HER Royal Highness Princess Anne paid a special visit to Hartpury University this month to mark 50 years of a local Riding for the Disabled (RDA) group.

Maisemore RDA, which has been based at Hartpury Equine for the last 15 years, welcomed the Princess Royal to a celebration of their 50th anniversary last Wednesday (November 16).

She was met by former England rugby captain and His Majesty’s Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Gloucestershire Phil Vickery, Maisemore RDA group coach and trustee Patricia Kucharski, Principal and CEO of Hartpury University Professor Andy Collop and Chair of Governors Edward Keene.

A “packed” afternoon of events started with a jumping display from Italian event rider and three-time Olympian Vittoria Panizzon, followed by a demonstration from members of the Gloucestershire Mounted Police.

Students, teachers, parents and carers from the Milestone School in Gloucester and Alderman Knight School in Tewkesbury then joined Hartpury students and RDA volunteers and riders past and present for a special musical ride.

The ride showcased the “versatility” of much-loved RDA ponies Barney, Drummer and Brian, who all reside at Hartpury Equine.

The Princess Royal then presented Long Service Awards to Maisemore volunteers who between them have provided over 100 years of service to the group.

She also presented The RDA President’s Award, given to individuals who have served for 30 years or more, nominated by their respective RDA groups.

Hartpury Principal Professor Andy Collop, said: “I’d like to congratulate Maisemore RDA on their landmark 50th anniversary. It’s our privilege that Hartpury Equine has been home to Maisemore RDA for 15 years.

“We’re proud that our facilities enable the group and its members to easily access the many benefits horses and riding can bring.

“We were also delighted to welcome back The Princess Royal for this special occasion, given the support she has shown to the RDA over the last 50 years.”

Hartpury’s “state-of-the-art” Margaret Giffen Rider Performance Centre was the final stop of the afternoon for The Princess Royal, where she was given a tour of the centre’s riding simulators and unveiled a commemorative plaque before being presented with a posy by Emily Blakey from the Milestone School.