Bds magazine winter 2016 (issue 365)

British Driving

Issue No. 365 Winter 2016

Junior Report

www.britishdrivingsociety.co.uk

Drive Out

SOCIETY

Area Activities

British Driving I can’t believe that’s another year almost in, where does the time go! Once again I am ordering in the winter hay and bedding for my equines, sheep, cow and alpacas. The menagerie seems to keep growing every year.

I’m delighted that we have another two submissions for the Junior Competition, the prize is very worthwhile especially with the subscriptions going up. The result will be announced in the next magazine and a 2017 subscription arranged for the winner.

The Junior Camp held at the Monnington Court in Hereford was a huge success and the many happy photographs are testament to the great fun but educational weekend they all had. Everyone gives so much of their time and experience they all deserve a very big pat on the back.

You might have heard a loud cheer go up here in Scotland when Richard Lanni with his lovely pair of Gelderlanders Vinney and Symen became a popular and worthy winner at the Horse of the Year Show. Well done Richard!

While we’re talking winners, at Driving Addington Malcolm Salter won the

BDS Supreme National Private Driving Championship with Mike Clark’s Welsh Cob Newydd Beau. Another top notch turn out.

The Leafspring awards sponsored by the Vyse family and which were presented at the AGM again attracted a good number of drivers. This demonstrates there are still lots of lovely original and traditional vehicles out there and drivers willing to put in the time and effort to show them off.

At the very important grass roots level the AC activity diaries for 2016 have had lots going on and while some have had huge support others still struggle to entice their members to attend events.

It can be a thankless job being an AC so if you can be of any small assistance to them I’m sure they would be very grateful. One of the hardest things seems to be knowing what it is that members want.

I look forward to hearing from you in the New Year and while it may be a bit early to be wishing everyone seasons greeting, none the less a happy Christmas and a merry New Year to you all.

SOCIETY

Contents 4

Addington Report

7

Horse of the Year Show Report

8

England Area Activities

33 & 36

Junior Competition Submissions

34 Scotland Area Activities 37

Wales Area Activities

41 AGM, Publicity Report and Annual Accounts

42 Northern Ireland Activities

Safe driving

Joan

44 Junior Commissioners Report Provisional Magazine Copy Submission Dates for 2017/18 SPRING EDITION 23rd January

SUMMER EDITION 17th June

WINTER EDITION 27th October

Production Remous Ltd – 01963250920 Front cover Malcolm Salter winner of the BDS Supreme National Private Driving Championships with Mike Clark’s welsh cob Newydd Beau. 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 this class was no exception with Steve Watts` grand homebred cob Trixies Brenin Gwalia showing how it’s done.

Meanwhile the two outside arenas had been busy with plenty for commentator Jim Noad to talk about and good weather for all to enjoy.

Northern Riding Centre`s non Hackney class was the scene for Mandy Burdick`s eye catching Horsmens Momentum to gain his first win of the day with the veteran Welsh Sec. D Jet in second place owned and driven by Ray Linard.

Photo: ES Photography

Mandy soon followed up with another first place in the Lady and Gentleman Whip class kindly sponsored by Geoff Dudley.

Driving Addington 2016

Mandy Burdick – Carriagehouse Insurance Concours winner

Spectators, competitors and sponsors all gathered at the impressive venue in Buckinghamshire of Addington Manor Equestrian Centre on 24th September for the Osborne Refrigerators BDS National Championships.

The majority of the Osborne Refrigerators classes were held in the spacious International Indoor Arena starting with Gilly Chippendale`s grey Fell Stennerskeugh Smoke heading the Mountain & Moorland class from Christine Bassett and the Highland pony Staffin Peggi of Castlegreen, the latter also taking the non Hackney type class under 13.2hh later in the morning.

The commentator throughout the day indoors was Sarah Dance and her attendance was very much appreciated.

Welsh A, B and C`s were won by Nicola Salter and her nice Sec. B Brynllwyn Quick Flash from Jean Clayden`s Cosford Iziwotnot driven by Jessie Dudley-Appicella. This was a strong class with the first three placed being HOYS qualifiers, the third place going to Menai Leo and Mike King from Oxfordshire, who also won the Smith Bros. open class for Welsh ponies during the day.

with the elegant Black Boy owned by Paul and his wife Frances.

Hackneys were a little in short supply but Josie Randall with Heartland Starlighter thoroughly deserved their red ribbon in the13.2hh and under class as did Joe Rowe in the over 13.2hh class with Brookeborough Stepping Star in a Lawton Phaeton.

Hillbrow Produce another of the show`s new sponsors for the open classes, had generously put their name to the Welsh Sec. D class, won by Stephen Tubbs` nice chestnut cob, from Lesley Hurd and Winmark Archie with Caroline Watson from Scotland coming third with Llanarth Tango put to a Dogcart by Mulliner.

This Outdoor International Ring 1 also included further Osborne Refrigerators classes in particular those for Young Drivers where Joe Marskell, Rachel Milton and also Leah Marshall headed their respective classes ready for the evening Championship.

In addition the Lucy Smith Young Driver class was won by Laura Priestley with the gallant Radnor Mango, just pipping Leah Marshall to the top spot with her Hackney pony Stapleford March.

The Osborne Refrigerators Two Wheel Light Trade class had a familiar ring to it with Tom Fountain driving his father Clive`s chestnut cob Bookham Lodge Logan to the most spectacular milk float. Second place went to Michael Howell`s attractive Welsh Sec. C Gwenllan Gwilym – always a crowd pleaser.

Leah`s grandparents Angie and Gerald Hart continue to be much appreciated BDS sponsors and at Addington, the new Novice Horse or Pony class carried Gerald`s name with another Scottish member Gillian McNinch being the lucky recipient of a sash together with the red rosette with her lovely pony Winton Chive.

Four Wheel Light Trade credits went to long time BDS sponsor T.Cribb & Sons` Delivery Brougham with the Friesians William and Earl driven here by Peter Gibson.

Osborne Refrigerators Two Wheel Exercise Vehicle entries were numerous and judged

by Rosemary Neale the winner was Emily Hamilton`s chestnut roan Tysull Playboy followed by the diminutive Shetland Foldhouse Little Lord Valentine in second place.

Costers / trolleys are always a colourful sight and

Another good class was that for Welsh Sec.D cobs with Mike Clarke`s Newydd Beau taking the red rosette, ably driven by Malcolm Salter with Stephen Tubb`s Bertie Indepence Warrior a good second.

The first exciting Osborne Refrigerators Double Harness Scurry of the day then entertained those watching before the afternoon session commenced with the non Hackney class over 13.2hh where Class 3 was won by Paul Atkinson

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British Driving Society

Photo: ES Photography

As has been usual in recent years, the Country Turnout class was also hotly contested with Mark Fuller`s Uwan in top spot from Colin Hurd`s Wynmark Tommy and the Shetland Cranford Freddie in third driven by Paula Woolgar.

Sue Woodcock – Osborne Refrigerators BDS National Champion Exercise Vehicle turnout

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Reports

Another great supporter of all things BDS, Bob Alexander was kind enough to sponsor the `new for 2016` open Country Vehicle class where the well -known pair Bullet and Bandit were the winners, owned and driven by - Bob Alexander!

Cumbrian member Gilly Chippendale took the blue rosette with her grey Fell pony.

Bullet and Bandit added to their tally in the afternoon by winning the Osborne Refrigerators Pairs and Tandems class.

With his spectacular trandem of Thor, Odin and Jarry to one of his many interesting vehicles, Bob Alexander took the KBIS British Equestrian Insurance Multiples class, and then also won the T.Cribb & Sons Coloured Horse or Pony class with another pair of unusual Gelderlanders Butch and Sundance.

Amateur photographers present enjoyed the spectacle when the miniature Shetland owned and driven by Su Woodcock was placed second.

The height difference was fairly evident!

More first time sponsors Carolyn and George McIntosh added their name to the World and Rare Breeds class early in the Outdoor International Ring 2. This was won by Joe Rowe with the Hackney Noddyvyse Temptation.

John and Mary Smith followed suite with another generous first time donation for the Pleasure Driving, where the winner James Titmus took home a voucher for a year`s subscription to Carriage Driving magazine presented by the Editor Stephanie Kill.

Brian Ball from Cornwall enjoyed his judging of the Donkey and Mule class kindly sponsored as many times before by Sarah Owlett, when Hapgood strutted his stuff with owner Debbie

Street to win from Joanne Parrett`s French rare breed Contentin donkey Rikita Du Bocage.

which started with a few words of wisdom from Gary Docking LHHI and panel judge.

West Sussex AC Colin Hurd added his name to the open Mountain & Moorland class which Gilly Chippendale won with Su Woodcock and Hannah King following on.

With ring guard Alan Bowen guiding competitors along, our hard working judges had sometimes difficult decisions to make, starting with the younger members where Rachel Milton became the National Young Driver Champion with Laura Priestley as Reserve champion.

Then Kent AC Antonia Gallop with her husband Clive, both competing during the day, also agreed to support the Welsh in wagons classes where Freddie Moore`s grand Sec. D Trixies Duchess was triumphant driven by Jimmy Wenham and the smaller ponies were headed

by Mrs Groom`s Sec. C Bryseion Defale driven

by Declan Davies.

The Brookfield Stud sponsored Hackney wagon classes are always popular with spectators and this year was no exception starting with the Novice Pony winner Billy Ward`s Luddington My Way and the Novice Horse winner James Howell`s Hamewith Glenfinna.

Exercise vehicles came in next and upsetting the form book by remembering each championship is a class in itself, the judges appointed Su Woodcock with Foldhouse Little Lord Valentine as the very popular winner from Emily Hamilton and Tysull Playboy.

The Welsh Championship went to Helen and Barry Hall`s outstanding Welsh Sec D Murrayhall Cadfael Arbennig driven by Jessie DudleyAppicella.

The Open Hackney ponies were headed by Billy Ward again, this time with Westbourne Hi-Tech and the Open Hackney Horses went to Hayley McNiece with Steve Watts – Osborne Refrigerators BDS National Light Trade Champion Baldwin`s A Class Act who was just that and went on to take the evening`s Horsmens Momentum driven by Mandy Burdick Brookfield Stud Hackney Championship from was the choice of the Mayor and Mayoress of Westbourne Hi-Tech.

Milton Keynes who had accepted the invitation to judge the Carriagehouse Insurance Concours More exciting driving from the Osborne d`elegance. The Mayor, Councillor Steve Refrigerators Scurry Group wowed the Coventry is this year supporting The Redway spectators during the Evening Gala Performance School, a special school providing an enjoyable, quality education for all pupils within a friendly atmosphere where they can fulfil their potential.

Photo: ES Photography

Four Wheel Exercise Vehicles came under the scrutiny of Rachel Bown where Jemma Cooper and Luke Beech`s Friesian Sybolt H were placed first with Chris Eveleigh`s traditional cob Crystal Sunrise taking the next place ahead of James Titmus driving The Outlaw. Jemma Cooper with Sybolt H had also won the Diana Mellows Ride and Drive class a little earlier.

The Gala Evening was nearing its conclusion when the Light Trade vehicles came into the International Arena but Steve Watts made clear his delight when the judges declared him the Osborne Refrigerators BDS Light Trade Champion with Trixies Brenin Gwalia and Tom Fountain with Bookham Lodge Logan in Reserve place.

As is traditional the National Private Driving Championship was the last to be awarded and judged in `ice skating` fashion with three judges awarding their marks independently.

Photo: ES Photography

It was a clear cut decision eventually when Malcolm Salter with Mike Clark`s Newydd Beau, former ridden show cob turned champion driving horse took the title from Mr and Mrs Atkinson`s Black Boy driven by Paul Atkinson.

Rachel Milton – Osborne Refrigerators BDS National Champion Young Driver

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Congratulations to all the winners and many thanks to every helper and sponsor.

British Driving Society

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Reports

The BDS Leaf Spring Award 2016 – Sponsored by John Vyse and Family The Presentation of the Leaf Spring awards took place at the BDS AGM. The aim of this award is to encourage the use of traditional vehicles and keep the old traditions alive. The award is organised by Malcolm Salter and was very kindly sponsored for the fourth year by John Vyse and family. Many thanks go to them for their continued sponsorship. The winners who each received a bespoke china trophy plate and rosette were from all over the British Isles, each exhibited a traditional type turnout on ten occasions or more at a BDS Affiliated Show or BDS Activity in 2016. ( Because of geographical difficulties and lack of Shows/ Activities in the following areas, Northern Ireland four occasions and Channel islands three occasions.)

Winners 2016 Stephen Tubb from Kent with “Bertie Independence Warrior” (Welsh D) Skeleton Cut under Gig by Whitaker Victoria Morris from Somerset with “Drysiog Daniel Ap Jet” (Welsh Sec C) 1900 Round Back Gig by Clifton of Bristol Kim Pearson from Fife, Scotland with “JD’s El Dorado” (Welsh X) 1902 Beaufort Cart by Lawton Felicity Stubbs from Staffordshire “Valentine Amber” (Welsh Sec B) 1910 Well Bottomed Gig by Phillips of Flintern John Snowdon from Suffolk with “Rex of Larkrise” (Shetland) Fenix Dog Cart Julie Elliot from Kent with “G.W.M Duchess of Monaco and Pennway Sovereign” (Morgan & Welsh B) Stick Back Gig by Fairbourne Carriages & Stick Back Gig by Bleu of Glasgow Eric Mills from South Yorkshire with “Oakvale Rowan” (Welsh Sec C) 1875 Stanhope Gig by Priday Caroline Watson from West Lothian, Scotland with “Llanarth Tango” (Welsh Sec D) 1890 Dog Cart by Mulliners of Birmingham Alison Kesans from Swansea, Wales with “Monington Verdi” (Morgan) 1900 American Drop Front Phaeton by the Kentucky Carriage Company Mike Clark from Cumbria with “Newydd Beau” (Welsh D) Round Back Gig by Fairbourne Carriages-Driven by Malcolm Salter Maureen Ryder-Gordon from Cornwall with “Shilstone Rocks Hazelnut” and “Dartforliegh Wren” (Dartmoor Pair) 1898 Alexander Dog Cart by Readings of Southsea Jean Clayden from Suffiolk with “Cosford Iziwotnot” (Welsh A) Stick Backed Gig by Windover-Driven by Jessie Dudley and Kellie Searle.

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British Driving Society

Jean Clayden from Suffolk with “Trindod Wildcat” (Welsh Sec A) Stick Back Gig by Fairbourne Carriages-Driven by Kate Cooper Josie Randall from Essex with “Heartland Starlighter” (Hackney Pony) 1920 Stick Backed Gig by Bythe Bros of Canterbury Christine Bassett from Derbyshire with “Staffin Peggi of Castlegreen” (Highland) 1905 Village Cart by Mulliner Colin and Lesley Hurd from Sussex with “Winmark Archie & Winmark Tommy ”(Welsh Sec D’s) 1910 Liverpool Gig by Slacks and a 1910 Sporting Dog Cart by Purvis Of Newcastle Mandy Burdick from Kent with “Horsemen’s Momentum” (Cob X) 1809 Stick Back Gig by Lawton Anne Honeywell from Cornwall with “Atlowsprings Good Friday” (Hackney) Liverpool Panel Gig by Lawton John Walker from Lincolnshire “Goytra Firefly & Wrawby Lucy” (Welsh Cob and Welsh cob X) Stick Back Gig and Delivery Van Neil Winney from Suffolk with “Glanvyrnwy Prince of Wales” (Welsh Cob D) 1910 Round Back Gig by Crawfords of Playhill John Dobson from South Yorkshire with “Skelton Ferdinand” (Hackney) 1900 Liverpool Gig by Lawton Antonia Gallop from Surrey with “Savoy Toyboy” (Welsh C) 1894 Four Wheeled Dog Cart by Mulliner Ivor Barette from Jersey with “Unique &Uniform” (Dutch Pair) 1994 Roof Seat Brake

by Weaverton of Pennsylvania USA

Junior Quiz The photograph shows a popular breed of driving pony. Work out the answer to each of the questions below. The first letter of each answer should be written down and the 13 letters in order will spell the name of the breed.

1. Another name for blinkers ( 6 letters) 2. A collar that is designed to free up the shoulder (7 letters) 3. The horse in the front of a tandem (6 letters) 4. A popular small breed from a northern island (8 letters) 5. Important metal pieces on a full collar (5 letters) 6. This allows the carriage to move freely behind the horse (10 letters) 7. The quality the judge is looking for in a popular Concours class ( 8 letters) 8. The horse pulls this! (8 letters) 9. These straps pull the carriage (6 letters)

Caroline Watson with Llanarth Tango from Scotland

BEM Presentation On Wednesday September 28th I finally received my BEM from the Lord Lieutenant of Wiltshire Mrs Troughton in the Presentation suite at County Hall in Trowbridge. It was a lovely occasion with most of the Wiltshire dignitaries present including David Hempleman-Adams, the explorer, who is our new High Sherriff and Lord and Lady Lansdowne. The medal is beautiful and very heavy and I have so many wonderful memories of this event. Thank you everyone.

Hazel Woodbridge

Lord Leuitenant of Wiltshire Mrs Troughton presenting BEM to Hazel Woodbridge

10. word that can describe a horse that does not like to stand still in the carriage ( 9 letters) 11. This is used to soften leather harness (3 letters) Neatsfoot is a brand example.

12. The name for a pony in a pair that’s on the left (8 letters) 13. The carriage wheels fix onto this! (4 letters) Answers on page 47

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Reports

Photo: ES Photography

Horse of the Year Show 2016 After the initial entry, trot round and exit of all turnouts, the ponies were first to be put through their paces before the larger number of horse turnouts did the same.

Some whips had been there in previous years as had some of the equines, a few of each were comparative novices, a few of each were seasoned veterans, Harness Horse and Pony of the Year Winner Richard Lanni Driving Symen and Vinney but all without It never ceases to amaze even the most doubt gave of their very best and it was a knowledgeable of onlookers that the pleasure to watch. appearance of each private driving turnout at this end of season fiesta looks so fantastic and each is a credit to those involved.

Sankey Property Maintenance Ltd sponsored the 2016 Harness Horse and Pony of the Year with an almost complete compliment of qualifiers present before judges Elizabeth Russell and Mark Broadbent.

Fourth place eventually went to Neil Wray`s nice pair Binkie and Eric, then Frances and Paul Atkinson`s Black Boy was pulled in third with Paul driving and managing somehow to maintain his composure as well as containing his excitement about the future of their lovely young horse.

Carriage Driving Magazine Pleasure Driving Award Carriage Driving Magazine have confirmed continuation of their Pleasure Driving Award throughout the 2017 season. Every competitor in a Pleasure Driving class at a BDS affiliated show will receive a special rosette and those participating in a number (to be confirmed) of classes will all be entered into a draw to receive a grand prize.

The 2016 winner – still to be announced – will receive a set of of Zilco Tedex Harness, a year’s subscription to CD and two books, Learning to

Carriage Drive with Minta Winn and Progressive Carriage Driving with Sara Howe.

All those who have taken part in five Pleasure Driving classes will receive a specially engraved tankard.

BDS members will also benefit from discounted subscription to Carriage Driving Magazine. See the insert enclosed with this magazine.

Our thanks to Carriage Driving Magazine for continuing their support in 2017.

A little time passed with the remaining two turnouts continuing to `strut their stuff` just in case of any indecision, but Elizabeth and Mark seemed in complete agreement and instructed the steward accordingly.

The diminutive Hackney pony Aghaderg Stand and Deliver with his owner Jessie DudleyAppicella at the reins was then declared this year`s worthy Reserve Champions after taking the top slot in 2014 and 2015 leaving a thrilled Richard Lanni from Scotland suddenly realising that Symen and Vinney were the first pair in fifteen years to gain this prestigious Championship. Coupled with the fact that his daughter Alex was beside him as passenger and that Richard`s birthday was imminent, it was quite a week for all concerned!

Huge congratulations and very well done.

Take The Reins Hampshire based Zilco distributor, offering everything you need for carriage driving, including harness sets/Parts/Driving Bits/ FLECK Driving Whips/ Clothing and Competition items. USG Level 3 Body Protectors are now in stock Monthly special Offers & secondhand harness also available.

Donkey Harness Fitting Specialist Contact: Joanne Parrett Tel: 02392 632705 Mobile: 07472 448765 Email: sales@take-thereins.co.uk www.take-the-reins.co.uk

Pleasure Driving winner at the BDS Annual Show – Mr. & Mrs. Titmus' The Outlaw driven by James Titmus

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

British Driving Society

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Area News

Area Activities

Advance notices –

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@ridgelea.freeserve.co.uk Our Facebook page is `BBH BDS` where events and photographs are regularly published.

Many thanks must go to every area member who supported Driving Addington in some way. The day went well and many messages of congratulations have been received.

3 Dec – Our popular Christmas meal at The Green Man, Stanford nr Shefford, Beds SG18 9JD – just £25 pp with FREE raffle and entertainment!

Accommodation is available for those travelling from farther afield but do book this B&B well in advance by ringing 01462 812293.

Cheque payments for the meal should be made out to `Beds, Bucks & Herts BDS` and sent to Linda Swain , 15 Woodcock Close, Sandy , Beds SG19 2UW asap please.

Tanya Howard at Drivers Dream 2016

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British Driving Society

15 Apr – Easter Saturday Fun day near Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9BU. A chance to take part in unaffiliated and informal show classes with your new turnout perhaps.

Learn about ring craft, what to wear, how to act as `groom`, Try some Trec skills or maybe a small cones course with a novice horse or pony. Learn about correct harnessing up, putting to, and also long reining.Or simply bring your turnout for the experience.

