Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.

Barrow Farm Riding for the Disabled is an excellent small charity that helps over 100 children and adults each week but has also played a key role in my life for over 40 years.

This year Barrow Farm celebrates its 50th anniversary and it seems like the perfect time to reflect on the lives that have been enriched through riding, driving and being around ponies and support the Farm's future work.

Riding and driving at Barrow Farm can provide physiotherapy and exercise; a chance to learn; the opportunity to make new friends, build self esteem and confidence and have fun. All in a purpose built equestrian centre designed to make riding, driving and horse related activities accessible for people who's specific needs cannot always be met at other riding schools.

I first visited Barrow Farm with my Brownie pack in the mid eighties. As a pony mad kid, it immediately felt like a special place. It was not long before my two older sisters, Fiona and Isobel, were volunteering but I had to wait about two years until I was old enough.

I was so lucky to have this opportunity; we worked hard supporting the riders and caring for the ponies on the yard but I gained way more than I gave. I learned about horse care and riding from the very best instructors, but I also learned discipline and attention to detail and, most importantly, to put the needs of others, both ponies and riders, above our own.

My family have continued to be involved with Barrow Farm ever since. My sister, Isobel, is one of the Farm's coaches and a member of the trustee committee. We are both keen runners so raising money for Barrow Farm by running London Marathon is an opportunity too good to miss. Riders and carriage drivers pay a heavily subsidised fee for their sessions (about 30% of the cost). The remainder must come from charitable income. Your donation will help feed and care for the ponies, maintain the facilities, pay staff and train staff and volunteers for their highly specialised roles.

Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, they'll send your money directly to Barrow Farm. So it's the most efficient way to donate - saving time and cutting costs for the charity.