“Finding out about Open Country has introduced a whole new world to me and has also helped me to be more accepting of and open about my own disability rather than hiding behind it. It has been inspiring to be around other visually impaired people with whom I can share experiences. I have always found being out in the countryside really relaxing and soothing. However difficult a week I may have had, I always forget my worries whilst taking in the magic of nature.”

Jonty, who lost his leg in a motorcycle accident aged 22, joined our board of trustees around two years ago. Jonty was looking for a charity to support through being part of the first  disabled relay team to swim the North Channel. 

He said: “I’m proud to be a trustee of Open Country. The charity demonstrated that you can actively participate and get hand-on in the countryside, no matter what your disability is, whether that’s tandem-riding, walking, swimming, conservation work or even bungee jumping and parachuting! 

“I personally love being outdoors and I don’t know what I would do if I couldn’t.  

“I think Lockdown made us all appreciate how important getting outside is for people. And with the conservation work we do, do, clearing pathways,  we actually help make the countryside more accessible for everyone. 

“Open Country is one of Harrogate’s best-kept secrets – I would love more people  to help spread the word.  It would be great to have more  support from the wider business community to help us raise funds. 

“What we do is good – it makes a difference and it makes people happy.” 

 John, aged 24, used to love tandem cycling with his dad until an accident meant his dad was no longer able to go out with him. 

He joined Open Country two and a half years ago and it has made a huge difference to his life. Here he shares his experiences:

“I love cycling and getting out into the great outdoors, and having fun. I feel free! 

“I really enjoy meeting so many people to talk to and having a good conversation and we also go to the pub afterwards. I really look forward to feeling independent and getting out of the house.” 

John’s mum Aileen said: “John loves coming out with Open Country – he gets very excited and focused and comes home afterwards very animated.  John being able to get out and cycle again has been a really positive thing for us all.” 

Sandra, from Harrogate, has Multiple Sclerosis and has been a member of Open Country for around 20 years, going on as many accessible outings as she can. 

Here, she shares why Open Country is such an important part of her life. 

“I just love being outside in the countryside and Open Country helps me to access different places and scenery.  When I first joined Open Country, my life was very limited. It’s a horrible feeling, being stuck in the house and very frustrating. 

“If I couldn’t come out with Open Country, my life would be really boring to say the least. I would feel truly isolated. Even though I have a car now, I can only use it a couple of times a month when there is someone to drive me. 

“My favourite outings with Open Country are when we go to the seaside – I love being by the water.  I really enjoy meeting everyone. . .Open Country is like being part of a big family and a very important part of my life.”