Lee Valley Riding Centre has been awarded an ‘excellent’ grade in a Quest Plus assessment, it was announced yesterday.

Assessors based their decision on standards that involved scrutinising the centre’s business plans, customer service, health and safety, cleanliness and general maintenance.

The grade is the highest possible accolade awarded by the body which is the UK Quality Scheme for sport and leisure, and is supported by Sport England.

Following a mystery visit to the centre and anonymous enquiries made by email and telephone, the assessors commented on the friendliness of the staff and the professional and prompt way in which they responded to queries.

Inspectors said Lee Valley Riding Centre, located at Lea Bridge Road, Leyton, has a programme that caters for the whole community and that people have access to high quality delivery activities that are appropriate to their age and stage.

They added that the centre is a fabulous facility for the local and wider community and that the staff take an excellent approach to the health and welfare of the horses.

Riding Centre manager Irena Grint said: “We are thrilled to have achieved ‘excellent’ in our  Quest Plus accreditation.

“This is a testament to the whole team who are 100% committed to provide high quality service, and who are meeting the needs and expectations of customers.”