TAVISTOCK Riding for the Disabled Association Carriage Driving Group unveiled its new four-wheel carriage at a recent event before an invited audience of fundraisers, charity trustees, RDA regional and county representatives, volunteers and disabled benefactors of the new vehicle.

Representing two main donors to the successful £8,000 plus appeal were members of Tavistock Round Table and the deputy mayor of Tavistock Cllr Anne Johnson, accompanied by Lauren Bennatto, the Mayor's cadet.

Mrs Pat Mackintosh, another financial supporter and chairman and founder of the Tavistock group almost 30 years ago, opened proceedings with a ribbon breaking ceremony.

Members of the group then gave enthusiastic demonstrations of the new carriage, drawn by Fell pony Bruno, at the Duchy College's indoor arena in Stoke Climsland. Mrs Johnson said how nice it was to see the town council's money so well spent on such a worthwhile piece of equipment.

The new carriage, a purpose-built Bennington Challenger from Nottinghamshire, replaces the group's existing two-wheeler.

It will offer a more comfortable ride for disabled drivers, especially those who use wheelchairs, and is also equipped with a brake making it easier for the pony on the steep inclines encountered in the Tavistock Woodlands Estate where the group meets twice weekly.

l Anyone interested in the activities of the group,either as a volunteer or disabled participant, should contact the charity on 08454 506911.