ABOUT US
The philosophy of using horses for the disabled is not new. The Greeks used horses for rehabilitating wounded soldiers in the fifth century BC and indeed throughout history, riding has been prescribed as a means of improving the mental and physical well-being of people with disabilities. In the twentieth century, therapeutic riding was recognised by Dame Agnes Hunt, who established the first orthopaedic hospital in the United Kingdom. Dame Agnes Hunt understood the real need for laughter and companionship in the recovery of health, and the importance of horses and riding for her patients. Her work was followed up with soldiers who had been disabled during both world wars and many hospitals deliberately encouraged riding as a means of therapy.

At the 1952 Helinski Olympic Games, Madame Liz Hartel, a Danish polio victim who was normally confined to a wheelchair, left her chair for her horse's back and then proceeded to win a silver medal in the dressage event. This achievement naturally received worldwide attention, focusing on the fact that "It is ability that counts, not disability". Her courage and achievement gave encouragement to many people.

Following the Games, Riding for the Disabled groups began springing up in countries throughout the western world.

Ravelrig Riding for the Disabled was formed initally for children resident in a Barnardo home for children and young people with a learning disability. The facilities at Ravelrig included a Victorian stable block consisting of loose boxes, hay barn, tack room, storage areas and extensive grazing.

A Shetland pony called Treacle was loaned to the Group and Currie and Balerno Round Table donated £100 for the purchase of riding hats.