Staff, volunteers and trustees at Bedford charity that helps disabled people, have vowed to “carry on” despite a break-in this week which saw thousands of pounds worth of horseriding equipment stolen.
Police were called to the Bedford Disabled Horse Riding Association (BDHRA) on Balls Lane, Willington on Tuesday (20 September), after staff found two shipping containers broken into and equipment stolen.
Trustee Nick Kier told the Bedford Independent that police believe the burglars did “a professional job” and that they’d also broken into containers at nearby Frosts Garden Centre too.
“It’s not acceptable to break in anywhere but it feels worse when a charity is broken into,” said Nick, “but our amazing volunteers and staff haven’t let it phase them and have just got back to doing what they do best.”
The burglars stole 12 bridles, girths, leatherwear, and other items. They also turned over the offices leaving a considerable mess.
Alone the bridles, brand new, could be collectively worth over £4,000 but Nick says they quickly managed to find replacements.
“Thanks to another trustee and friends we cobbled together bridles and other equipment and they were able to crack on and open as planned on Wednesday morning.”
Not letting thieves win
Nick also praised the volunteers and staff for not letting the break-in deter them.
“Beyond the expense of it, the burglary is disturbing, but we have the most amazing volunteers who just get on and do what’s needed in the spirit of everyone pulling together to not let the thieves win.”
BDHRA was started in 1961 and moved to its current premise in 1992, which was opened by Princess Anne.
Their ponies as used as therapy for children and adults with physical and mental disabilities.
The charity says the movement and gait of the pony stimulate the rider’s muscles and joints to be able to relax. In time balance improves as well as posture and walking ability.
They provide activities and therapy to students at the nearby Grange Academy and Ivel Valley School, and receive funding from the Bedfordshire Charitable Trust and The Harpur trust, the village is also “hugely supportive”, added Nick.
If you would like to support BDHRA, you can make a donation at their website.
Bedfordshire Police confirmed that they are investigating a break-in between Sunday evening (18 September) and Tuesday morning (20 September).
A spokesperson for the force said: “The offenders have broken into business premises and stolen items from a number of storage containers.
“We know how intrusive burglary is for victims and want to hear from anyone with any information which can help our investigation.
“Anyone with any information can contact police via beds.police.uk/ro/report or by calling 101 and quoting reference 40/54588/22
“You can also contact Crimestoppers anonymously via 0800 555 111 or through crimestoppers-uk.org.”
