Wrea Green Equitation Centre reaps the benefits following accreditation
The centre is visited each week by over 100 riders and offers a range of lessons from the age of four upwards for both able bodied and disabled riders, with the tuition delivered in an interactive and informative manner by highly qualified instructors.
In 2008 Wrea Green achieved Clubmark and has subsequently found it has:
- Improved access to funding and equipment - The British Horse Society has rewarded the club gaining accreditation by funding the purchase of coloured rubber reins which are designed to make learning to ride easier and the club is also now able to collect Sainsbury's Active Kids Vouchers.
- Developed relationships with partners - The club has worked in partnership with Fylde Borough Council's Club Support Officer to guide it through the accreditation process. The accreditation process also reinforced to the club the importance of working with the Seaside Venture Group in order to deliver a quality ‘Riding for the Disabled' programme.
- Raised the profile of the club - The club received free publicity in the local press and several equestrian publications. The centre's proprietor especially likes the Clubmark scheme because of how it consistently works across so many sports. This is especially beneficial to parents as an instant seal of approval for their children who attend many club based activities.
The centre also faced the challenges of securing funds to develop the clubs facilities e.g. a disabled toilet and changing facilities. Through its partnership working with Fylde Borough Council's Club Support Officer, David Parry, a funding source was identified to support the conversion of a space to provide these requirements.
Chris Pollitt, the centre's owner, commented:
"We make great efforts in ensuring that horse-riding is open to as many people as possible - and that means looking after able-bodied and disabled riders equally. People need to know that they are getting the best coaching possible and that they will be safe when they come to rise with us. Money is tight and people need to know they are getting value for money at the centre - and Clubmark gives them that reassurance."


