VELLA

Vella, affectionately known as Velly, retired to The Horse Trust from Barrow Farm Riding for the Disabled (RDA) after more than seven years of dedicated service. A beautifully marked Irish Sports Horse x Cob, Vella brought joy and confidence to countless riders with physical, mental, and emotional disabilities.

Polite, kind and quietly sociable, Vella has always been a gentle presence. She took part in riding sessions for students with additional educational needs, and was trained as a hoist pony, allowing riders to mount and dismount with extra support. Vella also competed in regional and national RDA competitions, including dressage, countryside challenge, and musical drill rides – many of them virtually.

With a lovely light touch, Vella responded well to soft instructions and was comfortable working with side walkers and props. Though naturally gentle, she could be bouncy in trot, making her a great match for more experienced riders ready for a challenge.

Before her RDA career began in 2017, Vella had a varied life – she was born in West Sussex, had several owners, and tried her hoof at everything from riding and driving to raising a foal of her own. At Barrow Farm, she formed strong bonds with her field mates Lula, Penny, and Summer, and was known for being easy to handle and a pleasure to care for.

Now happily retired in the Chiltern Hills, Vella is enjoying the peaceful company of her new herd. She may be at retirement age, but she still has a spring in her step – and a fondness for a good roll in the mud! We’re so pleased to offer this lovely mare the calm, happy life she deserves.