AN EQUESTRIAN event for youngsters with special educational needs in Cam was a great confidence-building experience for schoolchildren across the county.

Active Gloucestershire’s School Games, sponsored by Sainsbury's, organised the day of activities at Tumpy Green Equestrian Centre in Cam on Friday, April 24.

Children attended the event from four different schools; Thomas Keble School, near Stroud; Cirencester Kingshill School; Cheltenham Bournside School and Sixth Form Centre; and The Shrubberies School, in Stonehouse.

Children and young people officer for Active Gloucestershire Kirsty Dunleavy was delighted with how the event had gone.

“It’s been really good and some of the feedback has been so rewarding to hear,” she said on the day.

“One little boy has just said it was the ‘best day of his life’ which was great to here.

“The equestrian centre has just been fantastic and it’s definitely something we’d like to continue doing.”

The children were split into six teams and all had a chance of trying both dressage and show jumping.

At the end of the games the group were given prizes – not only for their performances in competition, but for qualities like passion and teamwork.

Nikki Sekker is the chairwoman of the Friends of Tumpy Green and played a major role in the organisation of the day’s activities.

“There was a complete mix of children with all different levels of experience and so much support from volunteers and helpers," she said.

“We offer a lot of inclusive sessions at Tumpy Green so the hope is one of these children finds they really enjoy riding and wants to continue with it.”

The Pony Club were also involved on the day with centre membership executive Lucy Goler on hand to show support.

She said: “It’s been a really good day. We’ve literally watched some of the kids growing in confidence and seen the positive effect it’s having.

“It’s nice because it’s a bit different from your traditional sports like football or tennis.”

Active Gloucestershire is a charitable organisation that aims to get the people of Gloucestershire engaging with physical activity. To find out more about the School Games visit www.activegloucestershire.org.