by Martin Jefferies

A team of fundraisers will put their best foot forward next weekend to raise money for Thanet Disabled Riding Centre - the Thanet Extra's charity of the year.

The sponsored walk raised more than £2,500 in 2009, but with three times as many people taking part this year, organisers hope to pass that total at a canter.

Every penny raised will go towards the day-to-day cost of running the stables in Callis Court Road, Broadstairs.

Volunteers there work with dozens of local schoolchildren every week, all of whom have physical or mental disabilities or learning difficulties.

Riding helps to improve their health, confidence and communication skills.

The youngsters are taught to ride to the best of their ability and are given individual support and therapy, helping to build their muscle strength and improving the way they interact with others.

The sponsored walk will set off from The Nineetenth Hole public house in George Hill Road, Margate, at 11am next Sunday (September 19).

Walkers will reach Westbrook before returning to The Nineteenth Hole for a buffet lunch.

Nora Setterfield, who set up Thanet Disabled Riding Centre, said: "The charity walk is our main fundraising event of the year and we always enjoy a good turn out.

"Around 75 people plan to join us next weekend, and we're incredibly grateful for their support."

The walk is followed later this year by KM Group's annual charity abseil at Screaming Alley on Ramsgate's Eastcliff (see page 15 for more details).

Brave volunteers from the Thanet Disabled Riding Centre and a team from the Thanet Extra's offices in Northdown Road, Cliftonville, are expected to join fellow daredevils for the abseil on Saturday, November 6.

Sponsorship forms for the charity walk are available from Thanet Disabled Riding Centre, next to the Royal British Legion care home in Callis Court Road, Broadstairs.

Although walkers can turn up on the day, organisers have asked anyone interested in taking part to contact them in advance on 01843 863481, so that catering arrangements can be made.