Free lessons hope to get more people riding

Equestrian centres across England have been offering free lessons in a bid get more people riding.

Free activities

Give Horses a Go Day saw 43 centres across England put on a number of free activities including grooming sessions, horseball and cross-country jumping demos, mechanical horse rides, as well as taster sessions on the real thing.

The initiative was run by the British Equestrian Federation (BEF) Hoof programme, which is funded by Sport England to increase participation in sport.

Head of participation for the BEF Anna Hall visited Mill Riding Centre at Pattingham and Foxhills Riding Centre near Walsall to see how the event went.

All ages

“There was a fantastic atmosphere at both and it was obvious how much people were enjoying themselves,” said Anna Hall.

“What was so nice was to see people of all ages and from all walks of life discovering the joy that horses can bring. Everyone just loved being around the horses, it was really heart-warming to see.”

The Give Horses a Go event offered Sue and Malcolm Purshouse from Wolverhampton a chance to get back in the saddle after a 15-year break.

“It was how we met 43 years ago, we have never lost the love of horses,” said Sue. “We’ve raised the children and now we’re back.”

‘Great day’

Peter Marland attended Tumpy Green Equestrian Centre in Gloucestershire open day with his wife and three children – one of which was only born four weeks ago.

“It’s been a great day, I haven’t ridden in nearly 30 years, but it has all come flooding back to me,” said Peter. “My partner Lisa got back in the saddle today, too. Tommy and Aysha also had a go today and are looking to join the Pony Club mini group based at the centre.”

According to yard manager Nikki Secker, Tumpy Green had 24 new riders take part in the taster sessions and the centre has since had a number of Pony Club membership enquiries and bookings for lessons.