A KNUTSFORD-based disabled charity is to benefit from a £3,000 grant from the Guardian.

Mid-Cheshire Riding For The Disabled, at Ollerton, has netted the grant from our parent company Gannett, under the Gannett Foundation project.

The centre provides riding experiences and training for disabled youngsters across Cheshire.

Run mainly by a team of more than 60 dedicated volunteers, the popular centre is used regularly by special needs schools, helping around 60 disabled children and adults every week.

Pam Rigby, who owns the centre New Barn Livery, where the charity is based, said: “This grant is very welcome and will be put to very practical use by the charity.

“We use a special ramp to help get some of the disabled children onto the horses, but the ramp we are now using is very decrepit.

“This money will help pay for a new ramp and a waiting area.

“The centre is all about providing enjoyment – its is a sport and a hobby for people.

“But the experience is also very good for the posture, while being in charge of a horse works wonders for boosting people’s confidence."

The group began in the mid-80s in Holmes Chapel, but by 1990 had grown considerably and moved to Mobberley Riding School where it remained until the spring of 2009.

The team initially had use of the riding school horses but soon bought its own pony, Whiskey Mac, who was very laid back and much loved by the riders.

In 2002, it acquired a second pony, Nashend Linkwood, while Whiskey Mac was later retired and is now living a life of luxury with his new owner.

The group have since bought a new pony, Mac Two, and also has the use of several others on loan.

The group runs all-day sessions on Tuesdays and further sessions on Saturdays.

To find out more about the charity, contact group organiser Jeanette Dixon on 0845 2416337 or email info@midcheshirerda.org.