A sad farewell to Park Lane Stables in Teddington

By Ellie Brown - Local Democracy Reporter

5th Nov 2021 | Local News

Park Lane Stables manager Natalie O'Rourke and her team of horses and volunteers moved out of their home of 13 years yesterday following the landlord's refusal to accept an offer to buy the stables and secure its future as a centre for the Riding for The Disabled Association in Teddington.

Tearful Natalie put on a brave face as she stood with a horse called Des O'Connor, while staff and volunteers began packing up to move to the stables' new home at Manor Farm, Petersham.

TV crews filmed the emotional scenes and nearby residents came out into Park Lane to say their own goodbyes.

Three riders took their horses down the road and past the police station, perhaps the last time such a familiar and uplifting sight will be seen in Teddington.

Natalie told Nub News: "It is a very sad day, of course, but we've been very strong up until now and we have to be even stronger now for the next stage.

"We will not be giving up and the local support from the community has been fantastic. We owe it to our supporters to keep going."

The landowner is demanding £1.35 for the premises and claim they have received a rival offer at the asking price.

Independent valuations commissioned by Park Lane Stables valued the property at £840.00 and its charity status prevents paying over the odds.

The Stables raised just over £1.3million through a crowdfunding campaign with donations from nearly 32000 supporters all over the world and made headlines in national newspapers and TV.

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