History

Our History

Stevenage RDA was founded in 1969 by Geoff Shepherd, Kay Shepherd, and Margaret Lucas. The group was established with the generous support of Fred Allan and Maisie Allan of Manor Farm Chesfield, who kindly loaned two riding school ponies one morning a week. This enabled riding lessons for disabled children in Stevenage to begin.

The group quickly expanded, offering lessons to pupils from local special schools as well as individual riders, all of whom faced a variety of challenges in their lives.

Fred and Maisie Allan, along with their family, continued to play a vital role in the group’s development. They provided stabling for ponies—whether purchased or gifted—and allowed use of their indoor riding school for lessons.

In the early years, attracting volunteers, fundraising, and raising awareness of the group’s work were significant challenges. Many of those early volunteers went on to contribute at county, regional, and national levels within Riding for the Disabled Association.

In 1999, each member group of the RDA became its own registered charity, while remaining closely connected to and part of the National Association.

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Today

Stevenage RDA is now based at Model Farm, near Hitchin.

Sessions run on Monday and Thursday mornings during school term time, using ponies specially trained for RDA work. The group supports pupils from local special schools, as well as individual children and young adults who face a wide range of challenges.

For those who are physically unable to ride, an Equine Experience programme is offered. This focuses on horse care and may include activities such as grooming and leading the ponies.

The group is supported by over 30 dedicated active volunteers who assist with sessions each week, and new volunteers are always warmly welcomed.

More than 50 years on, Stevenage RDA continues to help children and adults benefit from the therapeutic effects of riding and spending time with ponies.

For more information please email: stevenagerdainfo@gmail.com