Essex Bridleways Association Autumn Update November 2022

Update

Reps Meeting

Bridleways Development Officer

Officer Report

Officer Report

to Christine Tout

Bridge for riders in Thurrock

Katie Haines remembers

for your Diary

Ride and Share scheme

Rides Round Up

Working with BHS Essex

A Tribute to Her Majesty

Wordsearch – find your favourite Pooch!

Christmas card

TO THE QUEEN’S EQUESTRIAN INTERESTS

By Katie Jerram Hunnable, EBA Patron

There is hardly an aspect of the equestrian world that has not benefited from the Queen’s patronage

From birth she had access to horses beyond the dreams of most, but she turned this privileged position to general advantage through her genuine love of horses, coupled with her deep knowledge and expertise. Without the Queen’s involvement and wise counsel, it is arguable that polo, eventing and carriage driving trials would not have flourished as they have Indeed, throughout her seventy year reign it was duty first, family second and horses a very close third

Princess Anne’s eventer, Purple Star, was bred by Sir John Miller but it was the Queen’s polo bred Doublet who took her to European gold in 1971 Anne followed this triumph with an individual silver in 1975, riding the Queen’s Goodwill, and when daughter Zara Tindall took European gold in 2006 they completed a unique family e.

the years I have produced many show horses for the Queen, perhaps the best n being Barber’s Shop In recent years this horse dominated the showing classes r retrained racehorses and his many championships included the RoR Tattersalls eries final and three Royal Windsors The Queen was present for Barber’s Shop’s farewell in 2016, where the world’s press recorded her clear delight at winning a Tesco voucher

Our sovereign was the most famous, admired and garlanded person on the planet, but nothing brought out her widest smile than the simple pleasure of owning a horse.

A note from The Chair

In the history of EBA rides we have never had to cancel a ride because of high temperatures. Sadly this was the case this year. However, after rider and equine welfare had been taken into consideration it was an easy decision to make.

We thank all those affected for their understanding when we notified everyone that Spains Hall (Finchingfield) would not take place in August

Every year organising rides is becoming more difficult. With land owners no longer allowing riders on their land, and fewer parking facilities we are finding venues harder to find Charges are being made for licence fees and parking which have to be taken into account when planning rides and deciding how costs are to be apportioned The challenge is to provide you with a variety of rides at a fair price but that is always our aim and one we hope to fulfil next year.

Over the past two years, due to Covid restrictions, new housing development had been on hold. However Essex is now making up for lost time and planning, building and highways are working flat out to make up for lost time. It is

By Julia Wilson, EBA Chair

imperative therefore that we are all vigilant to what is happening in our local areas and how it is affecting our rights of way We need you, our riders, to be our eyes and ears and we rely on you to inform us of your concerns.

Each district of Essex has an area representative, listed on the back of this edition of Update and on the web site. Please report your concerns directly to your Area Rep and they will help and support in any way possible At time of writing, we do have a number of vacancies so if this is something that would interest you, please let me know

Our Historic Records Officer, Christine Tout leaves us after ten years in post. We are sorry to see her go, and appreciate all the work she had done for the EBA over the past decade to ensure bridleways in the county are recorded on the Definitive Map for posterity See page 9 of this Edition.

I am delighted to inform you all that we have filled the vacancy of Bridleway Development Officer. Martin Crisp joined us in May and lost no time in picking up the reins from Sue Dobson. I have every confidence that Martin understands the plight of

equestrians and the fight we have to ensure we are not forgotten as new building works eat up our green spaces You can read about Martin on pages five and eight and will have the opportunity to meet him at the AGM in November

That just leaves me to encourage you to attend the AGM We have Deborah Hall, Chigwell RDA, giving a talk, which I am sure will be very interesting. Th evening is an opportunity for you to meet the Trustees, Area Reps and fellow riders in a relaxed and informal setting Tea, cake and sandwiches are provided so how can you refuse!

In the meantime enjoy what remains of the good weather and longer days before winter will soon be with us once more!

3

Another year of challenges and certainly one we hadn’t anticipated: extreme heat!

