Riders saddle up for Park’s charity event

The estate will host Saddle Up For Sue, which is raising money for the Sue Ryder-run Manorlands Hospice in Oxenhope, West Yorkshire.

Those taking part will have two routes to choose from with both taking in stunning venues while raising money for charity.

The ‘Beginner Route’ is a 6.5-mile loop with optional cross-country fences while the ‘Novice Route’ is a 14-mile hacking route, also with optional cross-country fences.

Among those who have already signed up is Linda Gash and her horse Sixpence with the rider saying the event combines two passions that are very close to her heart. “I work as a staff nurse and am, therefore, aware of the amazing care Sue Ryder provides for people with incurable illnesses,” she said.

“I wanted to combine my love of horse riding with raising some funds for a fantastic charity.”

Organisers hope to have around 80 participants at the event and raise over £2,500. That sum could cover the cost of a nurse for two-weeks at a Sue Ryder Care Centre.

The fees, which go directly to Sue Ryder, are £25 for adults and £10 for Under-18s, who must be accompanied by an adult.

A team entry is also available costing £100 for five adults while registration is available on the day, subject to capacity, at £30 per entrant.

Charlie Forbes Adam, who runs the family-owned Escrick Park Estate, enthused: “Every year we open up Escrick Park, free of charge, for two sponsored events.

“The Cancer Research Good Friday Ride is one and Saddle Up With Sue is the other. We believe strongly in both causes and are very happy to help them.

“It is also a pleasure to be able to share Escrick Park, and its wonderful equestrian facilities, with the general public.

“We have devoted much time and money in order to create two first-class equestrian courses in the park and it is tremendous to see them being used – and helping to raise money at the same time.”

Georgina Abbott, Yorkshire regional fund-raiser at Sue Ryder added: “I would like to thank Rosalind and Charles Forbes Adam, who have sponsored the event.

“It is going to be a fantastic day for everyone involved and we really appreciate their support.

“We are thrilled the event has attracted so much interest from keen horse riders in Yorkshire.

“Sue Ryder provides care for people with incurable illnesses and all funds raised from the event will help us to continue our vital work in the local community.”

Anybody wishing to register to take part in the event should visit www.sueryder.org/saddleupforsue.

Alternatively, email [email protected] or call her on 0113 203 3376.