British Driving
Issue No. 368 Winter 2017
www.britishdrivingsociety.co.uk
SOCIETY
British Driving SOCIETY
2017 the BDS 60th anniversary, the diamond Jubilee year is nearly at an end and you have all been so busy. While a lot of the activities relating to the Jubilee year have been written about in your reports for this edition, I look forward to many more to make up the bumper Spring 2018 edition of the magazine. For those of you that have already covered your Jubilee events in this edition it would be great if you could please expand on one or some of them, including lots of photographs that we can feature and share with all the other members. On the subject of photographs, there are often problems with photographs sent to me and it seems to come about either because they are taken with mobile phones (insufficient resolution) or been sent via an editing application that compresses them. The best way to send them is the direct route by saving onto a computer and then as an attachment to an email. I hope this helps I’m no expert either! It has been a really busy season hampered in places by unseasonable weather not helped by hurricanes tail ending through Britain, but our members are a resilient and hardy
lot supported as always by copious amounts of tea and cake. Where would we be without our friends and helpers? The National Championships at Addington and the Horse of the Year Show are both featured in this edition and congratulations go to winners Mandy Burdick with Horsemens Momentum (Addington) and Paul Atkinson with Black Boy (HOYS) as well as everyone who made the journey to compete at both these events. The time, effort and work is enormous and should not be underestimated. Congratulations must also go to Linda Swain whose tireless work for the society was recognised at Addington when Chairperson Angela Sixsmith presented her with the BDS Medal of Honour, well done Linda! The Junior competition winner will be announced in the Spring magazine and the lucky winner will receive a year’s free membership. The festive season will shortly be upon us and I would like to wish you all a happy Christmas and a peaceful 2018 and I hope Santa is good to you.
Contents 4
Driving Addington
7
Leaf Spring Awards
8
England Area Activities
34 Scotland Area Activities 37 Wales Area Activities 41 Junior Commissioners Report 42 Northern Ireland Area Activities
46 Trec Abroad
Safe driving
Joan Email: Joan.gmartin60@gmail.com
REMEMBER Jubilee features and photographs for the bumper Spring edition
Provisional Magazine Copy Submission Dates for 2018
SPRING EDITION February 16th 2018 Production Remous Ltd – 01963250920 Front cover Osborne Refrigerators BDS National Private Driving Champion - Mandy Burdick with Horsmans Momentum photo: ESPhotography
No part of the British Driving Society (BDS) magazine may be copied or reproduced in any form without the permission of the BDS. The views and opinions expressed herein are not necessarily those of the BDS. The British Driving Society has tried to ensure that the information in the magazine is correct at the date of publication, however we cannot accept liability arising from its use and accordingly, the British Driving Society excludes liability for loss or damage arising from the use of information or any error or omission in the information. The British Driving Society or Remous Ltd will not be held responsible for the appearance of photographic material supplied without the necessary consent, copyright and or photographer’s details. Any advertisement designed by Remous Ltd on behalf of The BDS remains the Publisher’s Copyright and may not be reproduced unless prior written permission is obtained. The BDS and Remous reserves the right to edit all magazine submissions.
BDS Office British Driving Society Endersley, Church Road, Wingfield, Eye, Suffolk IP21 5QZ Telephone: 01379 384612 email@britishdrivingsociety.co.uk
www.britishdrivingsociety.co.uk
Reports already a very successful combination this year. Bob also won the Pairs & Tandems with the black Gelderlanders Bullet & Bandit so had to make the decision which turnout he would drive in the Championship.
CHAMPIONS FLOURISH AT DRIVING ADDINGTON
So the last, but not least, final competitor to join the Championship contenders was the Mountain & Moorland winner Stennerskeugh Smoke owned and driven by Gilly Chippendale.
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There was a fresh feeling about Driving Addington with a completely new timetable and different events taking place at the show, which featured the Osborne Refrigerators BDS National Championships, and took place on 23rd September at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre near Buckingham. With a 30% increase in competitors many of whom had travelled a considerable distance to take part, competition was expected to be of the highest order. And it was.
Malcolm Salter with Mike Clark’s evergreen Newydd Beau came top in the Welsh Sec. D category and Kelly Searle driving Cosford Izi Wotnot joined him in the Championship having won the Welsh A,B,Cs.
Of the nine, nearly half would be travelling to the National Exhibition Centre for the 2017 Harness Horse of the Year at the Horse of the Year Show. It certainly added an extra frisson to the final, where the three judges – Janice Clough, Alexander Hogg & Justin Cowles would award marks to each competitor after their show. In a change to previous years the marks were not publicised so the identity of the winner remained unknown until the last competitor had finished. And so it was to considerable applause that commentator Carey Knox declared the 2017 Osborne Refrigerators National Private Driving Champion to be Mandy Burdick with Horsemens Momentum. Many many congratulations to Mandy whose photo is featured on the front cover.
Success, however, was not solely the domain National Young Driver Champion Leah Marshall draped in her of the ‘showing regulars’; most notably Mel winner’s ribbons. Wilton who had travelled all the way from Cornwall to compete with her horse Jerry. She first won the Four Wheel Exercise class thereby qualifying for the Championship where she was One to watch in the future, Leah Marshall, crowned an incredible year by joined by three other competitors, including BDS Show Exercise Champions becoming the Osborne Refrigerators National Young Driver Champion. It John Randall driving Luddington Whirlwind who had won the very strong was disappointing that there were so few entries in the two age categories Two Wheel Exercise division. Janice Clough and Paul Mills had the task of (10-14 years/15-17 years) but this did not lessen the quality. In the judging the Championship and it was Mel who became the 2017 Osborne Championship judges Justin Cowles and Sally Barlow could be seen deep Refrigerators National Exercise Champion. Judging by the reaction on social in discussion prior to the announcement of the winner, and it was Leah media it was a very popular decision! who just pipped young Jack Kedward driving his Grandfather’s Gurnos Welsh Eyecatcher to the title. Leah had won the BDS Show Young Driver Championship back in June, again driving Stapleford March, so it was a double achievement.
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Four National Champions were crowned at Addington, the fourth being the National Light Trade Champion. After winning the Costers division the title went to Steve Watts with Trixies Brenin-Gwalia, capping an incredibly successful season with this spectacular Welsh Cob put to a London Trolley.
National Exercise Vehicle Champion Mel Wilton driving Jerry
First were the two Hackney-type categories; Joe Rowe with Brookeborough Stepping Star took the over 13.2 hh and Josie Randall with Heartland Starlighter the under 13.2hh. The Non Hackney-Type, again split over/ under 13.2hh were both strong classes. Mandy Burdick with Horsemens Momentum took the ‘overs’ with the Scottish representatives in the Under 13.2hh coming to the fore with the top two placings going North of the Border. Ruth Martin was second, but it was Gillian McNinch with her lovely tobiano British Riding Pony, The Longhouse Glam Rock, who qualified for the Championship with her win in the ‘unders’. The Country Turnout category proved that it is the class of choice for 2017 with eleven entries for judge Janice Clough to consider. She chose as her winner Bob Alexander with his coloured Gelderlanders Butch & Sundance,
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esphotography.co.uk
The most keenly contested prize however was for the National Private Driving Championship. There are nine different classes, the winner of each going forward to the Championship itself. Competitors had to qualify for each of the nine so every one was a winner even before they arrived at Addington! Steve Watts with Trixies Brenin-Gwalia, National Light Trade Champion
There was, however, more to the show than just the Osborne Refrigerators National Championship classes. A full supporting schedule of 30 classes gave driving competitors of many disciplines the chance to display their turnouts. The wagon classes all took place in the indoor arena starting first with the Brightside Welsh Cobs Welsh classes. With fourteen entries over the two categories (ABC & D) judge Alan James had his work cut out to find a winner. A very busy Jessie Dudley-Apicella won the smaller class with Sally Athey’s Stonedge Solomon, but the Championship went to the Section D winner, Philip Barry’s Trixies American Flying Boy driven by Brian Brazier.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Reports to the public. Jeff Osborne, despite an incident packed journey getting to the show, brought some of his trade vehicles to take part and Gary Docking treated spectators to an interesting talk. Jeff is a keen light trade enthusiast and the BDS is very grateful to him for all his support and help.
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Another new innovation at the show was the inclusion of exercise vehicles in the Carriagehouse Insurance Concours d’Elegance. Split into two sections – traditional & exercise vehicles – the task of judging was undertaken by the Past Master of the Worshipful Company of Coachmakers & Coach Harness Makers, Michael Kimber. He started judging in the outside arenas with the finalists coming forward to the indoor arena. Winner of the exercise vehicles – Sue Cole with Sam The Man – was thrilled to come forward to the final in the indoor arena where the Championship went to Bob Alexander’s Bullet & Bandit but this time driven by Monika Ragan. Winners of the T. Cribb & Sons Coloured Horse class, Claire Bourne driving Sunny & Troy
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Alan James also judged the Hackneys and had an equally difficult decision to make here from more than twenty entries. He brought eight forward to the Championship and it was Rachel Moore’s Wellshaw Pitite Etoile driven by Sue Barraclough, the Open Hackney Horse winner who took the red, white & blue rosette. Reserve went to Reuben Carter with Aghaderg Lets Up the Antie who had won the Novice Pony class.
Concours d’Elegance Champions Monika Ragan driving Bob Alexander’s Bullet & Bandit receiving their award from Michael Kimber esphotography.co.uk
Outside on the grassy bank overlooking the three arenas, spectators were treated to a wide variety of classes in perfect sunny weather. One who should have been just spectating was sponsor representative Mike King, but he had offered to steward at the show, an offer which had been gratefully accepted. He did find the time however to present the awards to the KBIS British Equestrian Insurance World & Rare Breeds winner Julie Elliott with G.W.M. Duchess of Monico.
Jemma Millman galloping to success in the Osborne Refrigerators Double Harness Scurry
The new editor of Carriage Driving Magazine, Georgie Green, paid her first visit to the show and presented the awards to the Pleasure Driving class won by Felicity Stubbs with Valentine Amber. The class is, of course, one of those that contribute to the Carriage Driving Magazine Pleasure Driving Awards.
Also indoors, driving but of a completely different style – this time with the emphasis on speed and accuracy – was on show in the Osborne Refrigerators Double Harness Scurry. Only a week before they would be competing at the Horse of the Year Show, the country’s top scurry drivers had a final opportunity to hone their skills in an indoor arena similar to that at HOYS. The smaller division (122 cms & under) went first and later in the afternoon the 148 cms & under ponies took centre stage where the class was won by the 2016 Scurry Driver of the Year, Jemma Millman with Piglet & Eyeore.
A new all-weather arena had been built by Addington in the past year, and this hosted another first-time event at the show – BDS Trec. Organised by Colin & Lesley Hurd, who had gone to a lot of trouble, four competitors (more next year perhaps?) enjoyed a relaxed and fun event. It culminated in the final task and presentation of awards in the indoor arena. Congratulations to all those who took part, in particular Antonia Gallop and Brickell Black Supreme who took the top spot.
New to the show this year was its use as the venue for the Area Commissioners and Judges Seminars which took place in the morning, giving delegates a full day of carriage driving to enjoy. It also provided the opportunity for a lecture/demonstration on Linda Swain receiving the BDS Medal of Honour Light Trade which was open from Angela Sixsmith
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
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The BDS announced that Linda Swain should receive its Medal of Honour, in recognition of all the work she had done on behalf of the Society, and the indoor arena provided the perfect location for BDS Chairman, Angela Sixsmith, to present a delighted Linda with her award.
Antonia Gallop negotiating a task in the BDS Trec
In conclusion it was great to see so many different turnouts at the show and the BDS would like to thank them for their support. Thank you to, to all the officials and sponsors without whom the show could not take place. And as one competitor has emailed ‘Fabulous day – already looking forward to next year’.
British Driving Society
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Reports
British Driving Society AGM This took place at the Holiday Inn Express, Birmingham on 21st October chaired by Angela Sixsmith with a full agenda on offer. The chairman`s report gave a snapshot of events and happenings in the past year, telling those gathered that over 400 area shows, drives, rallies and socials had taken place. This was a large number and credit is due to the organisers involved. Of most concern is the still falling number of members, which it is hoped may be addressed with the help of the appointment of a PRO Debra Hargrave whose remit is to attract outside attention to the Society and gain new members. Jo Halnan-Blackwell chairs the Finance & Administration Executive Committee and as such went through her report regarding the accounts for the year ending 31st December 2016 ending with a similar message as from the BDS Chairman that more
income must be encouraged in the near future. Item 5 on the agenda was with regard to the ratifying of Council`s nomination for the appointment of Chairman of the Society and Vice Chairman of the Society, Angela Sixsmith and Brian Ball. The vote for these was carried unanimously. Throughout the AGM, there was very various worthwhile input from members which had been noted and will be considered as appropriate. There followed a good and interesting presentation about attracting more young drivers to the BDS which was given by Emily Ham with details about all the benefits available to them. The last item of the day was Malcolm Salter`s preamble to the very lovely Leaf Spring Awards to members who had taken part in ten BDS events with a traditional vehicle. This was generously sponsored again by John Vyse and Family; these china plates are a wonderful reminder of the season`s activities and a great achievement by the winners. The meeting closed at 5pm.
Hampshire BDS Member gains her second Leaf Spring Award At the recent BDS AGM, Joanne Parrett was presented with her 2017 Leaf Spring Award. Joanne has completed the ten events in her restored Butchers Cart with her delightful Donkey Rikita Du Bocage, this is the first time a donkey turnout has completed this award with a Trade Vehicle. Joanne commented that ‘this is my second Leaf Spring Award. In 2014 I completed ten events with my 1911 Norfolk Cart, I understand that I am only the second person to win two of these awards with two very different types of vehicles and the first donkey turnout to have done this. Lady Riki as she is affectionately known, has been an absolute star this year as she doesn’t seem phased by anything in or out of the show ring, I have owned her since importing her from her breeders in France with no intention of driving although her blood lines are pure driving. Her breed Cotentin was bred to work on farms pulling an array of farm carts. I joined the sport of carriage driving by accident and have thoroughly enjoyed driving Lady Riki at some great events including Hickstead, BDS Windsor and BDS Addington’.
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British Driving Society
Felicity Stubbs being presented with her Leaf Spring Award by Angela Sixsmith
John Snowdon being presented with Leaf Spring Award
Harness Horse and Pony of the Year 2017 The qualifying shows this year had resulted in owners and whips of many exceptional private driving turnouts taking home their championship rosette with the knowledge they now had the chance to compete at The Horse of The Year Show in early October – a truly prestigious show. A later slot in the morning of 4th October than previous years meant that the audience at the NEC`s Genting Arena was larger and the atmosphere even more electric. As is usual all the turnouts entered the arena before the judges Caroline Douglas LHHI and Gordon Marks for an initial assessment, horse and pony turnouts were then split into their two groups for the individual stand shows after which just nine turnouts were selected before the final placings decided. To keep the audience on the edge of their seats, these final places were selected in reverse order and by the time it came to fourth place it was a very pleased Nicola Salter with her own Brynllwyn Quick Flash who filled that slot. Third place went to the smart hackney pony Aghaderg Stand & Deliver owned and driven by Jessie Dudley-Apicella, leaving the two black horses driven by Mandy Burdick and Paul Atkinson circling the arena doing their utmost to impress the judges. After what seemed quite some time, first time HOYS qualifier Mandy with her own Horsmans Momentum was called in to take second place leaving an overjoyed Paul in pride of place with Black Boy. Well done and congratulations to everyone.
Paul Atkinson with Black Boy
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Reports
BDS Leaf Spring Award Winners 2017 Sponsored by John Vyse and Family Presentation of this year’s award took place at the 2017 BDS AGM Each winner was presented by Chairman Angela Sixsmith with a Leaf Spring Award winners china plate and a rosette sponsored by Mr John Vyse and family The aim of this award is to encourage the use of traditional vehicles and keep the old traditions alive. The award is open to anyone who exhibits a traditional type turnout on 10 occasions or more at a BDS Affiliated Show or BDS Activity in one season. Because of geographical difficulties and lack of Shows/Activities in the following areas , Northern Ireland 4 occasions and Channel Islands 3 occasions.
2017 winners 1
Stephen Tubb from Kent with “Bertie Independence Warrior” (Welsh D) Skeleton Cut under Gig by Whitaker
2
Victoria Morris from Somerset with “Drysiog Daniel Ap Jet” (Welsh Sec C) 1900 Round Back Gig by Clifton of Bristol
3
Kim Pearson from Fife, Scotland with “JD’s El Dorado” (Welsh X) 1902 Beaufort Cart by Lawton
4
Felicity Stubbs from Staffordshire “Valentine Amber” (Welsh Sec B) 1910 Well Bottomed Gig by Phillips of Flintern
5
John Snowdon from Suffolk with “Rex of Larkrise and Gometra Halyard” (Shetlands) Fenix Dog Cart, Fenix, 1897 four Wheeled Rally Cart by Mulliner and 1904 four wheeled vehicle by browns of Windsor.
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Julie Elliot from Kent with “G.W.M Duchess of Monaco” (Morgan) Stick Back Gig by Fairbourne Carriages
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Eric Mills from South Yorkshire with “Oakvale Rowan” (Welsh Sec C) 1875 Stanhope Gig by Priday
16
Mandy Burdick from Kent with “Horsemen’s Momentum” (Cob X) 1809 Stick Back Gig by Lawton
17
John Walker from Lincolnshire “Wrawby Lucy” (Welsh cob X) Cut under Stick Back Gig by Woods of Harpley
18
Joanne Dobson from South Yorkshire with “Walseker Mario” (Welsh Sec B) Round Backed Gig by Constable Fairburn
19
Antonia Gallop from Surrey with “Savoy Toyboy” (Welsh C) 1894 Four Wheeled Dog Cart by Mulliner
20
Neil Winney from Suffolk with “Glanvyrnwy Prince of Wales” (Welsh Cob D) 1910 Round Back Gig by Crawfords of Playhill
21
Joanne Parrett from Hampshire with “Ritka du Bocage” (Cotentin Donkey) Butchers Cart
22
Kathleen Hill from Somerset with “Wiscombe Boris” (Cob) 1900 Four Wheeled Rally Cart by Campells of Hastings
23
Joanne Parrett with Ritka du Bocage first donkey to win the award
Su Woodcock from Stoke on Trent with “Foldhouse Little Lord Valentine” (Miniature Shetland) 2016 Varnished Dog Cart By Barry Wheelwright and Son
Julie Elliott with G.W.M Duchess of Monaco one of the 5 time consecutive award winners
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Caroline Watson from West Lothian, Scotland with “Llanarth Tango” (Welsh Sec D) 1890 Dog Cart by Mulliners of Birmingham
9
Alison Kesans from Swansea Wales with “Monington Verdi” (Morgan) 1900 American Drop Front Phaeton by the Kentucky Carriage Company
10
Mike Clark from Cumbria with “Newydd Beau” (Welsh D) Round Back Gig by Fairbourne Carriages-Driven by Malcolm Salter
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Maureen Ryder-Gordon from Cornwall with “Shilstone Rocks Hazelnut” & “Dartforliegh Wren” (Dartmoor Pair) 1898 Alexander Dog Cart by Readings of Southsea
12
Jean Clayden from Suffiolk with “Cosford Iziwotnot” (Welsh A) Stick Backed Gig by Windover-Driven by Jessie Dudley & Kellie Searle.
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Jean Clayden from Suffolk with “Trindod Wildcat” (Welsh Sec A) Stick Back Gig by Fairbourne Carriages-Driven by Kate Cooper
14
Josie Randall from Essex with “Heartland Starlighter” (Hackney Pony) 1920 Stick Backed Gig by Bythe Bros of Canterbury
15
Christine Bassett from Derbyshire with “Staffin Peggi of Castlegreen” (Highland) 1905 Village Cart by Mulliner
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
British Driving Society
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Area News
Area Activities
Members with turnouts will be very welcome at all meets and drives. The areas are defined for administration only and all members are welcome at events in any area. However, Area Commissioners would welcome a phone call to know that you are on your way
Beds, Bucks & Herts AC Linda Swain Tel: 07850-706978 Email lindaswain10@aol.com AAC Shirley Higgins Tel: 01923 267919 Email: shirleyhiggins@btinternet.com AAC Tanya Howard Tel: 01923 284462 / 07788 275267 Email: tanyarhoward@yahoo.co.uk Publicity Officer Sylvia Sullivan Tel: 01767 677906 Email: ssulledit@aol.com ROW – Brian Worrell Tel: 01442 258602 Email: brian.worrell@talktalk.net Our Facebook page is `BBH BDS` where events and photographs are regularly published. Feel free to add your own driving photos, adverts or ask questions there.
Remember that your BDS membership card should be with you at all driving events as proof of insurance and may be checked before each event.
