Since 1976, Barrow Farm RDA has established itself as a prominent riding centre dedicated to supporting and empowering individuals with special needs and disabilities, making riding accessible to everyone. The act of riding holds various meaning for different people. At Barrow Farm RDA, it serves as a form of physiotherapy and exercise, a platform for learning, an avenue for cultivating new friendships, and a means of building confidence and self-esteem through engaging in fun and interactive experiences.

The Chelmsford Lions Club actively participated in enhancing the existing memory garden, transforming it into a sensory space dedicated to commemorating the life of a beloved departed rider. Our managing director, Julie, a member of the Chelmsford Lions Club, enthusiastically supported the project, contributing timber offcuts to secure pathway edges and using our transport fleet to collect and deliver required materials. Having consulted with Barrow Farm RDA, we recommended Andy Harragan & Sons, who are specialists in laying resin surfaces which combine aggregate stones and resin for footpaths and driveways.

In late November this year, the sensory garden was officially inaugurated by the Mayor of Chelmsford, Councillor Linda Mascot. Surrounding the garden, ponies graze in the fields, as well as colourful and fragrant floral displays. The garden also features a chalkboard horse for children to draw on. The riding school plans to host events such as ‘tea with a pony’ for local care home residents including those with dementia. With the completed project shining in all its glory, the Barrow Farm RDA look forward to welcome new visitors in the future.