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The Elizabeth Svendsen Trust, The Donkey Centre. Leeds. Telephone 0113 261 9249.

EST is a dual purpose charity. They rescue and care for donkeys and offer riding for special needs children and their siblings (which I think is a great plus as siblings can so often feel a bit left out). Anyone weighing up to 8 stone can ride. Bigger children can have a ride in a small cart pulled by a donkey.

Tucked away in the countryside but accessible from Leeds, Ilkley and surrounding areas, the centre is modern, spacious and clean and the donkeys are beautifully cared for. They have a large indoor arena for all weather riding. There is no charge, though donations are very welcome as they have high running costs.

The centre is open during the week and used by groups from nearby special schools and individuals. I used to take my son (and his little sister) for a weekly lesson but the centre had to close during the foot and mouth crisis and by the time it reopened he was at full time school. I would highly recommend it to anyone with a special needs pre-schooler.

They have lots of volunteers and each child has at least two helpers, one to lead the donkey and one or two to walk alongside the child and support as needed. The children are encouraged to do things like pick up coloured bean bags and drop them into the appropriately coloured bucket. Language skills are encouraged by asking the children to give the donkeys simple commands like ‘Ready, steady, go’ or ‘Trot on’. All at a level appropriate to the individual child and with the emphasis on fun with a purpose.

There is a playroom with toys and books and you can stay for as long as you like. We used to make an afternoon of it. Although all ages are welcome the toys are geared to younger children. There is a nice (small) outdoor area with sit and ride toys, a track to ride them on, a play house and climbing frame. Tea, coffee and juice are provided.

The centre is open one Saturday every month between 10 and 2. Any family with a special needs child can just turn up for a ride. The rides are shorter than during the week to accommodate the numbers of children. It can get quite hectic but there are quieter corners to retreat to with rabbits to stroke and a video corner (which we have put to good use in the past!). They sell very reasonably priced and tasty sandwiches, crisps and yummy homemade cakes, or you can take your own picnic.

During the school holidays you can phone up and book a lesson. This is even better as the centre is quieter and the children get a longer ride.

EST also have centres in Devon, Birmingham and one due to open soon in Manchester.