A HORSE riding instructor, who has dedicated the last 25 years of her life to helping people with disabilities, is the latest to receive some Christmas joy.
As reported, the Grimsby Telegraph has teamed up with the Artie White Foundation for the charity's 12 Days of Christmas campaign, during which food hampers and toy vouchers are being donated to deserving recipients.
Shirley Kay, of Waltham Road, Brigsley, who received a hamper, said: "I have been teaching disabled people to ride for the last 25 years.
"We are part of the Riding For The Disabled Association, based at Weelsby Park Riding School.
"I take seven lessons a week for people of all ages and all disabilities.
"It feels fantastic to have been nominated for this campaign.
"I think I might raffle the hamper off to make money for the riding group so we can all benefit.
"We are trying to raise money for a mechanical horse to help with lessons.
"They cost about £20,000 and we have already raised £12,000 towards it."
"I love helping people learn to ride," she added.
"We have some people who may not be with us for long but doing this gives them something special to do with the time they have left.
"I think the hamper giveaway is a great idea and I am thrilled to have been chosen."
Mrs Kay was nominated by one of her pupils, Julie Holmes, of Station Road, Stallingborough.
She said: "As well as being our instructor, Shirley does lots behind the scenes, including talking to groups to publicise what the association does and get donations.
"Despite having had problems of her own, she never lets these get in the way of the help and support she brings to the both riders and volunteers.
"She is the most caring and supportive person I know and she deserve this hamper as a thank you.
"As a disabled rider, she has changed my life for the better."
Terry Donovan, an Artie White Foundation committee member, added: "We are pleased to help. We wanted to give gifts to deserving members in the community and that is what we are doing.
"It is a real pleasure to help people like Shirley who have given so much to the community."
To nominate someone you believe deserves a Christmas treat, fill in the form printed on this page or find this article on www.thisisgrimsby.co.uk
