AS one of the UK’s top jockeys, Kieron Fallon is most often seen thrilling the crowds at top race meetings.

But he took a short break from the high-octane world of horse racing to visit children at a disabled riding school in Bolton over the weekend.

Fallon, who last year was cleared of race-rigging allegations, travelled up from Newmarket on Saturday — much to the delight of local youngsters.

He spent more than an hour signing autographs, speaking to children and showing off his skills at Miller’s Nook Riding School in Westhoughton.

The 43-year-old six-time British champion jockey, said: “It’s a great place. This is just what kids need. Riding is great exercise — it’s better than any gym.”

Fallon, who had been riding from 6am, arrived at the school on Saturday afternoon.

Miller’s Nook, in Lostock Lane, has been operating for the last 12 months but held a ceremony at the weekend to mark their official opening.

The school, which is a registered charity and affiliated to the Riding for the Disabled Association, has 13 ponies and five horses and teaches up to six disabled children a day. It is the only one of its kind in Greater Manchester.

The centre also welcomes youngsters with behavioural problems, who may have been excluded from mainstream schooling. The youngsters help the disabled children and care for horses.

The next step for the riding school is to create an indoor arena so that children can ride horses all year round.

Top horse trainer David “Dandy” Nicholls was also at the opening and pledged his support to the riding school.

He said: “This is just the beginning for this place. They need more funds now to improve and I’ll help in any way I can.

“There are a lot of problems in the world and kids get a bad press but this is exactly the kind of place they need to get them off the streets. When people like Kieron make the effort to come all this way you know it’s something important.”

A special presentation was also made to Ellen Macleod.

The eight-year-old, who has mobility problems, recently came third in a dressage competition for children of all abilities.

Mum, Ali Macleod, aged 40, from Horwich, said: “I was very proud. She has only been riding for a year.

“She comes here once a week and it really helps her a lot. She begs me to come here every day.”

Owner and founder Kath Miller said: “The day was about making people aware of the therapeutic effect riding and horses can have on children with special needs.

“Riding strengthens their muscles but this place boosts their confidence and helps with social skills too.”