Morpeth Riding for the Disabled group is to operate from Northumberland College Equestrian Centre at Kirkley Hall near Ponteland from 12 May 2022. 
 

The move follows a period of discussion between the county council, Morpeth RDA and Active Northumberland.  
 

All parties are keen to reassure parents, carers, schools, supporters and riders that the valued riding service will continue to be run as normal from its new base and that the move supports the future growth ambitions of Morpeth RDA. 
 

The dedicated equestrian educational centre at Kirkley Hall boasts two indoor arenas, one international-standard, two outdoor arenas, a significant range of stabling and other associated facilities. 
 

Northumberland County Council has financed the upgrading of the facility at Kirkley Hall to make sure the areas dedicated to RDA lessons and ponies are highly accessible for disabled riders, to maximise inclusivity. 
 

Michelle Macaulay, Chairman of Morpeth RDA said: 

“The group has enjoyed 13 happy years at the Pegasus Centre, and we now look forward to the continued success and growth of Morpeth RDA in its new home. 
 

“The staff at Kirkley have extended a warm welcome to the group and the ponies are settling in well to their new surroundings.  
 

“We’re extremely grateful to Michael and Daphne Jeans for allowing The Pegasus Centre to be the home of Morpeth RDA for the last 13 years and we appreciate the support we’ve had from Northumberland County Council and Active Northumberland during this time.” 
 

The Morpeth Riding for the Disabled Group is a registered charity giving people with a broad spectrum of special needs and disabilities a chance to develop their abilities and enrich their lives through riding specially trained ponies. 
 

Over 125 riders aged between 4 to 67 travel from all over the county and beyond to attend riding lessons. Riding has been proven to encourage co-ordination, develop muscle strength and build self-confidence and many of the Group’s riders have participated in national RDA events with considerable success. 
 

Northumberland County Councillor Guy Renner-Thompson, cabinet member with responsibility for children’s services said: 

“The move will enable the current service to grow and will pave the way for greater opportunities for the development of disability riding, coaching and teaching.  We wish the team and Morpeth RDA well in their new home.” 
 

Active Northumberland has been managing the Pegasus Centre on behalf of the county council. 
 

Mark Warnes, Chief Executive of Active Northumberland said: 

“The move came about following a review of the services provided by Active Northumberland, and it was felt that supporting the group to locate to a specialist educational riding establishment was a logical decision for our customers and partners.  
 

“A lot of work has been carried out to ensure a smooth transition of the service and I am confident that Morpeth RDA will thrive in its new home.” 
 

The centre at Tranwell will continue to operate as a private livery yard.