A HORSE rider who rides with Richmond and Catterick Riding for the Disabled Association has recently competed in the RDA National Championships.

Alison Chubb, who has multiple sclerosis, qualified for the competition after winning a first place at countryside challenge.

Her coach Sheri Wild said: "Qualifying for the RDA National Championships was a tremendous achievement for Alison. It was also a great thrill for all of us, especially this year.”

This year marks both the 50th anniversary of Riding for the Disabled Association, and the 25th year of the RDA National Championships at Hartpury College in Gloucestershire on July 12 to 14, attended by RDA president, HRH The Princess Royal.

Ms Chubb finished eighth with a creditable score of 72.5. Contact Richmond & Catterick RDA via Wanda Reynolds by emailing sjreynolds8@btinternet.com.

Ms Chubb was one of hundreds of participants who came from across the UK to demonstrate their skills and abilities and compete in events including carriage driving, countryside challenge, dressage, show-jumping and vaulting.

The journey to Hartpury meant a round trip of more than 400 miles from North Yorkshire for Alison’s two Richmond & Catterick RDA volunteers.

“We were very fortunate to be supported by a travel grant from the People’s Postcode Lottery and can’t thanks the players of PPL enough for their help,” said Ms Wild.

Richmond & Catterick RDA relies on voluntary help, donations, grants and legacies to continue to provide the enjoyment, empowering sense of pride and achievement, and the unequalled therapeutic benefits of horse riding to its disabled participants.