Di Redfern, Chair, GroupOrganiser and Host of South Bucks Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), has been awarded an MBE in the King’s Birthday Honours in recognition of her services to disabled riders.
A dedicated RDA volunteer since the 1960s, Di has played a significant role in the development of the organisation while maintaining a lifelong passion for supporting and developing riders.
Her voluntary work has focused on ensuring that disabled people receive the highest quality coaching and support, tailored to their individual needs. Through her leadership, guidance and commitment, she has made a lasting contribution both to South Bucks RDA and to the wider RDA movement, helping to promote and develop equestrian opportunities for disabled riders.
Di has always championed every rider, embodying one of the RDA’s guiding principles: “It’s what you can do that counts.”
Beyond her work at South Bucks RDA, Di has made a major contribution to the development of talented riders and the Para Equestrian squad. Through innovative coaching, mentoring and support, she has helped riders fulfil their potential while also training and inspiring the next generation of coaches. Her close work with riders’ families has ensured that they receive the support needed both in and out of the arena.
A spokesperson for South Bucks RDA said: “We are absolutely delighted that Di has been recognised with an MBE. Her dedication, leadership and unwavering commitment to disabled riders over many decades have transformed countless lives. This honour is richly deserved, and everyone associated with South Bucks RDA is immensely proud of her achievement.”
Di’s award recognises more than six decades of service, during which she has helped generations of riders gain confidence, develop new skills and achieve ambitions they may never have thought possible.
On receiving this award Di said; “I am honoured to receive an MBE and would like to thank everyone associated with South Bucks RDA and RDA UK – the work we do is a true team effort.”
