Member News
For the last six years office Gateshead-based technology company, SOS Group, has supported the Riding Disability Association’s (RDA) National Championships at Hartpury University & College in Gloucester.
The biggest disabled equestrian event of its kind, this year’s Championship was very special and for every one of the competitors it marked the culmination of an enormous amount of hard work and determination.
This year, the RDA celebrated its 55th anniversary at its National Championships, which featured a record number of entries and spectators. On the opening day, the RDA President, HRH The Princess Royal, presented a number of awards on her first public engagement following a recent injury.
Over three days, RDA participants took part in competition classes from dressage and showjumping to carriage driving, showing, endurance, countryside challenge, best turned out, vaulting and arts and crafts.
Throughout the event, SOS Group provided practical, hands-on technical support and equipment for the busy event administration team.
Clare Prysbet, Head of Fundraising at the Riding Disability Association, says: “Running a show of this scale, with hundreds of competitors and volunteers, is a huge logistical operation. We are therefore incredibly grateful for the long-term technical support provided by SOS Group, to help keep the event office running smoothly.
“Andrew and his wife, Karen, have always been incredibly supportive of RDA’s life-changing work, and we were delighted they were once again able to join us throughout the weekend to support and enjoy the RDA National Championships.”
Established in 2002, SOS Group is an award-winning company based on the Team Valley and providing digital office equipment services for business from startups to multi nationals and internationally significant events.
It has always supported the people and organisations who are making a positive difference to local communities and, over the last year, the company has provided hands-on and financial support for more than 30 community projects, charities, sports clubs and talented individuals.
Andrew Skelton, an SOS Group Director, says: “The RDA is a fantastic organisation and you can see the positive difference horse riding is making when you see the many smiles on show throughout the Championships.
“It’s an incredibly uplifting event, not only for the competitors, but for their families, friends and coaches, too. We’re very proud to support the RDA and our congratulations to all the competitors in this year’s Championships.”
For more information, please visit www.sosgroup-ltd.co.uk.
