EARLIER this month new rider and pony facilities were officially unveiled by farmer and television personality Adam Henson at a disability centre outside Cirencester.

Adam who owns nearby Cotswold Farm, cut the ribbon at The Watershed Riding Disability Association’s new rider and pony facilities at Coates, Cirencester on September 2.

Hundreds of guests, including The Earl and Countess Bathurst enjoyed ours of the new facilities, a variety of stalls and tea and coffee.

New facilities include an extended stable yard, a new roof on the tack rooms, a new row of four stables and a new outdoor classroom.

The work was completed thanks to generous donations in time to be used by students from the beginning of the Autumn term.

Once Adam cut the ribbon to the new mess room supporters enjoyed inspecting the newly renovated yard and chatting to volunteers, riders and their ponies.

A highlight of the afternoon was a demonstration by Di Green who started riding with The Watershed RDA Group and who is now an international para dressage rider with her stunning grey mare, Winnie.

Kate Beim, from The Watershed RDA, said “We had a really wonderful day and are so grateful to the people who supported us.

“It wasn’t a fund raising exercise but we did raise over a £1000."

Since 1993 Watershed RDA in Coates, has been delivering opportunities for therapy, achievement and enjoyment to children and adults with a wide range of disabilities in an environment where riders can have fun while learning new skills and achieving personal goals.

The charity wholly relies on fundraising activities, runs sessions for individuals and or small groups of riders who ride either in our outdoor enclosed arena or in the surrounding countryside.

Disabled riders, who age from 5 to 60 years old, are accompanied by members of The Watershed's team.

For more details on how to support, volunteer or learn more visit watershedrda.co.uk or ring 01285 821102