AN EQUINE charity which helps disabled and disadvantaged people is being helped by the Otley branch of TSB.

The Guiseley-based Inspire Equine Therapy Foundation has been chosen as the bank's charity partner for 2016/17.

The arrangement will see bank staff holding a variety of fundraising events for the group, which provides specially trained horses and a safe environment where disabled and disadvantaged people can enjoy riding. The charity gives individualised programs of equine assisted therapy to help people overcome their fears, build relationships and compete in sport.

Vicky McGregor from Inspire said: "We are delighted at this news and are looking forward to working with TSB Otley over the coming months."

Appealing for support earlier this year Victoria said the foundation is run by a group of voluntary unpaid trustees and relies entirely on fundraising.

She said: “We started Inspire because we recognised while there are many organisations providing horse riding for disabled people, there aren’t any for people suffering social and psychological disorders, children in care homes or people suffering as a result of bullying.

“So, we created our inclusive organisation to provide both.

“We have seen huge interest, taking on many members since November, ranging from children and adults suffering multiple physical disabilities, autism, Asperger syndrome, Down’s syndrome, visual impairment, social disorders, school phobia, bullying, depression and low self-esteem.”

She said the group has no government funding and relied on public support.

"We are looking for businesses to sponsor our therapy sessions to enable us to provide more opportunities to disabled and disadvantaged people, particularly children in care homes that suffer opportunity disadvantage daily."