Geraldine Pearson
Following our area`s recent Annual Meeting it has been suggested that in the New Year as a trial any members wishing to take part in a road drive or use of an arena in the area, should please contact Linda by the previous month end. This should leave plenty of time to secure / agree a suitable venue and make sure the relevant paperwork is sent to the BDS Office. If you are interested in this idea, please make sure Linda has your correct email address as well as your telephone number – all possible attendees ( whips and spectators) will then be advised accordingly. Sally Barlow
Forthcoming Events 9 Dec – Three course Christmas meal for £25 per person at The Plough PH, Belsize, Sarratt, Herts. WD3 4NP 7pm for 8pm– please book early by ringing Shirley Higgins on 01923 267919 or email shirleyhiggins@btinternet.com 12 Dec – Coffee catch up at Jordans Mill, near Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9JY from 10am 16 Dec – Annual Xmas dinner with invited guest speaker Minta Winn LHHI at The Green Man PH, nr Shefford, Beds. All members and friends are welcome – tickets will be £25 each – including a free raffle ticket! Please send your cheque made out to `Beds, Bucks & Herts BDS` to Linda Swain, 15 Woodcock Close, Sandy, Beds SG19 2UW.
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British Driving Society
10 Jan – Coffee morning at Fallow Field, Sandy, Beds SG19 2UW from 10am. Donations invited for our BDS Charity – The Sanders Watney Trust. 13 Feb – Coffee and / or lunch at Roxton Garden Centre, Beds MK44 3DY from 11am. There is a cosy snug with wood burning stove – so get there in good time! Further into the New Year there will be a talk about Road Safety from the British Horse Society, hopefully another about equine first aid from a local veterinary practise and a third about physiotherapy for animals which will possibly to be followed up by a practical demonstration of this type of treatment. Also booked is a visit from a member of Bedford Camera Club who will aim to improve our photography skills and ideas about how to capture better images of our animals.
8 Mar – Will see the start of these evenings of interest at the Sue Ryder Hospice Hall, Moggerhanger, Beds MK44 3RJ from 6.30pm. Tea and coffee provided. Please bring a small plate of food for the shared supper table. Free entry. 10 Mar – Evening meal at The Plough PH, Belsize, Sarratt, Herts. WD3 4NP – please book early by ringing Shirley Higgins on 01923 257919 or email shirleyhiggins@ btinternet.com 14 Apr – Area 10 BDS show nr Biggleswade Beds. Full details nearer the time.
If YOU would like to organise an event for members during 2018, please contact Linda for details of how to do this.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Cheshire
Berkshire AC Joanna Holland Mob: 07766 751 352 Tel: 01635 230486 Email: Joeyhol34@gmail.com Assistant Area Commissioners Colin Pawson LHHI Email: pawson@sheltonfarmcarriages.co.uk Tel: 01189 842619 Clive Collins Email: clive7845@gmail.com Tel: 01635 862863/07799 892007 Joanna Holland Email: joeyhol34@googlemail.com Tel: 01635 230486 Martin Pink Email: martinpink302@btinternet.com Rights of Way: Margaret Pawson Email: pawson@sheltonfarmcarriages.co.uk Tel: 01189 842619 As part of their varied programme for 2017 Berkshire held three charity fund-raising drives: the ever-popular off-road drives at Ashe Warren Farm with its spectacular views and wooded tracks and the Denis Walmsley Memorial Drive over the slopes of the Laverstoke Grange Estate with the opportunity to trot along the length of a grass airstrip, these together raising £2,500 for the Newbury Group of Driving for the Disabled. Then In August, Sue Bushell again organised a drive through Bramshill Forest, owned by the Forestry Commission and usually accessible only by permit: hard tracks through the trees and over heathland made an ideal driving surface. At the finish each driver received their Rosette from Colin Henderson, ex-Head Coachman to H.M. the Queen and now Chairman of The Carriage Foundation for which £500 had been raised. The Season had started in January with a wellattended New Season’s Supper an opportunity to welcome new members, followed in March by the now well-established light hearted but challenging Quiz Night at which Hampshire members were also welcomed. June saw the Brockhurst Drive along the quiet country lanes around Hermitage and then in September, another off-road Drive over the Englefield Estate, courtesy of Richard Benyon, MP. All of these events were well supported but the final one, in October, exceeded expectations with over forty members not only from Berkshire but also adjoining Areas coming to the Autumnal Pleasure Drive in Windsor Great Park, courtesy of the Crown Estate. There was also an award made for the “Best Turned Out” which the Committee hopes will be an incentive to maintain and to raise the standard of presentation and which will be introduced at other drives next season. It does seem that the enthusiastic Area Committee, chaired by Jo Holland, has succeeded in developing an appealingly varied programme that has the support of members. We look forward to similar or even greater support in 2018!
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
To be Announced
Cornwall Email: maureen.ryder@hotmail.co.uk AC Maureen Ryder-Gordon Tel: 01566 785241 Mob: 07782 413307 AAC Bryony Maunder Tel: 01752 851800 Mob: 07966 069099 Email: bryonymaunder@btinternet.com On May 31st we were delighted to invite Gary Docking to Lower Croan Farm, Wadebridge for a training day. We had around six participants who enjoyed Gary’s quick witted banter and extensive knowledge.
Shannon Fahey winner of the Private Driving 13.2hh and under
Concours d e’legance 1st Maureen Ryder Gordon with Shilstone Rocks Hazelnut & Dartfordleigh Wren Private driving 13’2 and under 1st Shannon Fahey with Hywi Minstrel, 2nd Maureen Ryder Gordon with Shilstone Rocks Hazelnut & Dartfordleigh Wren
Our Annual Show was on Sunday June 25th. It was a sort of “coat on, coat off and repeat” type of day with the weather turning out nice in the end. The results are as follows:In-Hand 1st Angy Douglas with Zonnie Tatty Teddy 2nd Julia Glanville with Lowen Ridden section of the Ride & Drive 1stJenny Moor with Max, 2ndMel Wilton with Jock, 3rd Nathan Brokenshire with Poppy Long Reining 1st Becca Brokenshire with Bella, 2nd Jenny Moor with Max, 3rdJulia Glanville with Lowen
Maureen Ryder-Gordon winner of the Concours d'elegance
Private driving over 13’2 1st Nicky Buxton with Tico, 2nd Will Finnemore with Zara
Victoria Foods Championship Becca Brokenshire with Judge Colin Hurd winning the long reining class
Champion – Nicky Buxton with Tico Reserve Champion – Shannon Fahey with Hywi Minstrel
Jenny Moor & Max
Best Female Whip – Shannon Fahey
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Area News
Will Finnemore and Sarah Perry at the Annual Show
Colin Hurd judging Maureen Ryder-Gordon's turnout
Nicky Buxton, Anthony Martin & Tico winners of the private driving over 13'2
Angela Shailer winning the pleasure driving class with Judge Colin Hurd
Lee Venner
Driven section of the Ride & Drive 1st Jenny Moor with Max, Joint 2nd Mel Wilton with Jock and Lyn Downes with Poppy & Bella
for prepping the site (along with brother-in law Michael) and manning the PA system on the day. Our judges Colin Hurd and Aletha Bick did a fantastic job, thank you. Our show sponsors are always appreciated and this year were Tessa Young-Jamieson, Jane Talbot-Smith of Blisland Harnessmakers, Marjorie and Philip Crew, Lyn and John Downes of Cheesewring Farm Cottages and campsite, Pat and Paul Maunder of Maunder Transport and Demolition and Harriet Franklin (Equine Dentist). Special congratulations to our showing firsttimers who did a lovely job – Louise Withnall, Gemma Tucker, Nathan and Eliot Brokenshire. On July 2nd we enjoyed a lovely BBQ kindly hosted by Lyn, John and the Downes family.
Mountain & Moorland 1st Maureen Ryder Gordon with Shilstone Rocks Hazelnut & Dartfordleigh Wren 2nd Angy Douglas with Zonnie Tatty Teddy, 3rd Lyn Downes with Poppy & Bella Veteran driver (whip and horse/pony to be over 80 years)1st Maureen Ryder Gordon with Shilstone Rocks Hazelnut & Dartfordleigh Wren, 2nd Lyn Downes with Poppy & Bella Multiples 1st Maureen Ryder Gordon with Shilstone Rocks Hazelnut & Dartfordleigh Wren 2nd Lyn Downes with Poppy & Bella, 3rd Lee Venner with Destiny & Margji
Nathan and Eliot Brokenshire with Mum and Dad
Pleasure driving (Victoria Foods qualifier) 1st Angela Shailer with Deanevalley Golden Lad 2nd Lee Venner with Destiny & Margji, 3rd Lyn Downes with Poppy & Bella Open exercise class 2 or 4 wheel vehicles (Victoria Foods qualifier) 1st Gemma Tucker with Deanevalley Golden Lad, 2nd Mel Wilton with Jock, 3rd Mary Venner with Birchwood UK Nemo Best Female Whip – Shannon Fahey Best Male Whip – Lee Venner Best Groom – Anthony Martin
Gemma Tucker receiving her first place rosette for the Open exercise vehicle class
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It was a lovely day and our thanks go to all our helpers Wendy Button, Richard Hamer, Marjorie Crew, Pat Mitchell, Mike Mitchell, Sue Birchall and Sue Molesworth. Special thanks to Brenda Ball our Show Secretary and Brian Ball
Jo Sincock and her groom Bob at Enys Gardens
Enys Garden was the destination on Sunday July 23rd. We couldn’t have asked for a better day weather wise. The route took us from the spacious car park field, over the covered cattle grid and down towards the house and the tearooms, through the courtyard and on into the woods. We emerged from the woods into parkland and drove past the house in all its glory to eventually return to the car park. The drive is around three miles and participants were able to drive around as many times as possible. Thank you to Lynda Chapman and her trusty helpers who were stewards on the route.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News
Ken Gilbert ready for the Treolwyn drive with Brian Ball
On August 6th Treolwyn, St. Austell was our destination for a leisurely drive around the quiet roads. Eight turnouts were able to take advantage of the good weather and the well signposted route courtesy of Brian and Brenda Ball. Brenda and her team of lovely ladies laid on a scrumptious spread of food which was consumed on their lawn.
Lyn Chapman at Boconnoc drive
Vicky Wilson very kindly lent her ground as a base for a drive, so on September 24th off we went to Brazzacott. The weather report wasn’t very good which put a few people off but in reality we coped with varying amounts of drizzle. The long drive which was approximately seven miles was all on country lanes. As people returned they were invited into the handy pony/skills course which was a combination of slaloms, scary alley with lots of balloons, drive over the carpet, carry a glass of water without spilling etc. Sheila Sexton expertly manoeuvring her tandem around the handy pony course
Unfortunately, the drive at Tregamellyn was cancelled due to a bad weather forecast. Our thanks go to Marjorie Crew for the work she carried out on this event. Happy and safe driving!
Maureen Ryder-Gordon Iris & Noel Danagher supporting the Treolwyn drive
On Sunday September 3rd we visited Boconnoc estate, Lostwithiel. Unfortunately, the weather put a few people off but we had six hardy members who came along and enjoyed the drive through mostly estate land and quiet country lanes. Our thanks go to Brian and Brenda Ball who kindly arranged the route, completed the relevant health and safety documentation and hosted on the day.
Angy Douglas and daughter Celeste Gall at Brazzacott
The results were as follows:1st Lyn Downes (Team Cheesewring) 2nd Ken Gilbert, 3rd Celeste Gall, 4th Sheila Sexton
Elaine Kearney & Jan Bowerman at the Treolwyn drive
A dates for your diary December 2 – Christmas Lunch – Jamaica Inn, Bolventor, Launceston PL15 7TS. £10 for main course.
Judge Colin Hurd looking at Angie Douglas' turnout
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Team Cheesewring – winners of the Handy pony course at Brazzacott
Please book in by contacting Maureen RyderGordon on 01566 785241
British Driving Society
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Area News Catton Park Off Road Drive Sunday 1st October 2017 Unfortunately this event had to be cancelled as the ground was so wet.
Cumbria To be Announced
Derbyshire Staffs Joint AC Margaret Doyle Tel: 07900 211634 Email: margaret.norris@chatsworth.org Joint AC & Press Sally Cowan Tel: 07802 470167 Email: sally.cowan@dsl.pipex.com AAC Rita Stevens Tel: 07920 282334 Email: ritastevens60.rs@gmail.com Treasurer – Sharon Allsop Tel: 07764 309436 Email allsopgshs@btinternet.com Support Officer – Carolyn Bryers Tel: 07791 069107 Email: carolynbryers@icloud.com ROW – Reg Muggleton Tel: 07896 878571 Email: carole.muggleton@o2.co.uk Rights of Way Officer David Kent Tel: 07929 193769
BDS Chatsworth Challenge 2nd July 2017 A fantastic day was enjoyed by eleven turnouts and 25 spectators including the judges , the weather was very kind . All turnouts had the opportunity to do five disciplines, an Inspection by Gwen Floyd and Mary Glossop. A challenging Obstacle course judged by Carolyn Bryers and Martin Parder. A Cones course set by Pete Minshull and judged by him and Andrew Doyle. Drivers Dream judged by Chris and Alison and a Treasure Hunt set and judged by Margaret New Members Isabel Clutton and Ian Poysner were warmly welcomed. Thanks to everyone that helped , there’s always a lot of work that goes on behind the scenes to make these events so successful and everyone enjoyed a great day
Brick Kiln Trophy Road Drive Sunday 20th August 2017 Five Turnouts covered approx 12 miles around the lanes of Anslow in Derbyshire , thanks to Rita Stevens for arranging the route and to Glyn Allsop for front car duties and Dave and Shirley Watson for back car. A delicious tea was ready on our return thanks as ever to Jan Hutchinson for her and Rob’s hospitality. Jan was invited to judge the Best Turnout and the Trophy was presented to Tilly Gottschald with Sam. Well done Tilly , if we had a prize for attending all our area events this season you would have won that too !
1st Sally Cowan/Sharon Allsop 2nd Margaret Minshull/Julie Barker 3rd Philip Wright/ Jason Spendlove 4th Tilly Gothschald/Chris Gothschald 5th Isabel Clutton /Gary Clutton 6th Jill Copeland/Andrew Watkins
Anslow Willow Farm Road Drive 16th July 2017
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British Driving Society
A beautiful early autumn day saw eight turnouts get together to cover just over twelve miles around Freehay and the surrounding areas , new members Jill and Andy brought their Haflinger out on a road drive with us for the first time and Hugo behave impeccably thoroughly enjoying himself . Pete and Margaret also brought their new pair out for the first time which was great to see. After sorting our ponies we all gathered in the Freehay Village Hall car park and enjoyed tea and cakes. It was great also to see Philip and Barbara Wright who came all that way just to say hello. Thanks to Graham and Helen Lovatt for arranging the route and leading the drive. Also thanks as ever goes to John and Mary Stubbs for back car duties.
Area Meeting 4th November 2017 Dear Member, As we approach the end of another busy season Sally and myself feel that this is an opportune time to write and inform you that we will be resigning our positions as joint Area Commissioners for Area 15 from the end of this season. This has not been a decision made lightly and, though there are many good reasons for it, it is not made without regret on our part. We have served the Derbyshire and Staffordshire Branch of the BDS initially as joint AAC’s and subsequently for the last 3 years as joint AC’s. We now feel that it is time for someone else with more energy and hopefully more time to take up this position. We would like to thank all our members for their support but in particular the group of stalwarts who have attended and helped at virtually every event. Their appreciation of and enthusiasm for our sport, has made all our responsibilities regarding safety at events and the time involved in the planning and delivery of them worthwhile.
Results
Special thanks to Ann and Bernard Greer for making area Members feel so welcome and for their generous hospitality. Seven turnouts covered just over thirteen miles through the lovely areas of Anslow , Woodend and Draycott in the Clay.Many thanks to Reg for sorting the route and to his extended Family for great Marshalling. It was lovely to see Anita Jackson with her pony Caddy looking so well and John Jackson came and had a cup of tea and a chat when we returned to the Farm, it was great to see him.
Freehay Road Drive Sunday 8th October 2017
Brick Kiln Trophy Drive Tilly and Sam
BDS Trec Results @ Chatsworth Country Fair Friday 1st September 2017 1st Fay Sanders / Bob 2nd Colin Walmsley/ Tally 3rd Margaret Doyle/Stitch 4th Fred Morton / Little Billy 5th Diana Rimmer / Mitch 6th Mathilda Gottschald/ Sam 7th Laura Challinor/Trigger 8th David Lumb / Taffy 9th Marie Lake / Jack Flash 10th Julie Challinor/ Danny Boy 11th John Wilmot / Dinky
This letter comes to you in advance of our Annual Meeting at the Bentley Brook Hotel at Fenny Bentley on Saturday 4th November at 7.30pm.We hope you will attend and will now have time to consider who you would like to see take the branch forward in the future as Area Commissioner, or if you are interested in the AC position yourself and would like to know more of what it entails, please do not hesitate to contact us. We wish you all continued happy and safe driving.
Sally Cowan and Margaret Doyle Joint Area Commissioners Area 15
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Devon Email: noel.danagher@btinternet.com
AC Noel Danagher Tel: 01409 261322 Mob: 07768 173177
Sunday 2nd July: Interval Drive and Hog Roast Once again, this popular drive attracted a high number of turnouts, with twenty three singles, five pairs and one team arriving at Highsteppers in Pallington to take part in the interval drive along beautiful woodland tracks, eventually fording the river at Moreton and then finishing with a short road drive back to Highsteppers. Many thanks go to Tony and Sue and their helpers for making it such a great drive. The route was well marked and there were stewards at road crossings to help us and of course the scrumptious hog roast was a welcome treat at the end of the day!
Dorset and South Wiltshire Email: dogdean.farm@gmail.com AC Ann James Tel: 01202 886501 Area Commissioner and Website coordinator
Chanie Matthews Photography
Treasurer Gill Smith Tel: 01202 885444 Email: nimloth.deerhounds@ talktalk.net Rights of Way Officer Michelle Beck Tel: 07976 82138 Email: michelle@abslmail.co.uk Newsletter Editor Sandy Smyth Tel: 01258 8801 Email: smyth.bfs@gmail.com
Chanie Matthews Photography
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Past Events
Chanie Matthews Photography
Devon has had a very successful Summer with a very good attendance to our drives, Show and Fun days, with turnouts from all over the West Country. Although it was very disappointing that Trudie’s Fun Day and Jonathan Mathys’ newly organised Off Road Drive fell foul to the wet weather, hopefully we will try to reorganise these events in 2018. Sunday 18th June It was a little disappointing that only seven turnouts came to Pat Martins drive at Putford, when ten had booked in, perhaps it was due to a very hot day. Those who took part had a very enjoyable drive along country lanes, passing through Bradworthy and Sutcombe where the horses and carriages were enjoyed by many local people. On arrival back to Little Thriverton, Pat and her family had water hoses laid on for cooling the horses, and when they were securely in their horse boxes we all enjoyed a beautiful Devon tea supplied by the Martin family. Thanks to all. Sunday 16th July We held a very successful BDS Devon Show at Evergreen Farm, Ashwater by kind permission of Peter and Emma Down, with Suzanne Dufty as show secretary. The weather was kind to us and although entries were down on last year everyone had a great day. There were Qualifiers for Osborne Refrigeration, Victoria Foods and Drivers Dream our judge was Mr Andrew HamiltonRhodes, with Miss Kristina Gowers judging the Concours. Many thanks go to all our helpers, stewards and sponsors in making the day such a success. Winners were:- In-Hand Junior, Megan Fry with Lily. In-Hand Adult, Rebecca Wheeler with Tuckleberry Darwin Long reining Junior. Chloe Fry with Sky. Long reining Adult Jenny Moore with Max. Hackney class, Nicky Buxton with Heartland Passionat Ride and Drive, Mel Wilton with Jerry who also won the Exercise Class. Pleasure Driving, Clare Ethridge with Barrie. The Concourse class, Angela Shailer with Dearn Valley Golden Lad who also won the Private Driving Class. Pairs and Tandems, Maureen Ryder-Gordon with Shilstone Rocks Hazlenut and Dartfordliegh Wren. Open Light Trade, Nicky Buxton with Blackhill Peggy. Drivers Dream Victoria Morris with Drysiog Daniel Ap Jet. Show Champion, Angela Shailer with Dearn Valley Golden Lad. Sunday 30th July Peter Kyle organised a new road and forest drive from The Poltimore Arms, Brayford, South Molton. Seven turnouts enjoyed a lovely drive up over part of Exmoor taking in the beautiful scenery and for those
with the fittest horses had a chance to drive through Molland Wood before making their way back to The Poltimore Arms where everyone enjoyed a bring and share tea. Sunday 13th August Devon held a Fun Day when fourteen turnouts taking part in a road and forest drive from Evergreen Farm, Ashwater, on return everyone had chance to take part in a cones course run by Abbie Jones and Driven Dressage run by Kate Finchin-Powel. The day ended with everyone receiving rosettes and the ever popular bring and share tea with Iris Fry keeping the kettle boiling. Sunday 15th October The ever popular Haldon Forest Drive organised by Gina Saunders and Ian Barwise had thirteen turnouts including two new Junior members enjoying their first taste of forestry driving which is a lovely place for them to start, hopefully they will be joining us again and encourage more young people to start our most enjoyable sport. Gina, Ian and helpers put on a fantastic bring and share tea with everyone having a lovely social afternoon in the Autumn sunshine.
