COMPETITOR numbers reached a new high at a recent Pembrokeshire College Riding for the Disabled Association charity show.

The event drew riders with disabilities from all across West Wales and was also an opportunity to raise money for Pembrokeshire’s Riding for the Disabled Association.

Staff and students from Pembrokeshire College help run the day which, with permission of Dr and Mrs Gibson, was held at the Bowlings Riding School.

Michael Butcher, show organiser, said: “It’s always great to see riders with a range of disabilities take part in a sport that allows them to compete and enjoy which, sometimes due to their disability, holds them back from taking part in any other sport. It’s a wonderful experience to be part of a horse show which is one of a few held in the UK just for riders with disabilities.”

Across the UK last year some 25,000 disabled children and adults enjoyed the life-changing benefits of horse riding, carriage driving and hippotherapy thanks to around 500 volunteer groups delivering therapy, achievement and fun through horses.

Many of the disabled children and adults have been referred there by a doctor or physiotherapist.