How better to mark Down Syndrome Awareness Day than with a party?

Saturday 21 March was the day, and in a world where there’s often negativity around difference, we were celebrating that extra chromosome.

We threw open our doors on a sunny afternoon in Teddington for a party featuring cakes, party food, face painting, balloons, ponies (but of course), and even DJ ScratchSam on the balcony overlooking the street. Our lovely friends from Savills came down to help us and threw themselves into managing stalls, organising, and of course the party spirit. Humans and ponies alike proudly wore mis-matched socks and people were dancing in the street.

In a world where there is often so much negativity, this was a really positive day with good energy and quite simply great fun.

Thank you to all who joined us. See you next year!

People with Down Syndrome attend on equal terms with everyone else at Park Lane Stables. For children like Matilda, now four, riding is one of the best things in her life, and has greatly improved her balance and confidence. If you’d like to donate towards the cost of a session with a pony for a child like Matilda, or even help us buy cake and face paint for the next party, head over to our Donate page.

Savills have been partners and supporters of Park Lane Stables for about 2 years now. Their staff pitch in to man our stalls at events, walk through crowds shaking collection buckets, and poo pick in the rain. And if that wasn’t enough, whenever someone selling or letting their house with Savills mentions us, we receive a referral fee – £1,000 for a sale, £500 for a let.

So if you’re planning to put your house on the market, do get in touch with Savills. They’re lovely people, and you’d be helping us too!

Read more in Park Lane Stables is being supported by Savills