Dear Members, It has been a good summer and autumn for Dorset & S Wilts Area with record attendances at our outdoor events and the best Area Show yet. I hope that there has been something to appeal to every member but would welcome your suggestions for next season. My grateful thanks to all those who have helped to organize and run our events – generously offering venues, preparing beforehand, stewarding on the day and of course, making those lovely cakes! Without our support teams we couldn’t run an outdoor programme and I thank all of you who give up your time in this way. New faces in the ranks always welcome! The outdoor season may be over, but I hope many of you will come along to our winter evening events and of course, our Christmas get-together – see the list of forthcoming events below.
Ann Ja mes
Splashing through the ford at Moreton on the drive from Highsteppers.
Sunday 23rd July: BDS Diamond Jubilee Drive and Tea We were privileged to be invited by Lord Shaftesbury and Chris King for this Jubilee Drive from Gussage All Saints which took us across some of the normally out-of-bounds Wimborne St Giles estate. A lot of planning had gone into this event. Chris King had kindly prepared a flat field for parking lorries and trailers and Ann James with her helpers had produced a splendid Jubilee Tea with a celebratory cake and had designed special pale blue and silver rosettes for the occasion.
British Driving Society
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Area News
And then the rain came! Just as the first turnouts were setting off and it got heavier and gustier as the drive went on... but we made the best of it as the route took us through beautiful countryside and parkland. Tea on our return was especially welcome and although we would have wished for sunshine and a light breeze, we kept our British ‘stiff upper lip’ through the rain and wind! Many thanks are due to Ann and Terry and the team of helpers and to Chris King for arranging the drive and preparing the field, we hope very much that we can come back to Wimborne St Giles and a drier drive next year.
Sunday 13th August: BDS Dorset & South Wilts Trec On a lovely sunny August Sunday eleven turnouts participated in the 2017 BDS Trec at Dogdean Farm. There were all colours and sizes of horse and pony, two-wheeled and four-wheeled vehicles with those new to Trec right through to seasoned Treccies. The competition started with presentation of the turnout to the judge. Stuart Johnstone checked the harness, carriage, spares kit, hi- viz etc and then we left on an eight-mile circular drive through the village, into the woodland, over heathland and back, driven to an optimum time. Three skills were in the manège, a one-handed 20m circle, figureof-eight and a rein back overseen by Chris King. Then a move out to the field where we had to do a fast walk and a slow trot over a designated distance, negotiate a bridge, a 60th anniversary obstacle, post a letter, drive under an arch, halt with a wheel on a board and on to the cones overseen by Terry. To finish the day the prize giving was held with tea, coffee, scones and some rather lovely cake.
Whilst we were enjoying our coffee and cake Stuart talked to the group about road safety from his standpoint as both an HGV driver and carriage driver. One thing that he stressed was the need for hi-viz on the front of the horse so it could clearly be seen at road junctions. A big thank you goes to Ann and Terry for the fantastic venue and organisation. Thank you also to all the judges and stewards and helpers without whom events like this could not be run. Results were: 1st: Katie Harvey ( Hants); 2nd: Jeanette Parker (Hants); 3rd: Alison Trevett; 4th: Sue Wiles; 5th: Michelle Beck; 6th: Paul Edwards.
onto gravel tracks and so away from any traffic. There were several gates to open so the back-steppers got some well needed exercise! Driving through the Plantation we had just the sound of the birds and the ponies’ hooves we even saw a buzzard at close quarters. Looking at our new ‘toy’- a milometer – we were doing approximately 7.5 mph in trot.
The eventual winners were announced at the cream tea which followed, and were: 1st Peter Preen; 2nd The Hampshire Maidens; 3rd Mary Ford; and 4th Roger Page, All participants were given a rosette and Roger Page thanked Wendy and her team of helpers for all the work which had gone into making this a really enjoyable day. Another great success Wendy!
Setting off on the Holtwood Drive
Happy Driving on the Treasure Hunt Trail
Thursday 19th October: Talk on Rural Crime Braving the wind and rain eighteen members came to Bere Regis to listen to a presentation by PC Claire Dinsdale of Dorset Police Rural Crime Team. An excellent speaker, Claire used a screen with slides to illustrate the points she was making about the risks of different kinds of rural crime and what can be done to discourage it. Describing incidents involving theft of tractors, trailers and quad bikes, sheepworrying, poaching and livestock/wildlife attacks, she certainly raised our awareness of risk and the need to keep a step ahead of the criminals. It is often regular criminals from urban areas who are involved – the ‘romantic’ image of the jolly poacher looking for a rabbit or two for the pot is totally out of date. The message that kept recurring during Claire’s presentation was that rural crime, however minor, must be reported. If the incident is not reported, the crime doesn’t exist. Unfortunately, there is a reluctance in rural areas to involve the police and Claire stressed that reports could be made anonymously or via Crime Stoppers. Following the presentation, Ann James thanked Claire on our behalf for an enlightening talk and the evening was rounded off with a raffle in aid of a police charity.
The route was well marked with arrows and we were given a map to follow but it was nice to see a couple of stewards at some of the gates to help us back out onto the road. Once back on the highway, we retraced our steps back to base and when our trusty ponies were tied up with a well-deserved hay net, we all tucked into hot drinks and wonderful home-made cakes, All in all a good drive and a well-run event, so a big thankyou to Sue Prust for kindly hosting this event and to everyone else involved in the organisation and the very important “Making of the Cakes” !
Sunday 8th October: Treasure Hunt The sun shone out of an October blue sky as nine turnouts arrived at Chilbridge Farm and collected their list of Wendy Richards’ wonderfully baffling clues for this year’s Treasure Hunt. It has been held since 1991 in aid of The Brooke and is definitely one of our most popular drives. Wendy had produced the clues in rhyming couplets, which had the teams scratching their heads over puzzles like ‘Outside a cottage you’ll see a well. Polly put something on it – what is it? Please tell’.
Sunday 10th September: Holtwood Interval Drive The weather was looking decidedly dodgy on this Sunday morning with a few spots of on-and-off rain, but, we managed to get round the nine-mile route and stayed mostly dry. In total there were six turnouts for the drive, mostly singles but including a pair of Friesians with a rider alongside.
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Starting off on rural lanes passing some beautiful thatched properties we headed down to Lower Row and past Hayters Feed Merchants. From there we went up and over Holt Heath by road and along to Whitesheet. Once at Whitesheet we were off road and
British Driving Society
Looking for Clues at the Treasure Hunt
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Forthcoming Events Thursday 7th December: Area Annual Meeting, Bere Regis Sports Club, Bere Regis, Wareham BH20 7LA, 7.45pm. Saturday 16th December: Christmas Dinner, Cobham Sports & Social Club, Merley Park Road, Ashington, Wimborne BH21 3DA, 7pm for 7.30pm. £21 per person. Menu and booking form available on our website. Saturday 20th January 2018: A Night at The Races! (Non-BDS event), Moreton Village Hall, The Common, Moreton, Dorchester DT2 8RE, 7.00pm – 10.30pm. Maggie Pennington is running this event in aid of the Weldmar Hospice, in appreciation of all the wonderful care given to Dryden. Tickets are £8, to include a Ploughman’s Supper. Tea and coffee available, but bring your own tipple – no licence at the venue. Dress up or dress down! For more information and to book, call Maggie on 01305 568106. Friday 26th January 2018: Bowling Night, Cobham Sports & Social Club, Merley Park Road, Ashington, Wimborne BH21 3DA, 7.30pm (open from 7pm). Tickets £8 per person, to include finger buffet . Booking form available on the website. For information contact Ann James on 01202 886501.
Essex & North London Email: eunicehopton2@gmail.com AC Eunice Hopton Mob: 07948 221297 AAC Roger Hopton
“The end of another season – where does the time go ! We weren’t so lucky with the weather for our Autumn show in September. Due to plenty of rain the week before, unfortunately the field was too wet and we had to cancel. Those of us lucky enough to go to Birmingham for the Horse of the Year Show were able to see plenty of Essex Members ‘strutting their stuff’. Very well done to Jessie Dudley Appicella, her Dad Geoff Dudley, Kelly Searle, Michael Howell, and Mark Fuller (although now a Norfolk resident) it is a great accolade to even qualify for this special show. Apologies if I’ve missed anyone out! Another Norfolk resident triumphed on the day at HOYS, Mr. Paul Atkinson with his spectacular Black Boy, we are pleased to say a regular competitor at our Essex Area Shows.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Our Christmas get together is once again at the Rettendon Bell on Saturday 16th December please get in touch ASAP if you require tickets. I am still seeking someone willing to take over as AC for Essex & North London so if you are interested please contact either Linda Swain or the BDS Office. Safe driving
Eunice Hopton
Exercise Vehicle class, ahead of Maisie, who collected another Best Junior rosette. Sadly only two came forward for the Pleasure Driving class, with Nick Dardani and Woody taking the red rosette here. Seven quality Private Driving turnouts saw Josie Randall and Heartland Starlighter standing ahead of Kelly Searle and the diminutive grey pony Cosford Izi Wotnot. Joe Rowe was third with his young horse NoddyVyse Temptation.
Hampshire AC Sarah Jones Tel: 07717 467562 AAC Sam Searle Tel: 01420 564129 Mob: 07883 538591 AAC Ginny Parker Mob: 07801 668677 ROW Mrs Gail Johnson Tel: 01962 736556 It doesn’t seem possible that summer is now long gone and Christmas is fast approaching. Whoever said that time marches on certainly wasn’t joking!
BDS Show Josie Randall
We have had a full and varied programme of events and as we look back on them I should like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has organised, stewarded and given so freely of their time to help. We definitely couldn’t do it without you! In early August Sam Searle organised a very successful Young Driver’s Day (kindly sponsored by Charlie Reeves). Fifteen children, aged from five to sixteen years had a great day with ponies Charlie, Max, Tyson, Alfie and Monty- grateful thanks to their owners. All the children went home happy, with many keen to carry on and learn more about carriage driving. Our second Annual Hampshire Area Show was held on Sunday 20th August at New Park, Brockenhurst. This is a wonderful venue giving competitors the chance to drive in what was, last month, the East Ring of the New Forest and Hampshire County Show. The weather was kind, staying dry until the end. Beautifully organised by Caroline Douglas and her team, the show had over fifty class entries that presented themselves before our judge Vanessa Neal. Sophie Adkins kindly provided the running commentary, which was both interesting and informative. Classes began with in-hand potential driving horses and was won by Jane Soul and Finlay, with Sam Searle and Hawksworth Babycham runners-up. Driving then got underway with two novice classes. The winner of the Novice Newcomer Whip class was young driver Maisie McFarlane with Plasbach Sadwrn, who, at her first show, certainly had a day to remember! The well-filled Novice Horse/Pony class was won by the BDS Annual Show Exercise Champion John Randall, with Luddington Whirlwind. Second place went to Jessie Dudley Apicella with Halterall All Gold. John also took the
BDS Show Kelly Searle
The Concours d’elegance was judged by local artist Pam Baker who awarded first place to the very elegant Josie Randall, with Joe Rowe runner-up. Mountain and Moorland was next, with Maisie McFarlane adding to her rosette collection, and Nicola McDonagh with her Shetland pair in second place. Maisie was awarded the Young Driver Championship, new to this year’s show. She also won the Hampshire British Driving Society Area Championship for the highest-placed Hampshire Area Member in each class. The Grayswood Trophy was presented to Maisie by Pam Baker who is the owner of Welsh cob Plasbach Sadwrn.
BDS Show Maisie Macfarlane
British Driving Society
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Area News The overall Show Championship was won by Josie Randall and Heartland Starlighter. Reserve Champion was Kelly Searle with Cosford Izi Wotnot.
for the best coloured, kindly donated by Barbara Mills, was awarded to Peter Preen and Charlie, complete with a Dalmatian, Lily, trotting behind. Lily had come over from the IOW with owner Hayley Schuchart, and earlier in the month won the Bronze class at the National Carriage Dog Trials. Congratulations to them both!
Special thanks go to the many volunteers who put in months of work, particularly Caroline Douglas (Organiser and Secretary), Sarah Jones (Chief Steward and Area Commissioner) and Judge Vanessa Neal. A very special thank you must go to Helen Lamb, who took over the organisation and running of the show when Caroline was taken ill earlier in the week. Held a week later this year to avoid clashing with Addington, the Annual New Forest Driving Weekend began with a social evening at The Rising Sun, Wootton on Thursday 28th October. Nearly fifty BDS members enjoyed a generous basket supper while taking the opportunity to catch up with friends old and new. Friday morning saw the ever popular spider drive to Beaulieu Road. Seventeen turnouts, including several pairs, arrived to lunch among the trees. Thanks must go to the Cancer Research ladies who again provided tea and coffee as well as soup and an amazing array of scrummy cakes! We raised an impressive £171 for this very worthwhile charity.
Paul Chambers – Beaulieu Road
The New Forest Weekend Annual Dinner was held on Friday evening at The Bartley Lodge Hotel. After welcome drinks on arrival, fifty members enjoyed a lovely three course meal, in fabulous surroundings with a great atmosphere. Following lots of brilliant feedback it looks like a return venue for next year.
Sunday Best Caroline Douglas
This year the Saturday drive was to White Moor near Emery Down. The actual car park here is quite small, but a track through the trees at the back of it leads out onto a lovely grassy area, where the nine turnouts met for lunch. Janesmoor was the venue for the Sunday Best drive. The Forestry Commission kindly allowed us to park the opposite side of the road to the car park, which not only gave us a lovely grass area to assemble, but also meant we didn’t have to splash through the unavoidable puddles in the car park!
Sunday Best Drive Mary Ford
There were two separate drives – the shorter one going through King’s Garn Gutter and Salisbury Trench enclosures at the back of Janesmoor car park, while the longer route took in Fritham, Holly Hatch and Cadman’s Pool. Modris Kesans – Beaulieu Road
Gail Johnson, who works hard on Rights of Way for the benefit of carriage drivers in the area, was given the task of choosing which horse or pony from each drive she would most like to take home. In spite of imminent rain, everyone had made the effort to look the part, not making Gail’s decision any easier! The winner of the short drive was Caroline Douglas with Norman, while reserve was Mary Ford with Touch. Paul Edwards and his lovely Friesian pair won the longer drive, with Ginny Parker and Rosie reserve. The Pretty Polly Plate
Sunday Best Drive Ginny Parker
Alan Hill – Beaulieu Road
Paul Edwards Sunday best
Turnouts leaving Beaulieu Road
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British Driving Society
The high standard of turnout for Sunday Best just had to be seen! Without exception, all participants looked extremely smart and together presented a lovely picture of The British Driving Society. A huge thank you goes to AC Sarah Jones, Sue Crauford-Kennedy, Caroline Douglas and all the volunteers who gave up their time to make this weekend such a success.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Herefordshire and Worcestershire Email: kaywalton49@hotmail.co.uk AC Kay Walton Tel: 01981 540209 Mob: 07786 628274 AAC Roy Moore Tel: 01568 797776 AAC Jane Friend Tel: 01568 708074
Peter Preen Sunday Best
Forthcoming Events Thursday, 7th December – Christmas Lunch at the Rising Sun. Please contact Sue Crauford-Kennedy on 01425 272211. A menu will be on Hampshire BDS website soon. Sunday, 10th December – Christmas Drive from the Rising Sun, Wootton, by kind permission of Steve Croll. Please contact Sue Crauford-Kennedy as above. A booking form is required for this drive. Friday, 15th December – Coach trip to Olympia for Extreme Driving. Tickets £69 per head to include coach travel and entrance ticket. Only one ticket left. Parking available at Sam’s home. Further details from Sam Searle on 07883 538591.
Saturday, 16th December – Christmas Barn Dance, at Copythorne Parish Hall. Please contact Sam Searle on 07883 538591 for further details. New Year’s Day – Drive at West Stratton. Please contact Terry Newman on 01962 774271 or 07812 129723 for details and to book in. Friday, 26th January 2018 – Burns Night at The Rising Sun, Wootton. Please contact Sue Crauford-Kennedy for information. February 2018 – Evening Talk by Roger Page on his epic trip from Botley to Balmoral. Date and venue to be confirmed. Saturday17th March 2018 – Quiz nightThis is a re-match with Dorset, venue to be confirmed.
Please keep an eye on the Hampshire BDS website as booking forms will appear there soon, and it is regularly updated with new information.
We have had our first rehearsal for Cinderella and it went very well. Dates for the other rehearsals are listed below. We are still happy to include anyone who would like to come along – with or without ponies. This promises to be a great day and should be fun for everyone We do have tickets for sale now for family members and friends until 12th November, then we shall advertise generally. Tickets £5 from Jane Friend 01568 708074 Mandy Reddock has stepped down from her AAC position with immediate effect. We thank her for all the work she has put in over the years and wish her well with her daughter’s wedding and all the other things that have taken over her life. There will be a planning meeting and annual report on Saturday 2nd December at The Pilgrim Hotel 10.30am. We already have exciting plans and ideas for next year, however we need all the help we can get and welcome Input from both driving and non driving members. 2nd December – Annual report and planning meeting The Pilgrim Hotel Much Birch. 17th December – Annual Dinner – The Pilgrim Hotel. Much Birch (12.30 for 1pm.) Kay 01981 540209 – Jane, 01568 708074 – Roy 01568 797776
Kent AC Antonia Gallop
Tel: 07976729862 Email: gallop.kentbds@yahoo.com
AAC Tania Thompson
Email: kenttiddy@btinternet.com Tel: 07772 429346 Email: tania.kentbds@yahoo.com
The heating is definitely on and every shop is full of Christmas twinkle, the summer season seems a distant memory and we can reflect upon the achievements of 2017. Kent area has a National Pony Four in Hand Champion and a Private Driving National Champion so what a versatile, talented lot you are. Many Kent members have had a very successful season on which they must be congratulated but
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
it’s doesn’t have to be about winning a ribbon. I have seen new combinations being put together, whips trying their hands at different disciplines and best of all, lots of clinics and training opportunities all of which have inspired me to do the same. We are so very lucky to have some fantastically talented coaches and trainers in our area or just next door and the opportunity to tap into that or just push ourselves to have a go at something new, keeps our horses interested and our brains working.
Members enjoying a post drive tea.
Our events have been well attended and our recent drive from Teresa Whitehead’s farm was just lovely. We had kind weather and a well organised route with tea and cakes afterwards, what more could you want? Joy Claxton
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Area News judged that Glenda Brown driving Tania Thompsons’ Paddy was the winner of the best turned out and all enjoyed a slice of Diamond Jubilee cake to finish the day. Many thanks to The Whitehead family for being lovely hosts and we look forward to returning next year.
Glenda Brown Driving Tania Thompson’s Paddy, best turned out winners
The Walk and Talk at Reading Carriage sales was well received and we had a Lincoln member travel down to share the day with us. I haven’t seen such quality, original vehicles in the auction for many years and to have someone as knowledgeable as Gary Docking to inform us of the types and uses of the carriages forward, was a fantastic opportunity. It was delightful to see some vehicles with a family connection years ago returning to the fold and some Kent members acquiring new vehicles that I cannot wait to see horsed. We still have our quiz night to look forward to in December to finish our events for 2017. It should be a fun night with a supper for just £5 per head. We will be asking other areas and clubs to join us in the coming weeks so please let Tania know if you are coming so no one goes hungry. The Area meeting will be at Bradbourne Clubhouse in Sevenoaks as we have travelled to Maidstone, Lenham and Challock over the last few years so please come along if you can. We have a plethora of experts booked for all your questions and entertainment. On a final note, Julie Elliott has stepped down from her role as AAC and I would like to take this opportunity to thank her for all the support and hard work she gave to the area. Her invaluable work included gaining sponsors for our show when we decided to move to a larger, more public venue ensuring that we have had two years putting the Kent Area show on the map after her negotiations with The Hop Farm to secure the space. She has generously taken her turnout with the lovely Duchess, to demonstrations and drives and her legendary homemade lunches will be missed. Thank you Julie and we look forward to seeing you enjoying events on the other side of the rope. If any members would be interested in joining Tania and I then we would love to hear from you. Happy driving everyone and I hope Santa brings you all you ask for
Antonia 18
British Driving Society
Diary Dates Saturday 2nd December at 6.30pm Quiz night and supper at Bradbourne Riding and Training Centre, Bradbourne Vale Road, Sevenoaks. Kent. TN13 3DH Come and join us with a team or join one on the night. Great prizes and a super supper included, £5 per head, everyone welcome but we need to know numbers beforehand so please contact Tania or Antonia Sunday 28th January at 1pm Area Meeting and Ask the Experts afternoon at Bradbourne Riding and Training Centre, Bradbourne Vale Road, Sevenoaks. TN13 3DH Our Area meeting will be followed by an informative afternoon with our panel of experts ready to answer your questions and queries. We will have a Vet, Farrier and nutrition expert for your horse care related points, a World medal winner and National Champion from British Carriage Driving and a well- known producer and judge from the showing world so come and pick their brains. Free to BDS Members, Non- members welcome at £4 to include refreshments. Saturday 31st March – Easter Drive at Charing, Kent. Starting at 10.30am. Come and join us in Charing for an Easter Drive. Prizes for the best Easter Theme. Please contact Antonia for an entry form
Lancashire AC Pat Calderbank LHHI Tel: 01772 423630 Mob: 07734 176827 ROW Alistair Mitchell Tel: 01706 872698 AAC Hellen Perry BHSI Tel: 01282 436821 Email: hellenperry@ntlworld.com
Following conversations with the Chairman and Council members at the BDS AGM recently, it was agreed that we need to encourage more members to join the BDS and enjoy what the society has to offer and be ever mindful of horse welfare issues. Although the BDS is neither a charity nor a welfare organisation as such, we do try to set good examples in horse welfare as well as driving One way to improve horse welfare is by improving knowledge and skills, and an excellent way to do this is to enrol for tuition towards the BDS assessments and awards. The BDS offers a wide range of training and assessments, starting with Junior whips and progressing trough the modules towards a BDS Road Assessment, and qualifications in various sections of the equine industry. Please contact me if you are interested
in training and assessments, the BDS Road Assessment is an excellent place to start and winter training is ongoing Many BDS members and horse owners have asked me about fracking in relation to horse welfare as Lancashire is currently having a fracking site enforced upon it. Plans were rejected by Cuadrilla to frack at Preston new road by Lancashire county council and rejected again on appeal. However the Communities Secretary disregarded local opinions and granted Cuadrilla permission to frack for shale gas in Lancashire amid strong opposition
Fracking Talk
Fracking has already been banned in Wales, Ireland, Scotland and many countries in Europe and several States of America On 2nd November Gillian Kelly gave an informative presentation about the health implications of fracking to both us and our horses. This was followed by Q and A and a screening of the award winning film, “The Bentley Effect” The Bentley Effect is a documentary about what fracking has resulted in for Australians and how the farming communities, equestrian communities and individuals made their land and water safe for future generations by stopping fracking in their area. The speaker and the film were very much complimented by the audience and further similar events were requested. It is very important that we are all aware of the dangers fracking poses to us as carriage drivers, it is certainly not an equestrian friendly industry. The main concerns include pollution of vast amounts of drinking water and land, with toxic chemicals and carcinogens, air pollution caused by flaring of toxic gases and earthquakes caused by the process, all evidenced in detail. Further information is available on line or contact me
Sargeant Pepper and John Ready to go
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Sargeant Pepper (owned by John) has been hunted and competed under saddle for several years, however this horse had a great difficulty standing still on command, he simply became Mr Fidget and had an extreme fear of tyres. After considerable hours schooling he now has a relaxed attitude to tyres and will stand patiently for a considerable time and is just beginning his education pulling a carriage.
