A WOMAN who lives near Crediton and who has worked with the charity, Riding for the Disabled Association for the past 44 years was awarded a British Empire Medal in the Queen’s Birthday Honours.

Sue Veale, of Upton Hellions, runs the Acorn and Squirrels of Exeter Riding for the Disabled Group.

She has worked with the RDA for 44 years – almost as long as the association has been running.

It was founded in 1969 and today there is a network of 500 volunteer groups across the UK where horses and ponies provide therapy, achievement and enjoyment to people with a range of physical and learning disabilities.

It was only a few weeks ago that Sue heard she was in The Queen’s Birthday Honours List and is to receive the British Empire Medal for services to disabled people in Devon.

It will be presented by Devon’s Lord Lieutenant, David Fursdon, the Queen’s personal representative in the county, at a special ceremonial event at County Hall in Exeter later in the year.

He said: “The Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service is highly sought after and speaks volumes for the strength and value of the voluntary sector in Devon as well as giving national recognition to the marvellous achievements of this year’s Award winners.”

When asked why she continues to give up her time to run RDA classes at Oaklands Stables in Exeter twice a week Sue replied: “Having been involved with RDA for so many years I can’t imagine life without being able to help our riders, seeing the improvement in their health and well-being, the wonderful friendships made and meeting some remarkable people.

"To be receiving this award makes me feel everything has been so worthwhile and without the help of all the other volunteers with the Acorn and Squirrels Group this wouldn’t be happening.”