EBA is a member of:

Affiliate member of BHS • Open Spaces Society

Hundred Parishes Society • National Federation of Bridleway Associations

EBA also has regular contact with Hatfield Forest Riders Association and Epp ng Forest R ders Association

The members of EBA extend our deepest sympathy to the Royal Family on the death of Queen Elizabeth II 21st April 1926 8th September 2022

The Queen enjoy ng a hack in the grounds of Balmora Cast e

Area Representatives meeting

Area Reps from back row, left to r ght.

Back row: Geoff Box (Rochford and Southend); Sarah Moss (Uttlesford): Caroline Cowell (Maldon): Heather Brady (Epping Forest); Jan Arthur (Basi don).

Front row: Sue Fincham (Chelmsford) Al son Power (Cast e Point); Mandy French (Braintree) Sarah Hodgson (Uttlesford) Lisa Wilson (Colchester)

It was a very productive meeting, with an opportunity to meet Trustees in an informal setting afterwards.

VACANCIES

Martin Crisp - new Development Officer

Iam very pleased to introduce myself as EBA’s Bridleways Development Officer, having commenced the role this Spring

It was evident to me from the outset that my predecessor, Sue Dobson, would be an exceptionally hard act to follow, and I am grateful to her for her patience and guidance whilst I found my feet

A little about my background

Born and bred in Southend, I moved to the ‘wilds’ of north Essex about 17 years ago, where I live with my wife and slightly insane springer spaniel I have always had a deep affection of the great outdoors; childhood camping experiences were the genesis of that affection I think, and the pleasure of being surrounded by open space has stayed with me into adult life I wrestled with this during my finance career in London, long daily train commutes were generally spent gazing out of the window and day dreaming about adventures I wished I was having.

That said, I was lucky to enjoy a successful and varied career, working with management teams, helping with their strategic planning and assisting them if they chose to sell their business. I have spent countless hours poring over legal documents, negotiating with interested parties and trying to find a way around stubborn obstacles

3 years ago I decided it was time to turn the day dreaming into reality, so I stepped back from my corporate career, handed in my train season ticket (what a wonderful moment), and set off on a tour of New Zealand with my wife All was well, until we were locked down out there due to Covid restrictions. However, if I could have chosen where to spend a few months of lockdown, New Zealand would have been very high on the list!

My main hobby in the past has been running, although knees have been creaking with increased frequency in the last couple of years so I have

transitioned, almost unintentionally, to cycling A few months ago, I started to regret this change of sporting discipline, as I agreed to cycle from Land’s End to John O’Groats with a friend to raise money for a local village community project

It was an incredible experience, 14 days of cycling, close to 1,000 miles, with the added bonus of losing nearly a stone in weight. Seeing and feeling the changing landscape, the friendliness of complete strangers, the brutal Cornish hills, the unforgiving Scottish weather, memories I will always treasure And only one puncture Glasgow how could you!

I am very grateful to be given the opportunity to join EBA as Bridleways Development Officer

The ethos and aspirations of the Charity resonate strongly with my belief that the great outdoors is there to be enjoyed I also believe the role fits well with the skillset I developed during my career. I will do my utmost to represent you well, to protect the existing bridleway network and to grasp opportunities to negotiate for new bridleways where possible

Martin

The current team of Area Reps met the Chair and Officers (Julia Wilson, Christine Rust and Martin Crisp) to discuss current issues and common concerns on Thursday 8th September

An Extract

the diary of your...

Projects and Funding Officer

I thought you might enjoy a delve into my diary to experience the sort of things I get up to. Fortunately not as chaotic as Bridget Jones’ but quite varied and ‘brave pants’ do come into play occasionally. Here are some extracts.

February, Abberton Reservoir, Nr. Colchester

Chucking it down when I met Lisa Wilson (Colchester Area Rep) with the intention of walking the permissive routes around Abberton Reservoir, to see if we could look contrive two new separate bridleways into one circular route. Lisa kindly drove us around the edge of the routes in the car. We got out and walked between showers There is a nice route for Layer riders and another equally nice one for

Peldon riders but only roadwork and/or footpaths (which are inaccessible to riders) in between. Landowners not keen to see these routes joined Persistence required! To this end, I am now the Abberton Reservoir Public Rights of Way Working Group to represent EBA.

