YOUNG riders from across Worcestershire are set to benefit from the World’s Biggest Riding Lesson.

The ‘lesson’ was held at Hunts Farm, Crowle, near Droitwich, and raised funds for the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).

The event was one of hundreds of riding events that took place across the country and attracted more than 5,000 volunteers.

Seventeen youngsters took part in the riding lesson at Hunts Farm – where the Worcestershire RDA is based – as well as some people who had never ridden before.

It was supported by Deffordbased equestrian and agricultural supplies company Countrywide which raised £8,000 for the RDA.

Helen Lo, who helped publicise the event for Countrywide, said it was designed to introduce people to the work of the association and help them understand the benefits that people with disabilities gain from being able to ride regularly.

She said: “Riding is extremely therapeutic and horses are very intuitive to their needs.

Countrywide’s 2009/10 charity is Riding for the Disabled and the world’s biggest riding lesson raised £8,000.”

John Hardman is chief executive of Countrywide and took part himself.

He said: “Last year, we raised £32,000 for the James Whale Fund and this year we are on the way to do even better for the RDA.

“We are delighted to have raised such a large amount at just two events, the other being the Countrywide’s annual supplier conference golf day and dinner.

“This shows Countrywide is really getting behind this worthwhile charity which has strong rural links and creates amazing opportunities for people with disabilities.”

Ed Brasher, chief executive of the RDA, said the world’s biggest riding lesson was a fantastic way to launch the association’s 40th birthday.

He added: “Our thanks go to the business for sponsoring not only this launch event but the anniversary year.”