I've been a volunteer with the riding centre for nearly two years. I've ridden horses myself, not a lot, but it's something I've always wanted to do. I went along to AVOW (Association of Voluntary Organisations in Wrexham) and they told me about the Clwyd Special Riding Centre. It sounded good so I thought I'd give it a try.

I come along twice a week on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. I fetch the horses from the stables to the indoor arena. The stable girls put the saddles on, we put the reins on and check the girths are tight. With another volunteer I'll help the child to mount and take them to the centre of the arena. I make sure the stirrups are the right length, check the girth again and make sure the rider is OK. The safety of the riders is paramount and I had to go on a Health and Safety course before starting here. We have to wear the correct clothing and no jewellery.

I like seeing the children getting so much enjoyment out of being here. They look forward to coming back again. The staff here are great and always here to help you. I've learnt a lot from being here. I can't work full time because of health problems so it's nice to do something that gets me out the house.

The Clwyd Special Riding Centre is in Llanfynydd, Wrexham. For further information please telephone 01352 770446.