THROSTLE Nest Riding for the Disabled Group shone brightest at this year's National Horse Riding Championship Finals.

Following a difficult and impactful year at the horse riding club based in Wilsden (Equestrian Centre) , several of the club's juniors went to compete in the finals following their successes in the regional competitions, all of them finishing first in that stage.

The finals proved to an overriding success for those involved, and even better, it was the group's first time entering the finals.

Annie Hornshaw, Caitlin Bruzzese and Sophie Ransom were three of those who competed for Throstle Nest Riding, and in a number of different independent /group competitions, they were all able to bring home a title.

And Jeannette Wheeler, owner of the Wilsden Equestrian Centre, was delighted with the success of the final's day.

She said: "It was a fantastic day and I'm extremely proud of the girls' performances.

"It's a team effort, even with the girls who had to get the horses ready and plat them, there was a lot that went in to the success of the day.

"We all can't wait for next year now, when the next regionals and finals are scheduled for."

Wheeler added: "Following the success of our girls, I feel it gives a strong message out to other disabled children who want to be involved with something they love, and to give them that hope of achieving their goals.

"In these times, there are a lot of children out there that are struggling with mental health issues and anxiety.

"And for those involved in this competition, it gives them a brilliant outlet to overcome that. It also shows that with the right support, these children can achieve something great."

"It keeps them focused and helps them realise that if they give something a go, then their shouldn't be no cap on what they want to achieve."

Wheeler also spoke of her relief that the competitions and practice have returned to some normality after such a difficult year.

She said: "It has been a rollercoaster over the last year and it has meant that the club has been affected both practically and financially.

"There was a period when we had to get the parents in with the kids, so that the kids would actually be able to still come to training.

"We've been shut, we've been open and many restrictions have been in place, so yes, it has been an extremely difficult time for the club and the kids. We were going from one day to having a full diary, then the next day we wouldn't have anyone in. I'm so relieved that we are back up and and running. It's crucial for the kids mental health and they can look forward to competitions again."