There will be one charge of £20 per turnout for the day which must be paid in advance please. Spectators £5 each on the day. More details and timetable from Linda nearer the time.

29 Apr – Area 10 Spring show near Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9BU. Details in the BDS Yearbook.

If anyone wishes to take the BDS Road Test in the spring, please contact Linda to discuss the details. The group rate for 5-8 members is just £50 each. Training may also be arranged.

26 Nov – Enjoy a visit to Jordans Mill near Biggleswade, Beds SG18 9JX today when their Christmas Fayre will be in full swing with unusual gifts on offer. Ring Linda if you want to meet up from 10am for a seasonal coffee and chat. Please look at their website for parking details particularly in relation to blue badge holders.

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 Comissioners would welcome a phone call to know that you are on your way

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.

BBH member James Titmus at Driving Addington

10 Dec – Morning coffee in Blossoms café from 10am at the rear of the Home and Garden Centre, Bedford Road, Willington, Beds MK44 3PR. 10 Dec – Evening pub meal near Chipperfield, Herts. Please contact Shirley Higgins well in advance to book your places.

10 Jan – Social evening at The Guinea PH, Moggerhanger, Beds MK44 3RG from 7pm.

Please book your own table by ringing the venue on 01767 640388 in good time.

28 Feb – Evening meal and get together for members and friends at Stratton House Hotel. Biggleswade, Beds SG18 8ED from 6.30pm. Ring Linda by 6th February to book your place. Please see http://www. strattonhouse-hotel.com/index.html

Leah Marshall at Drivers Dream 2016

Those aged under 14 years must wear hard hats at all times whilst in a carriage , and the wearing of high-viz gear for driver, groom, horse and carriage is highly recommended on any road drives – be seen !

We need more ideas for venues and events! If you can host a rally or social please get in touch.

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

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News 21st October Annual Meeting at Tidmarsh Village Hall The speaker for the evening was Chris Boreham, Director, Thimbleby and Shorland Auctioneers, Reading. Chris gave us a fascinating if slightly worrying talk on the current market for carriages. He provided us all with the beautifully printed auction catalogue (12th October 2016) for the late Lord Ballyedmond's Carriage Collection, and gave detailed information on the vehicles, their provenance and their sale.

It's a wide ranging collection with many of the carriages in original condition. Sadly some of the vehicles sold for lower prices than expected and this seems to be an on-going trend. Chris also sponsors junior driving classes at Smith's Lawn and the Royal County of Berkshire Show he was very disappointed with the number of entrants in the classes and posed the question was this representative of all types of carriage driving or just the showing? Chris also expressed a fear of what will happen to antique carriages if they are not required for their function, particularly as the young drivers are not coming up through the ranks to drive antique vehicles in the future.

As we all know, anything, be it an old farm building or a carriage will eventually fall apart or get pulled down if it does not have a useful function. On the Continent there is a much livelier showing scene where Landau and Brougham-style carriages have classes, whereas in England these carriages have no place, certainly they have limited monetary value and are not used commercially, having been replaced by modern-built vehicles, or for showing. Although at the high value end of the market, coaching continues to maintain its value. This is a worrying prognosis for the future of antique carriages.

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 Sunday July 3rd was the day that we went to Lyn and John Downes’ farm at Minions for a BBQ. The food was delicious (Banoffee pie to die for!) and nearly 20 people were able to come along.

The sunshine, food, lovely company along with breathtaking views of the moors made for a very enjoyable Sunday afternoon. A big thank you to the Downes family!

On Sunday July 24th we went to Enys Gardens in Penryn, Cornwall. The rain experienced on the way to the event was torrential but happily once there the weather perked up. Seven turnouts were able to join us. Diane Hirst and Lynda Chapman kindly liaised with the owners, picked the route, organised all the gate stewards, produced a great health and safety risk assessment and even covered a cattle grid to allow easy access for the members and their horses. Huge thanks go to Diane, Lynda and all the helpers – you did a grand job. Everyone enjoyed the off-road drive of around 3-4 miles.

Several participants enjoyed it so much they went round twice. We were even able to visit the clock tower and big house. We look forward to returning next year.

Diary Dates

27th January New Seasons Supper, Spring Inn, Theale, (booking required by 15th Jan 2017) contact Jo Holland 31st March Quiz Evening Beenham, contact Clive Collins 7th May Dennis Walmsley Memorial Drive contact Colin Pawson 4th June Brockhurst drive, Hermitage contact Clive Collins 25th June Ashe Warren Drive contact Colin Pawson 3rd September Engelfield Drive, Mortimer contact Clive Colin's 24th September Windsor Great Park Drive, contact Martin pink

Diane Hirst & Christine Voyce at Enys Gardens

Rozee Douglas at Enys Gardens

The drive at Treolwyn was on Sunday August 7th by kind permission of Brian and Brenda Ball. Seven turnouts were lucky enough to attend and the weather played its’ part too and kept a nice temperature so the horses didn’t get too hot. However it was rather warm in the garden later when we sat down for a slice of one of Brenda’s lovely cakes. Two of our members Sheila Sexton and Roger Derryman had attended the Tandem Club meet at Fenix Carriages just the weekend before and were proudly wearing their tandem bars. A huge well done to Sheila, Roger and Jane Talbot-Smith who all obtained their tandem bars recently.

Lyn and John Downes at Treolwyn

The Boconnoc estate drive was also kindly organised by Brian and Brenda Ball. This drive is always very popular with the majority of the route being on the estate and therefore almost traffic free. Brian knows the estate so well he was able to give the participants three different signed routes to make up whatever length of drive they wanted. The tree lined drive leading to the obelisk perched on a hill is a most spectacular sight. Fourteen turnouts were able to enjoy the drive in the sunshine. The event was rounded off with a natter and a very welcome cuppa.

Cheshire To be Announced Peggy Johns at Enys Gardens

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Roger Gill Derryman at Treolwyn drive

British Driving Society

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Area News

Pat & Paul Maunder at Boconnoc drive

Colquite drive – Jo Sincock

Once again, thank you to all the helpers no matter what seemingly trivial input you provided. It is all appreciated and without you it wouldn’t happen – thank you!

Lynda Chapman and Louise Withnall at Boconnoc drive

Happy and safe driving!

On Sunday September 25th we visited Vicky Wilson’s premises at Brazacott, Launceston area. Seven turnouts were able to join us at this event. The pleasure drive was enjoyed on very quiet country lanes and once back in the field the participants were able to try their hand at the handy pony and skills section. The results were as follows:-

Maureen Ryder-Gordon Area Commissioner Tel: 01566 785241

December 3 Christmas Lunch at Jamaica Inn, Bolventor, PL15 7TS. £8.95 for one course carvery.

Please book in by contacting Maureen Ryder-Gordon

Cumbria To be Announced

Skills Section 1st Brian Colebrook-clark 2nd Jane Talbot-smith 3rd Jenny Littleton 4th Lyn Downes 5th Rosemary Douglas 6th Bridget Treliving & Marita Wakeham 7th Pat Maunder

A date for your diary 2016

Derbyshire Staffs Joint AC Margaret Norris Tel: 07900 211634 Email: margaret.norris@chatsworth.org

Joint AC & Press Sally Cowan Tel: 07802 470167 Email: sally.cowan@dsl.pipex.com

Jane Talbot-Smith at Brazacott

Handy Pony 1st Jane Talbot-smith 2nd Brian Colebrook-clark 3rd Bridget Treliving & Marita Wakeham 4th Pat Maunder 5th Jenny Littleton 6th Rosemary Douglas 7th Lyn Downes

Overall 1st Jane Talbot-smith 2nd Brian Colebrook-clark 3rd Bridget Treliving 4th Pat Maunder 5th Jenny Littleton 6th Rosemary Douglas 7th Lyn Downes Bryony Maunder (AAC) adds – Well done to Maureen Ryder-Gordon, John Gordon and Vicky Wilson who put in considerable effort planning the routes, handy pony and skills section. To finish off the event we had a BBQ all down to Maureen and Vicky. We also had several stewards who helped on the day. Many thanks ladies!

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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

Sunday 5th June Chatsworth Challenge ten turnouts came forward for this now Annual event, held on the Chatsworth Estate kindly arranged by Margaret Norris. Five disciplines were on offer to Members, which they were encouraged to do all but could leave out anything they felt they didn’t want to do. Turnout inspection was done

by Mary Glossop and Gwen Floyd, the obstacle course was built by Pete and Margaret Minshull and judged by Carolyn Bryers and Martin Parder.

The cones course was set and judged by David and Marie Tivey, the treasure hunt was set and judged by Margaret Norris and Drivers Dream to Music judged by Chris Bassett.

Chatsworth Drive Ridden Competitor

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Results 1st Sharon Allsop/ Andrew Doyle 2nd Julie Barker/ Jane 3rd Katy Wileman / Reece 4th Tilly Gothschald / Chris Gottschald 5th Philip Wright / Barbara Wright 6th Rita Stevens/ Martin Spendlove.

Well done to all participants and a huge thank you to all who helped organise and judge the day, a very enjoyable event.

Anslow Drive Sunday 19th June The Anslow Drive was held by kind invitation of Ann and Bernard Greer, a lovely drive around the Anslow Area thanks to Reg Muggleton and his family there were not many turnouts at this event but the ones that did come enjoyed a fine drive and a very lovely tea on their return. Many thanks to all involved.

Chatsworth Drive Sunday 17th July In the several years that Margaret Norris has been hosting the wonderful Chatsworth Drive it has rained without fail every year! Amazingly we enjoyed a fine beautiful day on this year’s drive, with just over twelve miles covered through woodland and parkland and we were lucky enough to be allowed through an area designated as one of outstanding natural beauty. Along with the fine weather we saw some amazing views and with great hot dogs on our return plus loads of delicious cake what’s not to like!

Thanks to all who helped with marshalling and a special thanks to our hosts Margaret and Andrew.

BDS Area Show incorporated into the NHHS Show. Sunday 7th August

The Gothschald Family with Sam enjoying the 6 miles route around Catton Park in the sunshine

Nicola Salter our Show Judge, chose Laura Challinor from Stockport with her lovely pony, Trigger put to a beautiful Light Trade vehicle as our Show Champion and Su Woodcock from Wetley Rocks, Stoke on Trent, with her game little Miniature Pony, Foldhouse Little Lord Valentine, as Reserve Champion. The BEST YOUNG DRIVER AWARD went to Molly Heard driving Sally-Anne Baroudi’s lovely Friesian mare, Lottie, put to a four-wheeled exercise vehicle. The DRIVERS DREAM AWARD was won by Julie Barker driving her pretty Shetland Pony, Padley Wood Pedro, put to a Bennington two-wheeled exercise vehicle. The OPEN EXERCISE VEHICLE AWARD was won by Su Woodcock driving Foldhouse Little Lord Valentine, put to a Bennington exercise vehicle.

CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE went to our Assistant Commissioner, Rita Stevens, driving her own Hackney gelding, Atlowsprings Rough Knight who looked very elegant, put to a Bennington two-wheeled exercise vehicle.

A dry, sunny day, a beautiful venue and ten lovely turnouts made the Derbyshire/ Staffordshire BDS Show, held in conjunction with the Northern Hackney Horse Club Show at Bakewell Show Ground on Sunday, 7th August 2016, a huge success.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Finally, thanks to all our generous sponsors without you there wouldn’t be a Show.

Footnote from AC’s Margaret and Sally – we would like to take this opportunity to thank Carolyn and Christine for all their hard work and making this a very successful event for our members. Hopefully we can do something similar in 2017?

Brick Kiln Drive Sunday 21st August An established Annual Event in our calendar the Brick Kiln Drive kindly hosted by Jan and Rob Hutchinson was a lovely drive this year, the route sorted by AAC Rita Stevens and family.

Elisa and Martin did a sterling job of front car/ Marshalling and for saying this was the first time either of them had done such a role they did us proud thank you.

As ever lovely hospitality on our return by our hosts and a special singing of “Happy Birthday “ for joint AC Margaret Norris.

Catton Park 18th September

BDS Show Reserve Champion

BDS Show Best Young Driver

Many congratulations to all of the award winners and also to all of the non-winners who had all made a tremendous effort and looked so smart. We are very proud of you all, very well done!

Area 15 Derbyshire and Staffordshire are always looking for new driving experiences to offer their members, so for the first time a drive around Catton Park was organised. Seven

Enjoying the open parkland drive

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Area News

Philip Wright negotiating the Water with his new pair

turnouts came forward to take advantage of driving around this wonderful estate, a six mile route all off road had been agreed with the Estate office and comprehensive maps supplied so not only was it a beautiful drive it also challenged members orientation skills! This event is suitable for large and smaller turnouts as it’s reasonably flat and the option is to go round as many times as you want. All taking part agreed it was a great new venue and we will certainly be including this in our 2017 events.

Devon

Freehay Trophy Drive Sunday 2nd October Graham and Helen Lovatt hosted a very picturesque drive around the Freehay Cheadle area. Six turnouts enjoyed the fine views and covered twelve miles including a halfway stop for a breather and refreshments. All turnouts were judged by the very able Mary and John Stubbs who also kindly did back car. At the end of the drive the Trophy was awarded to Helen Lovatt with her lovely pony Eddy. Well done.

Reserve Champion was Matthew Green with Jacinthia and Aurelia Burmania.

Email: noel.danagher@btinternet.com

AC Noel Danagher Tel: 01409 261322 Mob: 07768 173177

All drives to start at 12 noon, there will be a charge of £5 per turnout, unless otherwise stated. Please can you bring something for a “bring and share tea”.

Sunday 17th July: We held a very successful BDS Devon Area Show with Nicky Buxton at the helm as show secretary. The weather was beautiful which is always a bonus. The site at Evergreen Farm, Ashwater, was once again fantastic and we were well catered for with produce from the farm.

Our judge Vanessa Neal had a busy day with a record twenty one turnouts, which also included Hackney Horse and Hackney Pony Qualifiers.

Spectators had a real treat watching the rare and beautiful horses compete, being the only qualifier for the breed in Devon and Cornwall. We also had qualifiers for Osborne Refrigerators, Victoria Foods and Drivers Dream. We had tremendous help to prepare the show field and on the day from volunteers, which is always appreciated.

The Hackney Champion was Roly Connoly with Seamair Showman.

Reserve Hackney was Nicky Buxton with Heartland Passionate.

The overall Show Champion was Victoria Morris with Drysiog Daniel AP Jet

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Freehay Drive

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Sunday 14th August: We had another great day at Evergreen Farm, by kind permission of Peter and Emma Down we started the day with a short road drive organised by Stuart Pohill, and then came back and took part in a cones course and driven dressage organised by Nick and Gail Palmer and helpers. The day ended with a “bring and share tea”.

Sunday 28th August: Trudie Merchant and family made us all welcome at Great Sloncombe Farm, they had a well signed drive around lovely Dartmoor lanes and fields. On returning to the

Future Events Sunday 27th November Redhouse Stables Christmas Drive Please come in Fancy Dress for a short drive to celebrate the Festive Season.

Details from Sally / Margaret or Redhouse Stables direct.

Annual Dinner Saturday 25th February 2017 Bentley Brook – menus will be sent out for pre ordering food. We hope to have a completed 2017 Events list ready for this date.

farm the family had organised a handy pony course, cones course and driven dressage. The family had also put on a lovely tea with savouries and plenty of yummy cakes. Thanks to Trudie and family.

Sunday 9th October: Gina Saunders and Ian put on a lovely drive at Haldon Forest when ten turnouts enjoyed a great drive on a beautiful autumn day. There were turnouts from Cornwall, Dorset and Somerset joining in with Devon members. When the horses were boxed Gina, Ian and helpers had plenty of tea to go with the “bring and share” food. Thanks to all who supported us.

Events planned for 2016 Saturday 26th November 2016 Christmas Fun Day, at Cholwell Equestrian Centre, Lewdown, Okehampton, EX20 4PT please contact Noel.

Saturday 26th November 2016 Carriage Drivers, Riders and Friends of Easter Hall Park Dinner, Disco and Dance 7.00 for 7.30 pm. At Betty Cottles Inn, Graddon Cross, Okehampton, EX20 4LR. Tickets:- Adults £19 Children £15 Smart casual dress code. Open to friends and customers of Easter Hall Park, British Driving Society and Great Western Harness Club. Please contact

Abbie or Gail on (01837 810350) to book and for more information.

Accomodation available; to book this, please contact Betty Cottles Inn (01837 55339) Saturday 10th December 2016 Christmas Lunch at Fingle Bridge Inn, Drewsteignton, EX6 6PW, please ring Iris to book (01409 261322) Sunday 8th January 2017 Drive from Burrator Reservoir, Nr Yelverton, PL20 6PE, please book with Jonathan Mathys (07867 542978) or Noel.

Please remember to carry your BDS membership card with you at all driving events.

FOR ALL EVENTS PLEASE BOOK ONE WEEK IN ADVANCE SO WE KNOW WHO IS COMING, AS IF WE ONLY HAVE ONE OR TWO TURNOUTS BOOKED WE MAY NEED TO CANCEL. IF YOU HAVE BOOKED BUT CANNOT COME TO THE EVENT PLEASE LET US KNOW, EVEN THE SAME MORNING.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Dorset and South Wiltshire AC Dryden Pennington Tel: 01305 853936 Website coordinator and Treasurer Ann James Tel: 01202 886501 Email: dogdean.farm@gmail.com Newsletter Editor Sandy Smyth Tel: 01258 880197 Email: smyth.bfs@gmail.com Rights of Way Officer Trevor Poole Tel: 01929 47149

Dear Members, I hope you have enjoyed your driving this summer and that you are looking forward to another good season in 2017. Events for next year are currently being organised and should be included in our next Area Newsletter and on the website. Please remember that we need your support for all our events – if you want to find out more about an event before committing, just get in touch with any of our Steering Group members and they’ll be glad to help.

In the meantime, I look forward to seeing many of you at our winter indoor events, listed below.

Trot on!

Forthcoming Events Thursday 8th December: Area Annual Meeting, Bere Regis Sports Club, Bere Regis, Wareham BH20 7LA, 7.45pm. Minutes of last year’s Annual Meeting are available on our website www.dorsetandswiltsbds.co.uk Sunday 11th December: Christmas Lunch at The Fox, Ansty, 12 for 12.30.

Price per person £19.95 for three courses, £14.95 for two courses. Menu choices are available on our website www.dorsetandswiltsbds.co.uk Please enclose cheque (made out to BDS Dorset Area) with your order and return to Dryden Pennington at The Old Chapel, Redbridge Road, Nr Crossways, Dorchester DT2 8DY by 25th November at the latest.

Sunday 28th May 2017: Training Day at Kingston Maurward – details to be confirmed.

Pallington Drive

Dryden Pennington

Past Events

Enjoying a drive through the forest from Pallington, on a lovely summer’s day

Ann James cuts the cake at the Queen’s 90th Birthday tea

26th June: The Queen’s birthday drive and tea.

Back in the Spring of this year our Steering Group decided we couldn’t let the Queen’s 90th birthday pass without marking it in some way, and Ann and Terry James very kindly offered to host a birthday drive and tea at Dogdean Farm on 26th June. The invitation was to join the drive and/ or the gathering round the tea table so while six turnouts enjoyed a 6½-mile outing round the country lanes, a total of thirty four guests arrived for tea. They were greeted by a very realistic cardboard cut-out of Her Majesty with Prince Philip, and the table was decked with Union Flag decorations, plates, paper napkins and all. In pride of place was the birthday cake, patriotically decorated, and the table was laden with plates of sandwiches and tea cakes. Once we were all gathered, Dryden proposed the Loyal Toast to the Queen and we all raised a glass of champagne to Her Majesty, after which Ann cut the cake for everyone to share. It was a slap-up tea! And we all echoed Dryden’s thanks to Ann and Terry for putting it on in such style, as well as organising the drive. Finally, everybody there was presented with a birthday rosette and it was agreed that a great day was had by all!

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

3rd July: Interval drive and hog roast. Once again this event, hosted by Tony Munt and Sue Wiles proved super popular, with thirty one turnouts including singles, pairs and teams all taking part in the mostly off-road drive. They came from near and far including Warwickshire in one case and one local couple enjoyed the drive so much that they went back home to fetch another pony and went round again! Many thanks to Tony and Sue and their team for organizing the drive and the food it was all much appreciated.

17th July: BDS Trec: Another enjoyable day at Dogdean Farm thanks to the hospitality of Ann and Terry James. Eleven turnouts competed first driving through the village, then into a wooded area and across open heathland, then back to the farm for the Skills section, which included facing up to a large wooden camel! The day was rounded off with a get-together for tea and cakes and of course a good chat. Final results were: 1st Katie Harvey; 2nd Michelle Beck; 3rd Tina Squire; 4th Tracey Griffiths; 5th Gill Smith; 6th Di Bruce.

14th August: Demonstration of Multiples.

This was a very interesting and instructive morning with Tony Munt driving a single, pair, and a threesome. Later in the day spectators were able to ‘have a go’ and drive the combinations through a cones course, with Tony and Sue Wiles giving them guidance, it’s not as easy as it looks!

Trec

Having a go at driving a multiple, with guidance from Tony Munt

15th September: Skittles Evening.

Another sociable evening, with two teams of four (including the barman!) flexing their muscles and Dave Bull achieving the highest points.

Rights of Way Our Rights of Way Officer, Trevor Poole, reports that Dorset County Council is now issuing RoW information in electronic format. Where the information is relevant, it will be posted on our website www.dorsetandswiltsbds.co.uk so that we can keep an eye on the updates.

