News

STEAM PACKET COMPANY SUPPORTS MANX CARRIAGE DRIVING 4 DISABLED

26/8/2015

The Isle of Man Steam Packet Company has delivered a new wheelchair accessible carriage for the charity, Manx Carriage Driving 4 Disabled.

The charity, which was established earlier this year, offers opportunities for people with disabilities.

David Rawnsley, Vice-Chairman of Manx Carriage Driving 4 Disabled, said: ‘We would like to say a big thank you to the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company for helping us bring our new wheelchair accessible carriage home.

‘The carriage enables even more individuals with disabilities in the Isle of Man to experience driving a pony, in a safe environment, with all the benefits it can bring to improve their coordination, communication and decision making skills and promoting social inclusion.  And, last but not least, it’s great fun and enjoyment!’  

The specially-adapted carriage was built by Bennington Carriages of Nottinghamshire and is based at Ballavartyn Equestrian Centre in Santon.

Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward added: ‘We were more than happy to support such a worthwhile project and assist the fine work being done by Manx Carriage Driving 4 Disabled, in providing opportunities for more Isle of Man residents with disabilities to enjoy the pleasures and challenges of carriage driving.’

To find out more about Manx Carriage Driving 4 Disabled, call the secretary, Janet Thommeny, on 322431.

Photograph: Isle of Man Steam Packet Company Marketing and Online Manager Renée Caley (second from left) with members of Manx Carriage Driving 4 Disabled and the charity’s new carriage