In March 2020 the country went into a national lockdown and so inline with government and RDA UK advice the centre ceased riding activity and went into lockdown, focusing on protecting our employees, ensuring our ponies continue to receive expert care and the centre is maintained for a time when we can return.
A lot has changed in the year, we moved from events to solely digital fundraising focused with the kind support of members of the public and trusts who have funded us to continue to care for our ponies and pay the ongoing bills.
Digital has become more important than ever in keeping connected and being able to work. This saw us adapt to virtual committee meetings, adoption of individual centre email and an IT system, plus in August install the first Internet connection to the centre to support our new ways of working.
In September we were successful in obtaining a grant from our Bedford Borough Council Ward Councilors for the installation of a new automated fire alarm system.