Royal Windsor Horse Show has proudly announced Spinal Research as its official Show Charity for the 2025 edition of the iconic event, which takes place in the private grounds of Windsor Castle from 15 – 18 May.
In partnership with Spinal Research, the Show will support the charity through a variety of initiatives, including donations, bucket collections, and ongoing awareness efforts before, during, and after the event.
Spinal cord injuries remain a significant health challenge, with an estimated 4,400 new cases occurring each year in the UK – equating to someone becoming paralysed every two hours. As a result, approximately 105,000 people in the UK and over 15 million people in the world currently live with spinal cord injuries. With its vision of creating a world where paralysis can be cured, no matter the cause or time of injury, Spinal Research is at the forefront of pioneering efforts to restore spinal cord function. The charity is dedicated to funding the world’s most innovative and promising research, empowering the next generation of scientists to push the boundaries of medical science in pursuit of a cure.
Founded in 1981, Spinal Research has played a pivotal role in advancing our understanding of spinal cord biology. The charity’s work has focused on critical areas such as how the spinal cord responds to injury and what needs to happen to repair it. Recent projects funded by Spinal Research include groundbreaking clinical studies aimed at restoring hand and arm function, improving bladder and bowel control, and alleviating nerve pain – each of which would profoundly enhance the independence, spontaneity, and quality of life for people living with paralysis.
Louisa McGinn, CEO of Spinal Research, expressed her excitement about the partnership: “Being named the official Show Charity of Royal Windsor Horse Show this year is a tremendous opportunity for Spinal Research to share our vision with a global audience. We’re incredibly grateful to the Show for providing a platform to raise awareness and funds, which will enable us to continue funding groundbreaking research and ultimately work toward a cure for paralysis.”
The partnership between Royal Windsor Horse Show and Spinal Research is a natural collaboration, intensified by the charity’s deep-rooted connections within the equestrian community. Tara Stewart, Chair of Spinal Research, is a testament to the resilience of those affected by spinal injuries.
In 2014, Tara suffered a life-changing spinal cord injury after falling off a horse and breaking her neck at C6-7, leaving her paralysed from the chest down. She has since been a passionate advocate for the need for major funding for spinal cord injury research, emphasising that a cure is both possible and within reach. Alongside Tara, the charity is supported by several esteemed figures from the equestrian world. Among them is Ginny Elliot MBE, one of the most accomplished eventing riders in history, with four Olympic medals to her name. Additionally, Nicola Wilson and Spencer Sturmey, both of whom have experienced spinal injuries while riding, serve as Equestrian Ambassadors and play a crucial role in raising awareness of the ongoing need for research and support.
James Shaw, Event Director of Royal Windsor Horse Show, added: “We are truly delighted to name Spinal Research as the official Show Charity for 2025. The charity’s work is extraordinary, and we are proud to support their mission to improve the lives of those affected by spinal cord injuries, not just in the UK, but worldwide. We hope this partnership will help raise significant awareness and contribute to the progress of life-changing research.”
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