A riding school which offers riders with disabilities the chance to experience horse and pony riding is to benefit from a partnership with a national charity.

The Unicorn Centre, based off Stainton Way, Hemlington, Middlesbrough, has teamed up with Children's Hope, which is organising a charity ball at Sedgefield Racecourse.

Yesterday, staff, a pony and a rider from the Unicorn Centre were at the racecourse to see the facilities.

Viv Watts, chief executive of Hope, said: "The Unicorn Centre does fantastic work and we are really pleased to be getting involved with them.

The ball will take place on Saturday, October 6. The black-tie event will include a five-course meal, music from Seventies band Mud, a magician and an illusionist.

There will also be a charity auction, with lots including Breitling watches and a chance to fly in the aerobatic Breitling Jet Team.

Tickets cost £100 and are available by calling the racecourse on 01740-627925, or Hope on 0191-534-7788.