Meanwhile, weather permitting here are some dates to add to your driving diary. Tuesday 2nd Jan. Lunchtime spider drive to local hostelry Sunday 28th Jan. Lunchtime drive -venue TBC Sunday 25th Feb. Lunchtime spider dive to local hostelry Friday 30th March. Easter drive and Easter egg hunt Saturday 28th April Jacobs join and drive Monday 7th May, Bank holiday fun day Please remember to use reflective clothing for horses and whips especially on dull days.
Happy driving. Sargeant Pepper in Training
Pat
Leicestershire and Rutland
Julie Moore Celebrating her Birthday
AC Linda Cotterill Tel: 0116 2776242 / 07939 150079 AC Jane Stretton
Tel: 0116 2707732 / 07711 084142 Email: robert.stretton@ntlworld.com
What a lovely way to celebrate the 60th Anniversary of the BDS with an eight mile drive in glorious weather. Eight turnouts made the trip with the obligatory wine stop. A beautiful drive in the countryside with lovely well behaved horses. Thank-you everyone for helping us celebrate this BDS milestone.
August We had a great training day at Springbridge on Sunday with Minta Winn. Five turnouts and plenty of spectators, everyone went home having learnt far more about cones, dressage and driving do`s and don’t`s than when they arrived. Well done all.
Carol with her minature Shetland Peanuts.
Linda and Jane
Sioux Gardner driving Jed at one of his first events looking very relaxed
Brian with Smurf looking very dapper
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Brian driving Smurf
Sioux Gardner with Magic in her vintage gear
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Area News Diary Dates December 16th Christmas Grotto at Springbridge Stables opens at 1pm December 17th Christmas drive from Springbridge contact Jane or Linda January 1st New Year’s Day Drive contact Jane or Linda Sue Lynce with Sophie as groom driving Harvey
February Meal – Social date to be confirmed April BDS Trec If anyone would like to help organise an event please contact us Please let organiser know that you will be attending 5 days prior to the event
Barbara and Phillip Wright with their lovely pair of greys coming back from the drive.
Although we have not had many turn outs at some events we would like to thank everyone for their help and support. We wish you all a Merry Christmas and New Year.
Magpie Centre Demonstration
Lincolnshire AC Mary Janes
sylviamary.janes@googlemail.com
AAC Gill Reynolds AAC Kenina Fallon Platts AAC Jayne Hayes ROW Officer Lt. Col Peter Robinson
Tel: 01778 440449 / 07790979147 Tel: 01522 778332 / 07932550475 Tel: 01526 398637 / 07713882289 Tel: 01778 343383
Lincolnshire members have had a bit of a tricky summer; a lot of ponies have been out of action for a variety of reasons so this has limited our events. We seem to all be back in action now and looking forwards to the winter rallies in planning. We were asked to present a demonstration at Pony Club Camp. We planned to give a practical view of harnessing up and three turnouts had a group of twelve young people each. We started off in the indoor school by naming the harness parts and then showing how it was fitted. The harness was then taken off and the young people, in pairs, had a go at putting it back on and talking us through what each part was called and its purpose. They were surprisingly quick at picking up the fitting of the harness but
Belvoir Pony Club Demonstration
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British Driving Society
Magpie Centre Demo
Pony Club Demonstration
we did all have to laugh at some of the made up names. Well done to all of them for having a go. After lunch we took our turnouts into a field and the youngsters had a go at driving whilst BDS members had a second set of reins. This was great fun and several of the pony club members were enthused and were going to ask parents for lessons. We ended the day by presenting each pony club member with a BDS Lincolnshire rosette. Following on from this demonstration we were asked to help with a fund raising day at The Magpie Centre near Kings Lynn. On this occasion we were to be part of a team of five giving two demonstrations during the day. We were quite a varied team with a large hackney
horse, a Sec A pony, donkey, pair and a single Shetland. Our commentator gave information via a loud speaker to spectators whilst we drove our turnouts following her directions. It was a good exercise as the experience of the individual turnouts was very varied and we all learned a lot. We were treated to a super very tasty lunch before going back into the main ring for our second demonstration. Other presentations were classic cars, vintage agricultural vehicles and a very accomplished dancing school.
Cathy Driving Cones at Magpie Centre Demo.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News In September we had an “indoors” training day kindly hosted by Sue Mart at Bennington Carriages assisted by Erica and Anna Jackson. This was luxury training. The day started with Danish pastries, tea and coffee in the warm. Sue began by asking us to list what we would need to take for a day of indoor driving. We then moved on to what to wear to comply with the rules, be warm and safe and at this point a dressing up box was used to highlight the rights and wrongs of attire. After an on foot run through of the P and P (precision and paces), cones and obstacles Sue and Erica gave us a “this is how it should be done” demonstration with Erica giving tips on how the groom can help. The cones’ optimum timing rule was explained and gate protocol, lines and speed for the obstacles. For lunch we returned to the warm showroom, surrounded by beautiful new
carriages and harnesses. In the afternoon the five turnouts drove the P and P, the rest of the group marked whilst Sue and Anna explained how the performance could have been improved. On the cones course the groom held a GPS tracker which showed in real time the speed; a useful training aid to get the correct pace. (This isn’t allowed in the competition). Cantering wasn’t always best and a steady trot with accurate driving proved most successful. This was so enjoyable we all drove both twice. Finally we moved onto the obstacles. These were practiced by all of us before the “timed” phase. After a tentative start we all grew in confidence and managed to do turns which at the beginning we thought impossible. Ponies stabled we returned to the warm for tea and cake and a review of our day. It was fun, we
On the 24th of September we had a drive at Whiterails Livery Great Melton.
Norfolk Email: palominocobs@gmail.com AC Miss Deleyse Masters-Brown Tel: 07769960695 ROW Officer Ann Melhuish Tel: 01366328057 Support Officer Justin Cowles Tel: 07887 890016 Email: justin.cowles@btinternet.com AAC Miss Jenny Sewell
We had ten turnouts with a long and short route, five of the turnouts took the long drive and five the short drive. It was a beautiful day and the weather was kind, both drives took us around Great Melton and the long drive also took in Barford and Wramplingham. The drive encountered one unforeseeable obstacle where the electricity board were installing new poles and cables with lorries partially blocking the road, they graciously turned off the machinery and all ten turnouts passed with no issues, a credit to all our drivers and horses.
We had three drives in 2017 all were well attended and very enjoyable and we hope to have many more in 2018.
We returned and had a bite to eat with cakes and beverages supplied by our hosts Rob and Lisel and afterwards went on to have a few attempts around our fun cone course, everyone did exceedingly well and had a great time. We then went individually into the new arena to try out the new surface, what a treat, thank you goes to Rob and Lisel for the use of the superb facilities they have at Whiterails and welcome to our newest member Neil.
On the 18th of June we had a drive from Bill and Karin Newells at Wereham Kings Lynn.
29th of October we had our 2018 planning meeting and Quiz.
It was a 12 mile drive in very hot weather there were five turnouts and two took a short route due to the heat. They were nice wide country roads very well suited to carriages, on our return we were able to wash our horses off in the yard and make sure they were comfortable before heading to the house for a wonderful spread of food and a BBQ. Our thanks go to Bill and Karin.
Great to see so many people at the venue, thank you to all who came, forty seven people attended
Hello to all BDS members I hope you all had a good 2017.
all learnt a lot and the turnouts all gained valuable experience. Our precision, paces and confidence have all improved. On October 8th we attended a Lincolnshire Trec event and although this was not a BDS rally there were four driving ponies attending. Before the competition started we had a good training session from one of the organisers and then entered the competition in hand. This was such good fun that members have asked for a BDS session to be organised along the same lines. We had been planning a ‘Spook Busting’ training day for the winter months and this will now take the format of the Trec event and will be added to our plan for winter. Our Annual Meeting is booked for 26th November at The Three Kings at Threkingham.
and forty took part in the quiz. The meeting went well and some good drive dates for 2018 with discussions about training days, combined events and an area day out. The raffle raised £167 and the star prize in the raffle was for a lesson at Swingletree with John Parker, Ironically the first ticket drawn was by John and he donated the prize to a very deserving person. The winners of the quiz were the “Not with it” team and they received a prize and a nice winners rosette. If any member wishes to put forward any suggestions or offer help please contact me. Drive dates for 2018 (please contact A/C or drive organiser for up to date info and to register interest in the drive a week or two before hand. Thank you.
Diary Dates May date TBC Hempnal Drive 3rd June Morley st Boltoph drive 17th June Wereham Drive 29th July Abbey Farm drive East Walton Aug date and venue TBC 16th September Whiterails Great Melton
On the 30th of July we had a drive from Abbey Farm East Walton. We had seven turnouts and one drive length of about 9 miles. We stopped at the local pub for refreshments half way round and then took in the unbridged ford which was even deeper than last year, there were plenty of puddles due to the storm the previous night but all horses coped well with those big black holes! The weather was good and most wore tee shirts and on our return we had a picnic followed by cakes and drinks supplied by Rachel. Thank you to Rachel, Bill and Laura for the use of your wonderful facilities at Abbey Farm.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Norfolk Quiz
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Area News Northumberland and Durham AC Ali Wrangham Tel: 016682 17329 Mob: 07970 857603
Email: aliwrangham@btconnect.com
North Wiltshire and Gloucestershire
Liz Coombes at Poulshot Area Show winner of the Pleasure Driving CLass
Judy Lane with Lilly waiting her turn at the North Wilts and Glos Area Autumn Show
Carole Baker driving Rhiwderin Ozzy at Poulshot Area Show
Clare Humphriers with Jake at the Autumn Area Show
the morning classes and it was also at a new venue right at the very southern part of Gloucestershire. Donkeys and ponies were about 50:50 and clearly although the Donkeys were quite laid back about it all, the ponies were not quite so sure, so there had to be a little last-minute tweaking of the schedule and an invisible dividing line in the ring. Thanks to our lovely Judge Heather Noad this was easily accomplished together with a lot of laughter.
in neighbouring counties. We still managed to send a cheque for £250 to Kennet Valley RDA Driving Group. This was followed not long after by the Stowell Park Drive, held on Lord and Lady Vestey’s wonderful Cotswold Estate, this was also a moved date to avoid a clash, but it turned out to be advantageous as the previous Sunday was wet, but the new date October 8th was a perfect sunny driving day, and £130 was raised for the continuing restoration of the local Church.
Email: wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com Web: www.northwiltsandglosbds.com AC Hazel Woodbridge BEM Tel: 01793 770862 AAC Joyce White Tel: 01249 720608 AAC Richard Berry Tel: 01380 828034 Email: richberry60@hotmail.co.uk AAC Stephanie Dale Tel: 01666 505051 Email: cotswoldcarriagedriving@yahoo.co.uk ROW Wiltshire Hazel Woodbridge Tel: 01793 770862 Email: wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com ROW Gloucestershire Stephanie Dale Tel: 01666 505051 Email: cotswoldcarriagedriving@yahoo.co.uk
News from the Area Well that summer flew by very quickly, a little strange weather-wise but apart from one event we managed to pick the dry days and avoid the boiling hot ones, except for one afternoon picnic drive at Poulshot when it poured. Despite the current trend for fewer numbers at our Area Shows we managed to have sufficient entries to make a competition with just one or two exceptions. We were pleased to welcome several novice ponies both from our own Area and from further afield as we are lucky in being able to provide good size rings and a happy relaxed atmosphere which suits their maiden outing. With careful management, all the events paid for themselves and hopefully they will continue for next year. Our final Show was great fun as it was designed to encourage smaller ponies and donkeys particularly in
Poulshot Show drive lead by winner Richard Berry
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British Driving Society
Eastleach drive half way stop in the shade
I know that for many Showing is not their cup of tea but they are a helpful learning curve for every turnout it provides an opportunity to teach animals manners in the company of others, to be patient and to travel away from home, it gives whips an opportunity to meet other members and to learn from those with perhaps more experience plus sometimes seeing what not to do. Classes and shows vary a lot so read schedules carefully as no two are the same, even though the heading may be the same. There was a rather belated Sponsored Drive for our local annual RDA charity drive due to the change in ownership of Barbary Castle Estate, however it was finally arranged for September which unfortunately clashed with other events
Perrine and Drummer the Kennet Valley RDA's own horses complete the sponsored drive at Barbury Castle Estate
RDA sponsored drive Local member Andy Curtis drives his pair home
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Events for Your Diary Sunday December 10th Drive from Woodward’s Farm, Dog Trap Lane Minety SN16 9PW by kind invitation of Mr and Mrs Shepherd. Hosts are Ann and John Wadsworth 11 for 11.3am start. Drive as a group or individually with a map. Some off-road Byways and good country lanes Hot Drinks on return bring a picnic. For further details and booking in please contact Joyce White on 01249 720608
Elizabeth Way with Marylegs winner of the best turned out 4 wheeler on the Stowell Park Drive
Shelagh Hillier and Mr Darcy Best Turned Out 2 wheeler Stowell Park Drive
Charles Martell's Wagonette leaves the Church Farm on the Stowell Park Drive. Whip Adrian Lander
2018 Sunday January 14th Drive from Purlieus Farm, Minety SN16 9RP by kind invitation of Elizabeth and Gary Way. 11 for 11.30 start. Hot Drinks on return, bring a picnic. Drive as a group or individually with a map. Some off-road Byways and good country lanes. For further details and booking in please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or email wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com Friday February 9th Skittles Evening The Bell at Purton Stoke SN5 4JG Meet for 7.30. Supper orders taken by Wednesday before menu available from Hazel for further details and booking in please contact Joyce White on 01249 720608 Sunday March 18th Drive from Purlieus Farm, Minety SN16 9RP by kind invitation of Elizabeth and Gary Way. 11 for 11.30 start .Hot Drinks on return, bring a picnic. Drive as a group or individually with a map. Some off-road Byways and good country lanes. For further details and booking in please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or email wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com
Emily Wain with Mossy on the Stowell Park Drive
One of our members has been having a splendid time with her wonderful Caspian Horse Khoja who may be small in stature but gives his all. Yes, I am talking about Amelia Waddicor, for many years a prolific Young Driver at our shows and events. Amelia and Khoja were part of the Caspian Display Team at the Horse of the Year Show- the sole driving exhibitor. They have also been very successful at several Driving Trials. Well Done! What is planned for the next few months? There are drives listed and Social/skittles evenings but nothing more, as last year’s variety of speakers and events attracted more non-members then members! We are happy to arrange activities, but it doesn’t help if they are not supported, so please get in contact with some ideas that you
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
John Wadsworth with Maggie enjoying the Autumn Sunshire on the Stowell Park Drive
would be happy to support. It would also be great to have more venues in Gloucestershire both for drives and other activities. Finally, congratulations to our Area Members Carole and Russ Baker who have won the Carriage Driving Pleasure Driving 2017 Award with Moortown Mistress Carole’s lovely Piebald Shetland. Well Done! I look forward to hearing from you and look forward to seeing more of you at events- it’s no fun without you!
Friday March 23rd Skittles Evening The Bell at Purton Stoke SN5 4JG Meet for 7.30. Supper orders taken by Wednesday before menu available from Hazel for further details and booking in please contact Joyce White on 01249 720608 If you can offer a venue for a drive or have any ideas please can you contact either Hazel or Assistant Area Commissioners. Hazel Woodbridge 01793 770862 or email wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com
Remember our own website is www. northwiltsandglosbds.com
Hazel Woodbridge BEM Area Commissioner.
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Area News Oxfordshire Email: leeox8@btinternet.com AC Karen Harvey Tel: 01993 880445 ROW Officer June Collier Tel: 01869 331255
The Oxfordshire Area has had just one drive recently from James and Gill Scott-Lees house in Kirtlington in September. It was good to see some new faces as well as the usual few. The drive was mostly off road going through Kirtlington Park and the surrounding area. A
stop off at a local pub for a well deserved break, then back along more tracks with some lovely countryside views to end with a social picnic. As everyone was enjoying the driving so much, sadly, we didn’t manage to get any photos. We have had an offer from June Collier for a Sunday Drive sometime before Christmas, with soup afterwards. If it comes to fruition the date will be posted on the website. As usual we should have an Annual Meeting in January followed by a meal the date is still to be confirmed. February will see our usual Start the Year Lunch or Dinner, further details will be posted on the website Our joint BDS Trec with Glos & Wiltshire will be at Eynsham Park on the first May Bank Holiday Sunday.
May – TBA Drive on the Ridgeway June – TBA Drive possibly from Tackley August – Horse/Pony Party at Eynsham ParkDrive, Fun events, e.g. practising cones, obstacles, precision & paces. We have possibly found an indoor venue for some training so anyone interested please let me know then we just have to ask a trainer who can come along. As always any suggestions and ideas of what you would like to do in the area are most welcome, it doesn’t have to be with turnouts it could be just a social event. Wishing everyone a Happy Christmas and New Year in advance.
Karen
Shropshire AC Philip Holder
Tel: 01952 242495 Email: philip@wellingtoncarriage.co.uk
AAC Elisabeth Lawrence AAC Dorothy Moreland ROW Janet Mees-Robinson Website Philip Holder
Tel: 01691 656805 Tel: 07718 060547 Tel: 01952 502433 Tel: 01952 242495 Warm Up
Julys Shropshire Driving Days officially a Shropshire event is both run and attended by members from many BDS areas. The five days driving in the delightful countryside of south Shropshire and parts of the adjacent counties were much enjoyed by all who attended. Many thanks to Ted Orgil and the team for the work they put into making the event a success
On September 10th Shropshire celebrated the Diamond Jubilee of the British Driving Society with a 12 mile drive from Rodington. The day was grey and windy but fortunately dry as seven turnouts, some of them decorated with the Diamond Jubilee theme, set off from Rodington House Farm by kind permission of Ian Griffiths.
Cole with Sam the Man to a Bennington. Thanks to Mike and Bryony Cowie for kindly stewarding the drive. After horses were dealt with we all warmed up in the Bull’s Head pub where we were made very welcome with an excellent selection of sandwiches and hot drinks, after which the British Driving Society cake was served along with the presentation of beautiful commemorative rosettes.
