A stables working with disabled people has taken on its first apprentice groom, with the hope that more could follow.

Leonie Bradwell has been appointed to Haworth Riding for the Disabled (RDA) through a scheme with Stubbing Court Training, which has contributed £1,500 towards her tuition.

The remaining £2,600 is being covered by the Vale Mill Lane stables through funding provided by Bradford-based Sovereign Health Care.

Leonie is studying for a Level Two diploma in horse care and will spend at least a year with Haworth RDA.

The group’s volunteer co-ordinator Laura Butterfield said: “We are delighted to have her and it’s a big help to us.

“She started at the end of last month and will be spending 30 hours a week here.

“Leonie used to be with us on work placement from college and grew to love it, so she’s no stranger to the stables.

“We are hoping to employ another three apprentices, but it is dependent on securing funding.”