Six decades of friendship, confidence and achievement through the power of horses
Peterborough & District Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) is celebrating a remarkable milestone in 2026, marking 60 years of helping children with disabilities experience the joy and benefits of horse riding.
Founded in 1966, Peterborough & District RDA has spent six decades making a positive difference to children and families across the local community. As one of the earliest groups of its kind in the country, the charity has a proud history of providing opportunities for children to develop confidence, learn new skills and celebrate their achievements through their relationship with horses and ponies.
A Vision That Continues Today
The group was established by Miss Jill Speechley, Superintendent Physiotherapist at Peterborough District Hospital. Inspired by an article about riding for disabled people, she recognised the potential to bring these opportunities to children in Peterborough.
That vision continues to inspire the charity today.
Peterborough & District RDA provides riding sessions for children from local special schools, alongside individual riders. The sessions offer much more than the opportunity to ride: they help children develop balance, coordination, communication skills and independence in a fun, supportive environment.
Every rider is encouraged to discover what they can achieve, with each small step forward representing a reason to celebrate.
The Magic of Horses and Ponies
At the heart of the charity are its wonderful horses and ponies, whose patience and gentle nature help create special experiences for every rider.
For some children, getting on a pony for the first time is a huge achievement. For others, it is the opportunity to build confidence, improve physical skills, communicate with others or simply enjoy a special connection with an animal.
These moments are what make the charity's work so valuable, and they demonstrate why providing accessible riding opportunities remains so important.
A Community Effort
Peterborough & District RDA's work would not be possible without its dedicated volunteers, supportive school staff, generous donors and fundraising community.
The group relies on fundraising and donations to cover the costs of its riding sessions, horse care, supplies and equipment. Every contribution helps ensure that children can continue to benefit from these valuable experiences.
As the charity celebrates 60 years, it is an opportunity to recognise everyone who has contributed to its story and helped make a difference to the lives of its riders.
Supporting the Next 60 Years
While the group looks back with pride on six decades of achievement, its focus remains firmly on the future.
The charity wants to continue opening doors, creating opportunities and helping more children experience the physical, emotional and social benefits of riding.
There are many ways to support Peterborough & District RDA, whether by making a donation, sponsoring a pony, volunteering or helping to raise awareness of its work.
Every act of support helps the charity continue its mission and build brighter futures for the children it serves.
Sixty years on, the belief remains the same: it's what you can do that counts.
Here's to celebrating 60 years of Peterborough & District RDA — and to many more years of happy riders, wonderful ponies and life-changing achievements.
