through to young adults, with disabilities including Autism, Down’s Syndrome, ADHD, Cerebral Palsy, Dyspraxia and more.

The Wisley Foundation originally supported the RDA with the purchase of 2 ponies and tack in 2022., and more recently was delighted to fund the purchase of a bigger horse, Betty Boop, as the RDA has started to provide new sessions for adults and older teenagers. In addition to providing the RDA with the opportunity to reduce their waiting list, Betty has been an instant success, bringing smiles and enjoyment to all who ride her.

“The lovely Betty Boop has settled into our herd perfectly. She is very affectionate and huge, just what we needed. She can comfortably carry riders up to 14 stone so we have been able to bring 4 adult riders off our waiting list into our evening adult rides. We also added 2 new riders from Dyscover, a local charity supporting people recovering from strokes, who ride with us. Betty will be used in our special summer sessions with Highfield School Green Frog holiday rides. They run week long holidays for young people with learning disabilities and have been coming to us for several years. We’ve never had a horse big enough to carry some of their larger riders who are always disappointed. They are thrilled we have Betty now and we couldn’t be happier with her. And as you can see, she is beautiful!” ~ Sheryl Johnson, Chair, Horsley, Bookham, & Leatherhead RDA