Jubilee decorated vehicle
Jubilee Drive
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British Driving Society
Our route took us through some lovely countryside and villages such as Upton Magna, Berwick Wharf and Withington. Judging of turnouts took place at the Haughmond public house in Upton Magna, with Jennifer Marren and Helen James being awarded the Elizabeth Austin Memorial Trophy for the best decorated turnout. Other participants were Chris and Becky Taylor driving a pair of Irish mares to a wagonette (not forgetting Basil!), Tony and Carol Gregory with a Hackney pair to a four-wheeled dogcart, Russell and Pat Hand with a mixed team of four to an exercise carriage, Felicity Stubbs and Avril Pluck driving Section B pony Valentines Amber to a gig, Pauline Trail driving her cob to a Bennington exercise vehicle and last (in every sense) but not least Sue and Ian
Jubilee Cake
Cutting the Jubilee Cake
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Somerset & Avon Email: khillsa@yahoo.co.uk AC Mrs Kathleen Hill Tel: 01823 672377 Mob: 07860 608501
We have had a particularly busy summer with our various events. Our May Day drive on 1st May had eight turnouts forward. There was choice of an 11-mile drive or a 6-mile drive, both with lovely views, and the day was warm. Lunch was enjoyed on return to the farm by twenty eight members. Jubilee Drive Member
Lizzie decided not to run the Shropshire BDS Trec again this year after a poor showing last year which in spite of the apparent enthusiasm for the event there were only three entries. In its place on Sunday 17 September a treasure hunt drive took place. This worked out very well and all who attended had a lovely drive of 11.8 miles with a bit of fun added. The route included the outskirts of Oswestry and outlying districts not usually covered by our drives. Clues included points of historic interest and for those requiring refreshment for their weary minds a suitable and obvious hostelry was to be found about halfway. The weather remained kind and on their return from the drive a good tea was enjoyed by everyone. A successful social evening took place at Hadnall Village hall on the 5th of October. Jackie Sinclair one of our area members gave an interesting and informative talk on the principals of draught. We were shown how turnouts are frequently seen where there appears to be a complete lack of knowledge of the subject. Afterwards members enjoyed a chat and refreshments to which everyone had contributed
Diary Dates 3rd December Area Christmas lunch contact Bryony Cowie: 0151 336 2505 Boxing day Drive from Newport contact Philip 01952 242495 New years Day New Year’s Day drive from the Raven Hotel, Prees Heath in Whitchurch Civic Dignitaries will award trophies for the best driving horse and for the Judge’s favourite. For enquiries and if you intend to join the drive please contact Helen James (07843 606361) 17th January annual Area Meeting details to be confirmed
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
There were five turnouts forward for the Thelbridge interval drive from Newlands Farm on 10th September. The drive out was six miles. While the humans were enjoying lunch at the Thelbridge Inn, arrangements had been made for ponies and horses to have their haynets in safety. The drive back to Newlands Farm for tea with Jo Green was also six miles but via a different route. On 17th September five turnouts attended the Horseman’s Sunday service in the field adjoining St Andrew’s Church, Clayhidon. The weather was kind for the 6-mile drive to the church for the service. Afterwards a short drive took place, riders taking a different route, before everyone returning for tea served by the church ladies. This was followed by the six mile drive back to our lorries and trailers at Kerlyn Farm. Our thanks go to Jacqueline and Charles IsdellCarpenter for hosting the parking and marking the route.
Show numbers were down for our area show on 28th May therefore a show has not been arranged for 2018. Nine members took part in our BDS Trec on 2nd July, the same number as last year. The results for over 14hh were: 1st with trophy Sheena Jacobs with Flash Dance, 2nd Gina Saunders with Lillia, 3rd Sarah Pike with Henry, 4th Sue Popham with Red Bandit. Under 14hh: 1st with trophy Stewart Wass with Pepper, 2nd Lois Carpenter with Merlin, 3rd Barbara Foti with China, 4th Jill Acheson with Derby. BDS Diamond Anniversary rosettes were presented to all competitors. Our two-day training camp on 31st July-1st August at Fenix Centre, Higher Hill Farm, Clayhidon was again fully subscribed and a huge success. All aspects of driving were covered, Lyn Bugler gaining the most improved prize with her pair of ponies. Certificates were given to all participants for their achievements during the two days. Our thanks go to Mark and Jo Broadbent; without them this event could not happen.
Horsemans Sunday Sheena Jacobs with Flash Dance
An interval picnic drive from Knowstone picnic area was held on 24th September. Three turnouts came to enjoy the glorious views of Exmoor and Dartmoor, followed by a picnic whilst our horses enjoyed their haynets.
On 6th August Sue and Chris Popham invited us to an interval drive from their home. Eight turnouts came and enjoyed the countryside where Sue and Chris live. The drive was eight miles of well-marked and mapped lanes. On return we enjoyed tea in the garden. Lyn Bugler and Ralph Bailey took their turnouts to the Polden Hills Pony Club camp on 24th August, Lyn with her pair of ponies and Ralph with his horse. They talked on driving with pairs and singles, harnessing up, and putting too. They gave a demonstration of driven dressage and cones. There was a lot of enthusiasm from pony club members and parents. On 27th August Lyn and Peter Bugler gave an interval drive from their home, Westhall House, Loxton. The drive was 7.5 miles with a quiz included. Six turnouts came. This was a different area to drive in, with a recent scarecrow competition on show in the village which was interesting. On return we enjoyed tea together. The quiz was won by Alex Kelly and Marina Parrett.
Knowestone Picnic
On 1st October there was a beach drive from Brean Down. Seven turnouts came to enjoy a morning by the sea, with an eight mile stretch of good sand to drive on. On return to the National Trust car park we had either a snack or lunch. On 22nd October a drive was organised, of either six or twelve miles from Sampford Arundel. There were eight turnouts forward. Lunch was enjoyed afterwards at the Beam Bridge Hotel, whilst horses and ponies enjoyed haynets in loose boxes or stables at Sampford Farm. A raffle was held to help start up the newly formed Springwood RDA Group.
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Area News Suffolk, Cambs and Huntingdon AC Andrew Durrell Tel: 01473 726396 Mob: 07760 182 077 Email: andrewdurrell2@gmail.com AAC Jean Clayden Tel: 01473 658400 / 07788 484623 Email: jeancpops@aol.com AAC Eunice Binder Tel: 01473 830326 / 07584 692686 Email: eunicebinder@btinternet.com ROW Officer Wallace Binder Tel: 01473 830326 June Seville and Ted
Kathleen Hill
Future Events
AAC Wendy Winney finding time to win a 2nd prize at the 2017 show she organised !
Monday, 7th May 2018: May Day Drive. Interval drive from Sampford Farm, followed by lunch. In May (date to be announced) Jo Green invites us to the Filleigh Drive. July: Annual BDS Trec from Sampford Farm.
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Remember to bring your current BDS membership card to each driving event please. This will be checked!
Surrey Email: brightwell419@btinternet.com AC Jane Brightwell Tel: 0208 6579393 AAC David Pritchard Tel: 01428 288301
st
Sunday, 8th April 2018: Invitation by Jo Green to an Easter egg hunt and interval drive from Newlands Farm, Witheridge, Tiverton, EX16 8QF to find your Easter egg. Please contact Jo (tel. 01884-860591, mob. 07979 714563). It is fun looking for clues to find them.
3 Jun – Sutton Heath, Suffolk drive departs 11am @ £10 per turnout Bring a plate for a shared picnic. Contact Andrew Durrell on 01473 726396
16 Sept – Drive from the Sudbury area in Suffolk. Details tbc. Contact Andrew Durrell on 01473 726396.
Monday, January 1st 2018: New Year interval drive, weather permitting, from Sampford Farm, Sampford Arundel, Wellington, TA24 9QN. Move off 11.30am, returning to the Parlour for season celebrations. Sunday, January 21 2018: Somerset Area Annual Meeting at Blue Ball, Sampford Moor, Wellington, TA21 9QL, 12 for 12.30pm start (roast beef or pork £12.00/ head), followed by the meeting. New ideas will be welcome. Please let Mrs Kathleen Hill (tel. 01823-672377, mob. 07860 608501) know if you are able to come so that the Blue Ball can cater for us.
20 May – The popular Area 24 BDS Show at Wells Park Farm, Whittlesford, Cambs. CB2 4 PG by kind permission of Mrs Tessa Reeves. Contact Wendy Winney on 07734 267208 for schedules nearer the time or email wendywinney@ googlemail.com
1 July – Champagne Driving Area show at Ashfields Carriage Driving Centre , Essex CM6 1JU. Sponsors needed please @ £50 per class. Also donors of the champagne prizes! Contact Wendy Winney on 07734 267208 to offer your help or email wendywinney@ googlemail.com
Thanks go to all who host or arrange a drive out and help in any way. Happy and safe driving.
Sunday, December 10th: Annual Christmas Lunch at Oake Manor Golf Club, TA4 1BA, between Wellington and Taunton. Threecourse set lunch £17.50, children £8.75. This is the start of Christmas festivities. Father Christmas will be there. 12 noon for 12.30pm. Cheques should be made payable to ‘Somerset Area BDS’, and sent to Kathleen Hill, Sampford Farm, Sampford Arundel, Wellington, TA21 9QN.
29 April – Estate drive from Helmingham Hall, Suffolk @ £10 per turnout. This will depend upon the weather forecast! Please bring a plate for a shared picnic. Drive starts 11am Entries close 14th April so please contact Andrew Durrell on 01473 726396 in good time.
Sally Walrond with her accordion, entertaining everyone at the area meeting
Diary Dates 18 Feb – New Year Get Together at Tye Farm, Suffolk £5 per head with all proceeds to charity Contact Jean Clayden on 01473 658400 25 Mar – Visit to Buckinghamshire tbc. Details to be confirmed. Contact Andrew for details 21 April – Easton Farm Park Drive departs 11am – £10 per turnout Entries close 7th April and a minimum of 5 turnouts needed before this can go ahead. Refreshments from café on site. Contact Gay Lister in good time on 01473 737366 or send an email to buttonsbarn@btinternet.com
Our BDS Surrey Area Show held in July was a great success and we thank all our wonderful competitors for their continued support. A successful show cannot happen without a good team and a special mention must be given to Julia and Nigel Horwood who did a great job with the production of the schedule and secretarial role of entry taking. Both Julia and Nigel have decided to take a step back in 2018 although they will still be on hand to help with the schedule and give advice when needed. So I would like to say a personal thank you to them for all their support and hard work over the years. Our Show would not run so smoothly without Dave Steer, Peter Andrews, Mick White Cherry and Brian Chidwick, Gail Diprose, Sue Prior, Fran Raindle, Lawrence Saupe, All Time Catering and of course the Rangers at Horton Country Park.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News It goes without saying that our hardworking commentator, stewards, judges and helpers who give their time on the day are all truly appreciated.
Sussex East Sue Page
Many congratulations to all our competitors, our Hackney Champion Billy Ward with Wentworth Inspiration and our Overall Champion Tommy Fountain with Bookham Lodge Logan.
Tel: 07842 806855 Email: bds-sussex@hotmail.com Web: www.eastsussexbds.co.uk
AAC Helen Bridges AAC Louise Woodward ROW Officer & AAC Pearl Hudson
Tel: 01323 509986 Email: pahudson@aol.com
A Date for your Diary
Area Show Competitors
We will be having our annual meeting with guest speaker in the New Year, so please watch the website and our facebook page for details. If anyone would like to hold an event please get in touch, we are always looking for new venues. We look forward to welcoming you to our early events in 2018 which are detailed below. You will also find our dates on the main BDS Website in the Surrey slot and our Surrey Area Facebook page. These dates will be added too as the year progresses. With Good Wishes to you all for Christmas and New Year.
Forthcoming Events Sunday 18 February Valentines Drive, Horton Country Park Epsom. Approximately four miles around the Country Park, a shorter route can also be arranged if required. Due to the popularity of this event and in order to avoid disappointment please apply early for an ENTRY FORM – numbers may be restricted – from Jane Brightwell, Highfield, 2 Tandridge Gardens, Sanderstead, Surrey. CR2 9HU (sae please) tel: 020 8657 9393. Sunday 8 July BDS Surrey Area Show Horton Country Park, Epsom, Surrey. Classes for everyone from the beginner to the experienced (classes include Private Driving, Light Trade, Exercise, Pleasure, Hackneys in Wagons). Osborne and Victoria Food Qualifers. Schedules available end March 2017. (sae) Jane Brightwell, Highfield, 2 Tandridge Gardens, Sanderstead, Surrey. CR2 9HU. 020 8657 9393 Please Note: We will be asking for BDS Membership Cards at all Area Events – so don’t forget to bring it along. Those aged under 14 years must wear hard hats at all times whilst in a carriage.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
You are invited to a free buffet lunch at our area annual meeting on Sunday, 21st January at Stuckles Farm, Lewes Road, Chiddingly BN8 6JG. The lunch will be held in Helen Bridges warm and cosy chalet and is an ideal opportunity to socialise with fellow members. We want to update you on BDS issues and get your feedback on how we are doing and it is your opportunity to air your views and help shape the activities we offer. Lunch is at 12.00 noon and is free. Please come if you can. So that we know how many to cater for can you let Pearl Hudson know if you are attending or not. Thank you. Agenda • Insurance Update • Treasurer’s Report • Award presentation • New awards for 2018 • Event calendar • Proposed events • Area website feedback from members • Members feedback
This award is open to our area members and any BDS members who regularly attend our events. A summary of the points so far recorded is shown below. 24 3 12 107 20 39 7 3
Janet Bettel-Higgins Christine Buckland Moira Evans Jakki Garnham Gina Jeffreys Adrian Matthews Dick Tanner Suzanne Willis
Please email the date, event, class and placing (if applicable) of your latest achievements to Pearl Hudson at pahudson@aol.com. All results must be notified to Pearl by 31st December 2017.
Event Calendar The usual New Year’s Day drive from Golden Cross Equestrian Centre held in association with the Oaks Driving Club has been cancelled. Instead we will be holding our own BDS drive from Golden Cross on 31st December New Year’s Eve. We have three new drives this year: Burchetts Farm at Whitesmith, Springfield Farm at Rushlake Green and Maynards Fruit Farm at Ticehurst (provided we can find an enclosed parking area nearby). We have also included some Saturday evening drives this year throughout the summer, which we hope will be popular.
2017 Achievement Award
Jane Bellingham Helen Bridges Alison Burgess Rosie Fieldwick Chris Grist Kevin Jeffreys Sue Page Teresa Whitehead
Tel: 01825 872030 Tel: 07854 460305 Email: lwd@hotmail.co.uk
48 43 48 11 41 1 28 6
You may be doing better than the results recorded above show, as not all your wins and attendances for the year may be included. To ensure that we get all your results correctly recorded, please check out our website on the Achievement Award page at www. eastsussexbds.co.uk/aaward.html where the results are published in detail. Remember this award is for any driving event not necessarily a BDS event and it applies to you. So if you have several horses that you drive or compete with, you will get all the points. Even if you have not won a lot, you get a point for attending a driving event including training and they all mount up.
For those of you who wish to brush up on your showing skills, there will be two Showing Masterclasses by Gary Docking held at Golden Cross Equestrian Centre. These will be held on Wednesday 18th April and Friday 1st June. You will need to prebook with Helen Bridges and the cost is £35.00 per half hour with a turnout and £5 all day for a spectator. Please note these are not BDS events so are not limited to BDS members. 31st December 2017 –Drive from Golden Cross Equestrian Centre around the pretty village of Ripe. Please arrive from 10.00am. Hot tea, coffee and biscuits afterwards. £5.00 parking. 21st January 2018 – East Sussex Area Annual General Meeting. Free buffet luncheon at Stuckles Farm, Chiddingly BN8 6JG. Please arrive from midday. 25th February 2018 – NEW this year is a drive from Burchetts Farm, Whitesmith, BN8 6HA. Please note this is still to be confirmed. Check out our area website for latest update. 11th March 2018 – Havenswold Spring Drive, Hailsham, BN27 3PR 18th April 2018 – Showing Master Class at Golden Cross Equestrian Centre with Gary Docking. This is not a BDS event.
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Area News 29th April 2018 – NEW this year is a drive from Springfield Farm, Rushlake Green, TN21 9QA. May 2018 – NEW this year is a drive around Maynards Fruit Farm, Ticehurst, TN5 7HQ. Dependant on finding an enclosed parking area. Date to be confirmed. 1st June 2018 – Showing Master Class at Golden Cross Equestrian Centre with Gary Docking. This is not a BDS event. 3rd June 2018 – East Sussex BDS Annual Show at Stuckles Farm, Chiddingly BN8 6JG. 21st June 2018 – Summer Solstice evening drive from Golden Cross Equestrian Centre. Arrive anytime from 6.00pm. We will be able to include the byway at this time of year. £5.00 parking.
Summer Solstice Drive Wednesday, 21st June This was a midweek evening drive. Following on from the hottest day of the year so far, what could be more perfect than an evening drive on a warm summer evening? Seven turnouts met at Golden Cross Equestrian centre and drove off at about 7.00pm. There was a choice of three routes ranging from 6, 7 and 8.5 miles. All participants were given detailed instructions and map. The route took us through quiet country lanes and part of it was off road as we were able to travel along a restricted by-way in the shade under the cover of trees. The routes were all fairly flat with little hill work for the horses. Everyone arrived back safely by about 9.00pm so still had time to get their horses home before it got dark. It was a very peaceful and pleasant drive.
21st July 2018 – Evening drive from Framfield, TN22 5PX with off-road route around New Place. Arrive from 5.30pm. 29th July 2018 – Havenswold Summer Drive, Hailsham, BN27 3PR. This will incorporate 3 byways. 4th August 2018 – Fletching drive incorporating Sheffield Park. Arrive at Sue Page’s wood TN22 3SA from 4.00pm 16th September 2018 – Pevensey drive from Little Downash Farm, BN27 2RN. 23rd September 2018 – Waldron drive from Well Cottage, Waldron TN21 0LY. 14th October 2018 – Havenswold Autumn Drive, Hailsham, BN27 3PR
Website – www.eastsussexbds.co.uk Please check our area website from time to time. If you have attended any of our events throughout 2017 you may very well find photos of yourself and your horse. You can copy these from the website and keep them forever. Photos are taken down after a year.
Summer Solstice Drive Alison Burgess driving Storm
Pevensey Drive Sunday 2nd July 2017 Little Downash Farm was the meeting place for the start of this drive. We all parked up in a field where we could unbox safely. It was a warm sunny day with a gentle cooling breeze no doubt appreciated by the equines. There were nine turnouts in total including a miniature horse, a Shetland, several cobs, a Friesian and
Don’t forget we have a For Sale and Wanted section and you can advertise for FREE for as long as you like.
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British Driving Society
Overnight rain gave way to a warm sunny day with a cooling breeze to help the horses in their work. The eight turnouts were accompanied by 1 rider. There is always a warm welcome for BDS members from other areas and this time we were pleased to see two members from the Surrey area. Two of the turnouts set out on their own with the other six following along altogether. Sue Page led the way with her pony Lottie and as usual Lottie set up a good pace. Our host Dick Tanner with his horse Amber took the lead part way through the drive and kept up a good pace for the remainder of the drive. This is a lovely drive and we are very fortunate that during the summer months we can incorporate three well-presented off-road byways. On return to Havenswold, Dick Tanner and his wife Mary made all the participants very welcome and put on a wonderful spread.
Pevensey Drive Sunday 27th August 2017 As we were not able to organise a drive through Sheffield Park as planned, Linda Baker-Beall kindly offered her premises as a meeting place for another drive across Pevensey marshes. We had held an earlier drive at the beginning of July and as there were several routes available members who had done one route wanted to know what the other routes were like and so this gave them the opportunity to drive a different route. It was a very warm day for the six turnouts who attended. Once again Chris Grist from Surrey area joined us with her delightful miniature horse Sophie. Gina Jeffery led the start of the drive with Beau with participants peeling off to do their chosen route out of the 5 possible routes available. All participants were equipped with map, directions and detailed instructions.
Rights of Way News Pearl is still trying to find more byways that we can use for drives but unfortunately has drawn a blank. It seems that many byways are not recorded correctly on the county’s on-line map and what is marked as a byway turns out to be a bridleway or footpath. Please check our website www.eastsussexbds.co.uk for details of issues raised and progress made.
Everyone seemed to have enjoyed whichever drive they had done. The only negative comments were that they all wanted to do the route they hadn’t done. Perhaps next time. Many thanks go to our hostess Lynda BakerBeall at Little Downash Farm, who also joined us on the drive with one of our members.
Havenswold Drive Sunday 23rd July 2017
1st July 2018 – Pevensey drive from Little Downash Farm, BN27 2RN.
There are still several events that are being organised but are not confirmed yet. Check out our area website for the latest information.
a pair of Clydesdale cob crosses. We were pleased to welcome three members from the Surrey area too. There were five routes available ranging from 5 miles up to 12.9 miles, which catered for everyone’s needs and all but the shortest route was driven. The longest route took participants on a tarmac road, which crossed the middle of the Pevensey marshes where they were able to enjoy a full 360 degree view of the marsh. The other routes took members away from the marsh and up into the Sussex countryside with outstanding views of the South Downs.