Also in February, I drafted a bid to the British Horse Society (BHS) Ride Out Fund for a contribution towards the cost of maintaining Bridleway

By Christine Rust

66, Lippets Hill end, Waltham Abbey, which is boggy and sliding into the golf course which runs alongside. This bid has been successful, so we are currently working in partnership with Essex County Council Highways to get the work done.

In March, I attended the BHS Eastern Region Road Safety Evening held at Peldon Village Hall. I listened to riders concerns, and am now involved (with BHS), in sorting out triangular warning signs for horse riders in 5 locations. As these are new signs there is a system to be followed. A) contact and gain support of your Local Parish or Town Council and win them over Then B) put forward your proposals to the Local Highways Panel for validation. So far, I have received support from two of the three local Parish Councils; still one to win over!

In April I volunteered as a Marshall for the EBA Middlewick Ride and enjoyed seeing the happy faces of our members and their horses having a sustained canter along the side of some beautifully cut fields Long may this continue

During May and June I took some leave, but back at work, was busy looking at new proposed locations for the

warning signs with our Regional BHS Access Officer, checking on a Bridleway near Generals Lane in Boreham which has Kissing gates (see photo above), and liaising with my new colleague Martin Crisp (Bridleways Development) about a public consultation at Hole Farm, Upminster. I also attended a zoom meeting of the Public Rights of Way User Group hosted by Essex County Council Highways, which was interesting and useful as a conduit for updating and sharing partnership information.

During July and August I have been preparing a bid to the Enovert Community Trust for some gates to make Restricted Byway 28 at Chappel accessible This Byway had been fenced off and overgrazed by cattle. We are now working in

partnership with the landowner and Essex County Council Highways Public Rights of Way Team to provide two sets of appropriate gates so that the field can be crossed by equestrians, cyclists and the general public Fingers crossed for this bid which I need to submit by 8th September.

Lately I have been working alongside Jan Arthur our Vice Chairman to follow up and survey routes that have been suggested as having potential for Express Dedication at Common Law (EDCL) which is a whole new ballgame for us but a challenge that we are relishing.

We must never underestimate the power of what we can achieve through partnership working

Bye for now, Chris

Managing change: opportunities for all

I am pleased to provide a short summary of the first five months in my role as Bridleways Development Officer since I was appointed to the role earlier this year.

I will be the first to admit that taking over from such an experienced and successful custodian as Sue Dobson was, in some respects, daunting. However, the EBA committee members have all been very welcoming and supportive, and this has smoothed my transition into the role considerably In this short article, I don’t propose to mention each and every item that forms part of my current workstream. There is of course significant ongoing and planned development in the major urban areas in Essex, but increasingly more rural villages are also seeing housing expansion. The impact upon equestrians is therefore being felt across the breadth of the County The Chelmsford Garden Community project and the Tendring and Colchester Borders Garden Community project are keeping me particularly busy as there are opportunities to fight for new equestrian routes through some of the ‘green spaces’ allocated by developers. For example, within the scope of the Great Leighs Masterplan there is one

By Martin Crisp, EBA Bridleways Development Officer

Historic Records Officer stands down

We will give our formal thanks Christine Tout at our AGM in November when she joins us fo the last time in her capacity as Historic Records Officer.

In the meantime, here are a few words from Chrissie to ‘set the record straight.’

bridleway that falls within the boundaries of the plan. This bridleway links to 2 footpaths, which lead onto to Dumney Lane There is a natural opportunity here to upgrade the respective footpaths to bridleways, which would then provide an unbroken bridleway of some 1,877 metres onto Dumney Lane.

