Galloping success for Diamond Centre for Disabled Riders Autumn Fair

THE weather stayed dry, and a wonderful day was had by everyone who attended The Diamond Riding Centre’s Annual Autumn Fair recently. This was held to raise funds, to help them continue their work with disabled children and adults in Surrey.

Sponsored on the day by the Surrey Masonic Sports Association, The Diamond Centre exists to provide disabled people with the opportunity to have regular contact with horses, either through riding or carriage driving, at the level of their abilities, to benefit their health and wellbeing.

Riders with mobility issues experience a renewed sense of freedom of movement, whilst those with emotional issues, or autism, find empathy with the horses and gain a greater sense of calm and independence. 

The annual fair, which was also attended by Councillor Colin Stears, the new Mayor of Sutton, together with his Deputy, Councillor Louise Phelan, included a wide range of market and craft stalls, a horse-riding display, donkey rides, a dog show, vintage cars, and lots of entertainment for children, with a BBQ and beer tent for the grown-ups.

Banstead Show Choir were among the entertainment, providing an amazing array of uplifting songs to entertain the many visitors.

Donations received on the day included £2,000 from the London & Surrey Mini Owners Club and £1,000 from the Surrey Freemasons Sports Association.

Mike Harding, Deputy Head of Surrey Freemasons, said:

“It is a privilege to help support such a worthy charity, which does so much to help disabled children and adults gain a renewed sense of confidence, joy and independence.”