John O'Gaunt School pupils rally for Lambourn charity Riding for the Disabled

PUPILS at a Hungerford school have raised £419 for their chosen local charity, Lambourn Riding for the Disabled (RDA).

The cause is particularly close to the heart of one them – Year 10's Harry Lardner.

Harry said: "My sister, Bella, has been going for five years now and rides a pony called Millie; she's at her happiest when she's there.

"Riding has boosted her confidence immeasurably; we've seen her communication skills improve and her self-esteem grow.

"It's a really very special place."

He added: "The team at RDA put in 100 per cent effort and the relationship you witness between horses and people under their care is just life-changing."

Harry volunteers there too, but admits he is a reluctant horseman.

He said: "They're so big – I leave that bit to Bella.

"I'm incredibly proud of her."

The money was raised through a series of non-uniform day 'fines', tombolas and raffles.

Each year the designated student leaders canvas and choose three charities at a local, national and international level to support.

Having supported the RDA, Macmillan Cancer Support and the Ukrainian Red Cross last year, this year the group are fundraising for The Dogs Trust, Cancer Research and Save the Children.

Pictured, left to right, are: Lambourn RDA chairwoman Frances Lochrane, Harry Lardner, his sister and Hungerford Primary School pupil Bella, student ambassadors and leaders Alice Green (Year 8), Erin Fox-Shatford (Year 7), vice chairwoman of Lambourn RDA Jill Fitzpatrick and the school's head of teaching and learning Jay Morgan.