Frances helps raise cash for donkey riding centre

Frances Wright has been a keen supporter of the Elisabeth Svendsen Trust (EST) donkey riding therapy centre - which is designed to help children with special needs - since it opened near Templepatrick last year. The pensioner has spearheaded various fundraisers ranging from floral arrangement events to car boot sales.

And her latest effort - a charity concert - took place at Ballyclare Secondary School on Friday, April 27, with an evening of gentle humour and songs entitled ‘The Lighter Side of Life’, featuring performances by Elizabeth Ross and Friends, along with fledgling Carrick soprano, Susan Graham.

Frances, who helps out as a volunteer at the centre, told the Times she was delighted with the outcome of the event.

“There was over 100 people present at the concert and we all had a great night. The money raised is still being counted, but we believe it will amount to about £1,100, which is just fantastic,” she added.

“This vital funding will go towards the purchase of a £28,000 trailer to allow the charity to transport the donkeys to schools and other locations.”

For more information about EST Belfast, including details about volunteering opportunities, you can also email [email protected]