THE future could be bleak for a popular riding school.

Northington Stables has struggled financially at the hands of the pandemic.

Its income from lessons, pony clubs and competitions has been suspended, but costs continue to feed, vet and use farriers.

Owner and instructor Francesca Baring has set up a fundraising page to maintain the best possible standards of welfare for her horses .

She said: "We have struggled through the last two lockdowns but now we are reaching out for you to help us. With the restrictions in place we have limited income and we are now in need of your support to keep up with the costs of feeding our beloved horses and ponies.

"You can help and donate, by either going to our website https://northingtonstables.co.uk/ and clicking on the donate button, on the bottom right of the home page, which will take you to a page where you can then log in to access the donate page, if you don't have an account you can enter your details and become a guest.

"Your donation really will make a huge difference to the horses/ ponies and their care.

"We still need to ensure they see physios, the dentist, farrier and receive their medication and of course ensure they are fed and watered, have clean bedding and dry waterproof rugs on their backs. We also need to maintain the staff to exercise them as when we are able to open again you will all be able to ride the ponies we all love.

"If you are able to contribute towards this in any way you can, we will be forever grateful, as we all know how hard it is for everyone at the moment."

Alternatively money can be sent to: Northington Stud and Stables Ltd, account number 70092192, and sort code 51 61 09.