A grant of £25,000 from the Freemasons charity has enabled The Riding for the Disabled association to launch a new programme aimed at increasing volunteer numbers.

Volunteers are crucial to the running of the RDA and the new recruitment drive will help to ensure the long term sustainability of the service that so many people rely on.

The new program will include open days to create interest and volunteer handbooks which will set out guidelines on matters such as handling difficult situations, publicity and the rewarding of volunteers.

Volunteer co-ordinators will receive training on how to manage recruits and incentives will be given including community volunteering certificates and Duke of Edinburgh Awards.

RDA volunteers do not have to be knowledgeable about horses as there are many types of role available including administration and fund raising.

For further details of how to volunteer for the RDA please visit www.rda.org.uk.