A PEMBRIDGE woman dedicated to helping disabled riders was presented with an honorary award by Princess Anne.

Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) awarded Sue Adams Wheeler with an Honorary Life Vice-Presidency in recognition of her outstanding support of the charity.

At RDA's annual general meeting in Liverpool, Mrs Adams Wheeler was given the award by The Princess Royal, who is the charity's president.

Mrs Adams Wheeler has been involved with the charity for 35 years and ran the Leominster Riding for the Disabled School in Shobdon up until two years ago.

She continues to work with the charity as chairman of the coaching committee and chief examiner.

She is also the international liaison officer promoting the charity's work abroad.

Mrs Adams Wheeler, who has two sons, a foster daughter, three stepchildren and 13 grandchildren, said: “It was such an unexpected surprise to receive the HLVP award. I am thrilled to bits, and so pleased to be part of the RDA family.”

She continues to work as a freelance riding instructor.

RDA chief executive, Ed Bracher, said: “Sue is one of those quietly brilliant people with an enormous amount of knowledge and energy but no desire to be recognised.

“She has made a very significant difference to RDA here and abroad and we strongly believe she embodies the spirit of this award.”

Riding for the Disabled Association Incorporating Carriage Driving is dedicated to improving the lives of people with disabilities through the provision of horse riding and carriage driving.

There are two volunteer groups now in Herefordshire based at Holme Lacy and Credenhill.