Eight-year-old Ava Jones from Llandudno Junction has recently completed a sponsored horse ride to raise much needed funds for her local adult hospice.

Last month Ava took her 21-year-old Welsh cob, Celyn for the sponsored ride in her local area. The five-mile ride followed a route from the pony’s permanent home in Glanwydden around Bryn Pydew and back.

Thanks to the generosity of friends and family, her fundraising amounted to £328.75 (£285 donations and £43.75 in Gift aid) for the charity.

Ava, Year 4 pupil at Ysgol Glanwydden said: “I enjoyed my ride, as it was a lovely sunny day, and I was able to also ride with my auntie because the restrictions changed.

“I feel very good that I have been able to do something for charity, whilst doing what I enjoy most, spending time with animals and being outside.

“Celyn, my horse was very well behaved and looked after me the whole way around. My favourite part of the ride was being able to go through a little wooded area, as it was peaceful, and the birds were singing.”

Ava’s mother Samantha Jones added: “Ava has ridden since she was 18 months old and absolutely adores horses and animals.

“She understands that the Hospice is a special place that looked after members of our family and understands that it is a special place that is close to our hearts.

“My Taid (Ava’s great Taid) was at the Hospice when I was pregnant with Ava. He sadly passed away there a week to the day that she was born.”

James Wilde, St David’s Hospice Conwy Area Fundraiser said: “Thank you so much Ava! Every penny and pound raised supports the vital work of the Hospice. Thank you for making this possible.”

“St David’s Hospice is here for the community 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, providing specialist end of life care and support to local people at a very difficult time in their lives.

If you would like to support Ava’s fundraising and pledge a donation go to https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/samantha-jones144