A highlight of The Pony Club’s Centre Membership Scheme 25th anniversary celebrations was the presence of HRH The Princess Royal, Patron of The Pony Club, at Wrea Green Equitation Centre near Preston recently. The flagship grassroots riding centre supports the local community and the broader Lancashire region with a range of opportunities and experiences.

During her visit, Her Royal Highness interacted with Pony Club Members, observing their diverse activities, which included bandaging, grooming, and horse and rider fitness demonstrations. HRH presented commemorative plaques to centre proprietors in recognition of 25 years of participation in the scheme. The festivities continued with a delightful tea party in the indoor school, embodying The Pony Club’s core values of Fun, Friendship, Horsemanship, and Sport.

The Centre Membership Scheme has broadened opportunities for young people to enjoy Pony Club activities at local riding centres, offering access that may have otherwise been out of reach. Participants from diverse backgrounds have the chance to engage in a variety of activities, including over 130 achievement badges, a progression of skill assessments, nine sports reaching championship levels, and non-mounted pursuits such as Horse and Pony Care and the Quiz. At its essence, the organisation cultivates a sense of camaraderie and enjoyment among like-minded friends within a supportive environment caring for horses and ponies.

With over 340 affiliated riding centres nationwide, boasting a membership of 10,000, the scheme encompasses a third of the UK Pony Club’s total membership. Many of these centres serve urban and underserved areas, offering families a welcoming space to embrace fitness, activity, and outdoor recreation.

Marcus Capel, CEO said “It was a delight to welcome Her Royal Highness to join us in celebrating our Centre Membership Scheme. The Centre proprietors and Members thoroughly enjoyed chatting with her.”

For further details visit The Pony Club website.