Weston Hills boy Charlie shares story of Four Winds Accessible Riding Group in West Pinchbeck with Martin Clunes and Princess Anne at London event

A previously ‘shy’ teen shared the positive impact a unique educational programme has had on his life at an event attended by Princess Anne and actor Martin Clunes.

Charlie Dunmore, 12, of Weston Hills — and grandma Katie Dunmore — were invited to London with West Pinchbeck’s Four Winds Accessible Riding Group, for a special event which highlighted the life changing roles horses are playing to brighten young people’s futures.

The riding school supports The British Horse Society’s Changing Lives programme, which combines the development of life skills and educational achievement while working with horses.

It provides a different approach for five to 25-year olds, who may struggle in mainstream schools or have special educational needs.

The event took place at The Saddlers Hall in London, where Charlie and his grandma attended with riding school centre owner, Paula Leverton and head coach of the Changing Lives programme, Kirsty Sweeney.

Paula said: “The event was held to show people that sponsor the programme, what good work it does for the children and we were invited to take one of our students.

“It was such a big moment for us to watch Charlie and we felt so proud. To see the journey he has come on, from the shy boy who didn’t speak and just sat in the corner, was amazing.”

During the event, Charlie’s grandma gave a presentation about his experiences to all of the visitors and other young individuals from the UK, who have been positively impacted.

Prior to the programme, Charlie didn’t feel comfortable being in a room full of people.

Paula added: “Katie, had never done any public speaking before but she was pretty amazing. In her speech she told everyone, before the programme Charlie wouldn’t be able to sit in a room full of people, let alone stand up in front of everyone and cope with the whole day.

“He really enjoyed his day and was quite excited – he actually really liked being the centre of attention and his grandma was absolutely thrilled.

“Princess Anne was very impressed by what Katie said and referred to her by name afterwards which showed she must have made a big impression on her. Charlie was asked to present Princess Anne with a posy of flowers and it was just an amazing day.”

For more information on the Changing Lives course - or to apply for a place - call 01775 640533 or email paula@fourwindsequestriancentre.co.uk