FURNESS Riding Group has raised nearly £4,000 for Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) at their annual fundraising event.

Nearly 50 riders took part in one of two scenic rides over eight or 16 miles from the 200 acre estate of Holker Hall near Cartmel with the permission of Lady Cavendish, president of the group.

The ride was supported by a number of donors who provided prizes for raffles including The Sticky Toffee Pudding company, the Co-Op, Todds of Kendal, WCF and Mole from Ulverston.

Carol Ferguson, 69, an owner at Haven Lakeland in Lower Allithwaite, braved the elements on what was an incredibly rainy day and received a prize for the adult who raised the most amount of funds.

It comes after she raised £381.75p by riding her 21-year-old pony Duke on the eight-mile course with close friend Kathryn Keith on her 23-year-old pony Ben.

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“I’m very proud of being able to raise this money for the Riding for the Disabled Association, Carol said. “I’m hoping I’ll be able to raise a little bit more.

“It’s all for such a good cause.”

The Riding Group ride at Seaview Riding School on Walney Island every Wednesday morning and Thursday evening during school term times.

June Chapman, chairman and riding co-ordinator at Furness RDA, said: “A child on one of six lead reins brought in over £800 which was really amazing."

The RDA has proudly delivered opportunities for therapy, achievement and enjoyment to people with disabilities for over 40 years, and the Furness branch has made a real difference to the lives of local children.

“We have two local special schools and three mainstream schools who send two of their students from their special needs department to ride every week," added June.

“There’s no doubt riding is extremely beneficial to children in a lot of different ways.

“One of our riders is almost non-verbal and since she has started riding, she has been talking. You just don’t realise the benefits that can take place.”

Furness Riding Group is always on the lookout for new volunteers. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, contact info@furnessrda.org.uk or call June Chapman on 01229 716479.