I am encouraged that there is specific reference in the plan to ‘Land for recreational/equestrian use’ The Masterplan currently proposes that the northern most part of plot will be retained for both passive and recreational use and could potentially accommodate a variety of uses, ranging from equestrian facilities, such as horse riding and training, to rustic exercise trails. Plenty to fight for!

In addition, there are proposals for solar farms and other infrastructure projects, many impacting existing bridleways but also sometimes presenting opportunity to improve or enhance the bridleway network.

I have joined ELAF which will provide me with a broad perspective of issues affecting PROW’s in Essex, and I am meeting next week with BHS Essex Committee members to discuss how we can work together to help achieve our mutual aims. Lastly, many of you have been in contact with me to flag issues local to you, this has been so helpful and I would be grateful if you would continue to do so.

Many thanks Martin

“A Farewell to Maps” by Chrissie Tout

2012 the year of the London Olympics. I took early retirement, remarried, was lucky enough to see the GB show jumping team win gold AND I became a historic researcher for EBA. The remit to research and submit claims for lost routes not recorded on the Essex Definitive Map (DM). Pretty straightforward or so I thought!

Fast forward 10 years and I’ve certainly learnt a lot and seen much of the Essex countryside

There have been successes with bridleways and restricted byways being added to the DM and disappointments when no evidence was found or claims refused or lost at appeal. Now after 10 years, and with the repeal of the 2026 deadline by the Government, I have decided it’s time to step down from the HR role. I know that EBA will continue its great work so please keep up your support to enable more riders to have access to off road routes.

I wish you all safe and happy riding.

Chris Tout

Christine Aand lfie at Danbury

Christine and Harry

Jan Arthur (EBA Vice Chair) third from left, with ELAF members ELAF Photo Trail demonstrat on in October, 2021 investigating access possib lities Martin is now a member of this group.

Thurrock

a new bridge for riders

Deirdre Graham

Everyonce in a while you have the pleasure of meeting someone w serves as a real inspiration you. For me; Mrs Graham was one of those; someon whom I really respected, s much so, that even now, I refer to her as Mrs Graham rather than Deirdre!

– an inspiring individual

By Katy Haines, EBA Rides Organiser (1999 2013)

Afootbridge

which provides an essential link for walkers, riders, and cyclists between Horndon on the Hill and Stanford-le-Hope has been renamed in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.

Horndon Bridge will from now on be known as Platinum Jubilee Bridge, after a grand unveiling on Wednesday June 1st.

Perhaps those of us who ride over the newly-named bridge will remember Deirdre Graham, whose work was instrumental in providing links for riders across the county However, the Queen takes precedence in her Jubilee year!

Platinum Jubilee Bridge, Horndon on the Hill Thurrock Council invited user groups to the renaming of the new Horndon Bridge as the Platinum Jubilee Bridge. Janet Arthur and I went along as EBA’s representatives with a small number of local horse riders We met at Horndon on the Hill side of the bridge and all, ridden horses included, walked across the bridge to the ribbon cutting ceremony on the Stanford le Hope side A wide sweeping bridge it has an excellent surface for horses Riders from Horndon

on the Hill can use this bridge to get to the sea wall However although there are many footpaths in the area there are very few bridleways. Jan Arthur took the opportunity to discuss this with the Councillors, who were appreciative of the points made The ribbon was cut by the mayor of Thurrock, James Halden, who was joined by other local leaders, ramblers, riders and some four legged friends to commemorate the renaming He said: “In one of my first official roles as the new Mayor of Thurrock, I’m delighted to pay tribute to Her Majesty and celebrate her 70 years of loyal service by cutting this ribbon to declare that the Horndon Bridge has been officially renamed Platinum Jubilee Bridge The A13 is a major economic artery for the whole region, underscoring again the vital place that is Thurrock and our ability to rival London’s square mile. It is fitting that such a significant bridge is named after the most significant Head of State in the world ”He was joined by members of walking group Thurrock Ramblers and the Essex Bridleways Association (Extract from Essex Live newspaper: 1st June 2022)

