STABLE-mates came together when a team of volunteers decided to “lend a hand” at the Margaret Haes Riding Centre in Holcombe.

The nine-strong staff from building supplies company, Cemex, undertook a number of tasks when they visited the centre in Moor Road where Murphy the pony was on hand to welcome them.

Volunteers rolled up their sleeves and, under Cemex’s “Lend a Hand” scheme, carried out wood preserving at the stable block as well as laying concrete on a previously muddy and dangerous path.

Linda Nuttall, centre trustee, said: “Seven men and two women took part. As part of its charitable commitment to society, Cemex releases each of its staff eight days a year to carry out charitable projects such as this, as well as providing the necessary materials. The day went very well.

“Cemex is an extremely health and safety conscious company, which is made very apparent by the high visibility safety-wear clearly displaying the logo ‘zero injuries for life’”.

The Margaret Haes Riding Centre, a charity which was founded by the late Margaret Haes in 1967, offers disabled and disadvantaged children and adults the chance to ride out across the moorland.

Run almost entirely by volunteers, the centre relies on heavily on donations and charity events as well as the support of local businesses.

It is currently searching of more volunteers, who need to be aged over 13.

It also offers riding tuition by qualified instructors to able-bodied children and adults.

For details e-mail margarethaes@wordpress.com or call 01706 821337.