A privately run riding school on Orkney will soon be able to offer clients all-weather facilities after securing a business development grant from Orkney Enterprise.

The local development agency has awarded Sarah and Paul Reid a financial package totalling £54,600 towards the £242,000 cost of building an indoor riding arena.

Sarah has operated a livery and riding school business at the family farm at Grimbister since 2000.  The business has gradually grown, Sarah now has 23 ponies for use by customers who enjoy riding but do not have an animal of their own.

However, the business has not been able to realise its full potential because of the restrictions placed on the operation by the weather.  On many occasions, riding lessons have had to be cancelled, disappointing many customers.

The establishment of a building housing a 35 x 48 metres schooling ring, toilet facilities and 15 loose boxes for livery purposes, will allow the business to meet the needs of a growing number of customers - and beat the weather.

The development of the business is also creating three new full-time equivalent jobs in the area.

Commenting in the development of the business, Sarah said: "All of us at Cruan Riding Stables are very excited at the prospect of uninterrupted riding, whatever the Orkney weather brings!  This indoor facility will mean no more disappointed clients, many of whom look forward to their weekly lesson but find it has to be called off at the last minute because of bad weather."

Sarah continued: "We have lots of exciting things in the pipeline at Cruan, including show jumping and games leagues, clinics with visiting instructors, all in addition to our regular lessons.

"The extra livery boxes in the new building will free up space in our existing stables to allow for the expansion of the trekking side of the business, giving is room to acquire some family cobs - the ideal type of horse for pleasurable rides in the beautiful surrounding countryside."

Development manager at Orkney Enterprise, Harvey Stevenson said: "Growing businesses is a priority for Orkney Enterprise so we are pleased to be able to support this project because the establishment of a purpose-built riding arena will help the Reid's business to expand.

"The development is also creating three valuable new jobs and will help to meet the growing demand for equestrian services and activities."