Record amount raised by Forres and Nairn riding group in memory of 'legend' Les Clyne
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A CHARITY has raised a record amount at an annual fundraiser in memory of a north “legend”.
The Forres, Nairn and District Riding for the Disabled Association held a coffee morning in memory of Les Clyne.
The coffee morning at St Leonard’s Church in Forres brought in a record £1200 after being postponed for the past two years due to the pandemic.
Association chairwoman Sonia Howell said: “In 2019, we lost a Forres legend when Les Clyne passed away at the age of 91.
“He was a man of many parts – horseman, actor, soldier and comedian – but horses were such a huge part of his life starting
from his early years in the army.”
Mr Clyne set up the Forres Pony Trekking and Riding Centre where many local children learned to ride.
“The funds will continue Les’s legacy and will cover the cost of one child’s riding for one year and beyond,” Ms Howell said.
“Never before have we raised such a fantastic amount – and we are so grateful to everyone who contributed.”
The association delivers weekly term-time therapeutic riding sessions for children with disabilities from local primary and secondary schools.
Instruction from qualified instructors on carefully chosen and well-trained ponies is designed to meet children’s individual needs and abilities, contributing to their physical and mental wellbeing.
Their progress is monitored and reflected in a certificate at the end of the school year.
The group is the only one in the UK which does not make any charge to the riders or the schools.
It does not receive any external funding and covers its expenditure through fundraising.
Ms Howell wished to thank all involved: “Thanks to those who attended, our volunteers and their friends and family who contributed raffle prizes, baking, bric-a-brac, toys, bottles and plants.
“Thank you to our volunteers for their hard work on the day – both in the kitchen and front of house.”
