Even the impending Storm Ciara didn’t put off riders from the Ellen Valley Riding Club as they took part in a ride on Saturday to raise money to help equines caught up in the bush fires in Australia.

The ride was organised by Pauline Allport and started from Cockermouth Rugby Club before heading toward Sale Fell.

Pauline had walked the route in advance to ensure that, on the day, it was passable.

Local vet Amanda Carson had helped the club to identify an appropriate charity in Australia (Equestrian Fire Relief).

She did her vet training and worked there for 10 years.

Amanda still has family and friends there, so has first-hand knowledge of the situation.

Rosettes were given to all riders and Amanda was awarded a prize for raising the most sponsorship.

More than £1,100 was raised on the day.

The club extended a big thank you to Cockermouth Rugby Club for providing the parking, and to everyone who donated money.

It recently held its annual general meeting and awards evening at the Aspatria Rugby Club.

Catherine Harrington, who chairs the club, reported on a busy year for the club which included having representation at the Riding Clubs Championships in Oxfordshire.

Other events the club were involved with included horse trials, area showjumping, area dressage and endurance championships.

Catherine announced that fundraising by the club had raised £1,000 for the Carlisle branch of Riding for the Disabled. RDA respresentatives Gillian Yarrow and Sharon McKerr were present to receive the cheque.

Members then enjoyed a pie and pea supper before just under 100 rosettes along with a number of trophies were presented to riders who had enjoyed success.