A RIDING centre for the disabled is being plagued by vandals who are targeting a new wire fence.

The Riding for the Disabled Unicorn Centre at Hemlington, near Middlesbrough, raised £2,000 to erect a wire fence around a field which Middlesbrough Council leased to it for a peppercorn rent.

But just hours after the fence was put up, vandals cut it down ensuring the field could not be used to graze the centre's 19 horses.

The centre raised the money to repair the fence but it has since been repeatedly vandalised.

Centre manager Claire Jones said: "We continue to be plagued with vandalism in our most recently acquired field.

"As soon as the fence is repaired, it is destroyed again.

"As a result, the field cannot be used for grazing the centre ponies for fear of them escaping on to Stainton Way."

To try to raise much needed funds for all the work at the centre, an It's a Knock Out competition will be held in September.

Disabled and able bodied teams of three will participate in a riding obstacle course and experienced riders will be blindfolded to make the event fairer.

Teams have to raise £25 to take part with all money going to the centre. To get a sponsorship form call (01642) 576222.