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Area News Essex & North London

Hampshire

Email: eunicehopton2@gmail.com AC Eunice Hopton Tel: 01268 773291 Mob: 07948 221297

AC Sarah McBride Tel: 07717 467562 AAC Barbara Mills Tel: 02380 813141 AAC Sam Searle Tel: 01420 564129 Mob: 07883 538591 ROW Mrs Gail Johnson Tel: 01962 736556

AAC Roger Hopton

BDS ESSEX & NORTH LONDON AUTUMN SHOW BATTLESBRIDGE We couldn’t have picked a better day for our Autumn Carriage Driving Show at Mr and Mrs Roy Hart’s field in Beeches Road, Battlesbridge.

Although our date clashed with the Victoria Foods Championships and Barleylands a fair number of Essex members (and beyond) came to support us. Rosemary Neale from Cambridgeshire was our Judge for the day ably assisted by her Steward, Sam. As usual, the Exercise Vehicle class was by far the largest of the day with a win for Gail Mills and her very elegant Synbad. He also won the over 14.2hh In Hand Class this time with Dad, Paul Mills. Although most of our Private Drivers were at the Victoria Foods Finals, Kelly Searle with Oakmill Llwellyn showed us how it should be done, with Neil Winney and Glanvyrnwy Prince of Wales hot on her heels.

Mr and Mrs Hart’s daughter and granddaughter had a difficult task judging the five entries of the Concours d’elegance and chose Neil Winney and Glanvyrnwy Prince of Wales as their favourite.

Two junior drivers fought it out for Class 8 Junior Whip with a win for Leah Marshall and Noddyvyse Show Girl and a worthy 2nd place for little Kitty Frith and Larkrise Pearly King, well done girls!

We have had a very active summer programme with the first-ever hugely successful Hampshire Area show being held at New Park, Brockenhurst, our first BDS stand at The New Forest and Hampshire County show and a successful New Forest Driving Weekend in September. We are also fortunate in that we have been able to hold many drives and spider drives, mostly on the New Forest but with one or two in the north of our area kindly organised by AAC Sam Searle. Sam also provides really good refreshments after her drives and for her last drive she also presented the participants with a lovely rosette.

Croft Castle Competitors

Champion of the day was Steve Crowe with hackney pony Stapleford Show Stopper and Reserve Mick Burgess Jnr and Roscourt It’s My Time.

“Roger and I are retiring as Area Commissioners at the end of this year so if anyone is interested in taking over the reins please contact us, or Linda Swain”.

Date for Your Diary Christmas Meal Saturday 17th December at Rettendon Bell please book your places asap ring Eunice 01268 773291

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Finally, I would like to thank my hard working committee and other members who organise events during the year and I look forward to seeing some of you at our annual meeting in November.

Hants Area 19 program 2016/17

Frankie and Terry Allen fed us well all day from their snack wagon and I’m sure Rosemary and Sam will agree the egg and bacon butties went down very well!

The only hiccup of the day was that someone had driven into one of our road signs and consequently Mr and Mrs Snowdon took a wrong turn and damaged their lorry. So sorry John and Eileen!!

Croft Castle

in the New Forest. We will also be repeating the format we used this year by entry form only.

Croft Castle Judging

Our annual dinner saw the presentation of a bronze carriage horse’s head to Ann Mouland, who has retired from the Hampshire area committee after more than thirty years service – surely a record? I cannot thank Ann enough for all her work and commitment over the years, she will certainly be a hard act to follow.

Traditionally our Driving Weekend has always been held during the last full weekend in September. Over the last few years this has clashed with the Osborne Championships held at Addington, so we have moved the date to the following weekend, i.e. from Thursday September 28th to Sunday October 1 to enable everyone to attend the Championships and to come driving

Sunday December 4 – Christmas Drive from The Hunter’s Inn at Swanmore, to leave at 11.30 a.m. and back to the pub for lunch. Names to Sarah McBride on 07717-467562.

Thursday December 8 – Annual Christmas lunch at The Rising Sun, Wootton, 12.30 p.m. Please call Sue Kennedy on 01425272211 for menu choices or download a menu from the web-site. We will be pre-ordering this year as the numbers for the lunch are so large by pre-ordering it means we can all eat at the same time.

Sunday December 11 – Processional festive drive from Lower Soldridge Farm, Medstead (GU34 5JF) followed by festive fare! To begin at 11.30 a.m. Names to Sam Searle on 07883-538591.

Saturday December 17 – Christmas Barn dance with a Steve Croll buffet and bar at Copythorne Parish Hall (S40 2NZ) to begin at 7.30 p.m. There will be a caller so don’t worry if you have not been barn dancing before. It is great fun so do come along and enjoy the evening.

Tickets in advance only, at £16 per head from Sam Searle telephone 07883538591, or download a form from the website.

Sunday December 18 – Christmas drive from The Rising Sun, Wootton, by kind permission of Steve Croll, to leave at 11.00 a.m. and afterwards to be followed by carols and mince pies. A perpetual trophy, presented by Grayswood Carriages, will be presented to the best Christmasdecorated turnout. Last year’s winners: Peter and Sue Preen. To book in please call Sue Kennedy on 01425-272211

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Sunday January 1 – New Year’s Day Drive around the Micheldever/West Stratton area with Terry Newman. To book in please call Terry on 01962-774271.

Friday January 13 – An informal and amusing talk by Joanna Broadbent entitled “From Wild to World Championships”. Please contact Caroline Douglas on 01590-682678 for more details, or refer to the web-site.

Saturday February 18 – From Hedge End to Balmoral by carriage. The remarkable film of former AC Roger’s Pages’ epic journey during the Queen’s Silver Jubilee year (1977), which culminated in Roger meeting Her Majesty at Balmoral. Venue: Grayswood Carriage Driving Centre, Lowhill Farm, Eastleigh SO50 7HF. Tickets £10 per head to include a fish and chips supper, tea and coffee. Time: 7.00 p.m. Names to Sarah McBride on 07717-467562.

Wednesday March 22 – Spring spider drive to the High Corner Inn, to arrive at 12.30 p.m. Please come along with or without a turnout and enjoy our first gathering of the new season. Please call Georgina Burrows on 02380-283433 to book in.

Good Friday April 14 – Drive with Mark Shaw in the Bighton, near Alresford area. This is a processional drive of approximately 10 miles with a pub stop for lunch. It will be mostly off road or on quiet country lanes and tracks. To book in please call Mark on 07818427747.

Early May – Annual bluebell drive led by Terry Newman. Call Terry on 01962774271 for date and timings as this will depend on the bluebells!!

Sunday May 21 – interval drive from Bisterne Manor, near Ringwood. Picnic at 12 noon, with the first carriage away at 1.00 p.m. Names to Sue Kennedy on 01425-272211 Our full program for 2017 will be published in the next Newsletter, or please look on our web-site for an up to date program.

2016 Driving Weekend by Carole Brewster The late summer weather in Hampshire could be politely described as “mixed”, but there was always late September Driving Weekend in the New Forest to look forward to and the hope that the weather would improve. To the delight of BDS members this turned out to be so.

Leading up to Driving Weekend, there were several BDS spider drives that were not only enjoyable for all concerned, but served to get the horses and ponies fit. On August 17th there was a picnic drive to Hasley, and on Sept 7th another to White Moor. On September 14 there was a pub lunch drive to the Royal Oak, Fritham,

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

a popular destination, with a safe paddock for the turnouts, and ploughmans lunches like you’ve never seen before!

The Weekend in question, 22nd to 25th September began on the Thursday evening at Copythorne Parish Hall where the fifty five BDS members arrived to a buffet supper and drinks (more akin to a feast), supplied by popular BDS member Steve Croll of the Rising Sun. Suddenly with a whoop and a holler the evening’s entertainment began. Mickey Page, son of BDS member Michael Page appeared in a Stetson, standing beside a bucking bronco banner and he kicked off the evening with a medley of country and western and blues songs, and with a nod to the oldies who haven’t counted the years lately, a collection of songs from the 60’s. Well, what else could one do but scramble to the dance floor as the years rock and rolled away?

However, there was no rest in the morning as it was the day of the spider drive to Beaulieu Road. There was a stillness in the grove of trees, broken only by the sound of a herd of donkeys making their way single file across Beaulieu Road to the old coaching inn at opening time.

Then there was the sight of turnouts coming up the road from Beaulieu and the sound of hoof beats coming from the north and Lyndhurst over the railway bridge at Beaulieu Road Station and down the other side, making a left turn into the trees. Year after year there is a sense of anticipation. With the horses and ponies settled with their hay nets, out come the picnic lunches, and the queues build at the Cancer Research UK stall for soup, hot drinks and homemade cakes.

Friends who’d travelled from near and far caught up with news and watched new turnouts as they arrived. The pub donkeys stopped traffic in both directions along the B3056 and put their heads into open windows, then wandered off up the road. Soon it was time to harness up and set off again down the road or onto a Forest track.

Saturday morning and another spider drive in the New Forest. There were many options for routes to Cadnam’s Pool for a picnic lunch, high roads and low roads. The high road west of Fritham along Hampton Ridge gave stunning views in all directions, the wind having blown away the mist and clouds. Descending from the ridge and circling east towards Cadnam’s Pool, turnouts came to a flat exposed plain. During the war it was the site of an important base called Stoney Cross Air Field with long runways, faint traces of which can be seen on the ground.

The picnic took place across the road from the main runway in among the trees next to the pool.

Roger Page leading the longer drive out from Aldridge Hill

everyone arrived appropriately dressed with best harness and well-groomed horses and ponies. This year judge Stuart Johnstone was to choose the turnout he would most like to take home. A winner and runner-up were chosen for each section plus an additional award for the best coloured horse or pony. There was a choice of two drives: the first of ten miles was led by Roger Page and included pairs and single horses. The second drive of seven miles was led by Caroline Douglas for single ponies and horses that preferred a shorter route.

The area around Aldridge Hill is an unusually beautiful part of the New Forest with the narrow Rhinefield Road (The Ornamental Drive) running down the middle. It was a sunny morning and Rhinefield attracted several organised activities that day including a vintage car rally, teenagers orienteering for their Duke of Edinburgh Awards and a massive cycling event.

Short drive led by runner-up Caroline Douglas and Norman

It was a beautiful drive and when the turnouts returned to the camp site they were greeted with a glass of sherry, kindly provided by Pam and Tony Truder.

Alan Hill, all the way from Wales, was awarded the prize for the longer drive, with Paul Chambers runner-up. Ginny Parker won the shorter drive, with Caroline Douglas runner-up, and the roan pony ‘Oakley’, driven by Ginny,

After a change of clothes and preparing for the next morning, forty five BDS members and their friends attended an excellent dinner at the Forest Park Hotel in Brockenhurst. A presentation to Anne Mouland, was made by Roger Page, for her many years of service to the Hampshire BDS. Anne’s presence was very much missed at this year’s driving weekend.

The final day of Driving Weekend was “Sunday Best” at Aldridge Hill camp site close to Brockenhurst. Sunday Best it certainly was as

Winner of the longer drive Alan Hill

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Area News novice horse or pony). The driving classes excluded first prize winners prior to 2016 in most driving disciplines including driving trials.

Even with these entry restrictions, the classes attracted some very promising newcomers.

The Exercise Vehicle Class, as to be expected, was popular and included several whips who also compete in Driving Trials. South Downs Harness Club awarded special rosettes to their members who competed in Novice Newcomer and Exercise Vehicle classes.

Winner of the short drive and overall best coloured – Ginny Parker and Oakley, with judge Stuart Johnstone

and owned by Roger Page, won the ‘Pretty Polly Plate’(in memory of Barbara Mills’ pony, Polly) for best overall coloured horse or pony. Afterwards, picnic tables, chairs and cups of tea were produced and the BDS members lingered on the site to enjoy the sun and the company.

Many thanks to all those who made this fabulous weekend possible.

First BDS Hampshire Area Show Results New Park Farm, Brockenhurst In recognition of the rich history of the BDS in Hampshire and hopefully its’ exciting future, the very first Hampshire BDS Show was held on the 21 August in the East Ring of the New Forest Showground.

In the early morning, before the 9:30 start, a low pressure system swirled overhead. Only the show ring and the secretary’s and sponsors marquee were set firmly on the ground , as the commentator’s canvas shelter nearly became a hazard to aviation and had to be brought down and pinned to the ground. However, as the show started, the wind died down and what was to become a near-perfect day began.

Competitors from all parts of Hampshire, the Isle of Wight, Dorset, East and West Sussex and Surrey flooded in and there were overall fifty class entries. Spectators paid a modest “per car” parking fee, and their numbers were swelled by passing cyclists, holidaymakers staying at nearby Long Meadow Campsite and even by several people who had come to watch the New Forest Polo Club in action elsewhere at New Park.

They were 24 hours late for the polo, but paid their parking fee and stayed to watch the show.

There was plenty of room for the horse boxes to spread out comfortably and for turnouts to warm up safely.

The marquee conveniently housed a BDS presence for anyone interested in taking up driving and needing practical assistance. Sophie Adkins’ charming and knowledgeable running commentary during and between classes was a key element in the show and kept everyone’s interest. Judge Jane Brightwell of Surrey had an interesting day ahead of her as the entries were of high quality.

The first class of the day was for in-hand potential driving animals followed by two novice driving classes (newcomer whip and

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The morning wasn’t over yet and Pleasure Driving took a different turn, with “difficulties” for those who enjoy a challenge and like to demonstrate their horse or pony’s obedience and their skill. It was a popular class and the tasks were tackled with zest. The windmill obstacles constructed in the 1960’s for Golden Guineas classes had their sting somewhat blunted as there were no protruding vehicle hubs to nudge them into swivelling their heads.

Several ponies did give them a good look on the way to rows of balls placed side by side that had to be negotiated accurately. Finally, there was a box made up of cones into which each whip had to drive then rein-back.

Open Private Driving followed with five entered and the winner was awarded a very special trophy. The Wentworth Myndwr Memorial Challenge Trophy was originally presented many years ago to the BDS for the Annual Show by local BDS members Donald and Philippa Douglas in honour of their talented and versatile Welsh pony known as Mindy. He won numerous championships under saddle with Mandy Ferguson, won the supreme at the Royal Welsh show (no mean feat for a gelding), adapted to the role of lead rein pony for the family, and when out-grown was sent to be broken to harness by Cynthia Haydon and continued winning championships in his third career with Anne Norris. Anyone receiving the trophy will be reminded of what can be achieved.

After lunch, Class 8 was the Mountain and Moorland, open to traditional and modern vehicles. There were five entries and a number of native breeds were represented. In another nod to the past, the winner received the Coed Coch Peilat Memorial Trophy. This was presented to the BDS for the Annual Show by Anne Norris of Mardons Welsh Pony Stud. She had huge success driving her two stallions Coed Coch Cilain and Coed Coch Peilat in the 1960’s.

always said that when going driving in the forest, it took him from disability to normality.

The Red Rover Show Drive completed the day, with a scenic drive out of the showground onto the surrounding New Forest tracks.

Many months of careful planning and organisation preceded the show, directed by Caroline Douglas and A.C. Sarah McBride. In their experienced hands, the schedule went like clockwork. There is little doubt that the location of the show in such a prestigious ring was a big draw, along with excellent access by road.

Thanks must go to the judge, stewards and all the helpers who made the show a huge success.

WINNERS FROM THE BDS HAMPSHIRE AREA SHOW POTENTIAL DRIVING HORSE OR PONY – IN HAND 1st Kerie Coutts with JoJo NOVICE NEWCOMER WHIP 1st Helen Parker with Banksgate Shannon NOVICE HORSE OR PONY 1st Kerie Coutts with JoJo EXERCISE CLASS 4 Wheeled vehicle Kayti Harvey with Grayswood Upper Class

Shane White with NoddyVyse Stardust

Overall winner and runner up 1st Shane White NoddyVyse Stardust 2nd Kayti Harvey Grayswood Upper Class PLEASURE DRIVING 1st Louise Woodward Uphill Rhiannon

Befitting an Area show, the first championship class was contested by the highest-placed Hampshire members and was kindly sponsored

by Roger and Sue Page, with the Grayswood Shield being presented to the winner.

Following this, the overall Show Championship resulted in wins for the first two in the Hampshire Championship. Mrs. Stephanie Woodhams sponsored the class and presented the H.L. Woodhams Memorial Trophy. The late Haydon L. Woodhams (Ted) had suffered a severe stroke leaving him profoundly disabled, but he was able to go driving in the New Forest through the dedication and kindness of the Hampshire BDS and Driving for the Disabled, which brought back a smile to his face. He

Louise Woodward with Uphill Rhiannon

PRIVATE DRIVING – OPEN 1st Shane White with NoddyVyse Stardust CONCOURS D’ELEGANCE 1st Shane White with NoddyVyse Stardust MOUNTAIN AND MOORLAND 1st Lin Sayers with Greenhurst Daytime

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News HAMPSHIRE BDS AREA CHAMPION AND RESERVE CHAMPION Champion: Shane White with NoddyVyse Stardust Reserve Champion: Kayti Harvey with Grayswood Upper Class

with her wonderful Section C pony Pixie. Who would ever have known that the Post Horn Gallop would fit the paces of a 12.2 pony!!!! The Jack of Hearts had a real job staying out of the queen’s way whilst being chased for stealing the tarts!!! Pixie was only broken in this year and, then presented Helen with a surprise filly foal, unfortunately the foal broke a leg in the field when she was 10 weeks old and the Musical Drive was Pixie’s first outing following this tragic accident.

Robbyn McClements qualified for the Junior Whip class at Addington and drove Kay’s pony Bess to take second place in her class.

Kayti Harvey with Grayswood Upper Class

SHOW CHAMPIONS AND RESERVE CHAMPION Champion: Shane White with NoddyVyse Stardust Reserve Champion: Kayti Harvey with Grayswood Upper Class

Herefordshire Email: kaywalton49@hotmail.co.uk AC Kay Walton Tel: 01981 540209 Mob: 07786 628274 AAC Mandy Reddock Tel: 01568 720395 AAC Roy Moore Tel: 01568 797776 AAC Jane Friend Tel: 01568 708074 We have had a wonderful summer with some unusual and different events. The Garden Party stands out as a particular highlight with just one turnout and everyone dressed in their best bib and tucker, the appearance of the ‘Royal Coach’ with the ‘Royal couple will live in our memories.

The tea provided by the ladies of the household was a real royal treat and commendations and thanks to Tina Lloyd, Jane Friend and Gillian McClements who were magnificent in their roles. Jane was also closely related to our Royal Guest with her’ husband’ bearing more than a passing resemblance to David LLoyd.

Guests Arriving at the Garden Party

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Royal Garden Party

The rallies have been well attended and very enjoyable with Burton Court, The Begwyns and the new Ledgemoor Rally all being well supported and very enjoyable.

The Dressage and Cones day had a drive with it as well and a number of the turnouts chose to do this when they had had their turn at dressage and cones. Helen Manns was on the ground in the dressage arena offering critique and advice which was very well received, I think we shall repeat this next year as it was really enjoyable. The BBQ afterwards was as usual well received with thanks to Bill Walton and his team for the excellent cooking.

The Musical Drive again brought out the bizarre, beautiful and downright mad!!! The theme this year was Royalty and Helen Manns won

Robbyn McClements at Addington

Croft Castle event was a great day and the diversity of turnouts proved that this event is definitely open to all, from Shetland cross welsh to Warmbloods twelve turnouts in all, two juniors drove with Robbyn McClements winning her class with Jane Friend’s pony Rosie and Jane Allcoat kindly grooming for her. Full results and photographs are on the website and Facebook page.

We are having our planning meeting on January 7th 2017 at The Pilgrim Hotel, Much Birch, do please come along and have your say.

10.30 am for coffee and we usually stay and have lunch afterwards in the restaurant.

For more information or any queries about anything ring Kay 01981 540209 007786 628274

Kent AC Antonia Gallop

Tel: 07976729862 Email: gallop.kentbds@yahoo.com

ROW Officer – Anne Rillie AAC Julie Elliott

AAC Carol Gillings

Tel: 01622 710582 Tel: 07768 348123 Email: kenttiddy@btinternet.com Tel: 07964 216930 Email: carolandstorm@gmail.com

For those of us who only come out for summer, the harness is cleaned, wrapped and put away, outfits and livery coats are back from the dry cleaners with mothballs and vehicles are relieved of their cushions and stored under blankets and spreads that haven’t been on a bed since 1979. I am lucky enough to have my ponies at home and can see two hugely hairy Welsh competing for who can get the most mud in their eyelashes alongside a Hackney who despite wearing a heavyweight ‘snowbuster’ rug, hood and quilted under rug, is still standing by the gate asking to be returned to his stable. Ah the joys of winter!

Mr William Malone with his smart chestnut at the Euston Attelage

British Driving Society

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Area News

Mandy Burdick with Horsemans Momentum having a very successful season

Diary of Events

Debbie Tatton in the ribbons

For many of you there is the indoor season to keep you out of mischief and I look forward to seeing some photos of you all, I understand there are some colourful lycra wearing Kent members on the circuit so let’s see you. That goes for anyone, I would be delighted to feature your photos either here in the magazine or on the Facebook page of you enjoying your driving so don’t be shy.

I am still on the look out for an assistant AC so please do get in touch if you are interested.

Unfortunately, our Children in Need drive is looking doubtful as the Farm where we usually park has made some changes and won’t be able

Opal Weaver receiving her junior scholarship trophy for overall winner from Chairman, Angela Sixsmith

to offer us their yard in November. Carol has not had any luck finding a suitable alternative but if any members can offer a large parking area in Stelling Minnis, we can still go ahead. Any potential drive venues are always appreciated.

