WHITEFIELD – About 20 riders took part in a benefit trail ride at the Acorn Hill Farm on Oct. 18. Jen and Steve Grady hosted the event.

The Mid-Maine Equestrian Search and Rescue team received the proceeds from the ride. Funding will help with training and equipment costs for the unit, which volunteers time and horses to locate missing people in the Maine woods.

The Gradys led the ride on their black Friesian horses, “Zizka” and “Avalon.” Members of the search unit rode with their gear packed on their horses and explained to interested riders what they have done on actual searches. Members also used their radios to alert the others to upcoming obstacles or five directions.

Mid-Maine Search and Rescue members riding were Rachel Breton, North Monmouth, riding “Ramblin”; Nancy Weeks, West Gardiner, “Rusty”; Kathi Dubar, Woolwich, “Romeo”; Colleen Hoyt, Gorham, “Casco”; and Annie Roy, Litchfield, “Sandy.”

Other members of the unit not able to attend were Angie and Daryl Vannah, Janice Hatch, Candy White and the training officer, Dave Woodin.

If interested in donating or joining the unit call 268-4826.