WADG News

Huge thanks to Barry who made and donated this beautiful birdhouse and to Amanda and Pete who arranged it all.  The birdhouse was specially desiged for the group featuring horse-themed decorations. The birdhouse was raffled at our AGM raising an amazing £600.

We were in the barn again this year for our Christmas party.  Blue was on reindeer duty with his sleigh, taking our special guest Frances Lochrane, the Regional Chair, out for a festive drive. Frances then gave presents to all our participants who also gave Blue a cuddle and posed for photos.  We had lots of delicious food and of course, Jo's cakes. Finally the raffle - everyone donated lovely prizes and went home with at least one.

Frances, our Regional Chair, attended the Christmas party and took the opportunity to present some awards. Sally was presented with a basket of flowers and certificate celebrating her 30 years as a volunteer. During this time Sally has had numerous roles including Group Organiser and spent many mornings feeding, grooming and caring for the ponies. She is now Chairman of the trustees and attends sessions regularly looking after our participants and keeping an eye on the ponies. Well done Sally!

Frances also presented a certificate to Sarah C for her nomination for the Susan Dudley Smith Unsung Hero Award.  Colin was given a gift for his work on the new South Region website.  Karen, Sarah D and Brian were all due 5 years service awards but weren't able to attend.  Many congratulations and thanks to them all.

Congratulations to Marion on passing her carriage driving assessment and becoming our newest coach. 

The Group returned to Windsor Home Park after a three year gap and had a fabulous day. It was a new experience for Sweet Pea and some participants and volunteers too. Thanks to all our volunteers who worked really hard on a very hot day.

After our drives we had a picnic lunch at The Royal Household Cricket Club, Windsor Castle - thanks so much to them for hosting us. As ever, there was a lot of cake with a lovely birthday cake made by Jo to celebrate Daniel's 30th birthday, a fabulous 'Blue' cake made by Kayleigh and a delicious chocolate cake made by Maria. Just as well we had lots of people to help eat them - and doggy bags!

Here's a few more photos of the picnic.