Teddington: Celebrations as Park Lane Stables return home live on BBC Breakfast

By Ellie Brown - Local Democracy Reporter

17th Dec 2021 | Local News

TEDDINGTON residents and local celebrities expressed their joy as Park Lane Stables RDA returned home live on BBC Breakfast this morning.

Earlier this year negotiations for the charity to stay at their Teddington home on Park Lane failed as a price couldn't be agreed.

Founder Natalie O'Rourke was left "heartbroken" and the stables had to move to a new home at Manor Farm in Ham.

But today, Natalie was beaming, as Park Lane Stables had finally been able to use the money raised to buy its Teddington home permanently.

Wearing a 'Saved Our Stables' t-shirt, Natalie re-opened the doors live on BBC Breakfast with the newly picked up keys - to cheers from a crowd of volunteers and riders with the charity.

Speaking to BBC correspondent Fiona Lamdin, Natalie thanked everyone who had supported them including the 32,000 people who had donated to the charity's fundraiser.

She said: "We're here forever and nobody can ever take it away from us.

"It just means that we can make horses even more accessible for more people because we're back where we belong in the rightful place where our heart is."

Summing the day up, Natalie said: "Dreams can come true!"

Lamdin called it "an amazing morning," and admitted feeling emotional at the scenes.

Celebrities were quick to express their delight at the news.

Local resident Rob Brydon, a key supporter of the stables during their campaign, told Teddington Nub News: "I'm so pleased to hear this, some much-needed good news!"

Line of Duty creator Jed Mercurio, another key supporter, said: "Great news!"

Racing broadcaster Nick Luck tweeted: "Finally. Thank you to everyone who made this happen, including some very generous people in racing."

Clare Balding said: "This is wonderful news for the local community in Teddington and all the youngsters who love being close to horses and get so much confidence and joy from them."

Teddington residents and local MP Munira Wilson also offered their congratulations.

Wilson tweeted it was "absolutely fantastic news!" adding "I'm over the moon for @ParkLaneStables! Welcome home Natalie and team!"

Local councillor Richard Baker called it "tremendous news."

Teddington Parish church said: "Wonderful news, welcome home."

Volunteer Bushy Park Ranger and supporter of the stables, Cathy Cooper, commented: "Christmas has come early for the wonderful people and horses @ParkLaneStables"

Bees United, the Brentford FC supporters trust, added: "Congratulations to all involved from BU" - Natalie's son Woody O'Rourke is a superfan of the football team.

Read more about Park Lane Stables and their journey home HERE

     

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