Case Studies

Thornton Rose Ride-Ability, Midlothian

Riding on a Saturday is the highlight of my week! I’ve been going to RDA for three years now and it’s given me much more confidence.

Bill and Anne Johnston – the husband and wife team behind Thornton Rose Ride-Ability Group – believe that riding as a sport and as a therapy makes a difference to the lives of disabled children and adults. By addressing both their strengths and difficulties, each rider can gain something from each session.

A member of the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), Thornton Rose encourages skill development at all levels. Riders become the proud owner of a Thornton Rose certificate every time they achieve something new. And the 20-strong group of volunteers are always improving too! By completing a series of tasks, the volunteers can work toward RDA recognition, making it a fulfilling project for all.

Member Caitlin Dodds said: ‘Riding on a Saturday is the highlight of my week! I’ve been going to RDA for three years now and it’s given me much more confidence. I started off just turning up for the ride, but now I also help bring the ponies in from the fields to feed, groom and bridle them. During lessons, I’m learning dressage routines and have taken part in some competitions; I now have 11 rosettes.’