A VOLUNTEER with the Riding for the Disabled charity in Bradford on Avon has won a national award.

Jo Rutherford was presented with the RDA’s national Volunteer of the Year award at a gala dinner in London.

Ms Rutherford, 57, of Highfield Road, Bradford on Avon, became a volunteer at the Saxon RDA centre 11 years ago before being diagnosed with cancer.

Since becoming a volunteer, she says her self-esteem and self-confidence have improved and she is recommending it to others.

Ms Rutherford added: “It means so much to me and I get so much pleasure and fulfilment. The experience has changed my life dramatically.”

She was presented with the award at a ceremony at the Draper's Hall in London earlier this month. Ms Rutherford was nominated by the Saxon RDA group chairman Cady Chapman.

The award is the second national award for the Saxon RDA group at the Widbrook Equestrian Centre.

Two years ago, one of its disabled riders, Darren Ashton, won the RDA’s National Rider of the Year award.

The Saxon RDA group was founded about 40 years ago. It is now helping 32 disabled riders, including eight children.

The RDA nationally is celebrating its 50th anniversary. It provides life-changing experiences for disabled children and adults.