An instructor at the Calvert Stables on the outskirts of Keswick has celebrated 25 years of long service at the British Horse Society and Riding for the Disabled Association-approved riding centre.
Becky Roberts was presented with a bespoke long-service certificate from stable manager Lou Hogan which featured the horses Fudge and Annie, the newest edition to the team, overlooking Derwentwater.
A dedicated team of six at the centre provide accessible riding and trap driving for residential and community riders and have found that horses (and instructors) provide a little bit of magic for their guests.
The core stables team are supported by more than 60 volunteers and this is how Becky found her way into the Calvert fold 25 years ago.
She started volunteering at the stables when she was 12 and took up riding at the same time.
Throughout her teenage years, she spent all her spare time at the centre, but it was when she turned 20 and a permanent job offer came up that she committed long term to this much-loved community establishment.
“I love working here as every day is different,” said Becky. “The horses are so special and we meet so many people. Seeing the difference we make to people whether they come just once or regularly is so rewarding.”
Together with the rest of the team, Becky helps to deliver a wide and varied year-round programme of accessible riding lessons for both children and adults, pony mindfulness sessions, holidays clubs and residential breaks.
Stables manager Lou Hogan said: “Becky is a huge asset to the Calvert Stables. She obviously loves her job which makes such a difference to everyone she meets here.
“She’s a wonderful example of how volunteering for something you’re genuinely passionate about can become a lifelong vocation. We’re so grateful to all our volunteers over the years and are always eager to welcome new recruits.”
To that end Calvert Stables will be hosting an open day on Monday May 26 from 11am to 3pm. It is an opportunity to gain an insight into the work of Calvert Stables. With free entry, visitors are invited to meet the ponies, watch demonstrations and soak up the atmosphere – and perhaps be inspired to volunteer their time.
To learn more about the work of Calvert Stables, sponsor a pony online or volunteer, visit www.calvertstables.org.uk.
