The Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company has announced its charity of the year for 2026.
It will support Eden Riding for the Disabled after it was nominated by Sue Barnes, a member of the Settle Carlisle Railway refreshment trolley team and a volunteer with the group.
Sue put forward the charity after seeing the positive impact that horse riding can have on people’s confidence, wellbeing and physical development.
Riding for the Disabled groups provide therapeutic horse riding and carriage driving for people with physical, learning and emotional disabilities.
Groups, including those in Cumbria, are run entirely by volunteers and rely on fundraising, donations and grants to continue their work.
Riders benefit from improved balance, co-ordination and muscle strength, as well as increased confidence, independence and social interaction.
Sue said: “Volunteering with Riding for the Disabled has shown me just how powerful these sessions can be for riders of all ages. It’s wonderful to see the railway supporting a charity that makes such a meaningful difference in local people’s lives.”
Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company will raise funds for Eden Riding for the Disabled through activities supported by staff, volunteers and passengers using the Settle Carlisle line.
Funds raised will help local groups continue to offer safe, inclusive and life-enhancing riding experiences.
Chair of Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company, Pete Myers said: “The Settle–Carlisle Railway has strong roots in the communities it serves.
“Choosing Riding for the Disabled as our Charity of the Year reflects our commitment to inclusion, accessibility and supporting organisations that bring real benefits to people across our region.”
Chair of the Eden Riding for the Disabled Trustees Rebecca Kemp said: “While our group comes under the umbrella of the national Riding for the Disabled Association, we are entirely self funding and rely on donations and our own fundraising activities and grant applications, which is why we are so pleased to have been chosen as the Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company’s Charity of the Year 2026.
“Each week during term time, we host our adult riders from Ullswater Community College and Edington Adult Learning Centre in Penrith and Aspire Centre, Appleby.
“Our junior riders come from North Lakes Junior School in Penrith, and from Warcop Junior school. In total, we can host up to 26 riders at each session. Our riders benefit from their interaction with the lovely, steady ponies from Rookin House Equestrian Centre.
“Our enthusiastic volunteers ensure a fun and safe experience each week and love to see our riders enjoying themselves.”
