Andy Suddon: Mags Powell & Lesley Hogg - Stable Life

President Sandy Bannerman warmly welcomed members to last week's meeting and introduced two ladies, Mags Powell and Lesley Hogg who gave an interesting talk on a charity based at Dryden Riding Centre, Ashkirk, called 'Stable Life.'  They cater for 40-50 young people per week from the age of 10 to 18 who are experiencing personal challenges and problems in their lives.  These problems arise from a wide range of causes and working with horses brings some stability to their lives.  They work with other agencies such as schools and social work departments who refer the young people to them.  By working together they provide a safe, nurturing and learning experience using the horse and its environment to help the youngsters reach towards their full potential, become healthier and happier with aspirations and dreams by building up a trusted relationship with the horses and the counsellors.  The Charity has operated since 1985 and has evolved to 'Stable Life' when it moved to Dryden in 2013.  As well as permanent staff they operate with a team of volunteers.  Several questions generated from the talk after which Andrew Suddon gave the vote of thanks.