Pevensey Drive Jane Bellingham with Reagon and Shadow
Everyone had a fabulous and safe drive and all returned to a fantastic spread of sandwiches, cake and biscuits very kindly provided by Linda Baker-Beall. Thank you Lynda.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Fletching Picnic Drive and Treasure Hunt Sunday 3rd September 2017 There were only four turnouts for the Picnic Drive and Treasure Hunt held in Sue Page’s lovely woods at Fletching. This was rather a shame since members asked for this type of event last year. The event started with an excellent 10 mile drive which wove its way through unpopulated green lanes that meandered over the rolling Sussex countryside. After the drive there followed a treasure hunt in the woods. Members drove around a designated route looking for clues and collecting treasures. It was a test of the horses’ obedience after a long drive to stand still while grooms dismounted to collect the clues. Over a picnic lunch the clues were put together to name a piece of the harness. Sounds really easy but no one got the correct answer although there were lots of suggestions as to what the solution was. Thank you Sue for your efforts in providing a thrilling drive, a thought provoking treasure hunt and a lovely venue for lunch.
Diamond Anniversary Drive, Firle Park Sunday 10th September 2017 Our diamond anniversary drive was held at the prestigious Firle Park by kind permission of Lord and Lady Gage. There were 10 turnouts in total including members from Surrey and Berkshire.
Terry Gillam along the Old Coach Road
Jakki Garnham with Princess
Torrential rain two days earlier had flooded several parts of the Old Coach road byway making it impassable. So we changed the route
under some trees next to the path. However, all of the horses passed them without incident. The plan was to do the five mile drive followed by a short break and then repeat the drive. However after the short break, when Lord and Lady Gage came down from Firle Place to meet everyone and Lady Gage presented commemorative diamond anniversary rosettes to all whips and grooms, the heavens opened up yet again. So the drive was not repeated. It is hoped that next year we will be able to complete the full length of the Old Coach road and will not be thwarted by the weather. That said it was still a thoroughly enjoyable and picturesque drive.
Gina Jeffery with Beau
to a five mile drive around Firle Park, Firle village and part of the original coaching road which was not flooded and fortunately enabled us to pass the old coaching inn which is now a
Lady Gage Diamond Jubileee Drive presenting rosettes to Sue Page and Val Richardson
Windsor Park Drive Sunday 1st October 2017
Jane Bellingham with Shadow
Rebel with Moira Evans
tea house. All of the horses were impeccably behaved. Some cattle had been put out into the Park the day before and had congregated
Berkshire area had invited us again this year to their lovely drive in Windsor Great Park. Several of our members attended. Torrential rain had meant that the route had to be altered slightly from last year but it took us through some beautiful areas of the Park and close to the monument of George III. Several of our members thought that the change of route was better than the original route. At the end of the drive all whips received a lovely rosette and all equines were given a carrot. Thank you Martin Pink for organising another enjoyable and successful drive at Windsor.
Havenswold Drive Sunday 15th October 2017
Denis Williams driving his Dartmoor tandem
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
An impromptu drive was held from Havenswold to take advantage of the warm climate afforded by hurricane Ophelia. There were five turnouts including a member from Surrey and there were three routes available to cater for differing needs. As before with this lovely venue, there was some stunning woodland to drive through. Everyone arrived back safely and enjoyed the refreshments provided.
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Area News All Members In the last issue we asked for members to contribute ideas for drives or events and we are pleased to say that we have had two new drives suggested which will be in 2018 calendar. Thank you to Cathy Millard and Dick Tanner for suggesting these. Please keep your ideas and any news worthy items coming. Just let Sue Page or any of your AACs know.
Sussex West AC Colin Hurd Tel: 01243 776809 Mob: 07973 682861 (eves only) Email: c_hurd@sky.com Christmas greetings and a happy and safe New Year from West Sussex. 2017 has been a fruitful year for our members who have taken part in varied events, BDS Trec, showing and the increasingly popular Attelage. In W.Sussex we had an excellent talk on carriages and their care and maintenance, for 2018 we hope to build on this and hold a session discussing the merits and differences between traditional vehicles, modern and reproduction ones.
Looking forward to next spring we intend to hold our BDS Trec competition with a drive, presentation and skills sections, this is a fun event and suitable for all with a single turnout. Please come and join in, spectators are welcome, especially ones with a camera. Following the Trec we aim to have our Spring Show, a variety of classes and a training/improvers class which is free, hopefully to encourage and introduce you to showing in a non- competitive way, with tips and suggestions to help you on your way. So, if you want to dip your toe into showing or you have a new horse/pony, new turnout etc; please come and make use of the BDS panel judge’s wisdom and experience, and....don’t forget, this class is free!
Warwicks West Mid and Northants AC to be announced AAC Oliver Belcher AAC Dianne Austin
Yorkshire & Cleveland Email: tallgirl1965@hotmail.co.uk AC Leah Swindlehurst Mob: 07799 884560
In the South we are lucky to have the unique event, The London Harness Horse Parade, traditionally held on Easter Monday, come along and see the most amazing combinations of horse drawn vehicles, some you will never see anywhere else. Venue is the South of England showground. We would like to extend a big thank you to all of you who support us in the area, those of you who bath and groom, polish and scrub, and turn up and compete, those of you who come and watch, our guys who pitch up and volunteer in all weathers, and those who give their time and facilities. Finally, within our area we have a Driving for the Disabled group, based four miles east of Chichester, they are looking for volunteers. If you can spare some time on a Wednesday morning between May and October they would be mighty pleased to hear from you. Please contact me if you can help at c_hurd@sky.com
Tel: 01926 815240 Tel: 01922 637191
AAC Lynda Smith Tel: 01964 602081 ROW Will Scarlett Email: scarlett1012@uwclub.net I am sorry to have to report that I will be retiring as Area Commissioner for Area 34 at the end of November. I have really enjoyed being involved as AC, but unfortunately I am finding it increasingly difficult to find the time for the organisation and administration required. I have done my best over the 18 months to put on a range of events and we have had a couple of good Rally Drives and an enjoyable Social Evening. Can I also pass
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British Driving Society
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News on my thanks to those who have supported these events and turned out to take part and to Linda Swain who has been a great help and support. Sadly, however, there does not seem to be a great deal of interest or enthusiasm from Area 34 Members to attend BDS events, or to get involved with organisation! I am going to continue in the role of “Support Officer” to ensure there is a point of contact for Area 34 and will be happy to assist anyone who might be interested in taking over as Area Commissioner, or with anything else. All that remains now is for me to wish you all “Happy Driving”. Regards. Leah Swindlehurst
South Yorkshire & Nottinghamshire AC Nicola Salter Tel: 01777 248210 AAC Graham Schofield Tel: 01709 586829 AAC Joy Ashton-Beard Tel: 01777 817679 AAC Malcolm Salter Tel: 01777 248210
Isle of Wight Email: m.honeybourne@talktalk.net
AC Margaret Honeybourne Tel: 07845908444 AAC Gail Yardley Tel: 01983 873529 Mob: 07850 380616 Email: quackersandneighs@msn.com AAC Sarah Owlett Mob: 07876594766 Sarah and I continue to put on events and encourage you to participate some have been cancelled due to the weather but we have had a lot of fun with our driving ponies with others. Sarah mostly has organised meals and drive outs with a picnic and Nicki and I took advantage of this and tied the ponies to a tree and had a picnic on the causeway at Freshwater. Others have driven to a local Manor and all enjoyed the views.
We also held a second BDS Trec by popular demand. Nicki McDonagh won with Arty and Debbie Tamcken was second driving Hamlet with just one point between them.
Tea and Rosettes
Do join our facebook page to keep up with the news.
Our area has been very quiet this year, I have been and still am very busy with builders etc, “never again” comes to mind. Well done to all our competitive members who have been flying the flag for the area in the show rings this summer. Hopefully we will have a few more activities in 2018. If there is anyone in the area who would like to hold or organise an event please get in touch.
Tea in the Woods
We held our annual meeting on 17th October, thank you to all who attended. Nicki McDonagh was awarded with an engraved whiskey flask by Sarah for attending the most events. Nicki said she would put port in it. Next year we will go to Rookley community centre as there were more of us this year. Ready to Go
Margaret and Sarah wish you a Happy Christmas and a wonderful New Year’s driving.
Diary Dates Area Annual Meeting – Sat 20th Jan 2018, Rampton Village Hall – 7pm to 10pm Pie and peas supper Quiz and raffle. Contact Nicola or Malcolm 01777 248210
Guernsey AAC Rose Yates Tel: 01481 258181 Email: rose.yates@cwgsy.net
Social Gathering Chestnut Pair on Drive
As usual the cones was well attended with Blue Pike (She got married) being Champion for the year winning every event, Debbie Tamcken was reserve champ.
2nd December Christmas Meal and Raffle. Venue Blacksmiths arms at Calbourne please ring Sarah Tel 07876594766 8th April Drive and picnic Herb Farm(Bamfurlongs) Yafford 11am. Tel Margaret 07845908444
Isle of Man
29th April BDS Trec, Longcommon Farm, Stroudwood Road, Ryde, PO334DA Tel Margaret 07845908444
AAC Wendy Kirkpatrick Tel: 01624 851302 Email: wendykirkpatrick@mcb.net Stop in the Woods
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Diary Dates
21st May Optimum Cones, Longcommon Farm. PO334DA Tel Margaret 07845908444
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Area News Jersey Email: phyllis.gouedart@googlemail.com
AC Phyllis Gouédart Tel: 01534 721151
The weather has had a severe impact on the autumn events, the last Beach Scurry was cancelled due to a storm along with the two Driving Trials which even when rescheduled had to be abandoned. Fingers crossed the final round of the Skilled Driver of the year will go ahead on October 22nd which is also on a later date.
to the UK on several occasions with his team and coach to compete in the coaching classes at major shows. Summer Show Champion was Kim Murray’s Middle Lake Three (Ben to his friends) driven by Phyllis Gouédart to her own C Spring Spindle Gig. This pony together with his stable mate Bransby Berti Ivor Barette Spring Show Champion also competed in the UK with considerable success in the Scurry The indoor trials are due to kick off on Trials. Annual Show Supreme Champion December 10th followed by January 28th was Emma Mackay with her delightful Welsh February 11th and 25th with the championships Section A Glyncoch Rhydhadd driven to Bev Le on March 18th Les Marais Marquand’s Spindle Back Gig.
The Breezing (Shallow Ploughing) will be held at Samares Manor by kind permission of Vincent and Gillie Obbard on October 29th. The AGM is on November 11th. The three shows seem a distant memory, we were fortunate to have three super BDS judges; Jo Halnan Blackwell, Sophie Adkins and Alexander Hogg who were particularly helpful to the three very inexperienced juniors. Each Show had a different Champion, Spring Show, Ivor Barette with his black Dutch horses Duke and Denis driven to a Roof Seat Brake, who went
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Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Reports Obituary
Barbara Mills 1947–2017
Hampshire AAC Barbara Mills sadly passed away, peacefully in her sleep, on Saturday 28th October 2017. She was well looked after at the nursing home in Fritham, where she spent her last few months and was often visited there by her many friends. Barbara was a stoic, fiercely independent person and so bore her illness bravely and without complaint, even when its progression meant she could no longer do the things she loved. Barbara was always busy and gave generously of her time. She hunted with the New Forest hounds, and drove her beloved coloured ponies, Polly and later Bill, both of which were used in her work for Driving for the Disabled.
She was a great campaigner and fundraiser for the charity SPANA and went out to see their work in several countries including Ethiopia and Morocco. A big presence in Hampshire BDS, Barbara worked tirelessly on the committee. She was a terrific organiser and always willing to help. Barbara will be greatly missed by all who knew her. Should you wish to make a donation to Barbara’s charities in her memory (SPANA, World Horse Welfare, The Brooke Hospital for Animals or Cancer Research UK), please send a cheque to J Sturney, Funeral Director, 62 High St, Lyndhurst, SO43 7BJ.
Hereford Area BDS leads the way in new events Herefordshire members of the BDS are a diverse crowd and we have tried to ensure that our activities offer something for everyone. Kay Walton AC, who was nominated to attend a Royal Garden Party at Buckingham Palace and was presented to HRH Prince Phillip this year. The varied enthusiasms of the Herefordshire BDS members keeps not only generating but supporting new ideas and so far lady luck has looked after us well. Although our own Royal Garden Party was a smaller scale affair in June last year the presence of stand-in Palace staff and royal personages ensured the event will go down in our history. Four successive years events at the National Trust Properties of Berrington Hall and Croft Castle attracted not only BDS members but brought carriage world to the general public. Early in 2017 the Gary Docking’s master class at Kings Equestrian Centre, Bromyard was another huge success. Attracting (to overflowing) Whips from near and far and with a good gathering of spectators. Our Agility Days attract great numbers with animals ranging from fourteen months to twenty six years and handlers from seven to eighty, we surely provide Jack for everyone. Beside these major events we have run rallies and educational sessions but never, ever, forget ladies lunches and other gourmet and social gatherings.
the five team equines. The more equines in a team the better the chances of a higher score. Each whip will select three events and each team will be required to have selected from all six stated events. Examples of planned events are Presentation, Cones, Off road rally competition, Difficulties, Dressage to music. Put it in your calendar for the beginning of June 2018 and watch out for the next update to yet another inaugural Herefordshire event.
BRING YOUR HORSE ON HOLIDAY TO NORFOLK Abbey Farm, East Walton, Kings Lynn. PE32 1PP www.abbeyfarmliveries.co.uk Self Catering Cottage Farmhouse B&B Camping Lorry parking Stabling/grazing Come for just a day or maybe a week Miles and miles of tracks and quiet lanes Routes of any length available Why not stop at a pub or tea rooms on your route Contact Rachel Lewis 07771675331
But the bandwagon rolls on and we are really going for it this winter! Who has been to a BDS Equine Pantomime? If not your chance is approaching. We will have you either crying or laughing with horses, ponies and donkeys all playing their parts with Cinderella. Do not despair if you miss out on the Christmas pantomime in December because we have great plans for next summer. These will again necessitate involvement from all and sundry and far and wide. We are planning to run a weekend inter team competition. We will be posting every month in 2018 updates and information but for now chat to your friends. Here is your starting point. A team can have up to a maximum of five horses/ponies or donkeys but must not include more than three singles ie multiples outfits could make up
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
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Area News
Scotland Chairman: Clive Rushton Green Email: CliveRG123@hotmail.com Tel: 07486 605898
Central Scotland Email: 1zoesanders@gmail.com AC Zoe Sanders Mob: 07756846816
Dumfries & Galloway AC Mr Douglas Robertson Tel: 01387 247347/07825 291948 Email: dougiepratt1961@hotmail.com
views, if only it had been a dry sunny day the views would have been amazing. On return to Lochhill members were treated to a wonderful two course lunch prepared by Helen.
AAC Miss Kirstin McBride Tel: 01461 758456/07854 120453 Email: kirstinmcbride@googlemail.com AAC Mrs Janette Watson Tel: 01557 870342/07889 060498 Email: janette.watson1@sky.com During my first year as AC the driving season has gone very quickly. I did not know how busy it would be but thanks to Kirstin and Janette for all their help in getting me through it. We had a few great evening drives held over the season and training days which were a great success for both adults and juniors. Thanks to Justin Hunter and Jean Clarkson for all their help and knowledgeable input.
Arran Callander driving Terregles Denzel
BDS Central Scotland held three events this summer and considering the small number of driving members in this area they were well attended. The first was the annual drive out at Glamis which was organised by Heather and Jock Gow. There was a choice of routes through the wonderful grounds of this magnificent castle followed by a picnic lunch with a cones course laid out to end the day. The second event was the annual drive at Tentsmuir Forest organised by Simon and Zoe Sanders. This is such a lovely place to drive on well- maintained tracks and forest paths. The going is always perfect and it is such a joy to have no road work. All eight drivers and their back steppers enjoyed a picnic, sheltered from the breeze! One driver who was missing on the day was Wendy Scott who tragically lost her lovely pony Penny that week, so sad and everyone wished her well. The last event was a fun day at West Newton organised by Audrey Barron. We started off with a two and a half kilometre drive through the beech woods which included a water hazard. This was a challenge to your AC driving her tandem in public for the first time! The BDS Trec difficulties followed which were laid out in the lovely grass arena, all decorated with flowers and well designed. Picnic lunch followed and Nigel M had baked three delicious cakes to finish off a grand picnic. One of the objects of the day was to discuss what events members would like to see organised for next year and I hope I will be able to manage some of these, but there is no doubt that both drive outs and fun days were high on the list together with talks on giving advice to new members on various topics. We had a good year and hope to do the same in 2018
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Diana McKendrick driving Nibbles
Claire Armet driving Jooles
Sadly, one of our great supporters and helpers Mr Hugh Gillan passed away earlier this year. Hugh was a great supporter of the club and helped out at all the events we held. His advice was most appreciated by both adults and juniors. Hugh will be greatly missed and our thoughts are with his widow, Pat.
Dates for your Diary Xmas Fun Day 10th December Annual Meeting, Saturday 21st of January 2018 at Arden House Hotel, Kirkcudbright Training Day Sunday 25th February Training Day Saturday 24th March Caroline Watson driving Llanarth Tango
The area show held at Barstobrick was well attended with some of the older members showing in traditional carts which were great to see. Mr Richard Lanni had a difficult task judging some great turnouts. A grand social gathering was held on Sunday 10th September with a drive hosted by John and Helen Jack at Lochhill Equestrian Centre. Eight turnouts drove a six mile route onto a high ridge road over- looking some lovely
Ian McKendrick driving Greg and Felix
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News Lothian & Borders Email: CliveRG123@hotmail.com AC Clive Rushton Green Mob: 07486 605898 AAC Nan Marshall nanettejane@fsmail.net AAC Ruth Martin ruth@halspan.com Since my last report we have had drive outs at Mellerstain and Bowhill, both lovely venues with great drives, unfortunately we had to cancel Spottiswood as the ground was waterlogged. We have also had the BDS Scottish Show, we are so lucky to be able to join with the Border Union Show, giving us a great venue and our Championship in the main ring with over a thousand spectators. This year’s very worthy winner was Rebecca Thompson with her Hackney Thinford Jacapo. We have seen this turnout improving year on year to become one that is very hard to beat.
Wendy Scott with Penny. Winner Ex Carts, Best Shod, 2nd Style and Performance and second cones
As you know I am stepping down from all things BDS however I think it’s important that we continually reinvent the society and no one should be in post for too long as we always need fresh ideas. They don’t even have to be better ideas just different and backed by enthusiasm otherwise things stagnate. So I am delighted to be able to tell you that the BDS Scottish Show will continue under a new team headed by Caroline Watson and your new AC’s, not one but two, are Nan Marshall and Anne Roberts. I would like to wish them all well with their new positions I am sure you will all give them your support. I would also like to thank you all for your friendship and support over the years it has been a pleasure and an honour to serve you and I hope you will continue to enjoy your driving. I’m not disappearing so if I can ever be of assistance to you, you know where to find me.
On 5th May we had a ‘Dressage and Cones Training Day’, this event was to coach Whips in the finer points of their dressage and for them to practise their cones driving, being judged if requested as well. Five turnouts attended. On 11th May, nine turnouts came to the first BDS Grampian Pleasure drive of the season at Haddo House, Ellon. The weather for the Wednesday evening drive was mild and dry and just perfect for the five singles, three pairs and a team to enjoy the 11km and 12km routes around the grounds of the striking stately home in Aberdeenshire that was home to the Gordon family for more than 400 years.
Rachael Stewart and Amos at Haddo House
Our next event wasn’t until 6th August when a new drive was introduced on the BDS Grampian Pleasure Driving calendar at Clashindarroch Forest, Aberdeenshire. Nine turnouts of five singles, two pairs and two tandems enjoyed the routes of 8km and 10km with one turnout doing both routes as they were having such a lovely time!
Clive Rushton Green
Grampian Rebecca Thompson Show Champion
Email: strathornfarm@yahoo.com AC Ruth Skinner Tel: 01464 851204 AAC Anne Thwaite Tel: 07751326404 Email: anne_thwaite@ yahoo.co.uk
Ruth Martin and Gypsey
Baxter and Jooles
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Well another season is over, hope everybody had a great time and did lots of driving. For us up here in Grampian region we have had quite a successful season. In April we had two events, on the 1st April was ‘Introduction to Driving’ at Strathorn Farm, Old Rayne, Aberdeenshire, where host and AC for Grampian, Ruth Skinner, saw a record attendance of ninteen people interested in Carriage Driving, they enjoyed a highly informative day, despite the torrential rain in the afternoon and all enjoyed a short drive each, under supervision, around the farm. On 5th April, at Maryculter Carriage Driving Centre, Maryculter Aberdeen, Jane MacInnes welcomed eleven young people aged from approx. 4 to 16 years to her ‘Junior Driving Day’. The children spent the day in groups learning parts of the harness, how to harness up, rein handling, putting to and then driving a single turnout under supervision. After lunch and after everybody had had their go of each part of the timetable for the day Ewan MacInnes put a pair of his warmbloods to a marathon vehicle and took the children out for group rides around the farm.
