Closure threatened riding centre appeals for help

Trustee Jackie Rubin said the Unicorn Centre is the only one of its kind in the region

A horse-riding facility for disabled people says it needs to raise £100,000 to stay open.

Middlesbrough's Unicorn Centre, which opened in 1998, gives those with disabilities and learning difficulties the opportunity to ride and enjoy time with horses.

Staff and trustees launched a fundraising appeal amid concerns over the centre's ability to afford rising running costs.

Trustee Jackie Rubin said saving the "unique" centre would be a massive challenge.

"The Unicorn Centre desperately needs to survive," she said.

"We have survived over the years completely on donations from supporters, people riding at our centre and competitions we run.

"But due to the rising cost of living and the cost of feed, horses and everything else, we're struggling - for us to be sustainable, we need cash.

"We are very determined that we will raise this money."

There is a significant waiting list for riding sessions at The Unicorn Centre

Visitors to the centre can learn to ride its horses, or can spend time grooming them.

The experience is calming for many and socially significant, staff believe.

"It doesn't matter how long you watch, or how long you've been doing it for, it's emotional to see someone able to ride a pony who came into the arena in a wheelchair, with others walking in around them," said Ms Rubin.

"For them to be able to ride alongside people more able, there's an equality in it that's amazing."

Talia Rayner-Smith began visiting the centre eight years ago and has since become a member of staff.

She said its loss of the centre would be upsetting for all who have bonded with the horses there.

Talia Rayner-Smith has been a regular at the centre for eight years

The Unicorn Centre holds a variety of community events, from competitions to Santa pony rides, shows and sessions for people with dementia.

"The impact on the community would be huge if we weren't here," Ms Rubin said.

"There aren't any other organisations offering these activities in this area, and it will be devastating to all the participants and our fantastic volunteer team if we cannot continue."

Money raised would be spent on maintaining the centre, expanding its volunteer programme and offering more lessons and therapy sessions.