Middlesbrough’s Unicorn Centre, a horse-riding facility for disabled people and those with learning difficulties, is facing closure due to financial difficulties and urgently needs to raise £100,000 by the end of the month to continue operating. The centre offers visitors the chance to ride and groom horses, providing a valuable and joyful experience for many, including individuals like Rachel Smith’s daughter Lillian and Olivia Fairclough, who has been a rider there for over a decade despite paralysis.

Following the announcement of its potential closure, the Unicorn Centre has received significant community support, with fundraising efforts already raising £1,600 and ongoing exploration of new rescue proposals to keep the site open. The trustees have expressed gratitude for the support and patience shown and promised further updates as they work to secure the centre’s future.