AN INSPIRATIONAL Ayr man has been revealed as one of the 100 most influential disabled people in the UK.

Colin Duthie, who helps people with disabilities get into horse riding attended the launch of the prestigious list at the House of Lords, where he was presented with a copy of the publication.

The annual publication now in it’s fourth year has been compiled by an independent judging panel from nominations, recognising individuals as role models, advocates, campaigners, activists and social changers.

Colin told the Advertiser how he was humbled to be recognised on the list.

He said: “It was quite phenomenal and extremely humbling. I met the least disabled people I’ve ever met. They might have a disability but it wasn’t shown. They were quite incredible human beings.

“Being nominated for the power 100, I feel very privileged.”

Colin battled backed from a terrible motorbike accident in 1984 which left him needing his leg amputated.

Following a long period of rehabilitation in which he also battled with depression, his wife urged him to try out horse riding through Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA).

Colin added: “I had some mental health issues. It was my wife that go me out of that. I turned to charity work, which was therapeutic for me to work with people who are having a bad day and making them feel a little better, that’s what the RDA is. I never thought of riding a horse in my life, but I just found them to be phenomenal.

“The RDA is a miracle every day. I see children who are in wheelchairs, who are blind, they just feel comfortable. The warmth of the horse, the movement of the horse it all makes up for one calming experience.”