Opening the feature, Alan Titchmarsh reflected on the unique bond between humans and horses, describing them as “calm, patient and wonderfully intuitive” and noting that this special connection is what makes them such remarkable partners at Riding for the Disabled (RDA). Despite a grey and drizzly day, the team, riders and horses demonstrated that, just like always, the stables keep going in all weathers.

Founder Natalie O’Rourke shared the story of how Park Lane Stables began 17 years ago as a small riding stables – “a tiny stables with a big heart” – and how it grew into the charity it is today. Over the past year alone, Park Lane Stables RDA supported more than 1,000 families through assisted riding, carriage driving, equine therapy and equine-assisted learning.

Natalie explained that the decision to become a charity came from a desire to ensure horses could help people who would truly benefit from them. Today, everyone who comes to the stables has a need – whether that is a physical disability, a learning disability, autism, deafness or a mental health challenge. Horses, Natalie said, help people feel calmer, build confidence and combat social isolation by bringing people together in a supportive, welcoming environment.

Alan was particularly interested in what makes horses so effective in this role. Natalie described them as “great mirrors”, explaining how horses respond to how a person presents themselves. Often, people who feel withdrawn or anxious find that horses are drawn to them, helping to empower them and gradually build their confidence through achievable tasks. “It’s the horses that do the work,” Natalie said. “We just facilitate it so that it happens.”

Long-standing rider and ambassador Philippa also shared her experience, having been part of Park Lane Stables RDA for 14 years. She spoke movingly about how horses helped her come out of her shell, boosting her confidence not only emotionally but practically too – including gaining her first paid job and developing public speaking skills. As Alan noted, the impact of an hour at the stables each week ripples far beyond that time.

The programme also highlighted the importance of carriage driving, which allows wheelchair users to participate fully while remaining in their chairs. Natalie explained how specially adapted carriages and highly trained horses make this possible, offering many participants the only sport they can take part in while still enjoying all the sensory and emotional benefits of being with horses.

With 24 carefully chosen and trained horses, Park Lane Stables RDA places great emphasis on matching each horse to the right role – just as you would in any workplace. Alan congratulated Natalie on receiving her MBE, recognising her outstanding contribution and commitment to ensuring the charity continues for generations to come.

The feature concluded by reinforcing the wider work of the Riding for the Disabled Association nationwide, encouraging viewers to seek out and support their local RDA groups – whether by participating or volunteering and to experience first-hand the life changing power of horses.

We are incredibly grateful to Love Your Weekend with Alan Titchmarsh, to Alan himself, and to everyone who took part in making this feature such a wonderful celebration of our community, our horses and the people whose lives they touch every day.

If you missed the episode, catch it here: