The Margaret Haes Riding Centre celebrates 60th anniversary

Wednesday, 26 August 2026 11:48

By Jack Shepherd

The event was attended by James Frith, MP for Bury North, Cllr Mohammed Tahir Rafiq, Mayor of Bury, and David Catterall, Deputy Lieutenant for Greater Manchester

The Margaret Haes Riding Centre celebrated their 60th anniversary with an award ceremony, the unveiling of a plaque for George Lomax, ridden displays to music, and a performance from the Greater Manchester North Rock Choir.

The charity focuses on delivering services to those with physical or mental disabilities, and emotional or social challenges, bringing the 'Spirit of the Horse' to the most vulnerable in society.

They rely solely on volunteers to run the charity, with their proclaimed purpose being to 'empower children and adults with learning disabilities, physical and mental health disabilities, and emotional and social challenges; to lead active, healthy and fulfilling lives through equestrian activities,' and 'to have a positive impact on the health and well-being for all our riders and volunteers.'

In a social media post, James Frith, MP for Bury North said 'The centre is such an important part of our community in Bury North. It helps children and adults lead active and fulfilling lives, build confidence and communication skills, and provides vital support for people with disabilities.'

On their website, the centre has a plethora of stories from those who have gone to the Margaret Haes Riding Centre, either as a recipient of their services or as a volunteer, sharing their positive experiences and how that place has helped them and/or their family and friends.

For 60 years, the Margaret Haes Riding Centre has provided equine care, and social connection with local individuals through horses across the West Pennine Moors in the Holcombe area of Bury, the celebration of their anniversary on the 15th was described by James Frith MP as 'a thank you to everyone who has supported the centre over the years.'