Watershed Riding for the Disabled

I recently had the pleasure of visiting Watershed Riding for the Disabled in Coates, Cirencester to photograph some of their riders, volunteers and ponies.

Watershed RDA is a successful group of the National RDA, and have been growing in Coates since 1993. With 6 stables on site, local grazing, 7 ponies and a family of volunteers they have such a welcoming and friendly environment. Each volunteer has their own day and tasks which they carry out to enable the centre to run smoothly as the riders come and go for their riding lessons.

Their outdoor arena means that throughout the year riders can be taught by the riding instructors no matter what their ability. Leading up to the arena is a ramp so riders can be assisted onto their horse via the mounting block or using their hoist.

Alongside the arena is a growing sensory trail, part of it at a height so it can be used whilst on horse back to provide sensory stimulation. Again built by volunteers they really have thought of everything. When they’re not riding inside the arena they can be found hacking in the beautiful Cotswold countryside surrounding the centre, providing different scenery and experiences for the riders.

I look forward to returning to Watershed RDA and volunteering my photography services again. To learn more about their centre you can view their website here - https://watershedrda.co.uk

Photographed are Fiona riding Bobby and Amy riding Copper.