She spent just over an hour meeting participants and volunteers and watched a variety of pony demonstrations, later unveiling a plaque to commemorate the visit.

Quiet Corner, situated within Kilkenny Stables, is a place where adults and children with additional needs can come and spend time with Shetland ponies and was opened in 2020 as part of an initiative to help people through the COVID-19 pandemic.

Princess Anne spent time with volunteers and head coach, Anne Allen, who explained the different activities available.

She was able to watch musical long reining, pony agility, grooming, tack cleaning, as well as present rosettes.

Head coach, Anne Allen, who founded the Wellow RDA centre more than thirty years ago, said it was a wonderful occasion: “The visit went very well. Everyone seemed to enjoy themselves.

“We thank the Princess Royal for taking the time to visit us and all our volunteers for their continued time and support.”

One of the volunteers, Laura Smith, spoke to the Princess: “Princess Anne said, ‘well done’ and commented on how busy the centre was.”

RDA regional coach, Venetia Kenney-Herbert gave a speech at the occasion, and said: “Quiet Corner was a silver lining in the pandemic when no riding could take place.”

Polly Read, who volunteers at the stables once a week, said: “Quiet Corner is a lovely place to go and spend time with some very cute, but cheeky, Shetland ponies.”

Polly Read, Quiet Corner Volunteer