GRAZING for 11 ponies at Broadlands Group Riding for the Disabled near Medstead has been made easier by a councillor’s grant.

Cllr Diana Tennyson, who represents Four Marks and Medstead on East Hampshire district council, granted the charity almost £1,000 to buy a battery-powered brush cutter and leaf blower to cut back long grass and plants which the ponies cannot eat.

Broadlands, founded in 1955, improves the lives of people with physical, learning and mental health disabilities through horse-riding, carriage driving and equine contact therapy.

Cllr Tennyson visited the 20-acre site to see the equipment in action. She said: “The charity spends around £1,000 of the money it raises through donations on this kind of grounds maintenance.

“Now, thanks to our grant, a small group of volunteers can do it and that money can go towards more young people enjoying the fantastic experiences and opportunities Broadlands offers.

“I spent a lovely afternoon at Broadlands meeting the ponies and some of the staff. This is a wonderful place for children and adults with a broad range of disabilities to relax and enjoy riding and caring for the ponies.”

Broadlands chair of trustees Nigel Hoppitt said: “Our environment is a key part of the support we offer. This equipment will help us keep it tidy and organised.”