late Christmas present -- thanks to the generosity of a kind-hearted schoolgirl.

For instead of receiving presents on her birthday, nine-year-old Jacqui Lewis asked all her friends to bring cash to be donated to the riding centre.

And the Bermuda High School pupil and her friends raised a stunning $670 which will go towards the upkeep of the charity, located at the Windreach Recreational Village in Warwick.

Jacqui, who regularly visits the centre with her younger sister Jessica, said: "I just thought it would be helpful although it made me feel very proud.'' Jacqui, from Pembroke, held her birthday party at the centre and was joined by 18 friends.

Bermuda Riding for the Disabled manager Moira Benbow said: "I think it's fantastic that a young girl should give up her birthday presents so that she can give money to us.

"Jacqui certainly gave us a lot of money. We're a registered charity and the money will go towards the general running costs.'' It seems that Jacqui's generosity may catch on in the Lewis family. Both her sister and cousins have all decided to make the same kind offer when their birthdays come around later in the year.

Horse gift: Jacqui Lewis presents her birthday cash donation to BRD manager Moira Benbow while Molly the donkey looks on.