WORCESTERSHIRE’s six most behaved ponies were painted them to mark a 50 year charity celebration.
‘Party With A Pony’ was orgainsed by the Kyre Group of RDA (Riding for the Disabled Association) marking half a century of helping children live with medical conditions and disabilities.
The event was attended by almost 50 local children, parents, carers and volunteers.
Mandi Boardman, coach and event organiser said: “Dusty, Smokey Joe, Lucky, Andy, Billy and Lily were marvellous when it came to being daubed with paint.
“They allowed us to colour them up with stencils, brushes and handprints, using a variety of paints and even hoof glitter.
“More importantly, personal challenges and disabilities could be set aside for a while as children had a brilliant time. The adults had fun, too.”
Team members awarded prizes for ‘best mane’, ‘best glittery feet’, best use of stencils and ‘best painted bottom’.
Everyone that took part went home with a toy pony which was gifted by Agria Pet Insurance and a limited edition rosette.
RDA provides opportunities for therapy, achievement and enjoyment, improving health, wellbeing and self-confidence and benefiting mobility and co-ordination.
Doug Smith, National Equine Lead/Coach Developer for RDA UK, said: “Today I’ve had a wonderful time at Kyre RDA, judging and presenting prizes at their ‘Pony Painting Party’.
“I was not sure what to expect but was delighted to be a part of something that showed RDA at its’ very best.
“The concept and execution of the ‘pony painting’ was very original and imaginative.
“It was an example of volunteers, participants and their families working together to produce a great afternoon. Grass roots RDA in action.”
