A KEEN horsewoman is pulling back the reins after years in the saddle.

Jill Pratt is retiring after 15 years of voluntary involvement with Riding for the Disabled in Wirral and Chester. She has been chairman of the international charity since 1999.

“We have riders of all ages from five upwards,” said Jill. “Last year we gave 4,275 rides to 238 riders.”

Riders with all sorts of disabilities use the riding schools in Ness and Ledsham.

“We don’t actually own any horses,” explained Jill. “We hire all that we need.

“We have riders from special schools or adult centres and we take them riding in the indoor school and out along a lane or in the woods.”

Jill, who has lived in Parkgate for more than 50 years, will retire to be nearer her two children and five grandchildren who live in the south of England.

Last year she won a national award from the charity for her contribution as a volunteer.

In 2003 during her tenure as chairman, she received the Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service in its inaugural year.

Jill has handed over the reins to Glenny Richardson, of Childer Thornton.

Glenny said: “Jill is an unsung hero. She’s got so much energy and is so dedicated.”

Riding for the Disabled is keen to attract more volunteers. Experience with horses is not necessary. For more information, contact Glenny Richardson on 0151 339 2367.