A GROUP of friends and family of a young horse rider who drowned in a tragic riding accident are now dedicated to erect a fitting memorial in her name. Charlotte Saunders from Okehampton was only 12 when she fell from her pony in to the river and drowned in October 2001 at Fatherford. Eastlake Riding Stables, where Charlotte lived, are now working with the Okehampton community to raise money and convert the footbridge at the stables to a horse riding bridge in her honour. Clare Hooper, who runs the stables and co-owns them with Charlotte's father David Saunders, helped raise Charlotte and is behind the initiative to convert the current bridge. She has estimated the bridge upgrade will cost around £45,000. She said: 'Eastlake Riding Stables, where Charlotte lived, is still running in her memory. We have riders who cross the river and it would be much safer for us and other horse users to have a bridle bridge. 'The bridge is important for safety and is much needed. It will benefit more people than just horse riders as it will help the disabled, mountain bikers, cross country runners from Okehampton College and also people pushing prams. 'We are holding a party at Eastlake on June 28 to raise more money towards it but we still have a long way to go and are asking businesses and people who knew Charlotte to help, however big or small, to make a contribution.' Already firefighters from Okehampton fire station have raised £185 from a Hallowe'en party as many of them knew Charlotte and did all they could on that tragic day. Okehampton Chamber of Trade has already made a contribution towards the new bridge. Any other parties who would like to help should contact Clare Hooper at Eastlake Riding Stables on 01837 52513.
