Roy Smith

I joined the Group in 1991, (an unbelievable 20 years ago !!) soon after becoming disabled. Throughout my life I have always enjoyed outdoor activities, which became very difficult when my mobility was restricted. So when I discovered pony driving was possible from a wheelchair it was a perfect opportunity for me, and it played a great part in my readjustment to my new circumstances.

I have enjoyed all the opportunities that the Group provides; the weekly drives at Ascot Racecourse, in Windsor Great Park etc; competing at horse shows including the annual Royal Windsor Horse Show; and the many social activities like picnics, Christmas parties etc.

I have been a Trustee and Hon Secretary of our Charity for many years and I look forward to continuing driving for as long as my creaking body allows!

Rebecca Gale

About four or five years ago I met a couple from church who told me about pony and cart driving, what fun it was and how the horses were so good and I would meet lots of friends. They told me I wouldn't drive on my own because I would have an RDA whip, which I was pleased with. A new challenge was set!

My favourite horse is called Casper - he's lovely and good as gold, well most of the time! He was found in a back garden fed on scraps but you wouldn't know now because he is nice and cuddly now.

Every two weeks there is a bus that comes to pick us all up and takes us back home again. I think this is such a fantastic service for people who are unable to drive themselves.

I meet lots of lovely people and take part in competitions. My first competition was the Concours d'elegance. We drove around Windsor Park looking very elegant and we came first overall. We were all so pleased.

I went on a driving holiday which was great fun, going on drives twice a day going round poppy fields and through woods which were so beautiful.

I like to help towards the upkeep of the ponies by fund raising. Once a year we go to places like Waitrose and go down Ascot High Street with Casper - the little children stroke Casper while Mums and Dads give me some money. Good team work!

My mottoes for life are:

Seize the day.
Take every opportunity when it comes.
And go for life.

Rebecca ;o)