Stables’ thanks for coronavirus support

Family-run stables Folly Farm Equestrian Centre has thanked supporters for helping it through the financial crisis caused by coronavirus.

Their concerned customers rallied around to keep the horses fed and in hay and through a Justgiving raffle page and sponsorship of ponies, they have raised £570.

The stables has been unable to furlough staff and owner Rebecca Hardy has found the lockdown period ‘really difficult’ but has been amazed by her clients’ response to their hard times.

Rebecca, pictured, said: “We have some amazing clients and they have really rallied around. They are like family. It means so much when people go out of their way to help. It is thanks to them that we are striving to keep going. We’re not unique, in that there are so many businesses who need support.”

Keeping the children who attend involved with the stables so they still feel a part of the Folly Farm family has been important to Rebecca.

She has been posting emails and photos from the horses to keep youngsters up-to-date with their daily activities.

Julia Kiddle, whose daughter Milly has been attending the stables in London Road, Yaxley, for nearly two years, recognises the difference the stable has made to her daughter’s confidence and other areas of her life.

Julia said: “There’s no other stable that offered the friendly welcome and quality of riding. I’m desperate to do anything to help them survive this.

“School work has never been easy for Milly but through her love of horses her teacher was able to tailor her work to engage her. We would be devastated to see them close because of the Covid-19 situation. Riding is Milly’s one true love, and as a mother, I cherish anything that makes her so happy.”