Instructors from a centre which supports people with disability to ride horses took part in a recent sign language taster session hosted by teachers from Gobowen's Derwen College.

The Clwyd Special Riding Centre, in between Wrexham and Mold, supports people with learning difficulties and disabilities and provides them the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors with animals.

Ten people took part in the taster session that had a focus on teaching horse and riding related symbols, with many opting to carry on further study at a two-day workshop.

Head of speech and language therapy at Derwen College and Makaton tutor, Julie Hawkins and Makaton tutor Babs Williams ran the workshop at the riding centre.

“It was a pleasure to teach Makaton signing to staff and volunteers at Clwyd Special Riding Centre," said Julie.

“It’s a wonderful facility, and I hope that they benefited from the useful riding-based signs and symbols that we taught them.

“At Derwen College, we are keen to teach Makaton to groups in the community or to invite groups to come to us for workshops where we can tailor the signs and symbols to each individual organisation.”

Clwyd Special Riding Centre is set in more than 30 acres with 24 horses, providing a beneficial experience to people of all abilities through riding, carriage driving, equestrian vaulting, equine learning and therapies.

Vicky Evans, volunteer co-ordinator at CSRC, added: “The staff and volunteers really enjoyed the Makaton taster session and are looking forward to using it across the various activities at Clwyd Special Riding Centre.

“We are always looking for ways to improve and develop our service and are keen to take part in further training.”