On the 30th January, officials from Cardiff Council informed staff that they intend to close the riding school in Llandaf fields by 1st April this year. The school is council operated (unique in Wales) and has been open for 43 years providing affordable riding activities for a wide range of adults, children and disabled clients many of whom would otherwise never be able to have these experiences. If it were to be kept open but transferred to "another operator" in the private sector, there is likely to have a similar effect, driving those who could not afford to access riding at the high costs charged elsewhere out from the school and from participating in such a unique sport.

As well as nearly 30 staff, there are also some 50 horses and ponies at the centre, many of whom are school ponies who have spent their entire working life gently introducing generations of children to the joy of a relationship with them. Please support the campaign to get Cardiff Council to reconsider this disasterous decision!

• Over 650 people ride at the centre EVERY WEEK as well as dozens on a waiting list to start
• 5 Riding for the Disabled groups use the faciliy as well as numerous disabled riders who have been integrated into mainstream lessons alongside other adults and children
• Some 50 horses and ponies and nearly 30 staff at the centre
  
• The only council run centre in Wales, offering affordable lessons in a friendly, supportive environment

WE THE UNDERSIGNED BELIEVE THAT THE UNIQUE CARDIFF RIDING SCHOOL MUST STAY OPEN UNDER THE OWNERSHIP OF THE COUNCIL FOR THE BENEFIT OF ALL OF THE LOCAL COMMUNITY

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