It’s not every day you see Santa on horseback…
But a group of local riders donned some fabulous festive fancy dress costumes on Sunday 26 November to support Teesside Hospice and raise awareness of breast cancer in memory of a much-loved horsewoman.
Sophia Ward (formerly Woodings), 30, of Saltburn was diagnosed with triple-negative breast cancer in March 2022.
She bravely underwent a mastectomy, chemotherapy and radiotherapy, but the cancer spread to her spine and to her skin and she sadly passed away in April 2023.
Sophia was a huge part of the local equine community, having loaned horses, helped with friends’ horses and worked at Saltburn vets.
Friends and family teamed up with Saltburn and District Bridleways Group, of which Sophia was an active member, to organise Sophia’s Santa Ride – a 12km pleasure ride with a festive fancy dress competition.
The event was huge success raising around £7,400, including sponsorship, raffle proceeds and a generous anonymous donation.
Sophia’s mum Rachel Woodings said: “Sophia would have absolutely loved this. We are all really touched by the amazing support we have had to help make this happen.”
Sophia spent her final days at Teesside Hospice where she was able to marry her husband Stephen the day before she passed.
Stephen said: “Sophia was still riding horses even when she was going through chemo – that was one of the things that kept her going.
“She made many friends though horse riding and it’s fantastic that they have helped us raise even more funds for the hospice.”
Marie Levy, Saltburn and District Bridleways Group chairman added: “It was great to see so many people cantering along our fantastic local bridleways – dressed up as everything from Father Christmas to the Grinch – in memory of such an incredible lady!
“A huge thank you to everyone who took part, volunteered or donated prizes and to Thrushwood Farm for your amazing support.”
There’s still time to donate at www.justgiving.com/fundraising/sophiawoodings
