Antrim Chase ride at Shane's Castle raises funds for NI Hospice

By P Weir (Chair)

Following the very sad passing of their dear friend and colleague, George Graham, it was Antrim Chase’s desire to raise funds for the amazing work NI Hospice provides to families facing the difficult journey with cancer. NI Hospice receive 37% of their funding from the government, so it is great to be able to support this organisation.

Patricia Weir, chair and Stacey Hamill, secretary of Antrim Chase, pictured at the Antrim Chase ride at Shane’s Castle, in aid of NI Hospice.

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George’s wife Sharon, commented on their hospice nurse ‘Jenny’, who was invaluable with her care and knowledge making George’s journey so much easier than it would have been without her. Alison, also from NI Hospice, stayed some nights to look after George, while Sharon was able to get some much-needed sleep.

The late George Graham, pictured with his wife Sharon, Rory and baby Flo (granddaughter).

Thanks to Shane’s Castle, who granted Antrim Chase permission to hack around their most stunning grounds. The first horse went out at 10am and the last horses left at 1pm. There were a total of 39 horses and riders, ranging from all ages and abilities, out enjoying the beautiful sunshine, pheasants, lambs and deer that were met along the trail.

The Millar family pictured at the Antrim Chase ride at Shane’s Castle, in aid of NI Hospice.

Everyone had the pleasure of Jamison Tearooms (Dunamoy Cottages), who provided the most delicious soup, sandwiches and buns for all the riders and walkers to enjoy after their jaunt around the grounds. Lots of friendships were made along the route and, as usual, it was so good to see so many people supporting this very important cause.

Alison Larkin enjoying the sunshine at the Antrim Chase ride at Shane’s Castle, in aid of NI Hospice.

The total raised so far is over £1,100. If you would like to donate to this very worthy cause, organisers will keep the donation lines open for another week.

Joe O’Kane and his horse ‘Jack’ enjoyed a ride with Antrim Chase at Shane’s Castle, in aid of NI Hospice.

Cathie Carson riding ‘Ruby’ at the Antrim Chase ride at Shane’s Castle, in aid of NI Hospice.

Moyra Hyndman and family pictured at the Antrim Chase ride at Shane’s Castle, in aid of NI Hospice.

Antrim Chase rides run weekly from October. All dates and venues can be found on Antrim Chase Facebook page. They follow the BHS Code of Conduct, which they expect all riders to always read and adhere to. It is also recommended that you contact a member or Antrim Chase, before attending any events, via Facebook or by email on antrimchase@hotmail.com

The late George Graham was a dear friend and colleague to Antrim Chase.

The late George Graham, pictured with his wife Sharon.