DOZENS of people have marched in protest over fears a well-known rural stables could be closed by planners.
People came from Cloughaneely, the Rosses, Gaoth Dobhair and Carrigart to show their support for Killult Stables, which is under threat as a result of an objection lodged with An Bord Pleanala.
They marched from the stables in Killult to Falcarragh and back in order to raise public awareness of the issue.
The group included children who ride at the stables, their parents, adult riders and other supporters, who are concerned that the equestrian recreational amenity may be lost to the community.
Among the group was a horse named Tom and the group chanted “Save our stables: save Tom’s home”.
Killult stables and arena are owned by Dr Lawrence Smyth who has been in Cloughaneely for 48 years.
The demonstration group met Lawrence after the march and he told them that since it was built in 2004, the arena has been made available free of charge to the North West Pony Club, and to the Donegal Gaeltacht Riding Club.
According to Manus Kelly, Falcarragh, who took part in the weekend demonstration: “It would be a tremendous loss to the community in the Northwest, if the school were to close.
“I came here today because my girls ride at the school, and I feel that it is necessary to have a safe place to allow young people to learn horse riding, which is a healthy outdoor, rural pursuit.”
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