A riding instructor is celebrating 25 years at a Lake District stables.
Becky Roberts works at Calvert Stables, near Keswick.
A British Horse Society and Riding for the Disabled Association-approved riding centre, its dedicated team of six provide accessible riding and trap driving for residential and community riders and have found that horses (and instructors) provide a little bit of magic for their guests.
The core Stables team are supported by over 60 volunteers.
Becky and the team help deliver a year-round programme of accessible riding lessons for both children and adults, pony mindfulness sessions, holidays clubs and residential breaks.
Becky started volunteering at the stables when she was 12 and took up riding at the same time.
During her teenage years, she spent all her spare time at the centre, but it was when she turned 20 and a permanent job offer came up that she committed long term to this much-loved community establishment.
Calvert Stables manager Lou Hogan presented Becky with a bespoke long-service certificate featuring Calvert stables’ Fudge with her favourite view of Derwentwater, while Fudge himself and the newest addition to the team, Annie, looked on approvingly.
Becky said: “I love working here as every day is different, the horses are so special and we meet so many people, seeing the difference we make to people whether they come just the once or regularly is so rewarding.”
Lou said: “Becky is a huge asset to the Calvert Stables she obviously loves her job which makes such a difference to everyone she meets here.
“She’s a wonderful example of how volunteering for something you’re genuinely passionate about can become a lifelong vocation. We’re so grateful to all our volunteers over the years and are always eager to welcome new recruits.”
Calvert Stables is hosting an open day on Monday May 26 from 11am to 3pm. of Calvert Stables. People are invited to meet the ponies, watch demonstrations and soak up the atmosphere – and perhaps be inspired to volunteer their time.