Don’t forget our Christmas get together at Bradbourne, it should be a good night so get your tickets now.

Our last piece of news, we have secured The Hop Farm for our Area Show on 7th May 2017. Anyone wishing to sponsor a class or help on the day, please get in touch.

10th December @7pm- Christmas Get together at Bradbourne Riding and Training Centre Clubhouse, Sevenoaks.

A chance to catch up with fellow drivers without your equines, guest speaker and supper. Tickets available from Antonia at £5 per person.

19th February 11.30am. Joy Claxton talk “ English Carriages from Elizabeth I to HM Queen Elizabeth II” followed by our Area Meeting at Challock Memorial Hall, Blind Lane, Challock. Ashford. TN25 4AU. Free to members, £5 to non members to include refreshments.

7th May 2017 Kent Area Show at The Hop Farm, Paddock Wood. Our second year at this great venue with classes for all.

Schedules available from March 2017

Merry Christmas to you all!!

Antonia

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18

British Driving Society

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Lancashire

Leicestershire and Rutland AC Linda Cotterill Tel: 0116 2776242 / 07939 150079

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 I had an excellent weekend at Lowther in many ways, but very chilly for summertime. Hence I treated my cheeky Jack Russells to a cosy warm fleece each. The horse teams competed keenly at every level and in the end Daniel Naprous took the title as well as entertaining the crowds with The Devils Horsemens display twice a day.

George Bowman Senior showed the youngsters a thing or two and seemed to have energy to spareEach of the competitors is worthy of a mention, but there is not room here sadly

AC Jane Stretton

Tel: 0116 2707732 / 07711 084142 Email: robert.stretton@ntlworld.com

Dawn Moore organised a lovely drive out with seven turnouts it was to celebrate her mum and dad’s 40th wedding Anniversary. The weather was lovely and it was nice to see Mick and Maria from Norfolk who brought there turnout to join the drive and celebrations. On our return we had lovely food and a cake.

Freda coming back from drive with Smarty on her 80th Birthday

family and friends at the local village hall to help celebrate her 80th birthday with lots of lovely food and Pimms

Dates for Your Diary Saturday 10th December Christmas dinner at the Italian Orchard, Broughton near Preston, please contact me for further details and to book your place, friends and family also welcome Monday 26th December Boxing Day Drive, weather permitting, mulled wine and mince pies:) Sunday 29th January drive to a local Inn for lunch Saturday 25th February Spider drive meeting in Euxton for refreshments Sunday 19th March, drive followed by Jacobs join Sunday 9th April training towards BDS Road Assessment, own turnout welcome

Julie and Norman cutting there 40th Wedding Anniversary Cake

Freda organised an eleven mile drive around Sutton Cheney driving her pony Smarty with Susan Wynn as groom. She was joined on the drive by Linda and Jane driving Ekko, Dawn Norman and Julie Moore with their pair Empress and Lottie, Sioux and Dave Gardner driving Magic, Sue Cole and her husband driving Sam the Man. After the drive we joined Freda’s

Training towards BDS Assessments ongoing, please contact me for further details on all of the above.

Sue Cole Driving Sam the Man

If anyone would like to suggest a speaker for our winter meetings or a venue for a drive or fun day please do give me a ring; 07734 176 827 Meanwhile Happy Carriage driving and all the best for the season.

We look forward to seeing you at some the events organised and wish you a Merry Christmas and New Year Linda and Jane

Diary Dates Freda celebrating her 80th Birthday

Dawns Pair Empress and Lottie taking Norman and Julie on the drive

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Mick and Maria Ward Driving Douglas

10 December – Christmas grotto with Santa at Springbridge Stables - mulled wine mince pies, teas, tombola etc in aid of disability carriage driving.

11th December – Christmas drive from Springbridge - contact Jane or Linda 1st January – New Years Day drive contact Jane or Linda 3rd February – Social contact Jane or Linda 16th April – Easter BDS Trec from Springbridge contact Linda or Jane Please contact us if you have any dates on which you would like to arrange an event. th

British Driving Society

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Area News 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

We have had a very busy summer in Lincolnshire with many drives and rallies in very beautiful locations. We have enjoyed picnics and BBQs and fun days around the county not to mention the social aspects of our rallies. We have seen new ponies, old ponies and the occasional donkey which has been wonderful. We could do with some new faces at our rallies though. There are just a few events left for the rest of the year with a road drive from Careby organised for 16th October and then the Annual Meeting on 27th November at the Plough Inn at Walcott meeting at 12 noon, lunch to follow at 1pm. The Area Commissioner is to stand down, so nominations are welcomed for a replacement. A few photos here show some of the stunning locations we have enjoyed throughout the year

Tel: 01778 343383

Later on we were provided with cakes and drinks whilst we chatted about the day.

Thank you to everyone who joined us!

Norfolk Email: palominocobs@gmail.com

a super buffet in the barn afterwards and were joined by some additional members and had a good chin wag. Our thanks to Michelle and Dave for the bike support and drinks, Brad and Tracy for the bike support and pictures and Kevin and John for the quad support. Thank you to John Ellis for the use of his premises.

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

Hempnall Drive

Abbey farm

Abbey Farm East Walton

Our first drive of 2016 was hosted by our AAC Jenny and it was as always well supported which was also attended by our chairman Angela Sixsmith who came to see the drive off. We had an army of helpers and five turnouts with two drive lengths one of fourteen miles and one of seven miles. We drove around country lanes through Fritton, Denton and Topcroft. We had

We had a super day today driving at Abbey Farm East Walton, a superb holiday facility for riders and carriage drivers. I would like to say a huge thank you to Rachel for hosting the drive from her farm and the great hospitality. Thank you to Laura for being our very fit steward to ensure safe road crossings and timely gate openings.

We drove on fields and tracks around five miles to a nice country pub and stopped for a cold drink and a chat. We left there to carry on down a tree lined track to an unbridged ford that was slightly deeper than expected so those on the lower steps and carriages got nice and wet which made us giggle, It was a great test for horses and whips. We continued around four miles on roads and tracks back to the farm where Rachel had set up a refreshment trailer with her super homemade cake. We had a good chat and discussed the next drive, handed out rosettes and relaxed a bit before setting off home. Thank you to all who came and made it a special day.

Hempnall

Abbey farm

Fun day

Castle Bytham Pleasure Drive The weather on the Sunday of the drive turned out to be excellent after a rainy Saturday. The better conditions encouraged eight turnouts to come and see us at Castle Bytham.

Hempnall

Hempnall

Rally Drive

We set off about 11.30am and after leaving the village followed the lanes through the picturesque countryside of South Lincolnshire, including going over the bridge by the lakes at Holywell House. There were two routes, one of seven miles and a detour added an extra three miles for those who wanted to go further.

Arriving back the drivers were able to try their hand at a cones course then the ponies and horses had a well deserved rest.

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British Driving Society

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News That brings 2016 to a close for the road drives, once again please let me know if you wish to be contacted about drives or events. I can email, text, facebook message or call but will again be keeping newsletters to a minimum to conserve finances for future events. Please get in touch it would be great to see more people on drives for 2017, any feedback or offers of venues etc. will be gratefully received.

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

Morley St Botolph drive

Deleyse

Northumberland and Durham We had three sets of drivers one long route of twelve miles and two short routes of six miles one for fast horses and one for smaller slower ponies. The cones afterwards were fun with Rae winning first and myself coming second with Jim coming third, the Simply the Best rosette was won by Mr and Mrs Snowden for their traditional turnout and the best of the exercise vehicles was given to Rae, both rosettes were presented by Angela Sixsmith. We had ten turnouts on the drive which made this the best attended drive for many years. A huge thank you to everyone who came and supported the drive, thank you to Sandra for hosting the drive it was superb, the food and surroundings were outstanding and thank you to her groom Jane who multi tasked and provided the super cakes. Thank you to Justin for heping to organise things with Sandra and to all the helpers, we could not do it without you.

AC Ali Wrangham Tel: 016682 17329

Mob: 07970 857603

Email: aliwrangham@btconnect.com Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

St Botolph

Poulshot Drive leaving from the village Green

North Wiltshire and Gloucestershire Richard Berry with Barnaby and Harvey on the Poulshot Show Drive

Email: wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com Web: www.northwiltsandglosbds.com

drive until a later date. However later in June we enjoyed our annual drive from Eastleach through the country lanes and across local private estates that kindly allow us to drive around their tracks and headlands. The land is mostly organic so the wild flowers and birds are always in profusion. Jane and Chris Fenton put on their usual lovely picnic lunch. This was followed in early July by the afternoon drive and tea from the Village Green at Poulshot arranged by the Sault family and Richard and Gill Berry.

Sadly there was a very small turnout for this lovely ramble around the leafy lanes and Byways in perfect weather and followed by a delicious tea under the trees on the green.

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 AAC Sue Johnson Tel: 07891 117384 Email: sue.johnson2@sky.com ROW Wiltshire Hazel Woodbridge Tel: 01793 770862 Email: wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com

Whiterails Great Melton 25.09.16 Superb day today at Whiterails, Great Melton, Thank you to Rob and Lisel Richardson for the use of his premises and to all who helped. We had six turnouts with three on the long route of ten miles and three on the short route of five miles, a great turnout considering a few of us humans (me included) were not fit enough to drive! We had a lovely drive on roads around the land bordering Rob’s farm and came back to hot drinks and cake. Thank you Sandra for loaning the cones and setting out the course you are a star, a few attempted the pond, not as much water as usual but again a nice test of horsemanship. Thank you to all who attended and the great company.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

News from the Area In June we had planned to hold a drive to celebrate Her Majesty’s 90th Birthday, however many members had family or village commitments on that day so we postponed the Mike King Private Driving Champion Summer Area Show driving Menai Leo

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

St Botolph

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

ROW Gloucestershire Stephanie Dale Tel: 01666 505051 Email: cotswoldcarriagedriving@yahoo.co.uk

Eastleach Drive 2016 Peter Harris followed by Jane Belcher complete the drive

In the middle of July we held our Summer Area Show in Purton, again entries well down, especially the Private Driving Classes such a shame, but worse was to come as Brinkworth Horse Show managed just one entry, with a similar situation for the Country Show at the beginning of September. Fortunately Cricklade Show faired a little better although the main Horse Show was cancelled again for lack of support- the venue was rapidly re-arranged

British Driving Society

21

Area News

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

Dates for Your Diary

Alfie driven by Amy Stone at the Area Summer Show Young Driver Champion and winner of the Pleasure Driving Sponsored drive RDA GRoup of Perrine and Biscuit

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

and with glorious weather we had a small but good quality turnout and a day that was enjoyed by all. The Area Autumn Show is generally quite low key and a day when the small ponies and donkeys can enjoy themselves.

However even that was not sufficient to attract any real numbers.

Sponsored Drive Margaret Travers with Polo

Carole Baker and Moortown Mistress and Judy Lane with Listilian Beauty at the North Wilts and Glos Autumn Area Show 2016

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

2017

Sponsored Drive Peter Kyle and his pair of Shetlands Joanna Seaman with Fronarth Dancing King Cricklade Show 2016 winner of the Exercise Class

The beginning of October saw the revival of a Drive at Stowell Park- it was wonderful! See the separate report.

Photo: Hazel Woodbridge

A programme for the next few months follows.

It is really difficult to know exactly what members really want as no ideas have been brought forward. We hope that you will support any speakers that have been asked. Please come to the social occasions and bring a member friend and share the transport. Our Annual Meeting is on April 2nd.

Sue Johnson with Toby posting a letter at Cricklade Show 2016

At the end of July we had a lovely sponsored drive on the Marlborough Downs in aid of our local RDA driving group by kind invitation of Penny and Nigel Bunter. The two drives this year raised £470 in total. The weather was perfect and a new route was organised with the most splendid views.

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British Driving Society

Friday December 2nd – Skittles Evening at the Rose and Crown at Worton., Nr Devizes SN10 5SE kindly organised by Richard Berry Meet 7 for 7.30. For further details and booking in contact Richard on 01380 828034 or e-mail richberry60@ hotmail.co.uk Sunday December 4th – Come and have fun and try your hand at long reining or just come and meet new friends at Breach Lane Equine Centre, Breach Lane, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7QR..

Lots of Rosettes – including for the best Christmas costume. You can even borrow a pony or bring your own. Bring a picnic –hot soup and beverages provided. Please contact me to book in by November 24th and let me know what you want to do. Starts at 10.30.

Please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or email wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com Sunday December 18th – Pre Christmas Drive from Merchants Farm Barn, Long Newnton, Nr Tetbury, Gloucestershire GL8 8RP by kind invitation of Stephanie Dale some off road on Byway. Refreshments on return 11 for 11.30 drive off. Drive individually with a map or together. To book in and for further details contact Stephanie Dale on 01666 505051 or email cotswoldcarriagedriving@yahoo.co.uk

The Area has decided to retain its own Website on the same basis as before. It is intended to augment the main BDS website by giving a lot more local information, which will include events that are arranged at short notice and the latest arrangements for events. www. wiltsandglosbds.com

Hazel Woodbridge BEM

Area Commissioner

Sunday January 8th – Drive from at Breach Lane Equine Centre, Breach Lane, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7QR by kind invitation of Alison and Tricia Haskins.

Several circular routes available on country lanes drive individually with a map or as a group. Beverages available bring a picnic. Please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or email wiltsandglosbds@ gmail.com Sunday January 15th – Use of Indoor school between 11 am and 1pm at Breach Lane Equine Centre, Breach Lane, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7QR. The cost to hire is £20 per hour- 2-3 people could drive together. You can do your own thing or we can set up some cones or an obstacle. Please contact me to book in and let me know what you want to do. Set training sessions can also so be arranged. Please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or emailwiltsandglosbds@gmail. com Sunday January 29th – Drive from Woodward’s Farm, Dog Trap Lane Minety, SN16 9PW by kind invitation of Mr and Mrs Shepherd. Hosts Ann and John Wadsworth 11 for 11.30 start. 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 Joyce White on 01249 720608

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Sunday February 19th – Tellington TTouch Equine Awareness a talk and demonstration by Trudi Affleck( To find out more look up on her web site) at Breach Lane Equine Centre, Breach Lane, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7QR. Start at 10.30 until approx 1.30. The cost £7.50 to include a light lunch .Please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or email wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com Friday February 24th – 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 Friday March 3rd – Skittles Evening at the Rose & Crown, Worton. Nr Devizes SN10 5SE kindly organised by Richard Berry Meet 7 for 7.30. for further details and booking in contact Richard on 01380 828034 or e-mail richberry60@hotmail. co.uk Sunday March 5th – Getting ready for the driving year ahead, Andrew HamiltonRhodes will give a practical presentation of how you can prepare for the coming months whatever avenue you choose to go down. To be held at Upper Lorridge, Berkley Road Berkeley, Gloucestershire GL13 13 9HB. Please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or email wiltsandglosbds@ gmail.com

Sunday March 19th – Lunging, long-reining and in-hand work masterclass with Claire Lilley Well known trainer and author featured in the In Harness magazine series. At Breach Lane Equine Centre, Breach Lane, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7QR. Morning session from 10.30. Hot soup and roll available at finish. Cost £15 per person, further details and application forms will be available on the web site or by sending a sae to Hazel Woodbridge. If you would like to take part with your horse/pony please let me know as we will need animals of varying experience.

Please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or emailwiltsandglosbds@gmail.com Friday March 24th – 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 26th – Drive from Woodward’s Farm, Dog Trap Lane Minety SN16 9PW by kind invitation of Mr and Mrs Shepherd. Hosts Ann and John Wadsworth 11 for 11.30 start. 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 Joyce White on 01249 720608 Sunday April 2nd – Tea and Cakes –An informal get to-together, by kind

Where quality, service & experience comes as standard

invitation of Stephanie Dale at Merchants Farm Barn. Long Newnton Nr Tetbury Gloucestershire GL8 8RP. Meet up with old friends and meet new ones, suggest ideas for the 60th anniversary of our Society. This will be followed by the Area’s annual meeting. Come for 2pm.

If you can share your transport with another that would be great. To book in and for further details contact Stephanie Dale on 01666 50 5051 or email cotswoldcarriagedriving@yahoo.co.uk Sunday April 9th – Use of the Indoor school between 11 and 1pm at Breach Lane Equine Centre, Breach Lane, Royal Wootton Bassett SN4 7QR. The cost to hire is £20 per hour- 2-3 people could drive together. You can do your own thing or we can set up some cones or an obstacle. Please contact me to book in and let me know what you want to do. Set training sessions can also so be arranged. Please contact Hazel on 01793 770862.or email wiltsandglosbds@gmail. com Sunday April 23rd – Drive to be confirmed Sunday May 1st – Joint BDS TREC with Oxfordshire Area If you can offer a venue for a drive or have any ideas please can you contact either Hazel or any of the Assistant Area Commissioners?

Hazel Woodbridge 01793 770862 or email wiltsandglosbds@gmail.com

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Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

British Driving Society

23

Area News Oxfordshire Email: leeox8@btinternet.com AC Karen Harvey Tel: 01993 880445 ROW Officer June Collier Tel: 01869 331255

of lovely weather and views. June and George Collier along with Jenny and George Smith and Mary Baker worked hard to ensure everyone had a good time. Jenny and Mary had made some lovely cakes to be enjoyed after the drives.

On the Saturday night everyone tucked in to a lovely fish and chip supper at Astrick Stud making it a splendid end to the first day. After Sunday’s drive having tea and cakes ended what had been a good social weekend.

Future dates so far are: Our Driving Show and Fun Day was held on the 14th August. We eventually had enough entries to make a day of it but with only six entries forward.

Friday 20th January 2017 Annual Meeting at the Duke of Marlborough Pub nr Woodstock with a meal afterwards, there usually is a choice of Steak, Salmon or Vegetarian To Book please contact me on 01993880445, I need to know numbers so I can let the pub know of how many to prepare for.

Saturday 25th February Start the Year Dinnervenue to be confirmed. Please contact me on 01993880445 for further details nearer the time. I will contact members either by email or put details on our FB page.

Driving Show and Fun Day

Driving Show and Fun Day

Driving Show and Fun Day

Advance notification our joint Trec with Wilts and Glos usually takes place on the first May Bank Holiday weekend at Eynsham Park Oxfordshire, details will be available nearer the time and entries will be to Hazel.

We need some ideas and offers of drives for 2017 so please have a think before our AM. I hope to arrange another Fun Day in the Summer with date to be confirmed.

Driving Show and Fun Day

Shropshire Driving Show and Fun Day

I managed to persuade everyone to take part in at least one showing class, afterwards the results were positive and everyone having got over their nerves had huge smiles on their faces, it wasn’t so bad after all. After a social lunch the Fun event followed and consisted of a cones competition and a Handy obstacle course.

Presentations of rosettes took place at the end and there were some surprised and happy faces at the results. At least everyone went home with a smile. Thank you to those who helped and especially everyone mucking in to clear up afterwards.

Driving Show and Fun Day

The Driving Weekend at Letcombe Regis went well, with two drives taking place, one on Saturday and the other on Sunday.

Unfortunately some who had booked in didn’t turn up leaving five turnouts to enjoy the treat

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British Driving Society

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

At Newport show in July four smart turnouts took part, two horse pairs, a team and organizer Willowe Keeley with her Shetland turnout. Later in the month Shropshire Driving Days proved as popular as ever. Ted Orgil was well received as the new leader of the organising team who do an excellent job planning and running the event. Everyone contributed towards a gift to be presented to John Gibson Ted’s popular predecessor.

Boxing Day event contact Philip 01952 242495 New Year’s Day event 12 for 12.30 contacts Dot 0771806054 18th January 2017 Annual Area Meeting venue to be announced

Our area Trec took place at Sweeney Mountain again organized by Lizzie Lawrence and a good day was had by all who took part. On the 25th eight mainly traditional turnouts attended the carriage Parade and eight mule drive at Attingham Park followed by tea in the orangery .as with last year the Allkington drive only attracted three turnouts for a pleasant ten mile drive.

December 4th area Lunch Tickets available from Rebecca Taylor 01952 541029 or 07747182349

BDS Trec at Sweeney Mountain

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Somerset & Avon Email: khillsa@yahoo.co.uk AC Mrs Kathleen Hill Tel: 01823 672377 Mob: 07860 608501 Newsletter Sarah Cartwright Tel: 01984 623605 Email: cartwright742@btinternet.com Several events were organised for members over the summer, which is always a particularly busy time of year for other happenings. Despite huge efforts to avoid clashing with neighbouring areas this was not always possible.

Amelie Milton with Doris and Chunky

Jo Green organised a drive from a new venue on 26 June, starting and finishing at the Anchor Inn, Exebridge, near Dulverton. It was a very pretty drive overlooking the Exe valley, of about 8miles.

Members met up for a meal in the Anchor afterwards, again a lovely setting on the banks of the Exe river. The weather was kind and five turnouts enjoyed the event.

Sue Popham with Red

Seven turnouts attended the drive from Higher Newland Farm on Sunday 21 August by kind invitation of Jo Green. The weather was dry for the start and arrangements had been made for the equines to be unharnessed and left safely while everyone enjoyed lunch at the Thelbridge Inn. This drive has become a regular event and was thoroughly enjoyed by everyone there.

Sheena Jacobs with Flash

Jacquiline Isdell Carpenter

A visit to Arlington Court National Trust Carriage Museum on Wednesday, 14 September was enjoyed by five members who shared transport for the drive there.

