Charity grateful for support after 50 saddles stolen

A Kent riding centre for people with disabilities said it was "deeply grateful" for the community's support after 50 saddles were stolen during a break-in.

Leybourne Grange Riding Centre, in West Malling, said the incident happened in the early hours of 7 July.

Co-manager Jo Fletcher, who has worked at the charity for more than 30 years, said the break-in was "shocking" and impacted them "severely", adding: "It's unbelievable that some people would do such a thing."

She said following the break-in the community had donated more than 60 saddles and more than £6,000 through fundraising efforts.

She added: "We support more than 70 people who use our riding centre for therapeutic purposes.

"It also allows them to pursue their hobby for the benefit of their wellbeing."

Fletcher said the charity was "incredibly grateful" for the "overwhelming compassion" that had been shown by the public.

"This has really lifted our spirits," she added. "It shows there are still a lot of kind people out there."

Fletcher added the donations meant the charity could carry on providing services.

"The money will go towards updating our security and CCTV," she added.

Kent Police confirmed the investigation into the reported theft was ongoing.

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