‘Bernie’, a handsome piebald, had his first trot round his Leeds home today (17 September 2024) after being officially named after the arts, sports and civic legend Bernard Atha, who sadly passed away in 2022.
Bernie, a 15–hand, 12 year-old, was bought by Middleton Park Equestrian Centre with a grant from Leeds’ oldest charity Wade’s. A versatile horse, he had been specially trained to work with riders with a variety of disabilities.
One of Bernard’s key charitable achievements was helping set up Middleton Park Equestrian Centre back in the early 1990s, which provides riding opportunities for the disabled and disadvantaged people in Leeds. The connection to the Centre continued after Bernard’s death with his family nominating the charity to receive donations in Bernard’s memory.
At a special event today, the Centre hosted members of Bernard’s family, along with representatives of Wade’s charity, to meet Bernie and unveil a plaque to mark his official naming. To celebrate the occasion Bernie got a special grooming before being taken into the centre’s arena for a trot with one of his favourite riders, Rachel Parker, a wheelchair user.
His niece Liz Carter explained:
“The Middleton Park Equestrian Centre and Riding for the Disabled, were very dear to Bernard. He knew how beneficial and therapeutic it is for youngsters and people with disabilities, or disadvantaged in some way, to learn to ride and develop a trusting relationship with the horses. It literally changes lives for the better for both young and old.
“Bernie is fabulous horse, very handsome! He is a great tribute to Bernard’s memory. He would love the idea that his namesake will make people happy. Our thanks go to Wade’s Charity for sponsoring the purchase of Bernie and for naming him in Bernard’s honour.”
Mark Pullan, Wade’s Chairman said:
“Bernard was a naturally gregarious and generous person, who gave his time freely to Wade’s and to the equestrian centre. He was never lost for words, chosen with care, and had an indomitable sense of humour. By donating Bernie to Middleton Park Equestrian Centre we are helping Bernard’s legacy live on.”
Bernard Atha served a record 57 years as a councillor in Leeds, was deeply involved with Northern Ballet, West Yorkshire Playhouse, paralympic sports and numerous health and arts bodies. He received an OBE and later CBE. He also had a sideline in acting, playing a careers officer in the iconic film ‘Kes’.
Bernard was also a Trustee of Wade’s Charity – Leeds oldest charity – which owns many green spaces in Leeds which are now managed by Leeds city council. The Trustees also manage monies left in trust and the income helps to provide grants to Leeds based charities and community groups.
This post is based on a press release issued by Wades Charity
Main photo: Bernie, Wade’s Trustees, family and MPEC staff and disabled rider Rachel Harker
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