Alan Fraser Ross and family at Clashindarroch
September 2nd saw our drive at Fettercairn, this drive was brought forward from the original date and unfortunately the new date clashed with other events so only four turnouts, two singles, a pair and a tandem attended what was an amazing 22km route. Our last drive of the BDS Grampian Pleasure Drives was at Blackhall, Banchory with 7 turnouts attending what is always a great drive to end our season. We held our End of Year Meeting with Stovie Supper at Keith Hall Inverurie, our speaker for the meeting was Meg Morrison from Dodson and Horrell and her talk was Nutrition and the Performance of your Horse. Meg also gave each person attending a £5 gift voucher for Dodson and Horrell. Our prizes this year were awarded to ‘Most Drives Attended’, which we had three winners all of whom attended three drives each, they were Susan Holmes, Alan Ross and Elinor Bosenquet. Also, in our Newcomers Awards we had in 3rd place Yasmin Norrie with a single and one drive out, in 2nd place Jurgen Wahle with a pair of ponies and 2 drives and in 1st place with a combination of her Tandem of ponies and a single turnout and three drives is Sanchia May. Here is to a relaxing winter for all our horses and ponies who have worked hard this year, we look forwards to seeing you in 2018.
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Area News West of Scotland & Glasgow Email: kendallyoung99@ymail.com AC Kendall Young Mob: 07736 960081 AAC Carol McAllister Tel: 0771 3130103
The West of Scotland has had continuous rain for the whole of the times of year that we optimistically call Summer and Autumn which has had an effect on carriage drivers. Fields are flooded, some farmers haven’t even managed to make one cut of silage and hay and straw is very expensive and in very short supply. Everyone is hoping for a mild, dry winter. Once again this year mid week evening drive outs have not been well supported. We have had two super Sunday afternoon drives at Barskimming near Mauchline kindly hosted by the Hon Miss Jean Galbraith. Although we teasingly told her, that although she had given us a beautiful route
to drive and a splendid tea she didn’t manage to provide us with the wonderful weather that we have come to expect at Barskimming. Shows in the area have been well supported. Our own Driving Extravaganza held at Morris Equestrian Centre near Kilmarnock in April once again provided a showcase for many driving disciplines. This year’s judge was Robert Smyth from Northern Ireland who was very impressed with the standard of turnouts. Robert had a very busy day judging everything from potential driving horses and ponies to private driving single and multiple classes and also the popular heavy horse classes. Well done to our private driving champion Richard Lanni with his pair of Gelderlanders Symon and Vinny and to our reserve Gillian McNinch driving her pony The Longhouse Glam Rock. The heavy horse championship went to John and Margo McIntyre’s team of Clydesdales driven by Ron Brewster and reserve was Charlotte Young with her imported Canadian Percheron Jim driven to a ladies cart. The arena challenge was won by Wendy Scott driving Llanderfel Penny Black who she very sadly lost in August due to colic. West of Scotland members continued their winning streak at a very windswept Royal Highland Show with Gillian McNinch winning the private driving championship with The
Longhouse Glam Rock and taking the HOYS qualifier. Carol McAllister won the exercise class with Bughwallis Magic Moment and Charlotte Young was reserve overall heavy horse champion with her pair of black Percherons Buck and Jim. Well done to everyone who came out and showed this season. It is very dispiriting to set off for the show ring in the pouring rain knowing that in about half an hour’s time you will be back at your vehicle, you and your horse and groom soaked to the skin and to have to start scraping mud and grass off everything before you can get dried off yourself. I would like to say a huge thank you to everyone who has helped this year. Judges, stewards helpers and all the dogs bodies without who events could not take place.
Dates for the Diary 2018 Sunday 28th January 2018 WS annual meeting at the Blair Tavern, near Kilwinning followed by lunch. Sunday 15th April 2018 WS Driving Extravaganza at Morris Equestrian Centre near Kilmarnock.
Driving Holidays in
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Hampshire based Zilco distributor, offering everything you need for carriage driving, including harness sets/Parts/Driving Bits/ FLECK Driving Whips/Clothing, Competition items and USG Level 3 Body Protectors are now in stock
Monthly special Offers & secondhand harness also available. Donkey & Small Pony Harness Specialist Carriage Servicing now available Contact: Joanne Parrett Tel: 02392 632705 Mobile: 07472 448765 Email: sales@take-the-reins.co.uk
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Endless Scenic Country Drives. 3 to 5 day packages with self contained accommodation. Self drive, single, pair or team supplied with a groom.
Contact - Gary Rollans Tel: 0048 798057544 email: rollans@inbox.com view website www.studniskahorsecentrum.eu 148 G/2 Studniska Dolne 59-975 Poland
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Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News
Wales
Chairman: Michelle Peters Email: michellepeters2912@gmail.com Tel: 07966 515325
Mid East Wales Email: mjamham@gmail.com AC Mrs Ann Ham Tel: 01874 690253 AAC Anthea Birch AAC Elizabeth Powell Support Officer: Emily Ham
This summer has had something for everyone. Congratulations to Members who went further afield and graced us in the Showing Classes at, Caewys Warrington, Cheshire Anglesey, Filint And Denbigh Westmoreland and at Chatsworth with Diana, Anne and Mitch qualifying for Addington.
Handy Pony Day Results 1st Colin and Lyn 2nd Jacqui and Heather 3rd Ann and Elaine 4th Ed and Jess 5th tied Fay and Gwyn (threw the bucket and still only got one chicken in the nest!) and Eleri and Lynda 6th Carol and June 7th Kelly and Zena 8th Jeff and Sandra (tandem!) 9th Diana and Ann 10th Val and Carl.
Helpful Camping weekends at Erddig with AACs Zena, Fay and Gwyn always on hand to advise Gwyn is our resident “Mr Fix-it” nothing is too much trouble, need your vehicle repairing? Gwyn will “Fix-it” need help with your harness? Gwyn will “Adjust-it”. Need help putting-to? Gwyn is there. Best of all, need your burgers cooking? Yes Gwyn has a Bar-B-Q! We have missed Alwena and Dave both confirmed campers because Alwena has had an operation for two, yes two new knees! She is making good progress and is expected to appear before the end of the year.
North East Wales Email: edwina.lawsonhart@outlook.com AC Edwina Lawson Hart Mob: 07811 986 319 AAC Zena Spencer spencerz30@gmail.com AAC and Health and Safety Officer Faith Sanders Email: faith.sanders@btinternet.com AAC & Treasurer Lynda Roberts Email: lynda@lynda-roberts.co.uk AAC Janet Prytherc Email: janetprytherch@yahoo.co.uk AAC Julie Fergusson Email: julie.fergusson3@btinternet.com Firstly once again many thanks to all my AACs, their input and enthusiasm make Area 37 and carriage driving in North Wales quite exceptional. Talking with BC Officials it would appear that the integration we have of members between a BC Club and a BDS Area is quite unique! We all carriage drive, yes to different standards and may well have different goals but there is still an equine we care for in the shafts!!
Help at Erddig
June 11th AAC Julie Fergusson’s Forage Drive/Quiz with BDS and
National Trust working together included the “Meet and Greet” the public in front of Erddig Hall it was a hugely successful public relations exercise. The 2-minute timed questionnaires caused squawks when snatched back! Grooms who could not recognise garlic were castigated, Julie’s required collections kept everyone guessing and the day was great fun.
Forage Drive Results 1st Jacqui Garrett, 2nd Heidi Weijburg, 3rd Emma Jones, 4th Diana Rimmer, 5th Colin Walmsley 6th Faith Sanders ?
July 2nd AAC Julie Fergusson’s Handy Pony Day with Tasks and Cones was hotly contested. The eight “Tasks”
had to be demonstrated to all by Julie with one of her famous Course Walks! Everything was explained in detail including the extremely difficult “Chicken Chucking” task (not live!) that the grooms had to perform. Val was badly done to in the Cones to as we failed to realise that her axels were much wider than 125 cms! She did not get a clear round! Diana Ann and Mitch at Addington
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
AAC Fay and Gwyn aka Mr Fixit
Full marks to all the “Handy Ponies” none put a hoof wrong!
Kelly and AAC Zena Handy Pony
July 23rd The Area 37 Trec Qualifier again Julie had done us proud
with detailed maps and instructions. The Drive out was stewarded by Elfyn who clocked all in and out safely. Slight controversy by yours truly and Diana about whether the gate opening should be included in the timing! Tasks were exacting from the point of view of equine obedience and driver accuracy, but all competitors were pleased with their performance. We set an optimum time in the Cones which actually had a lot of bearing on the marks, Fay came the nearest all others had penalties. However Val did much better in the Cones as Gwyn has cut us a measuring stick and we can now set Cone width correctly for 150cm 2x wheelers.
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Area News Trec Qualifier Results 1st Fay, Gwyn with
Bob 2nd Dianna, Ann with Mitch 3rd Jacqui, Heather with Toby 4th Val, Carl with Robert 5th Colin, Lyn with Tally 6th Corinna and Tia 7th Kelly, Zena with Lucy. A Special Rosette went to Loraine with Oscar for Best Newcomer. A lovely lunch was provided by Courtyard Coffee Shop and Jess, lots of fun, HUGE thank you to Rachel Lancaster our Judge and all who helped with timing, marking and stewarding, especially Annabelle who was soaked by Gwyn.
August 19th–20th AAC Lynda’s Forest Drive in Clocaenog with
Saturday night entertainment is now an annual “Must go to” event. Heaven for carriage drivers and their grooms, no last minute cleaning, polishing and grooming just a no-hassle weekend of Off-Road driving. Fabulous weekend, Lynda had researched more routes which everyone appreciated even those who got lost!!! Our marquee was put to good use on Saturday night. Steve was in great voice and had everyone singing along.
September 10th The Area 37 Annual “Alternative Show” Show Champion Colin Walmsley with Tally Reserve Show Champion Jacqui Garrett with Julie’s Toby Champion/Best Groom Lyn Walmsley Smartest Groom Heidi Weijburg Champion Best Veteran Colin Walmsley Champion Best Novice Lorraine Jones with Oscar Champion Best Coloured Diana’s Kizzy driven by Linda Duley Champion Best Non Coloured Debbie Burns Pony Pair Overall Points 1st to 6th 1st Tally, 2nd Toby, 3rd Tia 4th Kizzy, 5th Valentine 6th Jock and Sunny. Thank you to Rachel Lancaster for being our Show Judge and staying on to help with the afternoons “Fun Classes” during dire weather conditions.
Shop lunch ably assisted with the drinks and cakes by Jess Hart. AAC Julie managed the “Grooms Tests” and several entries had a go at the Double-up Cones, with Heidi trying her hand at pair driving with Debbie’s Sunny and Jock. The weather caused an early finish with everyone helping Gwyn and Fay to pack the marquee away for the winter. Our worthy Points Champion was Colin Walmsley with Tally very ably assisted by his Champion “Groom” Lyn. Reserve Points Champion was Julie’s Toby Shown by herself in the morning and by her sister Jacqui in the afternoon, with Heather as “Groom “for both.
Waiting at the main cross roads I ran out of people to phone or text to pass the time!!! Drivers (not timed) enjoyed a peaceful hour or so to work out the anagrams along the 7 and 9 mile drive and then eventually returned past me – all smiles, luckily it was fine.
Anagram Drive Results 9 Mile 1st Jacqui and Heather with Toby. 2nd Fay and Gwyn with tandem Bob and Maisie. 3rd Russell and Pat and grooms with their perfectly behaved Team. 7 Mile 1st Stephanie Devereaux with Charlie. 2nd Michelle Shaw. 3rd Kelly and Zena with Lucy
Rachel’s In Hand Pony Class. Ist Lorraine’s Oscar. In Hand Horse. 1st Lyn with Tally.
4 Mile On her own in the class Lorraine and Fay with Oscar
Ex Vehicle Pony 1st Diana’s Kizzy 2nd Debbie’s Pair Sunny and Jock 3rd Lorraine with Osca.r Ex Vehicle Horse 1st Julie with Toby 2nd Corrina with Tia. Champion Best Coloured in harness was Diana’s Kizzy driven by Linda Duley and her best Non Coloured in harness was Debbie Burns’s pair Sunny and Jock. The Smartest Groom was Heidi Weijburg
Grooms with the winning Turnouts were presented with Special Rosettes. All future events are on the Website. Janet Prytherch has Social Events planned for us through the Winter. Indoor Bookings at Maelor will include Training and Fun
Afternoon Classes are the “Alternative” competitions, good grooms essential! Slow Walk “Race” 1st Jacqui 2nd Corrina 3rd Colin 4th Edwina 5th Linda 6th Lorraine 7th Fay 8th Debbie Slow Walk relay “Race” Partners were drawn on the day. 1st Colin and Fay. 2nd Edwina and Debbie, 3rd Jacqui and Corrina, 4th Lorraine and Linda. Fast Walk “Race” with breaks of pace incurring penalties. 1st Fay, 2nd Colin 3rd Ann 4th Edwina 5th Corrina 6th Jacqui 7th Linda 8th Debbie. Groom go Shopping with a twist, included the dreaded Chicken Chucking! Grooms Draw WHO? It was the Queen, 1st Lyn who could be in line for the next portrait! 2nd Corinna 3rd Ann 4th Debbie 5th Jacqui 6th Linda 7th Jess 8th Fay.
24th September The Anagram Drive This idea came from our “Queen of the Puzzles” Yes AAC Julie Fergusson. I have banned suduko!!! Three different drives out to choose from, 9 Mile, 7 Mile or 4 Mile all with anagrams to solve from signs, house names or anything else that Julie had spotted along the routes!
North West Wales AC Morfydd Greatorex Tel: 01248 601012 AAC Neil Buffery Tel: 01654 712727 AAC Michael Greatorex mike@tygweddings.co.uk
With winter fast approaching and the nights drawing in we look forward to the year 2018. I would like to thank all the members that have supported our events in 2017 and wish you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year. Our area BDS Trec event was well attended this year with six competitors, the winner was Morfydd Greatorex with Jac, runners up were Sophie Thomas, Neil Buffery, Tony Tharme, Sharne Bellis and Elizabeth Brown. Our next local event was the North Wales show with only two competitors in the driving classes, 1st Morfydd Greatorex with Jac 2nd Sharne Bellis with Jaffa, 1st junior whip Sophie Thomas with Jac. Champion M. Greatorex, reserve S. Bellis.
Show Lunch
AAC Janet was our dual purpose Chief Steward and photographer and to all others who turned up to help my grateful thanks. AAC Fay and Gwyn erected the marquee and put up the sound system for our resident Speaker/ Commentator Elfyn. Lunch in the marquee was a lovely get together for a Courtyard Coffee
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Trec competitors
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News
Cones competitors
Next was the summer cones with good entries in all classes. Long reigning 1st N. Buffery 2nd S. Bellis 3rd S. Roberts. Novice pony 1st P. Tharme 2nd N. Buffery 3rd S. Roberts. Open cones 1st M. Greatorex 2nd S. Thomas 3rd M. Greatorex. OAP cones 1st P. Tharme 2nd A. Tharme 3rd J. Brown. Junior whip 1st S. Thomas 2nd M. Bellis. Challenge 1st M. Greatorex 2nd S. Bellis 3rd N. Buffery. Handy pony 1st M. Greatorex 2nd S. Thomas 3rd A. Tharme.
Shire Horse open day
Llanrwst show was next with two competitors, Champion M. Greatorex Reserve S. Bellis. Cerrigydrudion show was after with just M. Greatorex competing on the day. The Shire Horse Society open day was held at the end of August with our BDS area putting on two cones displays. We all had a great day with good feedback from the spectators that came to see us.
Jubilee Drive Group
Forthcoming Events 3rd Dec. Indoor Christmas cones at Bryn Derw, Nr. Llanberis to start at 10am Champion and Reserve from Llanrwst Show Pat and Tony Tharme
The Jubilee drive / Treasure hunt was held in Newborough forest with six members enjoying a great day out, having to collect different objects and solve clues on the planned route. Everyone who took part was presented with a special jubilee rosette.
16th Dec. BDS Christmas quiz/Presentation night with buffet £10 per person to start at 7pm there will be an area meeting prior to the quiz. 30th Dec. Newborough forest drive for permit holders only, weather permitting 28th Jan. Indoor training day at Bryn Derw, Nr. Llanberis to start at 11am £20 per turnout 25th Feb. Indoor training day at Bryn Derw, Nr. Llanberis to start at 11am £20 per turnout 24th Mar. Indoor Easter cones at Bryn Derw, Nr. Llanberis to start at 11am 22nd April Newborough forest drive for permit holders only
Sue Roberts
In July local members of the Shire Horse Society asked if we could hold an introduction to driving day for them which was held in Llanllechid, with over ten members attending to have a look at harnessing up, different types of harness and carriages and then having a go at long reigning and back stepping. All having fun and learning a lot. Some local shows came next with Anglesey show seeing some new competitors this year the pleasure driving class had good entries of six well done to Dianna Rimmer with Mitch for winning the class and being champion. There were only two in the private driving which was a shame, Mr. E Mills and Mrs A. Birch with her section ‘C’ pony driven by Miss R. Ralph.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
20th May Cones day at Neil Buffery’s, Llanegrin to start at 11am Morfydd Greatorex and Sophie Thomas
Please remember to re-new your BDS membership as it is coming up to that time of year.
3rd June BDS Area 55 show at Barn Cottage, Llanllechid 9th June Bethesda show with driving classes (non BDS event) 17th June BDS Area 55 Trec competition July North Wales show Caernarfon with driving classes (non BDS event) 15th July BDS Area 55 summer cones at Barn Cottage, Llanllechid For more information on all of the above events please contact Morfydd Greatorex.
John and Elizabeth Brown
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Area News South East Wales Email: patriciadutson@gmail.com AC Patricia Dutson Tel: 01495 791898
The all Wales BDS Trec Final 1st Jane Friend 2ndHelen Mann 3rd Jack Kedward (junior) 4th Debbie McPhee 5th Rachael Royal 6th Katrin Crabbe
South Mid Wales AC Joanne Lambert Mob: 07814288369
AAC Karen Morgan Tel: 01291 641244 AAC Bethanie Headworth Tel: 07920 016901
South West Wales
We have had a good summer this year. Several rallies were held with no rain. Our show was very successful with great weather and competitors and we even made a small profit.
AC Mrs Gwenda Kesans Tel: 01792 01792 651522 Mob: 07970 424128 Email: Gwen.kesan@virgin.net
Our annual BDS Trec was well attended and our first three placed drivers went through to the final which we held in September. The final was a lovely venue thanks to Karen and David Morgan on whose land we held it. There was rather a lot of traffic due to an accident on the main road causing drivers to take short cuts through the lanes we were using. Every-one coped well however and arrived back at the field in one piece for the obstacles. Our winners were well pleased with themselves, as they should be. We were very fortunate to have had lots of support from the areas around us. Their members came and acted as score-keepers for all our field events. Our final event this year is to be a rally at Shirenewton which I hope will be well attended. It would be nice to have a big turnout to end the year.
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First Jane Friend
I am looking for some-one to take over the area next year. I have a very busy life and would be happy to hand over this responsibility. I will of course, be more than happy to support a new AC and to do everything I can to make their role easier. Please contact Michelle Peters if you would like to take on this role.
West Wales Email: admin@pant-y-cendy-hall.co.uk AC Penny Hopkins Tel: 01267 281738 Mob: 07850 589121 AAC Mrs Dee Williams Tel: 01994 453571 AAC Mrs Tina Rae AAC Mrs Maggie McMullen Mob: 07799704658 Treasurer: Mrs Susan Jackson
Second Helen Manns
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Reports
Junior Competition I am aged seventeen and driven from the age of seven and competed with the British Driving Society from the age of nine. Having qualified my Hackney pony ‘Stapleford March’ earlier in the year for the National’s, I then concentrated on the rest of the season. I competed at The British Driving Society’s Annual Show at Smiths Lawn, Windsor and stood Junior Young Driver Champion, being presented the sash by HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh.
I have driven further ponies to varying carriages since Levens Eddie and I am currently competing two hackney bred ponies, Stapleford March and Noddy Vyse Show Girl.
Ham Photography
My driving started with a Shetland Cross pony by the name of Levens Eddie. Once I had become familiar with the fundamentals of carriage driving and driving coach hand, I then went to watch a show at my local Beds, Bucks, Herts BDS Area to investigate if it was something that I wanted to try. Once I had seen a driving show, I established that there were classes that I could take part in with the harness and vehicle that I was practicing at home with. So we cleaned and polished everything, bathed the pony and went to our next area show and we have been showing ever since.
Leah Marshall at Smiths lawn
My showing aspirations have always included winning the Junior Championships at the British Driving Society’s Annual Show and Osborne National Championships and had stood reserve at both these events in previous years. I have always wanted to win these Junior Championships. I do not usually get nervous when I compete but I felt ‘butterflies’ before going in to each of the Championships. It was such an amazing experience to meet HM The Queen and HRH The Duke of Edinburgh and something that I shared with my family who had come to help and spectate. The Royal presentation to the champions of the day and the end of day Parade is something very special to all of the BDS members.
Ham Photography
I
Ham Photography
Annual Show Junior Champ – Royal Parade
Junior National Champ presentation 2017
I rounded the 2017 season off at Addington Manor Equestrian Centre with the Junior Young Driver Championship win at the Driving Addington Osborne Refrigerators National Championships. Sue Townsend presented the rosettes, sash and photo frame which marked the occasion for me as I have attended the John Parker Swingletree summer camp in past years.
