14/11/2025
🚨 HUGE NEWS! 🚨
✨ We are absolutely thrilled to announce that Erme Valley Riding for the Disabled has been awarded The King’s Award for Voluntary Service – the highest honour a UK voluntary group can receive, equivalent to an MBE. ✨
We are especially proud to share that only 231 groups across the entire UK have received this prestigious award this year, and Erme Valley RDA is one of them. This places us among a select group of outstanding organisations whose work has made a truly exceptional impact on their communities.
This recognition marks the culmination of a year-long process, and we could not be prouder that our work has truly been recognised at this national level.
Peggy receiving her MBE in 2011 was a tremendous honour, but she has always hoped that the group itself would one day be acknowledged for its impact, dedication, and service to our community. Today, that dream has come true.
The nomination process began last December, with heartfelt citations kindly provided by Linda Leach, Joy Watts, and Deborah Burrell .We are deeply grateful to Charlotte Walliker, who nominated us and undertook the huge task of compiling extensive paperwork, figures and supporting evidence.
Over the following months, our application progressed to the Devon County officials, who visited the group on 17th February 2025. We were honoured to welcome Robin Barlow DL and Lady Sarah Lopes, who spent the entire day interviewing participants, volunteers, directors and members of our community. Their visit concluded with an in-depth discussion with our Treasurer Sue Johns and with Peggy.
From there, the nomination went to London for final consideration.
To receive this award is an immense honour and represents the pinnacle of recognition for a voluntary group like ours. It celebrates not only what we do, but the heart, dedication and spirit of every single person who has been part of our journey.
A huge thank you goes out to all our volunteers, riders, families, supporters and friends. Erme Valley RDA simply would not be what it is without you.
We would also like to give special recognition to those whose experience, professionalism and long-standing service have built the strong foundation we stand on today:
Joy Watts, Reverend Jane Lankester, Sue Johns, and Mary Mac.
Because of you, this charity has been able to grow, flourish and continue changing lives.
Today, we celebrate all of Erme Valley Riding for the Disabled.
This award belongs to every one of you. 💜🐴
WE DID IT! 🎉🎉🎉
. Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA)