Jo Green with Lennox

Eight turnouts competed at the BDS Trec at Sampford Arundel on 10 July. Unusually there were three turnouts with Shetlands and the over 13.2 hh and under 13.2 hh categories were equally spread. We saw a very interesting Polish vehicle for the first time, which was very different from our standard carriages. The day was fine to start with a light breeze and periods of sun, but the rain did arrive, albeit gently, in time for the tea kindly provided by Mrs Hill in her garden after everyone had completed the four disciplines. Winner of the under 13.2 hh was Amelie Milton with her two Shetlands Doris and Chunky, and of the over 13.2 hh was Sheena Jacobs with Flash Dance.

The two-day ‘camp’ and training at Fenix Centre on 13/14 July was fully booked. There were ten turnouts. The first day covered flat work and cones driving, while the second focused on the obstacles course and a mock show.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Arlington

The weather was just about perfect on Horseman’s Sunday, 18 September, for the annual service to celebrate the horse. Riders and carriage drivers met in the field beside St Andrew’s Church, Clayhidon where the Rev David Burton led a short service. Suitable hymns were accompanied by an accordion player. Three different rides were then enjoyed before everyone returned for tea served by the Church people. Jacqueline and Charles Isdell-Carpenter kindly hosted and organised the routes for the carriage drivers

Vicar on Horsemans Sunday

Events for your Diary Sunday, 4 December 2016: Christmas Lunch at Oake Manor Golf Club, near Wellington, TA4 1BA. 12 noon for 12.30pm. The three-course lunch will be £15.50 per head, children under 10 £8.00.

Cheques should be made payable to ‘BDS Somerset Area’ and sent to Mrs Kathleen Hill, Sampford Farm, Sampford Arundel, Wellington, TA21 9QN to be received no later than 27 November 2015. A prize for the Christmas draw would be much appreciated.

Sunday, 1 January 2017: Weather permitting, a New Year’s Day interval drive from Sampford Farm, Sampford Arundel, Wellington, TA21 9QN, with seasonal celebrations afterwards. For further details please contact Mrs Kathleen Hill (tel. 01823672377, mob. 07860 608501).

Sunday, 22 January 2017: Somerset Area Annual Meeting. Lunch at The Blue Ball, Sampford Moor, near Wellington, TA21 9QL, 12 noon for 12.30pm (roast beef or pork £11.00/head), will be followed by the meeting. New ideas will be welcome.

Please let Mrs Kathleen Hill (tel. 01823672377, mob. 07860 608501) know by Monday, 15th if you are able to come so that the Blue Ball can cater appropriately.

Sunday, 2 April 2017 (provisionally): Annual Easter Egg Hunt drive, by invitation of Jo Green at Higher Newland Farm, Witheridge, Tiverton, EX16 8QF, starting at 12 noon.

Please tell Jo Green (tel. 01884 860591 mob.

07979-714563) by Saturday 20th if you wish to attend.

Monday, 1 May 2017 (Bank Holiday): Interval drive from Sampford Farm, Sampford Arundel, Wellington, TA21 9QN, starting at 12.00 noon. Lunch afterwards.

Please let Mrs Kathleen Hill (tel. 01823672377, mob. 07860 608501) know by 24 April if you wish to attend.

A Sunday in May (date to be confirmed): A Victorian-themed drive in the park at Tyntesfield House, by invitation of the National Trust. For further details please contact Kathleen Hill (tel. 01823-672377, mob. 07860-608501).

Sunday, 4 June 2017: BDS SOMERSET AREA SHOW, Taunton Race Course, TA3 7BL. For schedules and further details please contact Mrs Kathleen Hill (tel. 01832-672377, mob.

07860-608501).

Sunday, 2 July 2017: BDS Trec at Sampford Farm, Sampford Arundel, Wellington, TA21 9QN. Schedules from Mrs Kathleen Hill (tel.

01823 672377, mob. 07860-608501).

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Area News Suffolk Cambs & Huntingdon AC Elaine McCarthy

Tel: 01223 870181 / 07968 759245 Email: elaine@sterlingresearch.co.uk

AAC Jean Clayden

Tel: 01473 658400 / 07788 484623 Email: jeancpops@aol.com Tel: 01473 830326 / 07584 692686 Email: eunicebinder@btinternet.com Tel: 01473 830326

AAC Eunice Binder ROW Officer Wallace Binder The highlight of our area’s activities since our last report has to be the exciting and challenging new BDS competition for traditional Private Drivers, aka the Concours d’atttelage de Tradition, held at Euston Hall Estate on 20-21 August.

The organisers, Eunice and Wally, would like to thank all seventeen competitors with traditional carriages who entered this year, travelling from Cornwall, Yorkshire and all counties in between to join the locals for this weekend treat. It was however, Suffolk member Jessie Boden, driving her mother Kate Bowling’s Tilly Trotter, who took the Overall Winner’s Champion Sash and AIAT Silver Salver. Not only getting married this year but saving and training Tilly for this event was a triumph for Jessie and her team. So well deserved and congratulations Jessie. Sharon Wootton, from Bedfordshire was a worthy Reserve Champion.

Leah Marshall from Herts took the BDS Area 24 Attelage bronze bust for Best Young Driver.

All three winners proving that “practice makes perfect.”

The Area Annual Meeting was well attended and lively debate preceded a lovely banquet. Thank you to all who attended and put their ideas for 2017 forward. Please read the diary dates below for a list of next year’s events. All events are also published on the BDS Website. For those of you looking for the events on the BDS website here’s a quick ‘how to’. On the site click on the ‘Events’ tab. Next enter ‘Area 24’ or ‘Cambridgeshire’ or ‘Suffolk’ just under where it says ‘Search’, then click the ‘Find Events’ tab. All the forthcoming events

The Late Robert Clifton Brown and Earl

26

British Driving Society

All the events listed below need stewards on the day. Please can I ask for Area members to step forward and offer a morning or an afternoon of their time to help these events run smoothly and safely. Competitors, perhaps you could invite a friend or relative along help support the events.

Please contact Jean, Eunice or myself to get involved.

All that remains is for me to wish you a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year. Here’s to 2017 and all that it brings.

Diary Dates

Jessie Boden and Tilly Trotter CIAT Champion Euston 2016

should then be displayed for you. Please support the 2017 events, both competitors and spectators will be very welcome.

If you are thinking about doing your BDS Road Driving Assessment, or would like some training with your turnout, please get in touch with our Area Instructor, Claire Bourne LHHI, who will help you achieve your goals. Claire can be contacted on 07780970530.

On a sad note, Mr Robert Clifton Brown, long standing Area 24 member recently passed away.

Robert will no doubt be remembered for his ‘let’s give it a go’ attitude to life and his cheery presence at events will be greatly missed. RIP Robert.

19th March Social Event. Join us for a visit to the National Stud at Newmarket.

The National Stud remains the only commercial stud farm in the UK allowing individuals and small groups the chance to see behind the scenes of a working Thoroughbred stud farm. The tour will be in the morning at 11am and we will then have lunch at Wavertree’s Coffee Shop. Please contact Linda Twitchen on 07946 668 082 by 26th Feb to book a place.

2nd April 2017 Introductory Attelage. This event is open to both exercise and traditional vehicles and is essentially Attelage in a day! Bring your turnout and practice driving all the competition elements or if you don’t want to bring a turnout, come and learn about Attelage by stewarding. Contact Eunice by 12th March to book a place please.

22nd April 2017 Pleasure Drive from Charsfield. There will be either a 4 mile or a 6 mile route on lovely country lanes available followed by tea. Please contact the drive organiser Gay Lister by 1st April if you wish to attend and to get further details on the venue and timing. Gay can be contacted on 01473 737366.

21st May 2017 Area 24 Spring Show will be held at Wells Park Farm by kind permission of Mrs Tessa Reeve.

Schedules will be available on the Events section of the BDS Website or contact Jean Clayden. th 4 June 2017 Pleasure Drive from Sutton, Woodbridge. Please contact Eunice by 14th May if you wish to join the drive and to get further details on the venue and timing.

2nd July 2017 BDS Champagne Driving, the Area 24 Summer Show, will be held once again at Ashfields Carriage & Polo Club by kind permission of Mr Terry Chambers. Schedules will be available on the Events section of the BDS Website or from Elaine McCarthy. th 19 & 20th August 2017 The 3rd CIAT will be held once again at Euston Estate by kind permission of the Duke & Duchess of Grafton. Contact Eunice Binder for details of the event and how to enter.

Details will also be available on the BDS website in the Events section.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Surrey

Sussex East

Email: brightwell419@btinternet.com AC Jane Brightwell Tel: 0208 6579393

Sue Page

AAC Helen Bridges AAC Louise Woodward

AAC David Pritchard Tel: 01428 288301

AAC Pearl Hudson ROW Cathy Millard Our BDS Surrey Area Show was well supported and we thank everyone for their continued support. A big thank you to Julia and Nigel Horwood, Cherry Chidwick, Lawrence Saupe, Dave Steer and all our wonderful stewards, judges and helpers who give their time on the day and in the weeks beforehand to make show day so enjoyable.

Congratulations to all our competitors and our overall Champion Steve Tubbs with Bertie Independence Warrior.

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 2017 which are detailed below. You will also find our dates on the main BDS Website in the Surrey slot and these will be added to as the year progresses.

With Good Wishes to you all for Christmas and New Year.

Thursday 24th November Early Christmas get together with West Sussex Area at The Bat and Ball Country Pub and Haywards Restaurant, Newpound Lane, Wisborough Green, RH14 0EH 7.30pm – £20.00 per head for 2 courses with tea or coffee – cheques payable to BDS Surrey Area. For menu choices and to book please contact Elaine Thompson on 07774 677040 after 6pm or email elaine_thompson01@btinternet.com (bookings required by 14 November please).

Friday 20th January 7 pm. Pub Supper at The Punchbowl Inn at Okewoodhill, RH5 5PU south of Ockley, followed by a talk by Geoffrey Hewlett on The Coach Roads to Brighton. (Our Annual Meeting will be held prior to the talk). There will be a choice of menu and coffee is included (not drinks) £15 per head. Please book by 14th January with Gail Brownrigg 01306 627609 gail_ brownrigg@yahoo.co.uk. or Jane Brightwell.

Sunday 19 February Valentines Drive, Horton Country Park Epsom. Approximately six 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 restriced - from Jane Brightwell, Highfield, 2 Tandridge Gardens, Sanderstead, Surrey.

CR2 9HU (sae please) tel: 020 8657 9393 (between 6pm – 8.30pm).

Please Note: We will be asking for BDS Membership Cards at all Area Events – so don’t forget to bring it along.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Tel: 07842 806855 Email: bds-sussex@hotmail.com Web: www.eastsussexbds.co.uk Tel: 01825 872030 Tel: 07854 460305 lwd@hotmail.co.uk Tel: 01323 509986 pahudson@aol.com Tel: 07887 654174

Event Calendar

2016 Achievement Award

Sue Page, Helen Bridges, Louise Woodward and Pearl Hudson are working on the calendar of events for next year. However, we would like to hear what you would like. Do you want more organised drives or shows? Would you like to attend a BDS Trec event? Is a pub quiz something that you would like so that you can socialise with other members when the weather is inclement? Would you like a picnic drive or a pub-crawl drive on a warm summer evening?

How about a treasure hunt drive? We would very much like to hear your suggestions as we are running this for your enjoyment. If you do have any ideas, please let Sue, Helen, Louise or Pearl know as soon as possible.

It is good to see so many of our members in the ribbons this year and being successful. It is nearly the end of 2016 so can we please have your results for this year’s shows. We would like all your results by 30th November 2016.

We will be announcing the winner in the next magazine. You can see all the results on our website www.eastsussexbds.co.uk.

The next event is on 1st January 2017 from Golden Cross Equestrian Centre and is a joint venture with the Oaks Driving Club. Price is £5 and you get a rosette and hot soup. Please see our website for more details or contact Helen Bridges or Pearl Hudson.

Achievement Award Scoreboard so far (in alphabetical order by surname) Jane Bellingham Helen Bridges Christine Buckland Joe Carter Moira Evans Rosie Fieldwick Robert Gabriel Gina Jeffreys Kevin Jeffreys Dick Tanner Louise Woodward

6 64 22 6 35 75 15 34 18 6 26

If you wish to be personally kept up-to-date and reminded of events a week or so in advance, please send your email address to Pearl Hudson at pahudson@aol.com.

We are always looking for more venues to hold BDS drives, so if you would like to host a drive please let Pearl know.

Website – www.eastsussexbds.co.uk Please check our area’s website for any news, photos and updates. You will also find the calendar of events there. We also have a For Sale and Wanted section where you can advertise for as long as you like for free.

Helen Bridges with Finn

Chris with her miniature horse Sophie

Gina Jeffries with Beau

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Area News

The Bellingham Clydesdale Cobs

Lara Heath

Sunday 26th June – Havenswold Summer Solstice Drive

even donning their finery to make a splendid display. The drive was only about a mile in length, which suited some of the smaller ponies, whilst the bigger horses completed the route several times. Some whips even stopped to let members of the public ask questions and appreciate their turnouts.

Despite the heavy rain the week before, the weather stayed dry for the Summer Solstice drive from this popular venue. However, the route had to be altered slightly beforehand as part of one of the by ways was overgrown but maps were provided showing the detour which did not detract from the beauty of this drive.

The route still encompassed the two by ways in spite of the detour and the going was good on both off-road sections. A fallen tree had partially blocked the path in the woods but was dealt with by a couple of strong men who moved it to let the carriages pass.

Sue Page with Lottie

It was a real privilege to be able to traverse the route of the original carriageway which was in place over 250 years ago and to take in the breathtaking views as conceived by one of England’s most prominent landscape architects.

Jane Parsons with Ben

There were two drives; one at 11.00 am followed by lunch with a second drive at 2.30 pm. All participants received a rosette.

Sunday 18th September – Windsor Great Park Drive

Saturday 27 August – Sheffield Park Drive th

BDS Members on the Summer Solstice Drive

There were eight turnouts ranging from a diminutive Shetland to a part-bred Clydesdale.

There was a mix of two and four wheeled vehicles and members from both East Sussex and Surrey.

It was another lovely sunny day that saw us attend the second of our drives at Sheffield Park. The staff at the park worked out a longer route for us this time, which followed the old historic carriageway as before but also included a part of the landscaped downland as well as the wooded area. There were eight turnouts in all, ranging from a diminutive miniature horse called Sophie right up to a lovely pair of Clydesdale/Cobs, Shadow and Reagon brought by Jane and Graham Bellingham. It was Reagon’s debut outing and he behaved impeccably. Members from Surrey BDS again joined us.

Everyone returned to Havenswold having enjoyed a lovely drive, to refreshments provided by host Dick Tanner and birthday cake provided

by Pearl Hudson. All whips received a beautiful summer solstice rosette as a memento of a very enjoyable drive.

It was a lovely atmosphere as we paraded in our “Sunday Best” past the general public enjoying their lunch. As in July, we had two drives one at 11.00 am and the second at 2.30 pm. Many whips drove the route several times which created more of a spectacle for the visiting public.

Saturday 9th July – Sheffield Park Drive

Sheffield Park staff made us very welcome and again provided us with light refreshments.

Rosettes were also given to all participants.

We were invited by Martin Pink AAC BDS Berkshire to attend a drive through Windsor Great Park and five East Sussex members accepted the invite. The drive was extremely well organised and we all drove off at prearranged five minute intervals. Although some of us were allowed to start off together if we wished. We were provided with an excellent map with the route clearly marked and not only that there were ample yellow arrows along the way in case we became a bit befuddled by the map. Much of the route was away from the general public, which made one feel a bit elitist and the scenery was stunning. Rosettes were given to all turnouts who completed the drive and a carrot was given to all the equines for all their hard work. A nice touch!

A big thank you must go to Martin and his team for the warm welcome and for organising the most enjoyable of drives.

We are hoping to be invited to next year’s drive.

The British Driving Society was invited to drive along the original carriageway within Sheffield Park as part of the National Trust’s 300th anniversary celebrations of Lancelot “Capability” Brown’s birth.

It was a beautiful sunny, if very windy, day and the National Trusts’ staff made the eight assemblages who turned out, very welcome.

BDS members from both Surrey and East and West Sussex arrived to provide a show to members of the public visiting the parkland.

All our members had made an especial effort with beautiful clean turnouts with some

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British Driving Society

Rosie Fieldwick with Millie

Jane Bellingham with Shadow at Windsor

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Sussex West AC Colin Hurd Tel: 01243 776809 Mob: 07973 682861 (eves only) Email: c_hurd@sky.com The showing season finished with the annual Osborne Refrigerators Show at Addington and despite few area members attending those that did, both enjoyed themselves and had a few good results, Sue Marskell, Jemma Cooper, Lesley Hurd and Colin Hurd all took animals and flew the area flag.

We will be running our area show again in 2017 at both a date and venue yet to be confirmed, we would like to return to the Weald and Downland Museum and have asked them to see if we can be accommodated after having to relocate, due to waterlogging, at short notice in 2016.

Every year I ask the same questions of our members and have yet in ten years never had a reply, so I will ask again, if anyone would have a suitable venue for a drive or a training session please do let us know. As before should you wish to host a drive or event please do let us know well in advance so we may arrange the insurance cover and the relevant H&S documentation required to comply with the societies wishes.

We do have funds available to support training or other events and just need ideas from our members as to what is wanted, rein handling, ring craft, turnout, methods of production all can be put on without too much facility required and can be of interest to all disciplines of carriage driving.

Once again our ever popular BDS Trec will hopefully be organised at the superb facilities and venue of Jeff Osborne and the beautiful all off road drive and fun skills will of course be on offer. Keep an eye on the website for dates and details.

I do have email addresses for a large number of our members but if everyone could please send me their addresses again it will assist in maintaining cheap and simple contact to inform you of what is going on. So please send your details to me at c_hurd@sky.com And could everyone please remember to renew your membership subscriptions as soon as you can.

Warwicks West Mid and Northants AC to be announced AAC Oliver Belcher AAC Dianne Austin

Tel: 01926 815240 Tel: 01922 637191

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Presentation by Neil Wray to Retiring AC Daphne Summers

Yorkshire & Cleveland Email: tallgirl1965@hotmail.co.uk AC Leah Swindlehurst Mob: 07799 884560 AAC Lynda Smith Tel: 01964 602081

A total of fourteen members, including retiring BDS AC Daphne Summers, former AC Jill Berry, and local BDS Council Member Neil Wray attended the Meet and Greet Event at Askham Bryan College, York, on 24 August 2016. After an interesting round of introductions from all those present, we had a lively and useful discussion about the future of Yorkshire & Cleveland Area, including suggestions for future rallies, training and social events.

There was a discussion also about the Carriage Driving Classes at the Yorkshire Show and a number of members have asked whether I could make an approach to the Show Committee with a view to these being reinstated.

The evening concluded with formal presentation of an M&S Hamper to retiring BDS AC Daphne Summers, in recognition of all her hard work as Area Commissioner and in organising events over the past few years.

EVENTS PROGRAMME 2016–2017 Date : Saturday 26 November 2016 Time : 11:00am – 3:30pm (including lunch break) Cost : £20.00 pp inc Training and Working Carriage Museum (pay for own pub lunch or bring packed lunch) Event : TRAINING DAY AND VISIT TO THE RED HOUSE STABLES – MATLOCK DERBYSHIRE Venue : The Red House Stables Old Road Matlock Derbyshire

Details : With Caroline Dale-Leech LHHI. Optional drive out with Pair/Team (cost £TBC). www.redhousestables.co.uk/ theworkingcarriagemuseum. Please confirm interest to AC Leah Swindlehurst (07799 884560 or tallgirl1965@hotmail. co.uk) Date : January 2017 (TBC) Time : 10:30am (TBC) Event : OFF-ROAD RALLY DRIVE – ESCRICK PARK YORK Cost : £20.00 per turnout (Group Discount for 10+) Venue : Escrick Park Estate Escrick York YO19 6EA Details : Group Drive on Off-road Course. Choice of routes/distances. www.escrick.com/ rideways. Please confirm interest to AC Leah Swindlehurst (07799 884560 or tallgirl1965@hotmail.co.uk) and quote your current BDS Membership Number.

PLEASE ENSURE YOU BRING YOUR BDS MEMBERSHIP CARD TO THE DRIVE – IT MUST BE CHECKED BEFORE THE DRIVE SETS OFF

South Yorkshire & Nottinghamshire AC Nicola Salter Tel: 01777 248210 AAC Graham Schofield Tel: 01709 586829 AAC Joy Ashton-Beard Tel: 01777 817679

I hope that everyone has enjoyed their summer.

We as an area have been very disappointed, all of our area drives and events that were planned for June, July and August had to be cancelled due to lack of interest. Our general feeling is that nobody really wants drives out on roads now, so we will not be organising any more for the foreseeable future. We will have the Osberton drive next year as it is always a popular one, with it being all off road on the Osberton estate it is an ideal venue. I was wondering if anybody in our area would

British Driving Society

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Area News be interested in some sort of driven dressage to music competition. I judged the Derbyshire and Staffordshire area members at the Northern Hackney Horse Club Show in August and they had a class for Driven Dressage to music it was really entertaining and very well supported and I thought at the time this might be something our area members would enjoy rather than road drives. If there is anyone with any ideas for next year’s programme of events for the area I would be very pleased to hear from them.

Several area members have being doing well in the show ring this summer, I would particularly like to congratulate my husband Malcolm on winning the BDS Supreme National Private Driving Championships with Mike Clark’s welsh cob Newydd Beau, an amazing achievement and well deserved. It is lovely to see Joanne Dobson out driving again with her new pony Welseker Mario, definitely one to watch in the show ring next year. Also good luck to Eric Mills who I know has a new pony he is getting ready for next year’s shows.

