Deadline extended for Much Wenlock charity crowdfunding appeal

A volunteer-led charity in Much Wenlock has made a renewed plea for public support to crowdfund for an inclusive outdoor space through Shropshire Council’s Crowdfund Shropshire platform. It’s fundraising deadline has now been extended to Sunday 29 March 2026.

The Cavalier Centre Charity was established in 1995 to provide inclusive equestrian activities with purpose built facilities enabling people with disabilities to participate in horse riding, carriage driving, hippotherapy (physio on horseback), horse care and other activities. There are over 200 volunteers helping to deliver important services.

The Centre is looking to create a space that will include fruit trees, bid boxes, a picnic area, willow refuge for rainy days, a sensory trail and camping area. The new space will allow people with hearing and visual impairments to enjoy the outdoors and also offer children’s and youth groups the opportunity to stay on site overnight. A memorial garden will also be built to recognise the important community contributions and recognise the achievement of the service.

Crowdfund Shropshire is a civic crowdfunding platform delivered by Shropshire Council in partnership with crowdfunding specialists, Spacehive and local partners Shropshire VCS Assembly, Community Resource, Shropshire Wildlife Trust and Energize. The approach matches larger public sector pledges (awards) with local fundraising.

Shropshire Council and its partners have been able to financially support the project with a pledge of £2,170. This uses funds from the UK Shared Prosperity Fund which proactively supports delivery of the UK-government’s five national missions: pushing power out to communities everywhere, with a specific focus to help kickstart economic growth and promoting opportunities in all parts of the UK.

Cllr Alex Wagner, Deputy Leader and Portfolio Holder for Communities commented:

“This project has already raised £2,800 and needs just over £2,000 to reach its target. Please consider whether you can add your support to help this project reach its target. Donations can start from as little as £2 but they all add up to make a huge difference. The Cavalier Centre supports a lot of people with disabilities and impairments to be active and benefit from time outdoors and with horses, the organisation is a great project using rural resources and skills to help others”.

Cllr Dan Thomas, Much Wenlock Town Mayor and Councillor for the Much Wenlock area has provided his support:

“I would particularly encourage local people, and particularly local businesses within the Much Wenlock community and further afield, to consider if they can help. Projects that offer people with disabilities the opportunity to participate are really important to Shropshire. The work contributes to health and wellbeing and allows participants to meet new people and become part of a group.

It is important that we all consider whether we can make a small donation to support those volunteers and staff who are working hard to deliver this project alongside current services.

The Cavalier Centre has had a massive impact in the time it’s been in Much Wenlock and has improved so many lives, however without this vital outdoor space that impact is limited. Please give generously to improve the lives of many in Shropshire.”

You can find out more about this valuable project on the Crowdfund Shropshire website.