As part of Oundle School’s Community Action programme, four Oundle pupils, Rupert Warre (18), Ruth Palethorpe (16), Bronwen Thomson (18) and Felix Morris (17), take Sam Sherwin (10), a young disabled boy, riding each week. Sam has Cerebral Palsy (CP), caused by damage to his brain following his premature birth, which affects his control of his muscles. Horse riding is not only physically therapeutic for Sam but also enjoyable, good exercise and a chance to get into the countryside. Sam wanted to undertake a physical challenge to raise money for Cancer Research having met several young cancer patients during a spell in hospital.
Sam’s Mum, Camilla Sherwin commented, “Sam rode 5 miles, from Glapthorn village to Biggin Hill, along Benefield Road, onto South Road and back through the town to finish, appropriately, at the ‘Have a Go Day’ event which Oundle pupils were hosting that afternoon for adults and children with physical disabilities and/or learning difficulties. He enjoyed every step of it and was very grateful to everyone who helped and supported him.”
Charlie, the pony, was on loan from Glapthorn Manor Stables where the pupils take Sam riding once or twice a week during term time. Sam and the Oundle pupils were joined by Laxton Junior School pupil, Harry Marshall, for the first half of the ride – as part of his Laxton Award.
“I like riding Charlie,” said Sam, “and I wanted to go on a long ride to prove I could do it. Sometimes people don’t think disabled people can do things but with the help of others, often we can. I wanted to raise some money to help the boys with cancer who I met in hospital and to help cure cancer.’
Sam has raised £550 for Cancer Research – considerably exceeding his initial target.