OLYMPIC silver medallist Nicola Wilson has become the patron of a disabled riding centre in Middlesbrough.

The eventing star will be the new patron of the Riding for the Disabled’s Unicorn Centre, at Hemlington.

Mrs Wilson, who is based at Northallerton, North Yorkshire, started eventing professionally in 1999 after graduating from university.

She represented GB at the London 2012 Olympics and at European and World Championships with her horse Opposition Buzz.

She recently visited the Unicorn Centre and met Maggie Tansley, the chairman of trustees, trustee Julie Elphie and Claire Pitt, the centre manager.

Mrs Pitt said “We’re thrilled that Nicola has agreed to become our patron.

“She’ll be a great ambassador for us and will help to raise our profile on the national and international stage.

“Her phenomenal successes, particularly at London 2012, will inspire our riders and students, and we’re all looking forward to a great partnership.”

Nicola said: “It’s a great honour to become the Unicorn Centre’s patron and I was thrilled to be asked. I’m very impressed with its aims and aspirations and hope that I can help this important charity to raise funds and gain wider recognition.”

The Unicorn Centre provides lessons and therapy for children and adults from five years old, both disabled and able-bodied, and has 20 horses and ponies, carefully chosen for their temperament, size and ability to work with disabled riders.