A RIDING club is hoping it won’t be a case of shutting the stable door after the horse has bolted as it looks to secure its future.

Cliviger Riding Club – founded more than 40 years ago – is urgently appealling for new members to save it from possible closure.

And committee members hope helpers and volunteers come forward in time for the club’s next show on Sunday, July 10.

“We have two shows remaining this season and if we don’t get any members then there is every chance they could be our last,” said committee member Gaynor Irvine.”That is the last thing we want to happen but if we don’t get the help we need then we may have to call it a day.

“We only have a small team of dedicated workers and it is not getting any easier.”

The club holds four shows a year at Rowley Showfield, Burnley and it is the running and organising of these events where they need help most.

Cliviger is one of the few to still hold showjumping events so it is the setting up of fences where help is required plus.

“A lot of our helpers are getting on a bit and the fences can be quite heavy. We put them up and take them down before and after each show so we just need a bit of manpower to help out.

“We also need assistance stewarding at our shows but we are sure something like this will appeal to horsey types.”

The club caters for riders from as young as five-years-old and while fun is the main focus, Cliviger has shown they produce talented riders too after winning a team prize at the Pony Club UK Championships last year.

“It is a great club and we try to make sure everyone has fun,” added Irvine. “I’ve been a member since I was five-year-old and my children ride at the club too.

“But we need help because we really want to keep it going.”

Anyone who would like to become a member or help out at shows should contact Gaynor Irvine on 07742 165639