A horse-drawn driving route across the Marlborough Downs was opened for wheelchair users on Tuesday.

The route was officially opened by former Chief of the General Staff, the professional head of the British Army, General Sir Mike Jackson on behalf of the Kennet Valley Carriage Driving Group (KVCDG) and Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).

The improvements have been implemented by the Marlborough Downs Nature Improvement Area Project (MDNIA) with additional funding from The Hills Group and the Community Foundation for Wiltshire and Swindon.

The 2.2 kilometres of track does a loop around Maisey Farm, owned by Jilly Carter, a farmer in the MDNIA.

The driving group has two specially built carriages that wheelchairs can be loaded onto and group members Sacha Cooper, Bryony Fuller and Doug Middlemiss were the first to enjoy the new route.

The carriages were driven by RDA drivers Leonie Brown, Cheryl Cook and Caroline Mitchell and pulled by the group’s horses Drummer, Perrine and Prophet.

Ms Fuller said: “I simply treasure the time I spend with the driving group.

“It allows me to get out in the fresh air and experience the breath-taking Marlborough Downs whilst also meeting with likeminded people.

“It goes without saying that Drummer, Perrine and Prophet also enjoy their driving days as there is always a hearty feed and plenty of carrots waiting for them at the end.”

The group has also invited wounded, injured and sick serving military personnel and veterans on visits as part of the rolling recovery programme at Tedworth House Recovery Centre.

Sir Mike said: “Having served the British army for over 45 years, I have witnessed the devastating effect a disability can have both physically and mentally. This driving route gives a remarkable opportunity for anyone with a disability as they can access the Marlborough Downs and experience its stunning surroundings within the peace of a horse-drawn carriage.

“This can only be hugely beneficial and healthy for the body and mind. This is a fantastic initiative by the MDNIA and KVCDG.”

For more information, visit www.mdnia.org.uk