We are having a Christmas Celebration again this year on Saturday 17th December. It will be in our own private candlelit church at Cottam with carols, mulled wine, mince pies and several other ingredients of a traditional Christmas. It will be a chance for us all to get together, socialise and get into the spirit of Christmas. Please let us know if you are able to come along as we are doing supper too, the more the merrier!!

Our annual area meeting will be on Saturday 18th February 2017 at Rampton Village Hall when we can discuss events etc, for the coming year and enjoy a pie and peas supper, if there are enough of us we may have a quiz as well. So please come along we will be very pleased to see as many members as possible.

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 Owlett and I are doing our best to encourage and enable those with an interest in carriage driving to get together again and forge the way forward with carriage driving on the Isle of Wight. We would love our members to support the events we are putting on and have fun with or without our driving ponies.

On 11th September Angela Morgan, Sarah Owlett, Linda Pike and Lilly the Dalmation went on a lovely drive through Thorley along the disused railway line, passed Freshwater Bay and over to Totland. The day was really sunny and lots of holiday makers waved to us as we trotted past. We stopped at Warren farm unhitched and tied the ponies to the fence whilst we had a delicious cream tea and caught up with friends. Drivers and grooms received their rosettes and we had a lovely drive home.

On 2nd October four turnouts completed the BDS Trec this was held at Longcommon Farm as the ground was too wet at Barnsley. Thanks to Robert Young who judged the tacking up putting too and safety. All agreed it was good fun and the circle holding a length of rope made us all laugh it looks so easy but it is not as easy as it looks. Bet there will be practicing for next time. Lilly the Dalmatian followed Linda perfectly with Haley grooming. Rosettes were awarded and then we sat in the field and shared a picnic the weather was lovely. Don`t forget we have a face book page with events on and look on the BDS Website events page as events will be put on there, please let us know if you are coming to an event or meal.

In the next magazine we will report on the Annual Meeting on 18th October.

Margaret a nd Sarah

Future Events 3 December 7pm Christmas Dinner Horse and Groom names by 24th November to Sarah Tel 07876594766 4th December drive from Wyndham farm leave 11am Tel Sarah 07876594766 8th January Drive Marilyn’s Yard, Station Road, Ningwood, Tel 07795098231 5th February drive from Longcommon Farm, Ryde. Tel Margaret 07845908444 March quiz at The Buddle Inn date to be arranged rd

Forthcoming Events Saturday Dec 17th – Christmas Candlelight Supper, Cottam Church 7pm . Tel Nicola 01777248210 (please inform me prior to the event if you intend to come for catering purposes) Saturday February 18th – Annual Area Meeting Rampton Village Hall 7pm. Tel Nicola 01777248210 (once again please inform me prior to the event if you intend to come for catering purposes)

Guernsey

Photo: Margaret Honeybourne

AAC Rose Yates Tel: 01481 258181 Email: rose.yates@cwgsy.net

Isle of Man AAC Wendy Kirkpatrick Tel: 01624 851302 Email: wendykirkpatrick@mcb.net 30

British Driving Society

Whips and grooms receive their rosettes at the Isle of Wight BDS Trec

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Jersey Email: phyllis.gouedart@googlemail.com

AC Phyllis Gouédart Tel: 01534 721151

June Vibert driving Moss at Driving Trial

Photo: Tony Vardon

Ivor Barette driving Ben & Duke In the rain at the Annual Show

Phyllis Gouedart driving Middle Lake 3 at Annual Show

Some more testing courses were built to find the Skilled Driver of the Year as there were too many clear rounds in the past with time only being the decider; this has done the trick

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

A Driving Trial was held in St Ouen mainly through grass fields resting before the next potato season, the dressage arena was somewhat overgrown which was testing for the smaller ponies, Ivor with his pair of Dutch horses was able to show off their paces and duly won the dressage much to his surprise (there is a time for everyone!) also the pairs class, other class winners were Rachelle Robinson and June Vibert (Best Cones and Best score) and Kim Murray (Best Marathon).

John Vibert won the Grooms Cones; two juniors who had groomed for the adults were given the opportunity to drive in the grooms cones and acquitted themselves well.

Leonie Surcouf driving Princess in the skilled driving

Photo: Tony Vardon

Photo: Tony Vardon

There were five turnouts for the picnic drive led

by Phyllis from Kim’s yard through some of the lovely quiet back lanes around St Ouen on a lovely summer’s day.

Photo: Tony Vardon

as there have been no clear rounds during the three events, based on a points system Margaret Robinson, Phyllis Gouedart and Kim Murray each won one of the events, it will be down to the place points to decide who will win the overall trophy which will be presented together with other points awards to be held at the annual dinner in November, watch this space!

Zoe Le Marquand driving Jerry at Driving Trial

Photo: Tony Vardon

It has been a tremendous year for Ivor Barette winning all three Show Championships and also competing with his coach and team of black Dutch horses at Royal Windsor and Newbury Horse Shows, Kim Murray’s piebald rescue pony Ben in the hands of Phyllis Gouedart has stood reserve, this gem of a pony also competes with a seven year old boy in ridden classes.

Photo: Tony Vardon

The three Shows have exceeded all expectations despite the low entries in the Private Driving classes, the Exercise and In Hand classes appear to receive the bulk of entries. There is a need to have some innovative classes not only for the competitors but also for the public.

Junior Molly Banim driving Middle lake 3 Cones Driving Trials

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Reports

BDS Wales Trec Championships Trec Line up

This year our area was hosts for the BDS Wales Trec championships, which was held in Llanllechid, Nr. Bangor. The competitors were sent along country lanes and off road scenic tracks. With only four qualifiers attending I felt that the event went very well and all four competitors enjoyed their day. I would like to thank all my helpers and stewards on the day.

Your help was much appreciated. The BDS Trec Champion was Sharne and Dianne Bellis with Jaffa, Reserve champion was Neil and Charlie Buffery with Miggy, then Tony and Pat Tharme with Wally then Dianna Rimmer and Anne with Mitch.

Trec Champion and Reserve

Neil Buffery reserve champion

Dianna Rimmer and Anne

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BDS Trec Champion Sharne Bellis

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Reports the scurry ponies went, so much so that the photos I took were just a blur! I also visited the BDS stand where I used the rein handling machine which was a useful way of practising my coachman hand, it also allowed me to experience what a good contact should feel like.

My next outing was to a BDS bombproofing and trec training day run by area 36. The day started with long reining through various obstacles such as walking over flattened plastic bottles, over a tarpaulin and through barrels with umbrellas in.

Jenny was a little hesitant about some of them but with a bit of persuasion she went through them all. After lunch it was time to drive them and I was very pleased that she had gained in confidence and completed all the tasks. Again with area 36 I attended a dressage and cones training day where I learnt how to drive the shapes properly but the best bit was whizzing around the cones, if I’m honest that’s what I enjoy the most.

junior camp 2 most improved young driver

Llewelyn Chapman Junior Competition My introduction to carriage driving started at the beginning of 2014 when I accompanied my grandmother to an indoor training day run by the Dyfed Carriage Club. I had a go at long reining her pony Jenny, who had been broken to drive a few months previously. The aim was to show the pony that summer in exercise vehicle classes and I was to be the groom. I was looking forward to it very much, so I began learning about the harness and carriage and what my duties would be as a groom. It was a fast learning curve and I came to realise that everything must be scrupulously clean and the pony well mannered.

Not long after, I attended my first proper rally at Dinefwr park, Llandeilo. It’s not a very long drive so my grandmother drove it first and then she handed me the reins, although it was a very wet day I thoroughly enjoyed it and it filled me with confidence. I then went to BDS Monmouth and area 38 shows, at the latter I drove in the junior whip class and came 3rd. My grooming duties were called upon for the next outing which was the carriage driving challenge at Picton Castle. A two day event, the first day everything had to be as clean as clean could be and I was very pleased that our turnout won a prize for the highest presentation score in our class. The next day was wet and we completed our road drive with no penalties, I like to think that was down to my good timekeeping.

Wales Junior Camp

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

It was an enjoyable weekend but not much fun walking the cones course in your wet clothes.

My next big outing was BDS Wales show, I had been practising my coachman hand and entered the junior class. The judge was extremely helpful and very kind with her advice and said I had a beautiful turnout. I was very proud to be awarded the best groom’s prize in the Queen’s birthday class. I was very tired at the end of the day but it was all worthwhile.

I also like to attend local agricultural shows although sadly the driving classes are getting few and far between, in one such show I competed in a cones class against my grandmother and well and truly beat her. I’m not sure whether she’s forgiven me yet!

In August I went to the BDS Wales junior camp, this was great fun. I slept in the trailer although it did get a bit chilly one night. I was lucky enough to drive a number of different turnouts, all bigger than our section A pony, which was something that I had not done before. I practised my rein handling on the wooden horse heads and there was also stable management and horse care tuition. It was invaluable experience and I hope to attend again next year.

I also try to take part in other driving related events, the Dyfed Carriage Club organise things such as the Easter bonnet drive and fun days throughout the year. Most recently I entered a dressage and cones event run by the Powys Carriage Driving Group, this is something that I’d like to try again.

The next year continued in the same manner also I got to drive at the BDS Wales show.At each show I would watch the other turnouts and take heed of any advice given by the judges.

So now it came to 2016, what a busy year it has been! It started by visiting the carriage driving fair at Merrist Wood. My favourite part was watching the heavy horse display, the audience was invited into the ring to have a closer look, the omnibus took my eye. I have a sneaky ambition to drive a heavy horse when I’m older. I was amazed at how fast

Presentation at BDS Wales Show

Safe to say that I’m looking forward to next year.

Wales Junior Camp

Llewelyn Chapman

bombproofing

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Area News

Scotland

The Area show held at Barstobrick in August was down in numbers but the 2015 show had a bumper entry so this was a hard act to follow, looking at the Scottish points table for the Chairman and Whitehall cups I notice numbers at all the Scottish shows are down. This year’s show was ably judged by Alex Lanni.

Chairman: Clive Rushton Green Email: CliveRG123@hotmail.com Tel: 07486 605898

Central Scotland

The last event of the season, the Raiders Road Drive, was held in September on a lovely Sunday, weather wise we were lucky as we missed local showers all around us. This is a leisurely drive of 10-12 miles with a stop in the middle at The Otter Pool for lunch also the drive helped members top up their Rally Drive Miles card.

Email: gow@pitscandly.plus.com AC Heather Gow Tel: 01307 462437 AAC Ann Small Tel: 01334 840609 annsmall@talktalk.net

In August Simon and Zoe Sanders ably organised the Tentsmuir Drive. Unfortunately it was one of those wild days, but once in the Forest it was quite pleasant. Numbers were down from other years but this was partly due to the weather when even the Tay Bridge was closed. A huge thank you goes to the Sanders for organising this event.

Date for your Diary Gillian McNinch and Winton Chive

drive gains the participants who arrive on the Thursday evening in preparation for the weekend competition, of course the evening ended the same as the other summer evening drives with a delightful supper.

Having given notice of my intention to retire last year after twenty years as AC I have so far failed!

I really hope that someone will come forward to take the reins and continue supporting driving in the area as I am definitely retiring now.

Anyone that might be interested in becoming AC for Central Scotland should contact the Scottish Committee.

Many thanks to all of you that have supported me over the last twenty years.

Iain McKendrick Driving Greg and Felix

Lothian & Borders

Dumfries & Galloway

Email: CliveRG123@hotmail.com AC Clive Rushton Green Mob: 07486 605898

Email: janette.watson1@sky.com AC Janette Watson Tel: 01557 870342 AAC Jean Clarkson Tel: 01557 814672

Best Young Driver, Arran Callander & Erray Rosebay

The driving season went so quickly this year, it seemed no time since the first drive until we were at the final event.

Results 1st Janet Glendinning with Melody and Vyvie 2nd Janette Watson with Fudge Pleasure Drive (Route 1only)1st Jean Clarkson with Gerry 2nd Kendal Young with Sophie

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AAC Nan Marshall nanettejane@fsmail.net AAC Ruth Martin ruth@halspan.com Recently we have had two drive outs. Eight turnouts came on the Mellerstain House drive which was organised by Anne Roberts. We gathered at a nearby farm steading and had a choice of two routes, both a mix of off road and quiet tarmac roads around the estate. It was good driving and some turnouts went round again after lunch. We gathered together for a picnic lunch including sausages barbequed by a friend of Ann’s in the steading. It was a good day and allowed us to meet and talk to a new member as well. The Spotiswoode drive followed which is all off road on quiet tracks.

A successful Venture Drive was held in July using tracks on Boreland of Girthon farm and a coastal track through Sandgreen Caravan Park and Carrick Shore, this venue with magnificent views attracted a good entry.

Zan Kirk hosted a successful evening drive in July, this was a popular date as South West Scotland Horse Driving Club held their driving trials on the following Saturday and Sunday, so this

Training Day Sunday 12th February Dumfries and Galloway Show Results Championship Classes 1-3 Champion Gillian McNinch/Winton Chive Reserve Caroline Watson/Llanarth Tango Traditional Drivers Dream Style & Performance Qualifier Caroline Watson/ Llanarth Tango Non-Traditional Drivers Dream Style & Performance Qualifier Janette Watson/Fudge Class 7a Junior Whip Arran Callander/Erray Rosebay Class 7b Junior Whip (Dual Reins) Sianna Dove/Rivendell Roger Championship Classes 5-7 Champion Iain McKendrick/Greg & Felix Reserve Arran Callander/Erray Rosebay

Iain McKendrick, Dougie Robertson, Diana McKendrick & Janette Watson won the team event at the Morris Centre Long Reining day

The BDS Scottish Show in July suffered from a reduced number of entries for various reasons, coughing horses, driver with new hips, aged ponies and we unfortunately clashed with an SCDA event, but we had a lovely day and

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Border Union made us welcome as always. We included a Councours d’elegance in the main ring at the same time as the Championship providing spectators plenty to look at. Again this year we were sponsored by local Restaurant (The Capon Tree) and InHarness Magazine and representatives from both were present to give out rosettes and trophies. Photos of the show are on the BDS Scottish website. Our Show Champion was Richard Lanni with his pair of Gelderlanders (who went on to win the HOYS Championship well done Richard) and Reserve Champion was Rebecca Thompson driving Thinford Jacopo. Rebecca also won the Councours d’elegance with Claire Armet and her tandem of donkeys as Reserve. Both of which were chosen by Mrs Joan Wilson and were popular choices with the crowd. I cannot mention our show without paying tribute to Sandy Lanni and her team who every year (and not just at our show) pitch up early, stay late and provide a scrumptious refreshment service and a warm welcome to anyone and everyone.

Peebles show has re-instated a driving class after many years absence and is a lovely venue and has prize money! Thank you to our members who went and please continue to support it or we will lose it again.

Our winter events at ISEC (Ian Stark’s centre) have had to be delayed until the spring as we have been unable to fix dates that will suit.

However I will be arranging three in the spring February/March/April time and will get dates to members as soon as possible via Facebook and our website and email.

The Scottish Annual meeting will have been held by the time you get this edition so I will report on that in the next edition plus earlier via social media etc.

Scottish Proficiency tests will be available from this winter please contact your AC if you are interested.

Clive

Grampian Email: strathornfarm@yahoo.com AC Ruth Skinner Tel: 01464 851204 AAC Anne Macdonald Tel: 07753 802917 a.mcdonald0775@ googlemail.com

Scottish Show Champion Richard Lanni

West of Scotland & Glasgow Email: kendallyoung99@ymail.com AC Kendall Young Mob: 07736 960081 AAC Carol McAllister Tel: 0771 3130103

Scottish Show Reserve Champion and Winner Concours d'elegance Rebecca Thompson

Reserve Concours d'elegance Claire Armet

Magazine Issue 364 – Winter 2016

In April, West Area held a successful Driving Extravaganza Show at Morris Equestrian Centre near Kilmarnock. We held classes for private driving, excerise vehicles, donkeys, heavy horses, an arena challenge and long reining. In all we had over eighty class entries. Richard Lanni was champion with his pair of Gelderlanders and Gillian McNinch was reserve with Longhouse Glamrock. Leading the heavy horse line up was Hugh Ramsay with

a team of four Clydesdales and reserve was Charlotte Young with a pair of Clydesdales.

Johnathon Carnduff from Northern Ireland very kindly came over to judge and was very impressed with the standard of the turnouts forward. The heavy horse classes were a great crowd puller and the committee were delighted with the number of entries so early in the season. This was in no small way due to the excellent indoor arena at Morris Equestrian Centre. I would like to thank everyone for their help and support and for the very generous sponsorship that we received to make the day possible and we are looking forward to holding the event again next year.

The show season continued in the West Area with driving classes at the Grand Slam Show at Ingliston House, Dundonald Show, Ayr County Show and Largs Show. A big thank you is due to everyone who competed at these shows and well done to all the winners.

Our first and last drives of the season were held at Barskimming near Mauchline in April and September thanks to the generosity of the Galbraith family. Drives at Barskimming are always very popular with drivers and spectators alike and as usual the Hon Miss Jean Galbraith and her sister Miss Heather are wonderful hostesses providing us with a super tea after driving.

We held two evening drives at Titwood at Kilmaurs and at Knocklandside also at Kilmaurs. Neither of these drive outs were well supported but I would like to thank our hosts Muggs Montgomery from Titwood and Carol McAllister from Knocklandside for continuing to support us.

In July we were invited to join in at an event being run by the SCDA at Barskimming Estate.

British Carriage Driving’s Mary Kusin very kindly put on a cones and a dressage class for us as well as the option to drive round the estate on the Saturday. We got the best of the weather as it poured on the Sunday when some of us went back to help on the marathon course.

We held a long reining day with a Halloween theme on the 15th of October this time as part of a fun day being run by Morris Equestrian Centre. A number of people entered into the spirit of things by competing in the fancy dress classes. A number of non drivers brought along their horses and ponies to have a go and it is hoped that some people might be inspired to take up driving. The team event was won by a delighted Dumfries and Galloway team who took home the hundred pound first prize.

Our events this season have been running at a slightly reduced capacity due to a number of family illnesses of the committee and I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who has helped us in anyway this season.

We are organising a Sunday lunch at the end of November as an end of season get together which will be advertised on the Scottish Facebook page and on the website.

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Reports

Jemimah Rowlands Junior Competition It's Fun Driving with the BDS Jemimah drove the pair coaching hand

My name is Jemimah Rowlands and I am ten years old. I live in North Wales with my ponies.

I went to Junior Camp at Monnington Court, this summer. I loved it and learnt lots. I enjoyed getting to drive the wide variety of horses and ponies. My favourite ponies to drive were a pair of Shetlands, Boris and Dougal. Along with the Shetlands, I got to drive a cob called Trooper and two section C’s, Merlin and Ginger. I learnt how to drive coachman style for the first time which was my favourite part of camp. I liked how I could turn the ponies by moving my one hand. The other hand was spare. What I didn’t like about was that my hand started to hurt after a while. I have been practising it lots at home because it is good to practise.

How not to dress for lungeing!

We learnt about the different bits for driving and they were quite interesting. Simon also dressed up to teach us about wearing the right clothes

One of the evenings we were given special permission to have a swim in John Bulmer’s private indoor pool! It had been a very hot day and we had been working hard. It was nice and refreshing, but my eyes stung afterwards because I swam so much underwater.

Going to Junior Camp has helped me with my pony, Sonny. I would love to go again, if I got the chance.

Jemimah Rowlands, 10 years Youngest driver masters coaching hand

We all had a wonderful time and clearly everyone enjoyed the spectacular views and trees with just a hint of autumn in their leaves.

As goodbyes were said with smiling faces, the thanks have been followed by please can we do it again. I do hope so!

Stowell Park Drive Stowell Park is set in several thousand acres in the heart of the Cotswolds and is the home of Lord and Lady Vestey. Lord Vestey is Master of Horse to the Royal Household and Lady Vestey is a member of our Area. Early this year I approached Lady Vestey to ask if we might hold a drive at Stowell Park, only to discover that many years ago they were a regular feature. It seemed to me that it would be lovely to do something similar so it was agreed that we would have a Best Turned out award. On the original events there would have only been traditional vehicles, but on this occasion there would be an eight mile road drive for the traditional vehicles plus an eleven mile off road drive for exercise vehicles.

We were very fortunate to have the help of the Estate’s resident agent Alexander George, who had been at Sandringham previously so knew a lot about off road carriage driving from the events held there. He kindly spent time driving round possible routes with me and laid out the markers and I chose a suitable route for the traditional carriages. How lucky am I to have such beautiful countryside to hand? Rosettes were ordered in dark green (the Estate’s colour) and silver for the award winners and a commemorative green and white for all who attended. A £10 donation

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for driving. It was very funny because of the wrong clothes he chose to wear, like washing up gloves, sandals and shorts.

Hazel Woodbridge BEM

Emma Pitman driving Blue on the road section of the cross country drive

was collected with each entry for the Stowell Churches Fund.

With the most perfect driving weather and fourteen turnouts entered, Lady Vestey kindly judged and then presented the rosettes. The winners of the Best Turned Out were:-

Sue Johnson returns with Toby (and Timmy)

Traditional – Joanne Moore from Nuneaton driving her pair of greys Vesper and Beatrice, to Area member Charles Martell’s 1862 Wagonette which belonged to his grandfather.

Two Wheeler – Jane and David Belcher driving their Friesian Zeus to a Bennington Four Wheel/multi- terrain – Angela Rickard driving her coloured pony Holly to a Bennington.

