Chigwell Riding Trust

Chigwell Riding Trust was established as the first riding centre in the United Kingdom specifically designed for people with special needs, and it continues to fulfil that founding purpose more than five decades later. The centre holds ABRS approval and works with around 160 riders each week, covering a wide spectrum of physical, cognitive and sensory needs. Horses and ponies are carefully selected and trained for the patience and temperament required for therapeutic and assisted riding. The yard operates both an indoor and outdoor school to ensure year-round provision, and sessions are run by qualified instructors supported by a large team of trained volunteers. Referrals come from schools, healthcare providers and charitable partners across Essex. Founded in 1963-64 by Norah Jacques, Chigwell is recognised as the first purpose-built RDA riding centre in the world, not just the UK, and celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2024. Its most famous pony, Rags, became a household name after a 1970 Blue Peter fundraising appeal, and former riders have gone on to Paralympic success, including 1996 Atlanta Paralympic dressage competitor Liz Stone.