A brief history of New Yatt Riding for the Disabled Group
August 1984 - the Group was launched by Barbara Morris and a group of enthusiastic volunteers. They borrowed a paddock and pony to give riding sessions. The Group acquired provisional status from Riding for the Disabled Organisation, (by then in its 15th year) and embarked on training, publicity and fundraising
1987 the Group moved to the Walled Garden Wilcote where they stayed until 1994. During this period they acquired more ponies and developed the Group. Hacking out and going to local shows were very popular activities with riders.
1993 Topsy joins the Group, in foal, and Humbug is born in September
1994 Following a major fundraising effort the Group moves to our current location. They provide sessions while developing the site and involve many local supporters to build the track, stables block, barn and outdoor manege.
Scooby Doo joins the Group, a present from 3 Oxfordshire lacemaking groups
September 1996 - HRH the Princess Royal, Patron of RDA visits New Yatt RDA and officially opens the site
1999 Murphy and Paddy join the Group
2002-2004 - Major fundraising project to raise £132000 for an indoor arena which was constructed over the summer holidays and has been used in all weathers since October 2004
2004 Bramble joins the Group. The NYRDA website is launched
May 2005 Indoor School in Action, showing the Friends of New Yatt RDA who supported the Indoor School appeal how riding indoors has transformed the sessions
2006 Fahye joins the Group on loan.
2008 Polly joins the Group. Jasper is acquired with a grant from Sport Relief via Oxfordshire Community Foundation
The first 25 years of New Yatt RDA can be summed in three words; vision, dedication and development. Given the encouragement of our supporters, the tireless efforts of our helpers and the willing participation of our ponies, NYRDA riders can confidently look forward to riding into the future.
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