Meet The Team
Tonya Ellis CEO
Tonya Ellis became CEO of WSPC in January 2025, succeeding Mary-Joy Langdon. With extensive experience in equine leadership and instruction, she brings a wealth of knowledge to the role. A freelance equine instructor, she has worked with riders of all ages, abilities, and needs, creating a safe, engaging environment for development. She also plays a key role in training the Royal Veterinary College's student equestrian team.
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Tonya first joined WSPC as a senior instructor in 1992. Now, as CEO, she is committed to advancing the charity’s mission of providing riding and equine therapy for children, particularly those with special needs and physical disabilities. "I am honoured to lead an organisation that has transformed so many young lives. With our dedicated team, we will continue making a meaningful impact."
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Our People
There are many people involved in the day to day life of the Pony Centre but here is our core team, patrons and trustees.
Patrons & Supporters
Martin Clunes OBE
Martin became Patron of the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre in 2015. Over the years he has been a great supporter of all that we do at the pony centre. He regularly presents awards and has even been seen rolling on the sand in the arena with the children whilst demonstrating the Stop, Drop and Roll exercise.
Anneka Rice
Anneka Rice first became involved in with the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre in 1994 when her TV programme ‘Challenge Anneka’ built our indoor arena in 72 hours. Anneka continues to regularly support our charity and recently she presented medals at our Mini Olympics.
Romaine Dennistoun
4th April 1946 - 30th June 2024
Artist in Residence for nearly 13 years
The Trustees
Selma Hassabu
Chair of the Board of Trustees
Selma lives in West London with her husband, children all of whom are frequent visitors at the pony centre, as supporters and riders. With a long career as a financial services lawyer Selma has also always dedicated time to supporting communities, charities and causes close to her heart. Selma joined the pony centre as a trustee in March 2023.
Claire Valori
Trustee
Clare brings exceptional experience in volunteer management, governance and communication, alongside a lifelong commitment to creating opportunities for young people. Now Chairman of Volunteers at The Pony Club, she leads training, recognition and leadership development for over 10,000 volunteers.
Sarah Stingelin
Treasurer
Sarah has been involved with Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre for over 15 years — as a parent, volunteer, rider and former Trustee — and now serves as Acting Treasurer, bringing deep knowledge of the centre and strong continuity during transition.
An experienced Treasurer and former CEO with senior roles at Deutsche Bank and Swiss Bank Corporation, she offers extensive financial oversight, governance and regulatory expertise.
Addy Windsor-Clive
Finance & Strategy
Addy started her career in venture capital before moving into the food industry, where she ran her own business. She joined the pony centre in 2020. In her spare time, she enjoys cooking for homeless shelters around London and looking after the ponies at the WSPC
Emily Thomas
DEI officer
Emily joined the WSPC in 2021 but has been involved with the RDA since her teens. Currently working for an environmental organisation, she's been in fundraising for fifteen years and is passionate about raising money for good causes. Emily lives in Bedfordshire and has two boys, one cat and many garden birds!
Nichola Blackley
Secretary
Nichola is a Veterinary Epidemiologist. She has over 20 years’ experience owning and working with horses. She has also volunteered with the RDA for many years including assisting at competitions. Nichola lives in Hertfordshire and has two horses for her own, including an ex racehorse who she has retrained and successfully competed.