ONE of the most senior female clergy in the Church of England visited the area last weekend, finding out about a much loved local charity and taking part in a service in South Brent.

The Bishop of Crediton, the Right Reverend Sarah Mullally was one of the first two women to be consecrated bishop in Canterbury Cathedral, in 2015.

Bishop Sarah spent time at The Brook near Ugborough, home to Erme Valley Riding for the Disabled on Saturday, before travelling to South Brent on Sunday morning to particpate in the Candlemas service at St Petroc Church.

She was joined at The Brook by the Revd David Sayle, priest in charge of St Peter’s Church in Ugborough and rural dean Julian Ould from Totnes.

The bishop said: ’It was inspirational to visit the Erme Valley Riding for the Disabled and I was delighted to present rosettes to both riders and volunteers. Chatting with them it was clear that both riders and volunteers benefited.

’On Sunday morning it was great to join people of all ages to celebrate Candlemas, as we lit candles to remind us that Christ is the light of the world.’

Erme Valley RDA managing director Peggy Douglas said the bishop enjoed watching the usual Saturday session at the centre, involving ten riders of varying ages, including a new rider who had come to conquer his fear of animals.

The bishop was also shown the centre’s mechanical horse, and riders practising riding skills, coordination, balance and core stability exercises. She joined in a birthday celebration, presented rosettes to all the riders and helpers, and spoke at length to everyone involved.

Peggy said: ’She asked me what my motivation had been to start the group, which I guess was my love for animals and their ability to help heal, educate and offer opportunity to all our clients.

’We also talked about us offering work experience, a chance to work in a team and build on life skills for the future, and our social club, which meets monthly and is a tremendous support to all. Bishop Sarah took time to speak to several parents, who explained that their children came to ride, and they came to share their experiences and make new friends.’

Peggy added: ’As ever our helpers and young coaches did us proud, showing the many benefits of what we do. Beyond the riding sessions we take interest in the rest of our riders’ lives, which is what makes our centre unique.

’I hope Bishop sarah enjoyed the experience as much as us, we feel very privileged to have met her.’

Before she was ordained, Bishop Sarah was the chief nursing officer and director of patient experience for England between 1999 and 2004, and the youngest person to hold these posts. She was appointed a Dame Commander of the Order of the British Empire in 2005, in recognition of her outstanding work in nursing and midwifery.