Fabulous fun for all at our Autumn Showcase
Parents, carers and supporters of Helen Atkin Group RDA were treated to a professional and varied portfolio of skills by riders and volunteers at the group's Autumn Showcase on Saturday 17 October 2026.
Group coaches Bethan Garlick and Alison Riley spearheaded a seamless display designed to demonstrate the breadth and quality of the equine-based activities on offer to all ages at the group's covered arena in Buxton.
The enthusiastic audience was spellbound by everything from a drill ride, dressage tests and carriage driving to a Challenge event based on a countryside theme and showjumping – all expertly described by commentator and group Secretary Deb Ward.
Sustained by tea and cakes prepared and served by an army of volunteers and entertained by a tombola stall offering a huge array of prizes, everyone was thrilled by the day's proceedings – not least group Chairperson Janine Frost.
"The aim of the event was to show parents, carers and supporters of Helen Atkin Group RDA how our work helps riders of all ages to develop a wide range of skills and to boost their confidence and fulfil their potential, whatever their disability," she said.
"It was both humbling and heartwarming to watch as they worked with our coaches and volunteers to put on such a fantastic show. Our coaches Alison and Bethan have put so much time and effort into planning and organising this day, which I'm sure we'll all remember for a long time to come. Our riders really rose to the challenge, and special thanks are due to our international dressage competitor Jessica Limb, who staged two stylish dressage displays aboard her accomplished and elegant mount Gaya, owned by Verity Gaul.
"I'd also like to thank everyone who took part for making it such a massive success – including all our wonderful volunteers. They all worked so hard to set out the courses; fit hats; help mount the riders; make cakes, teas and coffees; prepare for and deliver the carriage driving demonstration and groom, tack up, lead and sidewalk our horses and ponies, hired from Louise Thompson at Buxton Riding School. It was a brilliant team effort, and we couldn't have done it without them. Many thanks and sincere congratulations to everyone involved."
Helen Atkin Group RDA is a voluntary group (charity number 1182183) providing riding therapy for disabled children and adults aged from six to over 60 across the High Peak. New volunteers are always warmly welcomed – if you would like to help and would like to find out more, please contact Group Secretary Deborah Ward, on 07940 516060 or email wardsinbuxton@gmail.com.