Everyone at Muirfield Riding Therapy is so proud of our Founder, Gill Morrison, who has been awarded with one of the most prestigious RDA Awards, The President’s Award.
Gill and her late husband Garth, founded our Group back in 1989 on their family farm here at West Fenton and created a team around them who grew our charity from its beginnings in a field to the major Centre we have today.
The nomination was written and submitted by Susan Law, our former longstanding Chair, recruited by Gill to the cause over 20 years, so she was well suited to present a rounded picture of Gill’s dedication and enthusiasm for the charity.
Riding for the Disabled Association announced,
This year, 14 volunteers have been honoured with one of the highest distinctions at RDA, the prestigious President’s Award. The President’s Award is the pinnacle of volunteer recognition within the RDA, reserved for individuals who have shown unparalleled dedication and service for three decades or more.
Gill, who’s service spans 36 years, said,
When starting the Muirfield Group (now Muirfield Riding Therapy) in 1989, I had no idea that it would grow to the size it is today. Whilst I feel a sense of pride that I took a leap of faith all those years ago, I must give credit to friends who not only shared my passion, but had the skills to develop the Group, enabling us to offer riding to more and more disabled people.
It has been a fascinating and hugely rewarding journey, benefitting both the riders and volunteers. I am grateful to colleagues who put my name forward to receive the 2025 RDA President’s Award – an award that has been earned by the whole team here at West Fenton.
RDA is a wonderful organisation, and I would encourage anyone who is fortunate enough to have the facilities to launch a new Group to go ahead. Make sure you have a strong team to share your passion!”