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
think it is beneficial for my ponies to take part in other activities in addition to showing and this year I have also taken part in what is a relatively new driving event to the UK; The Attelage De Tradition. It involves a three phase competition with traditional carriages, and encompasses a Presentation; an inspection of the whole turnout. Routier; 16 kms drive with ‘difficulties’ and finally the Maniabilite cones course. This form of competition makes a nice change for my pony and she seems to enjoy taking part in an alternative to showing. I have also taken part in the Windsor Park Charity Drive for a number of years. Not only is it a beautiful scenic drive, but I also enjoy supporting the WPEC’s chosen charity; The Alexander Devine Children’s Cancer Trust My ponies are now both on their winter holidays and enjoying a wellearned rest, ahead of 2018 preparations.
Leah Marshall BDS Member, Area Beds/Bucks/Herts
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Area News
Northern Ireland Chairman: Liz Kelly-Ward Hon. Secretary: Margaret Carlisle Treasurer: Mrs Staceyann Strain
Northern Ireland Email: margaret.carlisle@hotmail.co.uk AC Margaret Carlisle Tel: 02892 665893
The inclement weather over the past few months has not been in the favour of equestrian events. I hope that storm ’Ophelia’ on 16th/17th October did not do any damage to your property. Lots of fallen trees and electricity interference was felt by many. Let’s hope we will not have another experience like this one for many years to come. Chairman Liz Kelly-Ward continues to make progress and our good wishes are extended to her that she will soon be well and out and about enjoying carriage driving. A speedy recovery is wished to all our members who are ill at present, also sincere sympathy to anyone who has had a recent bereavement.
the weather was kind to us. The Judge was BDS Panel Judge Mr. Robert Smyth (Comber) with stewards Mr. Eugene Larkin and Mr John Powell. 17TH September 2017 Country Comes to Town Portadown was another success with Judge Mr L Murdock. The Champion of the Private Driving Classes was our Member John Weir jnr driving ‘Rosehall Alexander to a Butcher’ Cart. John also won the Light Trade Class driving ‘Rosehall Alexander’ Reserve Champion was Ruairi Creighton driving ‘Felix’ to a Bread Van. Ruari also won the Junior Whip Class. 7th October 2017 Mervyn Ward drove his well admired team of Welsh Cobs to the Country Fair to the venue at Ballyward Parish Church. The weather was somewhat inclement. May I take this opportunity to wish all our Members a Very Happy Christmas and a Healthy and Prosperous New Year. Enjoy your Equestrian Sport.
CONGRATULATIONS are the order of the day for the following:N .I. Branch Treasurer Mrs. Staceyann Strain graduated on Friday 20th October 2017 at Queen’s University, Belfast with a Degree in ‘Child Care’. Well Done Staceyann. Fair day
Winner
Ulster Folk and Transport Invitation Drive 27th May 2017 Members enjoyed an Invitation drive of traditional type vehicles at the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum. The weather was a beautiful warm May day, the scenery breathtaking and an enjoyable time was had by all. After morning coffee and scones Dr. Mark Kennedy (Curator) and Mr. Robert Berry (Farm Manager) took the group on a tour of the museum’s collection of horse drawn vehicles. Those who participated in the drive around the country lanes at the Museum were nine year old Mia Smyth driving ten year old ‘Rockie’ a Shetland pony, harnessed to a Bellcrown vehicle. Grandfather Robert Smyth was groom. Mia also rides ‘Rockie’ and has now learnt to drive him under tuition from her grandfather.
Mrs Staceyann Strain and family at her Graduation
An Engagement has been announced by club Member Kathryn Kelly and David Ogle. Kathryn is the youngest daughter of our Chairman Liz Kelly-Ward.
Denis O’Neill with groom Carol Stamp drove a twelve year old Hackney pony ‘Bold as Brass’ to a four wheel American Phaeton. John Weir jnr harnessed ‘Rosehall Alexander’ a seven year
New baby daughter named Lucy – has been born to Mr and Mrs John Gourley Mrs Donna Gourley is the daughter of our Member Mrs Vera Fawcett, Grandmother Vera is delighted with the safe arrival of her grand daughter. On 27th May Members were invited to The Ulster Folk and Transport Museum, to hold a Carriage Drive of traditional type vehicles. (report below). Lurgan Agricultural Show on Saturday 3rd June 2017 had a good number of competitors and
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Trade turnout
Charity Drive
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Area News
Charity Drive
old Cob to a Butcher’s Cart, John Weir snr was groom. Mervyn Ward yoked a pair of Welsh Cobs ‘Fred’ and ‘Navigator’ to a wagonette with David Mathers and Neil Weir as grooms and John Powell as passenger.
Driving Society convey sincere thanks to the Curator Dr. Mark Kennedy, farm Manager Robert Berry and staff of the Ulster Folk and Transport Museum for their kind Invitation, hospitality and hard work in organising this wonderful event which was appreciated by us all.
Charity Drive
Forthcoming Events 26TH May 2018 (Saturday) BDS Ballynahinch Show – this is the 20th Anniversary of the Show. Contact Margaret 02892665893
Charity Drive
Training and Test Days – dates to be confirmed – contact Liz Kelly-Ward 028406713
TRADITIONAL CARRIAGE DRIVING Charity Drive
Man Lindsay Hanna with groom Nigel Strain drove a pair of Welsh Cobs ‘Caleb’ and Josh’ to a Victoria built in the early 1900’s. His passengers were Jacqueline Powell and Margaret Carlisle. Ruairi Creighton with grandfather Jimmy Creighton harnessed ‘Felix’ an Irish Cob to a London Trolley which was restored in 2005 by Gordon Cahoon, Sion Mills. Jonathan Carnduff with groom Benny McAuley drove ‘Franko’ a seven year old ‘Dutch Warm Blood’ to a four wheel vehicle built by ‘Romback of Achem’ John McDermott yoked a pair of Clydesdale Horses ‘Sam’ and ‘Alex’ to a Bottle Dray with Scott Hanna as groom. The harness with silver mounts and silver lamps completed the turnout. The Clydesdale horses are used daily to work on the farm and are broken to be ridden. Members of the Northern Ireland Branch-British
4th Concours Internationale d'Attelage de Tradition 25th and 26th August 2018 Entries close 20th July 2018 A sociable three phase competition for Traditionally-built Carriages (5 classes) Euston Hall Estate, Thetford, Suffolk IP24 2QH by kind permission of the 12th Duke and Duchess of Grafton Saturday 2pm Standing Presentation Sunday approx 9am Routier (drive with skills) Sunday 2pm Maniabilité (cones competition) Sunday 4pm Prize Giving and Final Parade Entry Forms from Event Secretary Eunice Binder 01473 830 326 email: eunicebinder@btinternet.com Spectators and Parking FREE. Refreshments available
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
British Driving Society
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Reports
Junior Commissioners report
Leah Marshall BDS National Young Driver Champion
BDS Wales Junior Camp 2017
Ham Photography
It’s been a busy summer for lots of our young drivers with shows, Trec, rallies and special events. The BDS Wales camp was again a top favourite with three full days of driving related activities. The ACs who ran camp along with BDS Welsh chair Michelle Peters must have been thrilled with everyone’s enthusiasm and how much they learnt! There were lots of driving sessions and coaching hand was very popular with dressage and cones driven by choice in the traditional style. There are new faces every year and this time we had youngsters from further afield in England which is fantastic! All are welcome and it’s amazing value for money thanks to the generosity of the ACs and BDS members who bring their horses for everyone to use and give so generously of their time. The young drivers are extremely lucky to have these opportunities. A heartfelt thank you to all involved.
Jack Kedward Reserve Champion Young Driver BDS Addington
You simply print off and fill in your form for the past year’s driving and it should be sent to the Snowdons by the end of February. It’s a performance scheme where you get points for taking part and more points for achievement in different activities over the year…everyone who enters gets a certificate and the winners are awarded lovely trophies to keep.
I have been extra busy this year giving a presentation on the Young Drivers to Council in April, to the ACs at Addington and finally to everyone at the AGM. I am delighted to announce that the BDS is fully supporting the David Snowdon Award Scheme which is a wonderful award to encourage and reward young BDS drivers for all their driving activities. The updated details are now on the BDS website under Young Drivers. DO ENTER!
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British Driving Society
The Ian Townsend Portfolio Competition older category was won by Rebecca Jones with Leah runner up, and Llewellyn Chapman won the younger age group with Sian Rooke runner up. Neither Rebecca nor Sian have horses of their own or in the family and get their experience by helping out with other people who drive and by going to training opportunities such as camp. Sarah Wildy, BDS judge and assessor, who marked the portfolios was full of praise for this year’s entries: “They have shown enthusiasm, commitment and especially with the younger sector, great improvement over the year. One concern is that three come from South Wales and only one from elsewhere since there are drivers in most parts of Britain who could take part….” So come on young drivers. Don’t be shy to have a go!
There are other young driver events that seem much more daunting to enter…but they really aren’t! It was so disappointing this year to have to cancel the BDS Brian Sims Scholarship Day as the entries dropped away at the last minute. This is the chance to win £500 for training! Do consider taking part next year, the goal isn’t to win first time, though you might! It’s something that you can work towards and people are often successful on their second try as they have more confidence about what’s involved. It’s a day that’s intended to support young drivers and be enjoyable! There are full details on the website and I am happy to answer Concentrating on the any queries however coaching hand small.
Ham Photography
Amy Stone, a winner this year, has a lovely piece for you to enjoy reading.
Ham Photography
Laura Priestly at Addington in the Trec Class
Ham Photography
Ham Photography
The BDS show at Addington rewarded the young drivers who turned up, with Jack Kedward taking the 14 and under championship and Reserve overall and Leah Marshall the senior young driver championship and Overall Championship. Jack was also second in the Exercise class and Laura Priestly was second in the new Trec class both proving that young drivers give the adults real competition!
Putting to and harness checks
With winter fast approaching the dark evenings are a good time to get going with a simple record of your driving and interests related to it whatever those may be, perhaps you like trade vehicles or fancy coaches or are interested in driving breeds. Care of the driving horse is something to work on and the ponies you use will love the attention! Best wishes to you all for safe driving and a happy Christmas!
Emily BDS Commissioner for Young Drivers Please contact me on emilyrham@gmail.com
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Reports
Amy Stone David Snowdon Award Amy Stone being presented with the David Snowdon Award 2017 at the BDS AGM
My name is Amy Stone and I am 17 years old. I was recently awarded the David Snowdon Award to acknowledge my carriage driving achievements during 2016/17. The scheme is open to all juniors up to and including the age of 18 years. It works on a points system and you gain points for pretty much all driving activities that you take part in. My points were gained in several different areas, showing, Trec, cones and drives etc. The scheme is really straightforward to take part in, you print off the entry form online via the BDS website, take it to any event you take part in and get the judge/ organiser to sign the form. You then submit your completed form by the closing date specified. It’s not a test or at all difficult to take part in, it’s more like a diary that you can look back on and see your achievements throughout the year and I was lucky enough to receive a lovely trophy that I get to keep.
Wordsearch Carriage Driving Sarah Dance Wales Camp L T E R R E T K M L O T I R C R U P P E R S T S V A T E R S R E T W H I E C A R R I A G E B X Z R E B I T S T I R R U P P S W I N G L E T R E E O A H C O L L A R Y A T O D I H A C K N E Y E S L A N D A U G O L E H B L I N K E R S I R A I W H I P M O P V E F T A N D E M W O E D T B W R N R E L R A S E A B H A Y W E E Y C E W H I G I G R E I N S
GROWLER LIVERY BLINKERS SHAFTS GIG LIVERPOOL BIT REINS DRAG HACKNEY SPOKE TERRET WHIP COLLAR CARRIAGE TRACES CRUPPER LANDAU TANDEM
Can you find one more word for a device that carriages have so that the horses don’t get rubbed shoulders? Did you wonder what GROWLER was? Why not look it up!
ANSWER ON PAGE 47 Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Sarah Dance, who brought her two girls from Hampshire to BDS Wales camp and helped out with all the young drivers, sent me this on returning home afterwards: “Wow! What a three days. I’m not sure who got more out of it me or the girls. It was a fantastic experience for us and I am so grateful to you all for including my young children and making us feel so welcome and part of it. Although Sarah Dance's daughter enjoying driving Miggy exhausted, the girls with a great cones round didn’t sleep a wink on our long journey home instead they were planning their return for next year and how to kidnap the wonderful Shetland ponies they fell in love with. It was an experience that they will never forget.”
British Driving Society
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Reports
Oz Trec
Norwegian ponies at USA Trec
paying off the volunteers will improve the drivers’ scores (which of course it doesn’t, as everybody knows), but there is great fun to be had by spoiling the volunteers and thinking up creative safety spares to impress the safety judge into giving extra credit points.
Serena the donkey
Driven Trec has been taken on board in several countries after being devised in 2002 as BDS Trec by Linda Swain, who continues to be in contact with several foreign clubs via email. The introduction of Oz Trec to Australian driving was the brain child of the Bellarine Harness for Pleasure Club. The sport originated in France and was called Le Trec. It was originally devised to test the expertise of equestrian tourist guides (on horseback). It then developed into a sport in its own right catering for all abilities. It isn’t hard to see why the UK carriage driving fraternity didn’t take long to pick up on the popularity of Trec events and soon developed their own BDS Trec. There are also a good number of ridden Le Trec activities in Australia run by Horse Riding Clubs of Victoria as there are BHS events in Great Britain. So on to Bellarine Club’s innovation. In February 2013 the club ran the first Oz Trec day at their club grounds in Inverleigh and as it was an extremely hot day some activities were modified slightly (an often necessary Aussie modification). After a safety check drivers did a 5km course which included a 500m walk at the end. A lunch break was followed by drivers inspecting the eight obstacles/encounters before harnessing up and attempting to negotiate the course. Some of the “encounters” included negotiating cones, backing horse into a “parking bay”, crossing over some carpet, putting one wheel up on a plank and continuing along the plank.
Not a club to sit on its hands members have now put together a great programme for Oz Trec competitions.
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September 2017 update from Australia; `Hi Everyone, hope you’re all well and enjoying your driving. We are into Spring now here but of course Mother Nature was blowing a gale for our Oz Trec on Sunday. We had eighteen entries (including new drivers and two Juniors) and fifteen activities for everyone to work their way around, which seemed to work well. The 5 km drive out was a very pleasant drive over some dirt tracks and sealed roads close to the club grounds. My new pony got a bit over whelmed with the flapping flags so we will have to work on that before next time, but he did his first solo drive out with flying colours (or fluoro colours, I should say. We have an annual “Bribe Master” and “Concours D’Fluoro” trophies as well and I was delighted to win the concours trophy. We also had sponsorship from a Saddlery store so all winners received a voucher, which was lovely.
Haflinger pair at USA Trec
I’m always impressed by the variety of conditions to which Trec can be adapted. Maree, you guys run your cross-country phase through town roads, don’t you? Sounds like you do, too, Linda? Here in wild Washington we try to find natural features for the skills that would mimic something that “real” Treckers would find in an outback adventure situation. I’m very pleased to be able to stay in touch with you nice folks and to see TREC growing in popularity. In fellowship, Merridy`
Our volunteers were spoilt with goodies from the drivers and every pony received a carrot in their competitors pack. Cheers – Maree `
And then from the USA – `Here in Washington State, we have never run a driven Trec with a true orienteering crosscountry phase, though we’d like to do it. We do use a map room so that people will get some kind of an idea of wayfinding, but we also make it pretty easy to stay on track. We haven’t lost anybody yet. Like you, we have not yet kept times for the skills phase. An aspect of our Washington Trecs that seems to have taken on a life of its own is the drivers bringing special things for the volunteers. It’s supposed to be a big joke that
Checking for Bribes at USA Trec
Mini pony at USA Trec
Magazine Issue 368 – Winter 2017
Carriages at the Castle
Junior Scholarship Application Form 2017
Name of Young Driver. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Address . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
Scotland’s Attelage. . . . de . . . . . . .Tradition . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . at . . . . . .Glamis . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Castle ............................................
By kind permission . . . . . . . . . of . . . . .the . . . . . . .Earl . . . . . . . of . . . . .Strathmore .................................................................
Glamis Castle is one of Scotland’s most channel; The Reverse, backing the vehicle Telephone number. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . beautiful Castles set in the rolling Angus 3 metres between cones set at 3 metres country side. Home of the late Queen apart; The Salute, reins and whip in one BDS Membership number .Date of Birth. . . . . . . . . . . . . Mother and the setting for Shakespeare’s hand and the appropriate salute in a Macbeth you couldn’t wish for a more corridor 2.20ifmetres wide; ThetoStop a Portfolio Please state you only wish enteronthe perfect setting for a carriage event. slope, stopping the carriage on a slope competition. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Yes / No As ever in Scotland we try to be as with the wheels between two marked inclusive as possible and so alongside the lines the old favourite The Champagne Nameand of driving teacher (s) if applicable. . . . . . . . . . . . Attelage de Tradition we run a shadow Challenge offered a range of problems to Driving Experience if applicable. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . event for non traditional vehicles. This the drivers. Surprisingly the champagne has resulted in two of last year’s nonchallenge caused the most problems with . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . traditional event entrants purchasing only seven turnouts completing without original vehicles for this year’s event penalty, probably due to the reluctance Signature Date. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . which has to be a good thing and no of carriage drivers to put down a glass of D. Calvert at Presentation better time to buy one. Attelage is not champagne. The reverse was the Please return this completed formsecond to the BDS Office, Endersley, Church Road,Wingfield, Eye, Suffolk IP 21 5QZ like any other driving competition, the highest with only eight drivers completing th by 10 July weekend is as much about the sociability interaction and friendship as it without penalty. The turnout with the2017. lowest score of the day was is about the actual driving. This gives the whole weekend a relaxed and Caroline Watson driving Llanarth Tango with only 13 penalties. With Gilly convivial atmosphere. To set the tone we started on Friday evening with Chippendale, Alan Ross and David Calvert all having good low scores the a welcome buffet and drinks evening hosted as ever by the wonderful cones were going to be the deciding factor in the final results. Sandi Lanni and who then with her amazing team of helpers kept The Maniabilite (cone driving) was a lovely sweeping course designed everyone fed and watered for the whole weekend. by Geoff Atkins and with the scores close every cone counted. The Saturday competition started in And so to the results. In the nonthe sunshine with the presentation in traditional event our runaway winner was front of our three Judges. Returning for our only Junior Arran Callander driving a second time were Caroline Douglas Terregles Denzel a very perky Shetland. He and Andrew Counsell and having his first was the winner of the Single Pony class, visit to Glamis, Gordon Marks. The judges, Gentleman Whip, and our overall Nonwho have 10 minutes each to scrutinise Traditional Champion. A fantastic result the turnouts, were very complimentary and I’m sure we will be seeing a lot more about the high standard even admitting of him. Reserve Champion was Audrey in some cases being hard put to find Barron with her highland pony Kincardine anything say accept that they were a Bluebell. Other notable results and who pleasure to judge. The winner with an were class winners were Faith Szczuka almost perfect score was Richard Lanni with her FEI tandem and our only donkey driving Ruth Martins Merioneth Tymesti entry Claire Armet with her ever popular Storm a Welsh Section C pony to a 1895 tandem Joules and Baxter who are always Attelage Champion and prolific show driver Caroline Watson Driving Lawton Gig. Ruth who was the winner a great hit with the crowds. her Welsh Section D to a Dog Cart last year of the pony class being unable In the traditional classes our Champion to drive having recently broken her leg. was Caroline Watson who was second in Presentation, won the Routier The evening festivities started with a champagne reception in the and third in the Cones making her the clear and well deserved winner castle with a private tour which was both informative and very funny, and I think the phrase ‘you could have knocked her down with a feather’ followed by dinner in one of the most magnificent rooms. A table for was made for such moments. Reserve Champion was Gilly Chippendale 50 diners topped with some priceless silverware made it an evening with her Fell pony Skennerskeugh Smoke. Our third tandem of the to remember. For those brave enough to face the notorious Scottish competition is probably unique being a Welsh X Dartmoor in the wheel midges there was the outdoor showing of Mama Mia to watch on a giant and a Hinny in the lead beautifully driven by Kendal Young another class screen in front of the Castle to finish off a most memorable day. winner. On Sunday we were joined by the non-traditional vehicles competitors Full results are on the Attelage de Tradition web site, well worth a visit. who started with a standing The event went smoothly, and presentation in front of Judges Jane everyone entered into the spirit of MacInnes and Maureen Hogg with things and at the Sunday evening Zoe Sanders coming out on top pub supper spontaneously organised driving Brookfield Triple Crown. by the lovely Dumfriesshire crowd to The Routier driven on the tracks which anyone still there was invited around the castle consisted of three the atmosphere was relaxed, happy, routes 6km for donkeys and small friendly and as they say in Scotland ponies, 9km for ponies and 13km for good craic. horses. The five difficulties selected As ever we cannot run these events and which all had to be completed without the support of our sponsors, without the use of brakes were The helpers and being given access to Rail, driving 15 meters with your such wonderful locations and our front right wheel between a 30cm thanks go to everyone involved. Carriages at the Castle Photo Call
Word Search Answer : SWINGLETREE