Riding for the disabled has long been acknowledged as having far reaching benefits for people with disabilities and their carers.

At Acrecliffe Equestrian Centre in Otley where the Otley and District Riding for Disabled Group is based, Judy Olby and Jose Bosworth have been tirelessly trying to attract as much support as they can get for this good cause.

Their hard work has many rewards though, and none more so than Kathryn Wheelock, 25, from Glassburn near Keighley, who is currently training for the next Paralympics to be held at Athens in 2004.

"Riding for the Disabled has given people like Kathryn the opportunity to take part in an activity where they can progress," said Mrs Olby.

There are many stories of riders who find inspiration and enjoyment through being with horses.

"Through one of our sessions on horse or pony, disabled riders can improve their strength, balance building and motor co-ordination skills; they also build up a relationship with the horse which helps raise their self-esteem."

However, horses are expensive to keep and train, particularly when they are used in the specialised capacity of disabled riding. Judy and Jose are constantly looking for ways to help raise money for Riding for the Disabled, which is a registered charity. Having suffered with the foot and mouth crises, which has only just been officially cleared in the region, the group were unable to do many of their sponsored events in the last eleven months. Events and functions are a lifeline in getting funds into the charity and without these, they came close to financial difficulties this year.

There was good news recently though, with a donation of £4,000 being given by the West Yorkshire Children's Fund Local Network. Jose found out about the scheme and applied for a grant back in November last year and the funds were received just before Christmas.

"On applying for the grant, we had to specify where the money would be designated. For us, the money is needed in the day-to-day running costs of the riding group, it was not for extras or luxuries," said Jose, Secretary for Riding for the Disabled.

Judy, Chairman of the group added: "We decided the money would be divided between subsidised rides for children with disabilities, promoting riders who show potential and finally summer schemes where people with disabilities can do a week's residential holiday with a horse or pony."

Being a charity, Riding for the Disabled Group rely on the generosity of those who can afford to give financial help as well as those who can dedicate some of their time.

"We are constantly looking for volunteers, but it doesn't have to be in direct contact with the horses. One gentleman is developing a website for us, free of charge. We couldn't afford to do this normally. Another volunteer does odd jobs such as putting nails in the cabins to hang our tack up!" said Mrs Olby.

"People interested should come and watch and see for themselves what we do. There are usually three people per rider, one leading and two at the side, so families are welcome to volunteer."

All these kind donations of time and support save the group money. People can donate as little or as much time as they are able to.

Riding for the Disabled meet on Wednesday mornings and Sunday afternoons. The horses and ponies available are fully trained and have a wealth of experience of working with the disabled.

"They range from a little Shetland Pony (for children), to 17.2 hand horse for adults, so most shapes and sizes can be catered for," Mrs Olby explained.

"We also have a ramp for mounting and dis-mounting the horses, and we welcome people with both physical and learning disabilities. The ages range from three to 61 years, both male and female."

Acrecliffe's facilities also include an indoor school and viewing gallery, so relatives and friends can watch closely the progress and enjoyment that riders get from their time there.

The Riding for the Disabled charity subsidises the cost of hiring and keeping the horses at Acrecliffe, and all riders are charged the same price for their riding (£4 per session).

This year there was also a donation from Ilkley Moor Lions Club of £200 which will go directly into encouraging disabled riders' potential, such as entering them into Dressage competitions.

"Sending riders to competitions is expensive, the costs include transport, clothing, accommodation etc.," said Jose.

The results of their campaigning are evidently very worthwhile. It was through the dedication of supporters like Judy and Jose, who give their time voluntarily, that talent like Kathryn's was found and developed.

Kathryn is entering in the Dressage competition at the Paralympics and has already won places in both able-bodied and disabled events. Suffering from learning disabilities and motor co-ordination difficulties hasn't prevented Miss Wheelock from following her passion for horses, which even extends to studying equines. She passed her British Horse Society Stage 1 last year.

Other examples of accomplishments by disabled riders include Judy's own son, now 28, who undertook the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme with Riding for the Disabled. It was his explanations of his experiences horse-riding that allowed him to study for the award and use his achievements to gain a place at Shipley College.

Judy will be appealing later in the year for disabled people with some experience of horse-riding who are interested in partaking in a summer school.

In the meantime, any disabled person who thinks they may be interested in having a go at riding, or those who have some experience can contact Judy on: 01943 603111. Donors or volunteers should also contact Judy on the same number.