Boost for equestrian arena

The development of an all-weather equestrian arena at Solway Showgrounds, Masterton, is to receive a $20,000 boost.

Eastern and Central Community Trust has granted the money to Masterton A&P; Association to help with its plan of creating the showground facility to make it one of the top equestrian venues in the North Island.

It will result in major events from throughout the country coming to Wairarapa.

The Wairarapa Equestrian Group, which incorporates eventing, showjumping, dressage and pony club members supports the all-weather project as it will give them an year-round facility.

Riders now use a grassed oval that becomes a problem in winter with horses damaging the surface.

The project is expected to cost around $90,000 in total.

Eastern and Central Community Trust has also approved a grant of $3800 to Lakeview School to buy an electric guitar and keyboard for the school band.

Trust donations manager Bev Watkins said many Lakeview pupils would not have a chance to learn a musical instrument and the new equipment will give them new experiences and opportunities.

The school has informed the trust it was keen to give children a chance to be involved in a choir or rock band, and to receive professional singing coaching.

The keyboard and guitar would be an integral part of the school band's equipment and essential for the band to be able to carry on.

The school band intends to perform at a variety of community events and teachers were hoping some pupils will follow this through to a musical future.