Thieves steal valuable tack from disabled riding club (From Salisbury Journal)
If you have a story call our newsdesk on 01722 426511 or email us. To advertise call 01722 426500.
Thieves steal valuable tack from disabled riding club
2:17pm Wednesday 8th February 2012 in New Forest News
THIEVES have stolen from a charity that helps disabled people enjoy horses and riding.
The incident happened overnight between Tuesday, January 31 and Wednesday, February 1, at the Riding for the Disabled Association stables along Ringwood Road in Ferndown, which are attended by adults and children from all over east Dorset and the Forest.
Three saddles valued at about £400 each were stolen from the site.
PC Nina Doyle, of Ferndown police, said: “The Riding for the Disabled Association site is run by charity donations and provides a vital service for those with varying degrees of disability.
“The site has specialist trained ponies and a horse simulator for pupils to learn riding skills before progressing onto the real thing.
“It is renowned for the positive effects it can have for all service users and this theft will have a detrimental impact on its current programme until funds can be raised to replace the stolen items.”
One of the stolen saddles is described as a sheepskin-covered therapy saddle complete with stirrups.
The second is a black 16.5-inch Thorogood part-suede synthetic saddle. It has stirrups with toe stoppers. A 17 inch black hunt saddle was also taken.
PC Doyle added: “I am appealing for anyone who saw or heard any suspicious activity in or around the stables at that time to contact me urgently.
“I would urge anyone who witnessed this burglary, or anyone who has any information about those responsible, to contact the police as soon as possible.
“If anyone has any knowledge of the whereabouts of these saddles or would like to donate to the riding for the disabled group, I’d urge them to contact me at Ferndown Police Station.
“I would advise all horse owners to check the security of their horse equipment and consider marking their tack.”
Witnesses and anyone with information can contact Dorset Police on 101 quoting incident number 1:45 or Crimestoppers on 0800 555111.
