Golfers, stop right there: cute ponies need your help

Gaddesden Place Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) will host The Rider Cup at Stocks Golf Club in Aldbury on Friday, October 3.

The competition will be made up of teams of four – and there will be prizes for the ones that come first, second and third.

There will also be ‘nearest the pin’ and ‘nearest the pin in two shots’ prizes. If you’re lucky enough to score a hole in one, you’ll get a free vehicle from Specialist Cars Mini in Tring.

Gaddesden Place RDA had hoped The Rider Cup would become the first annual fundraiser of many to come in future years.

Spokesman Karen Gosen said: “Entry is £70 per person including dinner.

“All money raised will go to the stables – which give over 100 children and adults with special needs and disabilities confidence, enjoyment and a sense of achievement through riding.

“Please email [email protected] for more details.”

Gaddesden Place is home to the ponies Hercules, Tonto, Bramble, Angus, Murphy, Chester, Stanley and Gemma.

Gaddesden Place RDA Centre was formed in 1974 by Trina Hall and grew rapidly to become one of the first full-time centres in the region.

Thanks to the support of the Halsey family who own the Gaddesden Estate and tireless fundraising, it grew into the popular attraction it is today.

Sadly Trina died in 2002, but not before asking her helpers to keep RDA going at Gaddesden Place, near Hemel Hempstead.

With the continued support of the Halsey family a new lease was secured.

Gaddesden Place RDA has continued to thrive, but despite continued growth, its survival is still very dependent on dedicated volunteers and fundraising.

You can find out more here