Lady Celia Vestey accompanied by Alexander George talking to Charles Martelll owner of the 1862 Wagonette prior to the start of the 2016

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News Mid East Wales Email: mjamham2@tiscali.co.uk AC Mrs Ann Ham Tel: 01874 690253 AAC Anthea Birch AAC Elizabeth Powell Support Officer: Emily Ham Emily Ham and Crossfield Glory

On August 21st we held our Area BDS Trec at Cilmery with a beautiful six mile drive along the valley and up over the common. The views were stunning. It was a shame that there was only one turnout doing the drive on the day although more had planned to come. Another turnout joined for the activities on the field and both drivers and their grooms enjoyed the event. Well done to Tracey Jones who qualified for the BDS Trec Championships with her big coloured cob Vegas. A big thank you goes to Anthea Birch and her family and Nigel and Andrea Craddock who gave up their day and supported as stewards along with myself and hubbie. Previously we have had good numbers of turnouts so I would hope for better support from drivers next time!

Victoria Kedward with two of her ponies getting ready

Champion. Alison Kesans won the Lawn Ring Championship with Sherry Dix Reserve. Tracey Jones, Sally Lloyd and Lucy Morris were among area members who thoroughly enjoyed their day in the rings.

First time showing for Spotty

Since the last newsletter a major area undertaking has been the Area Show on July 6th with two rings all day at Brecon Showfield.

This show is very popular as it offers a very friendly day out and such a wide range of classes. Judges Michelle Peters and John Marson chose Victoria Kedward as their Grassroots champion and Reserve Supreme. She was also Points Champion. Jack Kedward was Reserve Grassroots Champion and Young Driver

I would like to congratulate area members for their successes in the show ring over the season: Jackie Cartwright has had a very successful season with lovely cob stallion Paddysonboy including the Championship at Brecon County Show. We are a small area but have two excellent Private Driving turnouts with Welsh Section Cs Penclose Wotsit (Merlin) owned by Anthea and driven by her protégé Rhian Ralph, and Crossfield Glory owned and driven by Emily Ham. Both excelled at the BDS Wales show on 13th August with Emily becoming the Points Champion, Rhian also drove at the VIctoria Foods Extravaganza, 10th – 11th September, with prestigious wins.

Anthea, Emily and Rhian were fully involved in helping with the BDS Wales Junior Camp which ran so successfully at Monnington Court in August and Merlin turned his hoof to being teaching pony. The area would like to welcome a new BDS young driver, Katherine, who was inspired to join as a result of visiting camp.

Tracey Jones BDS Trec winner

However the recent Road training organised very capably by AAC Anthea Birch at her yard in LLangynidr had a great turnout with twenty two BDS members coming on foot to see Sara Wildy working through aspects of the Road Assessment with Monmouthshire AC Pat Dutson and her pony.

Rhian Ralph and Penclose Wotsit

Welcome to new member Katherine assisted by Rhian Ralph

Please contact me directly for dates for the coming months as these are very weather dependent. We will be holding our AM and Christmas meal where we will present this year’s Salt of the Earth Award to Nigel Craddock who was a mainstay as ring steward at the show and helping out at events like the BDS Trec.

Hope to see you then if not before ....in the meantime Enjoy your driving!

Busy classes at the Area Show

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

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Area News North East Wales Email: Edwina@edwinahart1.orangehome.co.uk AC Edwina Lawson Hart Tel: 01978 861638 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 What has happened since July?

We have tried this year to put on Rallies and Events where “Grooms and Backsteppers” take part too.

Carriage Driving is a “Team” effort and in my opinion not enough is done to acknowledge the importance of the “Grooms and BackSteppers”nor to allow them some of the fun that should be had out of enjoying being part of the team.

The Forage Drive and Treasure Hunt (Intelligent grooms essential!) held at

Erddig Hall on July 31st was a huge success. The day was a joint effort with the National Trust.

Medina Dicks helped us set up a “Meet and Greet” for the public in front of the Hall.

Alwena and Dave in front of The Hall

Intelligent Grooms! 2nd Alwena Bartley with “Bryn” and Intelligent Groom, Sian Davies 3rd Dave Tomlinson with “Sid” and Intelligent Groom, Wendy Davies.

The Forest Drive at Clocaenog on

August 20/21st was organised and run by AAC Lynda Roberts. A lot of time and effort went in to making this a well-run enjoyable two days with two alternative routes. We all agreed with Alwena “it was the bestest wettest weekend ever”. It was such a pleasure to be able to set out on a drive with no danger of meeting the dreaded Off-Roaders. Gwyn and Fay plus friends had erected our new Marquee (second hand) repaired by himself! We sat in it in macs and wellies and enjoyed a Chinese meal ferried in

by Lynda’s family, with entertainment by Steve Chambers. Everyone requested another Forest Drive in 2017.

Felicity

I was selfish enough to take part in the fun classes having a wonderful time. 1st in the Driver most like their Horse Jess won Grooms draw the Mona Lisa! The Races were Slowest Walk, Fastest Walk and Slowest Trot; I think Jess, Valentine and I came 4th in the Slowest Trot! Julie entered every class and we were indebted to her sister Jacqui for taking over as a most capable Chief Steward.

Julie’s grooms, yes two! Heather and Sian G-J managed to be joint first as Top groom scorers.

Diana with Mitch in front of The Hall

The NT Visitor Attractions Officer Jemma Stubbington was impressed with the enjoyment everyone got out of the experiment. We allowed no more than two turnouts at a time to stop in front of the Hall where the public could talk to the horses and drivers, asking questions or just enjoying helping find the answers to the clues!

Once again we are indebted to Julie Ferguson for all the painstaking organisation of this peaceful charming day. Lovely for me and Jess too as we were able to take part. In between gathering (foraging) for all the items required competitors had to spot and answer clues along the route. All entrants set out on a road drive of four miles (not compulsory) culminating at the entrance to Erddig Estate. Clues and foraging started here! Once out of the Park and within the curtilage of the Hall all turnouts were requested to walk.

And the Winners were – 1st Diana Rimmer with “Mitch” and two

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Our new marquee

Showing Members represented Area 37 at County Shows including Denbigh and Flint and Westmoreland also Chatsworth. All have done well but Diana Rimmer with Ann and “Mitch “has been the “STAR” this year almost unbeatable!

The 2016 Area 37 Annual Show Once again we made sure that grooms and backsteppers were acknowledged with half the day being given over to “Fun” classes. Janet Prycherch was our Judge for the traditional classes in the morning and then she morphed into a “Gymkhana kid” behind Fay in the afternoon! Felicity Stubbs with Avril Pluck and Amber put to her beautiful Gig was a worthy Traditional winner and was also Show Champion on points. Reserve Points Champion went to Colin Walmsley with Lyn and Tally

Julie Sian GJ and Toby

Top Veteran was Colin Walmsley. Top Novices were 1st Sian Davies with Wendy Davies and Mooney. 2nd Alwena Bartley with Dave Tomlinson and Bryn.

The costumes and musical interpretation in the Dressage to Music class was probably the highlight of the day, congratulations to all no matter where you came. Musical Chairs meant everyone needed an extra groom as a runner.

My grandsons Matthew and Charles were suddenly in huge demand.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Area News to have a dry day for our summer cones event at the beginning of July, results Long reigning 1st Neil Buffery with Miggy; Novice cones 1st Morfydd Greatorex with Jac; Non-senior cones 1st Morfydd Greatorex with Morgan; Open Cones 1st Morfydd Greatorex with Morgan; OAP cones 1st Tony Tharme with Wally; Challenge 1st Morfydd Greatorex with Morgan; Handy pony 1st Sharne Bellis with Jaffa. Champion Morfydd Greatorex with Jac, Reserve Neil Buffery with Miggy.

Waiting for the Start

Matthew running for Fay was just pipped into second place by the winner Lyn running for Sarah Baines. Charles ran for Ann Connelly and was 3rd. he has been booked already for next year!

Hilary Hart did the superb but thankless task of scorer, she and Elfyn Ellis on the loud speaker managed to cope with everything thrown at them! They both got a huge thank you from me and all of us who enjoyed the day. Definitely booking another Area 37 Annual Show in 2017.

North West Wales Group

Looking ahead we will be meeting at Maelor Equestrian Centre over the winter months with Xmas Fun Carols, Costumes and Cones on Sunday 4th December all other dates on the Website,

A day with Sarah Wildy is booked for January 22nd 2017

North West Wales

Cones de sensitizing

AC Morfydd Greatorex

Tel: 01248 601012 AAC Neil Buffery Tel: 01654 712727 AAC Michael Greatorex mike@tygweddings.co.uk

With the winter months approaching we look forward to the coming year ahead, I would like to thank all the members that have supported our events throughout the year and wish you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year.

Many of our local shows have suffered with bad weather this year with many members getting soaked to the skin We have had regular drives in Newborough forest on Anglesey with miles of off road tracks to follow. We were very lucky

Cones

We held a fun and de-sensitising day in August with all members and their ponies having a lot of fun. At the end of August we attended the North Wales Shire horse society open day, the rain held off despite having a horrendous thunder storm the night before. The event was well attended and the BDS display went down very well with the spectators. One of our

members arrived with a pony but left the show with the pony and an Alpaca.

We now look forward to our winter events which I am glad to say will be mostly indoors.

Forthcoming events 3rd December BDS quiz/presentation night at the Split Willow hotel, Llanfairfechan to start at 7pm. Buffet £9 per person payment for buffet to be in by 26th November.

16th December Christmas meal at Peniarth, Bryncrug, Nr. Tywyn at 6.30pm.

29th January Training / cones day at Bryn Derw, Nr. Llanberis from 10am – 1pm £10 per turnout please book by 22nd Jan. th 18 February Stallion parade at Celt y Gael (Neds) We will be putting on a driving display if you would like to be part of it let me know ASAP. 26th February Training / cones day at Bryn Derw, Nr. Llanberis from 10am – 1pm £10 per turnout please book by 19th Feb. th 26 March Newborough forest drive to start at 12noon permit holders only. th 9 April Indoor cones competition at Bryn Derw, Nr. Llanberis to start at 10am entries close 2nd April.

22nd April Treasure hunt fun day at Neil Buffery’s Gilfach y Gog, Llanegrin, Nr. Tywyn.

6th May Cones day at Neil Buffery’s Gilfach y Gog, Llanegrin, Nr. Tywyn. To start at 11am.

21st May BDS area 55 show at Barn cottage, Llanllechid.

4th June Newborough forest drive to start at 12noon permit holders only.

10th June Bethesda show.

18th June BDS Area 55 BDS Trec at Barn cottage, Llanllechid.

For more information on all of the above events please contact Morfydd Greatorex.

South East Wales Email: patriciadutson@gmail.com AC Patricia Dutson Tel: 01495 791898 AAC Karen Morgan Tel: 01291 641244 AAC Bethanie Headworth Tel: 07920 016901

Shire Horse Show

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Winter is fast approaching and it is time to reflect back over our summer events. We have had a few rallies and of course our Show. We held our BDS Trec at the end of July and were lucky enough to have six entries. The weather was good and the roads quiet. The cones course before leaving the field was deliberately difficult but designed to show that all the

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Area News 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 Helen Mann with her lovely new rescue pony Pixie

When we last went to press we had just had our amazing weekend driving in the Preseli Hills. Our next rally was in the Crychan forest which was a fabulous drive, organised by Chris and Nikki Laing, hosts of the Dragon Driving website. They had arranged for us to park on an old factory site away from the public car parks where we were able to partake of our pre drive cups of tea and a sumptuous picnic afterwards.

The drive took in some wonderful views as we proceeded on forest tracks, quiet lanes and woodland rides.

June and Wynneira out with Gavin the Great

Amroth Drive

The Amroth drive came next, driving the coastal path with some amazing sea views, quiet lanes and a picnic stop in the famous Colby Gardens.

A cross country drive took place in September which proved to be great fun. Peter Phillips and Dee Williams opened up their farm after spending some time making new tracks for us to drive on the route then formed a circular path up through woodland and back along the road or return through the fields. The route was quite challenging but was enjoyed by all.

ponies were adaptable and able to negotiate difficult turns. Everyone successfully completed the cones and the course which had several difficulties on route. All in all a good day which I believe everyone enjoyed with no mishaps.

We are holding our annual Halloween event again this year. We invite people interested in finding out more about driving to this and I am hoping we will have as good a turnout as last year. The Drivers and whips dress up and we have a competition to find the best dressed carriage. There will be a BBQ for everyone. All we need is some decent weather.

We are hoping to hold one more rally this year and of course we have our annual members meeting to discuss what everyone would like to do next year.

Hoping you all have a good Christmas and a happy new year.

South Mid Wales

Drive Crychan drive

Our next event was the BDS Wales show which I am sure our chairlady will write about. The weather was good, the sun shone all day and the turnouts were fabulous. Our local RDA group, Carmarthen Carriage Drivers, also took part and had a wonderful time.

AC Joanne Lambert Mob: 07814288369

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British Driving Society

Our next event is a rally, driving in the wonderful Slebech estate and through the Pembrokeshire woods.

Our last event of the year will be the Poppy Drive at the Botanic Gardens where we hope to raise money in aid of the Poppy Appeal.

West South Wales AC Mrs Gwenda Kesans Tel: 01792 01792 651522 Mob: 07970 424128 Email: Gwen.kesan@virgin.net

The Pembrey weekend event sadly had to be cancelled at the last minute, but an alternative venue was sourced. Unfortunately many people who had booked decided not to pursue this venue but those who did had a great time and were able to drive on Pendine beach as well as many lanes and woodland tracks.

Overall this year we have had sixteen drives covering twenty five days, all with excellent attendance.

Carl Driving Cones

We look forward to another busy year in 2017 and hope that some people will come forward with the offer of more drives in their locality.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Reports BDS Annual General Meeting 2016

Next Rosemary Neale, who has sponsored the BDS Rally Miles Scheme, presented 5 Rally Mile medals to those members who had reached the 200 miles target. These milestones were completed on organised BDS drives, a great achievement.

The AGM concluded with Gary Docking thanking the Chairman for all her hard work during the year.

Increases in BDS Subsciption Fees Alison Kesans being presented with her Leafspring award

by BDS chairman Angela Sixsmith

BDS chairman Angela Sixsmith greeted members at the end of quite a busy day which had started with the ACs’ Seminar and included a very interesting overview from the British Horse Society`s Director of Safety, Alan Hiscox, on their `Dead Slow` campaign as well as their plans for future similar events.

That was followed by the Safeguarding update given by John Anslow from British Carriagedriving, never an easy subject but essential nevertheless. All those present will receive an Attendance Certificate. Judges were next in line for their two hour seminar with Gary Docking taking the lead with many issues discussed. This seminar included a lovely presentation by Sophie Adkins on the Association Internationale Attelage de Tradition competitions which take place in Europe as well as Great Britain.

Angela Sixsmith gave a PowerPoint presentation for her Review of 2015 to the AGM. Having visited many areas through the year, Angela felt that members would benefit from an explanation as part of her Review of what expenditure was actually covered by an individual subscription. It could not cover all expenditure and this was something that the Finance & Administration Chairman, Jo HalnanBlackwell, also focused on in her report, resulting in the news that, for the first time in four years, each member’s annual payment must increase.

Therefore the new adult subscription will be £40, joint £70 with no alteration to the joining fees of £10, and junior subscription £20.

The meeting was told by the Chairman and the Finance Chairman that many costs had been streamlined over last year and therefore the Society looked to be in a strong position to move forward over the coming years.

Angela Sixsmith also introduced the four new members of BDS Council and said she looked forward to working with them.

Nicola Salter was then invited to step forward and present the 2016 Leafspring Awards, sponsored by John Vyse and family, to 23 lucky recipients all of whom had exhibited a traditional-type turnout on ten occasions or more in one season at a BDS Affiliated Show or Event.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

With effect from 1st December 2016, the following NEW BDS Membership fees will apply:

RENEWALS RECEIVED FROM 1ST DECEMBER 2016 Single Adult Membership

Publicity Committee Report Much of the Committee`s time over the past few months was taken up with preparation and advertising for the BDS Championship show, Driving Addington.

Generously supported by Osborne Refrigerators the entry level was good again this year and the lovely weather ensured the day was enjoyed by all. Thanks to everyone who helped man the BDS stand, including the lovely Red Hatters ladies of course.

However before that the Publicity and Information stand had a great few days at the New Forest show in Hampshire with much interest from visitors including a royal one too!

Even better news is that we`ve been invited back for next year. It seems that Royal Norfolk show 2017 may also be on the agenda.

£40

Dual Membership £70 (two people living at the same address) Junior Membership (under 18 years old)

£20

DIRECT DEBIT PAYMENTS WILL BE COLLECTED ON 31ST DECEMBER 2016, AS USUAL, AND THE ABOVE AMOUNTS WILL BE TAKEN FOR 2017 MEMBERSHIP FEES

NEW MEMBERSHIP APPLICATIONS RECEIVED FROM 1ST DECEMBER 2016 Single Adult Membership £40 plus £10 joining administration fee £50 total Dual Membership administration fee Junior Membership administration fee

£70 plus £10 joining £80 total £20 – no £20 total

MEMBERHSIP RENEWAL FORMS ARE ENCLOSED IN THE BDS MAGAZINE, AND AVAILABLE ON APPLICATION TO THE BDS OFFICE (01379 384 612). PAYMENT CAN BE MADE BY CHEQUE OR CARD PAYMENT OVER THE PHONE OR BY DIRECT DEBIT MANDATE.

Sophie Countess of Wessex in conversation with BDS judge Mrs Mary Ford at the New Forest show 2016

Another regular venue finished the season when Houghton Hall in Cambridgeshire again hosted the Hackney Horse Society Championships incorporating the Rare Breeds of the Year show. Several societies took advantage of the chance to reach a new audience with plenty of space to display photographs and information about their particular breeds.

This type of opportunity and the other aims of the Publicity Committee ie to promote the British Driving Society Ltd wherever possible / To encourage and enlist new members / To keep the Society`s website up to date / To assist in proof reading the BDS magazine / To publicise our National Events currently the Annual show at Smiths Lawn, Driving Addington and the two Official meets are all undertaken by a very few committee members.

2015 Year Accounts The Full Accounts, together with the Financial Report, were presented by Jo Halnan-Blackwell, Chairman of BDS Finance & Administration Committee, at the BDS AGM on 22nd October 2016. Members may request a copy of the Full Accounts by sending a stamped (to the value of £0.75p), addressed A4 envelope, marked ‘ACCOUNTS REQUEST’, to the BDS Office. The Abbreviated Accounts of The British Driving Society Ltd have been published on the Website for the information of Members.

Rosemary Neale with a potential new BDS member

If you would like to offer even occasional help with any of these things, please contact me via lindaswain10@aol.com , it would be much appreciated.

Linda Swain

Publicity Committee chairman & BDS Council member

British Driving Society

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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

As the daylight becomes less, winter is fast approaching it is time to get all those odd jobs done which have been neglected during the busy summer. Hope you have had an enjoyable season and look forward to a Happy Christmas and a Prosperous 2017.

Congratulations to our members Mr. and Mrs. Jonathan Carnduff, Millisle, Co.Down on the birth of their son, Jonathan Daniel, born on 13 September 2016 weighing 9lb 3ozs. Dad Jonathan is a BDS Judge.

On 20th September 2016 our Hon. Treasurer Mrs. Staceyann Strain gave birth to her third child, a daughter Shauna weighing 6lb. 3ozs. This is a sister to Ruby and Cody. Husband Robert is delighted that mother and baby are doing well.

Shauna is the 16th grandchild for our chairman Liz. Kelly-Ward and husband Mervyn. Congratulations to both families.

Best Wishes for a speedy recovery to all who are ill and sympathy to those members who have lost loved ones over the past months.

On 17th September we had an excellent Show at ‘Country Comes to Town’ Portadown The sun shone and it was a perfect autumnal day.

The streets of Portadown were buzzing with large crowds of people, stall holders, vintage vehicles and the air was filled with music. See report below.

Interested In Training Days etc: Training and Test Days – dates to be confirmed – contact Liz Kelly Ward 02840671318

BALLYWARD PARISH CHURCH –14th Annual Vintage Day On Saturday 1st October 2016 Ballyward Parish Church held their 14th Vintage Day at Coupar’s Farm by kind permission of Mr. Bobby Fee. The weather was a perfect autumnal day, the surroundings idyllic with the Mourne Mountains as a backdrop. A large crowd of people, all ages enjoyed the various attractions i.e. pop-up shops, vintage cars, motorcycles, tractors, carriage driving etc. The N I Fire and Rescue Team gave a demonstration and there was also tractor pulling to name but a few of the attractions.

Mervyn Ward (Ballyward) driving a team of Welsh Cobs, – Fronarth Cardi Express, Fronarth Navigator,

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British Driving Society

George and Fred yoked to a wagonette, with grooms Neil Weir, Chesney Orr, Louis Orr, and David Mathers transported a load of corn to the Thresher which was powered by a Marshall Steam Engine owned by Thos. Herron and Son. The Jones Cub Baler was powered by a Fordson Major Tractor. Mr. John Powell (Lambeg, Lisburn) with Steward Margaret Carlisle (British Driving Society Area Commissioner) Judged the Carriage Driving Section organised by NI BDS Chairman Liz KellyWard.

Wallace Shaw (Castlewellan) drove ‘Clarvalley Jewel’ to a Gig winning first place.

2nd Thomas Magill (Newcastle) driving ‘Sunbeam Boy’ to a varnished Governess Vehicle.

