TWO stars of CBBC have visited a Children in Need-funded project in Cawston.
Presenters Sam Nixon and Mark Rhodes – better known as just Sam and Mark – visited Taking the Reins, a project which aims to improve confidence and communication among disabled and disadvantaged children through working with horses and ponies.
The duo – who met as Pop Idol contestants in 2003 – attended a session on Sunday where children and young people with physical disabilities, autism, or emotional or behavioural challenges work in teams, support others and learn to work with their peers.
Sam said: “The children and young people at Taking the Reins are just fantastic and it was a total pleasure to meet them.
“Thanks to the project for being amazing and inviting us down to find out about their work.”
Mark added: “This is a brilliant local project and I’m so pleased we were able to see the work first hand.
“It was such fun today and really inspiring to see what people’s generous donations to BBC Children in Need can do.”
Mandy Neville, chief executive of Circles Network, which runs Taking the Reins, said: “We are extremely grateful to BBC Children in Need for their much needed support allowing us to run Taking the Reins throughout the Midlands.
“This project is totally inclusive and welcomes children into an environment that offers a fusion of education, therapy and fun.
“Sam and Mark made our weekend very special and the children, who are all keen fans, loved having them join in.”
Taking the Reins chief executive Mandy Neville welcomes Sam and Mark (s)
Fans flocked to greet Sam and Mark (s)
