SLIMMING club members spent a year burning calories and raising cash in aid of the world's oldest riding centre for people with special needs.

Fitgirlslim weight loss and workout group, which operates in Gants Hill, Chigwell, Woodford and Clayhall, organised a year of fundraising activities in support of the Chigwell Riding Trust.

Each month last year members threw themselves into a variety of challenges including a 30 Day chocolate free 'dechox', a seven day slim down, a Halloween fancy dress party and a dance masterclass with Strictly Come Dancing’s Ian Waite.

With every last penny counted, a cheque for £4,000 was handed to the Grange Farm Lane centre's owner Deborah Hall MBE, who helps 160 riders saddle up each week.

Ms Hall said: “ This is a very generous donation. I really can’t thank Fitgirlslim members enough, the money will be put to very good use and as a consequence will help change children’s lives for the better."

The riding centre has been operating for more than fifty years and caters for people of all ages and abilities.

Fitgirlslim owner and instructor Karen Smith, 55 of South Woodford, said: “ It’s been a very busy year organising so many charity events but we’ve had a lot of fun along the way.

"Since adopting the Chigwell Riding Trust as our chosen charity for 2017, some of our class members are not only supporting our fundraising efforts but also now regularly volunteering at the riding trust.

"It is a wonderful local charity that desperately needs funds to continue it’s amazing work.”

Call 020 8500 6051 or visit www.chigride.org.uk for more information about supporting the Chigwell Riding Trust.