Thieves Steal Seven Saddles from Somerset Riding School

A riding school in Somerset is seeking assistance following the theft of seven horse saddles during a burglary on the night of November 8. Ridgeview Riding, located in Queen Camel near Yeovil, was targeted by thieves in the early hours of Saturday, prompting an urgent appeal for help from the community.

The small riding school, known for its inclusive programs that cater to riders with disabilities, expressed that the loss is “soul destroying.” Annie Price, a representative from Ridgeview Riding, stated in an interview with SomersetLive that the stolen saddles are integral to their sessions.

“We provide a holistic approach to riding and horsemanship, which attracts many riders with special educational needs (SEN), disabilities, confidence issues, anxiety, and much more,” Price explained. She emphasized the impact of the theft on their operations, noting that the school has been facing challenges, with many riding schools closing down at an alarming rate.

In a heartfelt message shared on social media, Price urged the public to assist in spreading awareness about the stolen items. “Please make these saddles too hot to handle,” she wrote, reflecting the urgency of the situation. The riding school has made images of all the stolen saddles available on its Facebook page to help identify them if they appear for sale.

Authorities have reported that during the burglary, locks were forcibly opened, raising concerns about security for other riding schools in the area. Price has alerted fellow institutions to remain vigilant against potential thefts.

Ridgeview Riding has requested that anyone with information regarding the stolen saddles contact Crimestoppers at 0800 555 111 or reach out to Avon and Somerset Police via 101. The school hopes community involvement will lead to the recovery of the saddles and assist in bringing the perpetrators to justice.