Two RDA groups in Yorkshire have been presented with the prestigious Queens Award for Voluntary Service (QAVS). The award is the highest honour given to volunteer groups in the UK – described as ‘the MBE for voluntary groups – and is awarded for the positive impact and exceptional service they provide to people in their local community.

Bedale RDA, which meets at Catterick Garrison, and Rossington Hall RDA in Doncaster were both among this year’s winners – a record year for nominations according to the organisers.

Bedale Group Chair, Julia Hamby said: “Myself and Claire Pope, our Instructor and County Coach were delighted to accept the award on behalf of the Bedale RDA Group.  This is a recognition not only for our group, but for all RDA groups around the country, of the time and commitment they put into enriching the lives of those with disabilities through horses and riding.  We are eternally grateful to Jim Quin, the father of Sarah one of our riders, who nominated us for the Award.  We hope that the good work done by RDA groups all over the country continues for many more years to come.”

John Chuter OBE, Yorkshire and Cleveland Regional Chair, said “Bedale is a fine example of a voluntary organisation providing a vital therapeutic equestrian service to some of the most vulnerable people in the local community. They are truly deserving of this award.”