A Riding for the Disabled centre in Somerset has been forced to cancel lessons after £50,000 of tack was stolen last night (Wednesday, 25 February).
Staff at the Conquest Centre in Taunton are appealing for help after the centre was broken into some time between 5.30pm on Wednesday and 7am today (Thursday 26 February).
£50,000 worth of tack — including all the centre’s saddles and bridles were taken.
Trustee Dale Sutcliffe told H&H: “The thieves used a crowbar to get into the tack room and took everything. Doors were also kicked in.
“They must have been horse-orientated as they took things like Hibiscrub but left all the office equipment. Even the £20 from the petty cash tin was taken.”
Somerset and Avon police are currently investigating the incident.
“As far as I know there have been no other break-ins in the area,” added Ms Sutcliffe
“We’re devastated, we’ve had to cancel all the riding lessons which really affects our disabled customers. It’s weekly therapy for them that helps motivate them in other things.
“Also the nominal fee they pay to ride goes towards the upkeep of the horses and now we have to rely on donations.
“All the staff are rallying round to find spare tack, but we won’t have enough and some horses and riders need specific saddles.”
To contact the Conquest Centre call 01823 433 614 or visit www.conquestcentre.org.uk
