There was sunshine and smiles all round as Hope in the Valley RDA group celebrated their 50th Birthday with a special guest at Plumpton College yesterday.
Riding for the Disabled’s President of 32 years, HRH the Princess Royal, arrived by helicopter to enjoy the group’s special day and spend time with some of the volunteers and young riders. Having met a host of local dignitaries on arrival (see below), Princess Anne joined riders, ponies, volunteers and parents in the arena for a demonstration of the Countryside Challenge, before presenting commemorative rosettes and long service awards to both the riders, ponies and volunteers.
Of the day, the Princess Royal said “It is a real achievement that we are celebrating today”. She went on to praise Hope in the Valley volunteers for their ‘supreme dedication’ and commented on the changes that have been seen over 50 years. She also praised the parents saying “It’s a pleasure to see the parents here also showing a commitment that makes such a difference”.
During the riding display, the Princess gave each of the four riders a letter which they had to post as part of the Countryside Challenge which follows a simulated course where the riders put their skills to the test by tackling obstacles and tasks they might find in the country. As well as posting a letter, these include going through a gate, crossing a ‘road’, entering a farmyard and picking an apple from a tree. Although great fun, this also tests their steering, balance and confidence.
She then presented rosettes to the regular riders at the Hope in the Valley group as well as long services awards to two of the ponies -Rose who has worked with the group for 14 years and Toblerone, who has been there for 12 years.
Margaret Fogg, a volunteer and Trustee, received a long service award for 35 years and a surprise award was given to the Group Chairman, Lesley Morrill, who had just completed 52 marathons in 52 weeks, promoting RDA along the way. On inviting, the Princess Royal to present a trophy to Lesley, Lindsay Correa, RDA Regional Chair, said “Today we’ve celebrated long service in both ponies and people. But a marathon is also long; very long and we have the pleasure of presenting a special award, where we recognise an individual who has chosen to do a lot more than just one”.
The golden visit ended with the Princess cutting and sharing in a very special cake that had been made by volunteer, before meeting the regular volunteers at the group.
Other Attendees
Sara Stonor, Vice Lord-Lieutenant
Cllr Michael Chartier, Mayor of Lewes Town Council
The Rt Rev Richard Jackson, Bishop of Lewes
Robert Cottrill, CEO of Lewes District Council
Cllr Stephen Gauntlett, Chair, Lewes District Council
Giles York, Chief Constable of Sussex Police
Sam Orde, RDA Chairman
Jeremy Kerswell, Principal, Plumpton College
