WADG News

Santa made an early visit to our Christmas party! We were in the barn this year - freezing cold but very festive with a dusting of snow. Santa used his alternative sleigh and Blue stepped in so the reindeer had a day off. Santa gave out presents and Sally presented long service certificates to some of the volunteers. We had our usual raffle with Daniel drawing the winning tickets - everyone went home with a prize. Thanks to Father Christmas and his elves, everyone else who helped and especially to Jo for the mountain of delicious cakes and endless hot tea.

The group had a very successful day at the races raising money in a bucket collection. Thanks to the collectors - Tony, Julie, Becky, Amanda, Rose, Mads and Sarah - and to Ascot Racecourse for giving us the opportunity to do the collection.

Our new pony, Sweet Pea, has arrived and is getting to know everyone, including Blue.

Albert has now retired and gone to join his old friends Major and Casper at the Horse Trust in Speen.  He must be settling in as he's already been described as 'Adorable Albert' on Facebook!

Congratulations to Karen on passing her carriage driving assessment and becoming our newest coach.  Here's Karen driving on her first day with a participant - on our first day back on Ascot Racecourse for ages.

It's great to be back driving with our participants after all this time!  It's also good to see some new faces (even if they are hidden by masks!) - participants and volunteers.

Brigid’s dedication to RDA has been recognised this year as a recipient of the President’s Award. The President’s Award is the most prestigious award presented by RDA National and is given for exceptional dedication at either national or local level.

In 1976 Brigid joined the Driving Group after hearing Nancy Pethick give a talk about a new cart which had been devised and which would be suitable for disabled people. When Nancy died suddenly in 1980 Brigid was thrown in at the deep end and was asked to run the group. She continued as Group Organiser until December 2003.  Brigid is president of our group, a trustee and an active volunteer, taking part in many events. Brigid says that the group 'has been a very special part of my life'.