The Donkey Section was well supported. Jill Castles (Lurgan) won first place driving ‘The Famous Black Jack’ to a Hay Turner. Others participating were Ann Mc Henry (Glenariff Co.Antrim) with four year old ‘Blossom’ to a pair of Creels, Carolan Cochrane (Castlewellan) 11year old ‘Dolly’ to a pair of Creels Caragh Cochrane (Castlewellan) eleven year old ‘Barney’ to a Grubber, Ann Brown (Saintfield) eight year old ‘Malachy’ to a Slipe, James Mc Henry (Glenariff ) fifteen year old ‘Nicki’ shown by Tristan Wallace.

Sincere thanks to all of those who worked so hard to make this day a huge success.

COUNTRY comes to TOWN 17 September 2016 The equestrian events for Country comes to Town took place on Saturday 17th September 2016 in The Pleasure Gardens Area, Portadown.

A large number of spectators and competitors travelled long distances to enjoy the event and the beautiful autumn day. The Carriage Driving Section commenced at 10.00 a.m.

The Judge Mr. Eugene Larkin (Lisburn) Steward Mr. John Powell (Lambeg) and Section Secretary Margaret Carlisle were kept busy.

Champion of Private Driving Classes: John Weir jnr (Ballyclare) with groom John Weir snr driving ‘Rosehall Alexander’to a Butcher’s Cart Reserve Champion: Linda Skillen driving Wallace Shaw’s ‘Clarvalley Jewel’ to a gig Champion Hackney Horse driven to a Show wagon: Linda Skillen driving George Cunningham’s ‘Luddington Isabella’ Reserve Champion: Michael Hanlon (Co.Louth) driving ‘Wentworth Moonraker’ Champion Exercise Vehicles: Wallace Shaw with Groom Ruth McCann drove ‘Clarvalley Jewel’ Reserve Champion: John Weir jnr. (Ballyclare) ‘Milltown Boy’

RESULTS

Class (22) IN – HAND – any height- John Weir jnr (Ballyclare) ‘Rosehall Alexander’ Class (23) HACKNEY PONY driven to a show wagon: Damian Sloan (Downpatrick) ‘Heartland Elmo’ Class (24) HACKNEY HORSE driven to a show wagon: Linda Skillen driving George Cunningham’s ‘Luddington Isabella’: 2ND Michael Hanlon (Co. Louth) ‘Wentworth Moonracker’ Class (25) EXERCISE Vehicle – any height- 1st Wallace Shaw ‘Clarvalley Jewel’: 2ND John Weir ‘Milltown Boy’: 3RD Deborah Lavery ‘Pinky’ Class (26) OPEN DRIVING CLASS – any height – to

a traditional type vehicle won by Wallace Shaw (Castlewellan) driving ‘Clarvalley Jewel’: 2nd John Weir jnr. ‘Milltown Boy’ Class (27) Concours d’elegance judged by Mr. Eamonn Fleming, joint Chairman, Country comes to Town- won by John Weir jnr. driving ‘Rosehall Alexander’ to a Butcher’s cart: 2ND Wallace Shaw driving ‘Clarvalley Jewel’ to a gig.

Class (28) LADY WHIP judged on the ability of the Lady to drive the turnout – 1ST Linda Skillen ‘Clarvalley Jewel’: 2ND Karen Dalzell ‘Heartland Elmo’: 3RD Deborah Lavery ‘Pinky’ Class (29) LIGHT TRADE: winner John Weir jnr. driving ‘Rosehall Alexander’ to a Butcher’s cart The organisers would like to express their gratitude to the Funders Armagh City Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council and the sponsors who make events like this possible. Sincere thanks to Tesco, The Meadows, Portadown for the use of their car park and to all who helped in any way to make this event a success.

2016 has been a marvellous year for the Carriage Foundation with very successful study days at Red House Stables, Derbyshire and the Tyrwhitt-Drake Carriage Museum in Maidstone.

The charity has been inundated with enquiries from all over the world and is forming strong relationships with museums across the globe.

Our second issue of our journal The Whiffle Tree has now been published and is available for purchase or free with membership. The membership subscription year is coming to an end (how time flies!) therefore readers are encouraged to join to support our work and be involved in our projects.

The website is now live (www. thecarriagefoundation.org.uk) and hosts the Carriages of Britain database. Records are being added on a daily basis but it will take time to get all Three thousand plus on so please bear with us!

We have the following events planned for 2017 please get in touch for further information: Wednesday 8th February Study Day at Arlington Court, Devon, for National Trust volunteers Saturday 18th March Study Day at Erdigg, Wrexham Sunday 23rd–Saturday 29th April Spring Study Tour to Italy Sunday 25th June BDS Annual Show, promotional stand Saturday 7th October Study Day at the Tyrwhitt-Drake Carriage Museum, Maidstone Friday 13th–Sunday 15th October Autumn Study Tour, location to be confirmed Amy Bracey, 18 Park Lane, Swindon SN1 5EL Tel: 01793 976569 www.thecarriagefoundation.org.uk

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Reports Simon Kesans who also brought a full range of bits and carriage house equipment to discuss with them, as well as demonstrating how to measure for and fit a full collar.

Very Happy Campers at the Wales Junior Camp BDS Wales ran their 2016 junior camp in late August and everyone agreed it was a fabulous experience!

Liz Baines (parent helper), “ Thanks to everyone who organised and helped deliver three great days of driving experience for the young people, they had a fantastic time!”

Shetlands who long reined as singles and drove as pair and tandem. They lived up to their nickname of “The Cherubs” by being beautifully behaved throughout not only for the driving activities but all the harnessing up and stable management tasks.

Emily Rowlands (parent helper),” It was amazing.

Jemimah has not stopped talking about it all the way home, huge thanks to everyone involved!”

Jill Bowen Bravery (adult whip), “ Super camp with lovely enthusiastic young drivers. All had a chance to drive such a variety of horses and ponies.”

The event was again kindly hosted by John Bulmer at Monnington Court, Herefordshire. Its wonderful facilities allow large numbers of young drivers and adult helpers to camp in the grounds with the use of a wonderful “snug” a wing of the great house with catering and washroom facilities and a huge table and comfy chairs. Stables are provided and the use of the indoor school, grounds and the “polo” (an immaculate grassy enclosure off the large stable yard with a circular track around the perimeter). The whole venue is breathtakingly beautiful and ideal for camp activities with so much safe space for working with the horses and for relaxation and group games.

The camp is open to all BDS young drivers and two youngsters from Herefordshire and three from Shropshire joined in this year for the first time... and ARE KEEN TO COME BACK! In all sixteen youngsters from 7-17 years old stayed for the three days of camp and another BDS junior visited for the day as a taster session. She loved it and is now enrolling in as many activities as she can!

Tristan masters the coaching hand driving a pair

Each day was filled with enjoyable learning experiences covering all the basics of harnessing (singles and pair and for the experienced drivers also tandem), putting to, carriage maintenance, whip and rein handling with everyone practising coaching hand and using it confidently for the majority of their driving. For cones practice there were additional points for driving coaching style as well as keeping a rhythmic trot throughout the course.

The competent older juniors also learnt much about schooling the driving horse from the ground as well as in the carriage and enjoyed building on their skills in tandem driving. They were incredibly privileged to have coaching from

Simon’s evening quiz on the second day was a great hit – with groups keen to identify the items they had discussed and enjoying the humour of spotting what was wrong with Simon’s outfit for going lunging!

All the youngsters played a full part in caring for the horses, getting down to the stables before breakfast, as well as before bed, to make the horses comfortable and at intervals throughout the day. There was grooming before fitting harness and washing off after exercise, as well as feeding, watering and mucking out duties working well in small mixed age groups.

The youngsters themselves were also extremely well fed with a large breakfast, morning snack, lunch, afternoon snack, huge cooked dinner and finally a hot drink and biscuits before bedtime.

Anita worked non-stop at food prep and was without doubt the most popular adult at camp!

BDS Chairwoman Michelle Reid assisted her admirably whilst also caring for her new born baby and at only three days old must hold the record for the youngest BDS member at any BDS camp!

It was a mammoth task to organise so much food for so many! As well as the sixteen young drivers there were twelve supporting adults including three parent helpers. Everyone had choices and vegetarian options and there were HUGE helpings!

At meal times as throughout camp, the youngsters were a delight, lively but thoughtful, interested and well behaved. They mixed really well together across the ages and were a pleasure to be with. As a special treat they were allowed to use the beautiful private indoor pool to cool off on the first evening and are invited to include their swimwear on the camp list in future!

There was a lot of organisation to hold three days of camp and so many driving activities and Emily Ham, who set it up but was unable to attend due to being unwell in hospital, was thrilled that it ran so smoothly and was so much enjoyed by everyone. Camp wouldn’t run without the generosity of BDS members in bringing their turnouts and giving so much of their time and expertise to help the young drivers.

The enthusiasm of the youngsters makes it all worthwhile. It is wonderful to see them grow in confidence and skills as well as making great friendships.

Schoolmaster turnouts were brought for the children to drive. Jill Bravery’s Ginger and Gwenda Kesans’ Trooper returning by popular request, were joined by Anthea Birch’s Merlin who excels at driven showing with his competent whip Rhian Ralph, now 18 years assisting. Simon Kesans brought his big experienced commercial horse Brencis and Wendy Morris her delightful

Rebecca Jones ( Most improved older driver) with Merlin

In fact camp was so successful next year’s is already being planned!

Harnessing the pair

Learning tandem whip control

All smiles - Khyra Payne off for a drive in the grounds with Gwenda Kesans and Trooper

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

British Driving Society

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Reports

Junior Commissioners report CONGRATULATIONS to our National winners in the BDS Brian Sims Scholarship and Ian Townsend Portfolio competitions! The awards were presented by BDS Chair Angela Sixsmith during the evening performance at BDS Addington meaning the winners’ achievements were rightly recognised at the National Championships.

Opal Weaver was presented with the Barbara Stoddart Trophy for the Best Young Driver as well as the BDS Brian Sims Trophy for winning the hotly contested 15-17 age category and Melita Powell received the trophy for winning the younger category of the Brian Sims Scholarship. These two lucky winners also each have a £500 bursary to spend on their training with an approved BDS instructor thanks to the generosity of the scholarship. As the standard was so high in the scholarship the judging panel decided that an additional discretionary bursary of £100 should be awarded to Callum Anthony Jones as most promising young driver. As Callum was unable to attend Addington this award will be presented at the BDS Wales AGM in November.

Also receiving awards were the worthy winners of the Ian Townsend Portfolio competition. The portfolio competition is a separate award set up to encourage young drivers to keep a record of their interest in carriage driving and the activities they take part in with the BDS. This is also marked in two age groups: the older group was won

by Josiah Rowlands and the younger category

by Sarah Baines. There were a good number of portfolios forward and the standards were very high.

BDS Portfolio Winners

Congratulations also to the young driver winners at Addington out in the busy showrings!

The Osborne Refrigerators BDS National Young Driver Championship Champion was Rachel Milton driving Ms J. Dudley Apicella’s hackney pony Brookfield Showtime with Reserve Champion going to Laura Priestley driving her palomino Welsh Section A Radnor Mango.

BDS Award winners

In the Exercise Vehicle class for young drivers 1517 years the winner was Leah Marshall driving Hackney pony Noddy Vyse Showgirl to a Hartland.

2nd was Robbyn McClements with Bess a Skewbald cob to a Dartmoor gig. 3rd was Amy Stone with her Shetland Alfie in a Bennington.

There have been very few younger drivers 10-14years out in the show rings this year and Addington had only one forward across the Osborne classes. A special well done to Joe Maskell winner of Osborne Refrigerators Young Driver 10-14 years in the Exercise Class!

The Lucy Smith young drivers class had two entries and was won by Laura with Leah second with her Hackney Stapleford March in a Mulliner Dog Cart.

Calling all young drivers -and especially the under 14s – your shows need you!!!!!!

Well done to young drivers who have been out competing at local shows and bigger BDS or county shows, rallies, trec and events like the attelage and displays at country houses. BDS Hereford ran a very enjoyable day at Croft Castle last weekend and Jade Payne went to her first official BDS event as a driver recently and I have been sent a lovely account of her day which is a separate article for you enjoy.

I haven’t been sent any extra reports other than the BDS Junior camp run by BDS Wales but open to any BDS young driver. This is a very popular event on the summer calendar and for the second year took place at Monnington Court, Hereford, thanks to the generous support of John Bulmer and yard manager Trudy. Hereford is an easy location to get to and attracts drivers from all areas. There’s lots of fun with quizzes and active games and the food is always plentiful and yummy!! There will be the chance to take part in this camp next year so do let me know if you’d be interested!!

These two were also at the top of the Osborne Refrigerators Young Driver 15-17 years – Traditional Vehicle, with Alice Fulford in 3rd and Amy Stone 4th.

Fun quiz

There is a separate report on this which is well worth the read.

BDS BRIAN SIMS YOUNG DRIVERS SCHOLARSHIP 2016 I’d like to take this opportunity to explain more about what is involved in the scholarship in the hope young drivers will be encouraged to come forward for the coming year.

Assessors with the young drivers

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British Driving Society

The day is designed to explore each junior’s knowledge and expertise in the key categories of driving using the BDS coaching hand, harness and harnessing up, carriages, putting to and taking out, the basic care of the driving horse and overall interest in carriage driving. Everyone has the opportunity to discuss their interests, activities and plans for the future.

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Reports a very interesting and enjoyable experience – well worth travelling for! Like Callum who wrote afterwards: “The scholarship day was amazing! I learnt so much and enjoyed it thoroughly, it was well worth the trip from Wales. I can’t wait for next year!”

Trust games with Tristan taking the reins

Callum at a junction

There were two entries in the younger category which was won by Melita Powell and three in the older group, won by Opal Weaver. The prize for the best Driver was also won by Opal. The scores were incredibly close overall and in the driving, in fact only 1 point separated Opal from Callum Anthony Jones with Opal on 95.5 and Callum 94.5, Laura was hot on their heels with 93. The younger group was separated by only one point five with Melita on 77 and Jack close behind on 75.5. These scores reflect the high standard which came forward this year.

This year Gary Docking was one of the assessors and focussed on the traditions, and practical driving for driven showing. AC Antonia Gallop kindly brought beautiful traditional turnouts to supplement those at Bradbourne Carriages where the scholarship was held and marked this section as well as the Harness Room. Linda Swain conducted the interviews and Sara Howe the practical driving for a BDS road assessment in addition to the harnessing up and putting to activity. Trish from Bradbourne Carriages assisted very capably with the overall organisation and the stable management. BDS Chairwoman Angela Sixsmith also supported the day and enjoyed meeting all the young drivers.

The assessors were very impressed by the standard and also by the enthusiasm of the juniors. The young drivers also thoroughly enjoyed their day and felt the activities were interesting and worthwhile. They learnt a lot from their busy day and went home with their rosettes and goodie bags enthused to develop their driving knowledge and practical skills even more!

This is the aim of course of the BDS Brian Sims Scholarship which is a very generous scheme in memory of a Dorset carriage driver who was also an exceptional educator and deputy head teacher.

As the organiser I would like to say a sincere thank you to everyone involved in the day. Looking ahead to next year I am really keen to encourage more juniors to come forward. Those who attended this year were pleased they had taken part even if they hadn’t won the bursary on this occasion. They all agreed it was a busy day and

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Jade and Charlie made many people laugh along the way with her happy smile and Charlie’s certainty that he knew best, having done all this before. Not sure who was the most tired at the end but they were rewarded with a third place.

Jade was thrilled with her three rosettes and Charlie was even more happy with his carrots and bag of sweets.

A great start to a promising driving career for this youngster.

BDS Junior Commissioner Emily Ham on emilyrham@gmail.com or on the landline 01874 690253.

I would like to congratulate everyone on their excellent performances at the Brian Sims Scholarship Day. Everyone demonstrated very good knowledge and understanding on all elements of carriage driving. I would like to thank the assessors for giving a full day to helping the young drivers and Sara Howe for the use of her wonderful facilities and ponies at Bradbourne Carriages. I would also like to thank parents and guardians for supporting the young drivers and encouraging them to take part.

Let’s hope many more will come forward to try these BDS activities next year!

With the wooden neddies

A reverse and a passage past some very big sheep and another pass through the cones and they were home with the distinction of having the only correct time of the day.

Gary gives Melita advice on rein handling and ringcrsaft

I am always happy to offer advice and information to help you and welcome any suggestions for young drivers. Please don’t hesitate to contact me on emilyrham@gmail.com.

It won’t be long until Christmas and I wish you a very happy winter season of fun filled driving activities!

AN EXCITING DAY DRIVING FOR JADE Jade Payne, one of our youngest members participated in her first event at Croft Castle this week. She drove her pony Paganos Chalcedony, Charlie to his friends, with her grandfather going along as groom. Charlie, getting older and more bolshie as the years go on was impatient to start the drive and could see no reason to stand in front of the castle to be judged. Once on their way they negotiated the cones and passed through the salute without too many problems. There was a 13 Km drive ahead of them with various tests along the way.

Jack Kedward road driving with Sara

Jade Payne

Ffion drives the shetland tandem

British Driving Society

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Reports

Berkshire Drives The warm part of 2016 has passed in a whirl, but the autumn has been kind and allowed many beautiful sunny drives. Berkshire has had three cracking outings this summer with brilliant weather which made them extra special. On the 7th August Bramshill Forest Drive was organised by Sue Bushall and her merry band of helpers with the kind permission of the Forestry Commission. It’s been a few years since we held a drive in the Forest and having a route completely off road over beautiful tracks was a great treat. Nineteen turnouts attended raising £490 for The Carriage Foundation.

On the 11th September we held a drive at Englefield Drive for the second year and nineteen turn outs attended. It was arranged

by Clive Collins with the generous permission of Richard Benyon MP. The turnouts ranged from donkeys and miniatures to a team and everything in between and everyone really enjoyed their day.

The Berkshire Autumnal Carriage Drive was held in Windsor Great Park on the 18th September.

Over twenty turnouts enjoyed an option of two drives through the Park. Julian Burleton (WPEC) flagged a diverse route commencing at Smiths Lawn, winding its way through the agricultural area, via Dukes Ride through the South Forest, then past the Village. From here, there was an option of an off road drive through the Deer Park, crossing the Long Walk and culminating at Cookes Hill. For the more sedate a road option also through the Deer Park gave excellent views of the Copper Horse and Windsor Castle. Most participants had good views of the herd of deer and one or two magnificent stags. Back on the

Bay Pair on the Windsor Drive

road the drive then finished with a tour of the Cannon Ground overlooked by Cumberland Lodge and through the “wilderness” before passing the Statue of Prince Albert close to the finish. Here the equines were all rewarded with a carrot and the Whips a Berkshire Rosette in the counties colours of Blue, White and Gold!

In addition to local stalwarts from Bucks, Berks, Surrey and Oxon, turnouts came from as far afield as Essex, Kent and four from East Sussex (organised by local AAC Pearl Hudson). Breeds of horses driven ranged from Shetlands to a Percheron, a pair of Dartmoor Ponies driven by

Denis Williams (organiser of the Spring Charity Drive) and a team of Welsh (Scurry) Ponies driven by Sally Barlow (owned by Sally Marshall).

In addition to the Drive a “Best Turnout” award was judged by Matthew Power (who was loaned to us by the Royal Mews), and was undertaken whilst checking turnouts at the start. Moira Evans won 1st prize with her Dales Pony “Roandale Rebel”. If you don’t wish to miss this fabulous drive next year, please make a note of 24th September 2017.

One of the Entrants at the Windsor Drive

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Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

Obituaries Many BDS friends gathered at the Chilterns Crematorium on 6th October to join in the celebration of Colin`s life and as is usual on these occasions those attending learnt more about Colin than the fact that he was a long standing BDS member and respected panel judge.

Colin Benford 1934–2016

Apart from having several outstanding driving horses he was particularly keen on butterfly conservation and along with his wife Irene, Colin spent many hours creating suitable environments for these increasingly rare insects on the family farm.

It was good to hear that his legacy will live on with his children, something of which Colin would be very proud.

Richard Ellis It was with great Sadness that we learned of Richard’s death on Saturday August 20th just short of his 83rd birthday, he had been frail for a while but died peacefully at home amongst friends as Richard had no living family. Richard was a very determined person and packed his life with new places and adventures as and when his health allowed.

I have only known Richard a relatively short period of time, firstly as my local AC for Berkshire and Wiltshire and then as his Assistant for Wiltshire in 2000 until he retired in 2002. I knew that Richard had many interests over the years as diverse as cars, engineering and of course horses and donkeys and when I knew him his beloved German Shepherd Taz. Richard had been a BDS member for many years and in 2002 received the BDS Medal of Honour for outstanding service, having been Chairman of the Area Commissioners, Council Member, BDS Judge and a LHHI Instructor. In 1982 Richard designed and built a special carriage to be used by Disabled Drivers following a donation from Sanders Watney when he retired.

There will be many members who will have their own special memories of Richard, who both taught and inspired many to drive over the years. In more recent times Richard has been involved with the local Canal Trust which established their headquarters quite near to his home, and I understand that one of his particular interests was the use of horses and donkeys in both the building and working of the local canal system. Richard was laid to rest in the churchyard of his local church to the sound of trotting ponies who just happened to be passing.

Hazel Woodbridge BEM Junior Quiz Answers 1: Winkers, 2: Empathy, 3: Leader 4: Shetland 5:Hames 6: Swingletree, 7: Elegance, 8: Carriage, 9:Traces, 10: Impatient, 11: Oil, 12: Nearside, 13: Axle Answer: The horse breed is Welsh Section A

Magazine Issue 365 – Winter 2016

British Driving Society

47

Photos: ES Photograpy

Osborne Refrigerators BDS National Championships 2016