Home / Crime and Justice / Disability Riding School Devastated by £20k Equipment Theft
Disability Riding School Devastated by £20k Equipment Theft
8 May
Summary
- Specialized riding equipment and a carriage were stolen from a disability charity.
- The theft has forced the cancellation of all sessions for about 40 weekly riders.
- The estimated value of the stolen fundraising-funded equipment is £15,000 to £20,000.
A Lincolnshire riding school for individuals with disabilities has been forced to halt all operations due to a significant theft. Kesteven Rideability, located in Hough on the Hill near Grantham, had its stables raided, resulting in the loss of all saddles, riding tack, and a specially adapted carriage.
Founder Karen Thompson described the incident as "wiping us out," expressing devastation. The stolen equipment, which had been purchased with fundraising efforts, is estimated to be worth between £15,000 and £20,000. This loss will likely cause over a month's delay in resuming services.
The specialized carriage, recently acquired thanks to a donation, was particularly impactful. Approximately 40 riders with disabilities utilize the service weekly. "Lessons have been cancelled for the foreseeable future," Thompson stated, highlighting the critical need for the specialized gear.
While the ponies and staff are unharmed, the charity is appealing for public assistance in recovering the stolen tack and carriage. Lincolnshire Police have been notified, and a car was reportedly seen towing the carriage on a nearby road around the time of the theft.