I first met Mrs Graham when began working at Essex Coun Council in 1989 It was my f ‘proper’ job and I was workin the Planning Department on Ways through Essex project. which Mrs Graham had been instrumental in setting up. At time, Essex was experiencing numbers of road accidents involving ridden horses and r This in part was due to the la of public bridleways, especial south and east of the county exacerbated by pressure for development and increasingly hazardous roads One of the main aims of the project was work in agreement with landowners to create more p bridleways Ways through Ess was initially set up as a 3-yea project but it then became part of the Public Rights of Way (PRoW) department at Essex County Council

I worked as the Ways through Essex Project Manager and then in the PRoW department for over 19 years. A large part of my work involved close liaison with user groups including Essex Bridleways Association, the British Horse Society and HORSE These organisations were all lobbying the County, District and Parish Councils to highlight the needs of horse riders across Essex. Mrs Graham, representing Essex Bridleways Association, was one of the key individuals with whom

I had the pleasure of working She was a remarkable character

From the outset, her dogged determination to ensure that the needs of horse riders were considered by planners and engineers served as an inspiration to me She approached discussions from a thorough, educated perspective and she did not suffer fools gladly! I know that many of my colleagues found her frustratingly persistent, but her fighting spirit, passion to succeed and determination to be heard, meant that the needs of

horse riders across Essex began ken seriously. Her of character definitely ed my approach to work oon became equally atingly persistent! rked with riders on many e projects across Essex uding large residential elopments, major road ding schemes and the of the County Council d Green Belt farms sure that the needs of ere addressed vely, we created many new public bridleways ssex and Mrs Graham ex Bridleways Association d still are, instrumental to ess As a result of our ders can now enjoy riding eways through Langdon orndon and Weald Parks, the Mardyke he Flitch Way and many utes across Essex. Mrs Graham, I do not hat the Ways through oject would have been hed and without the very few of these routes ver have been created. day riders have a lot to thank her for they may not know it but many of the bridleways they can now ride along are there in perpetuity and testament to her determination I left Essex in 2014 and now live and work in North Wales. I have very fond and proud memories of my bridleway creation work in Essex and feel very privileged to have worked with Mrs Graham she was a truly impressive and inspirational woman She will be sadly missed, but fondly remembered, not only by me, but by many members of Essex Bridleways Association and horse riders across Essex

Riders crossing the bridge for the first time 1st June 2022

By Denise Dillon, EBA Trustee

The rosette, awarded to r ders at Ashfie ds on 7th August this year which was renamed the Deirdre Graham Memorial r de

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY...

Thursday 10th November

8 Essex Bridleways Association AGM

Our annual meeting is the perfect opportunity to meet the EBA Committee, Trustees, Area Representatives and our Research Officers to find out more about our work. You can chat with our officers to learn about the best ways to help them record changes and report Rights of Way issues

Once the formalities are over, our guest speaker Deborah Hall, MBE will tell us about her work with the Chigwell Riding Trust for Special Needs. Deborah has been the manager at CRT for the past 40 years. CRT is a member of the Riding for Disabled Association and like many charities, is dependent on volunteers for their continued support.

Sunday 9th October – Danbury

Always our most popular ride, with a variety of hilly tracks through the woods, leading to quiet country lanes and surfaced bridleways or field margins.

YOUR INVITATION TO OUR ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING

Thursday 10th November 2022

Keene Hall, Galleywood, Nr Chelmsford, Essex CM2 8PT

Doors open 7pm for a 7 30pm start

Agenda: Arrive, help yourself to a free cuppa, have a chat, grab a seat

7.30pm

Apologies for absence

Approval of 2021 minutes

Matters Arising Chair’s Report

Treasurer’s Report & Appointment of independent examiner of accounts for 2021 Appointment of Trustees Nomination forms are available from our Secretary, Lisa Guy (lisa@lifetimefinancial biz) or via the news pate at www essexbridleways co uk

Other matters at the discretion of the Chair

Saturday 3rd December Epping Forest Christmas Ride

Members only The Christmas ride is an annual treat, with prizes for the best seasonal Fancy Dress, mulled wine and mince pies

EBA Holiday – September 2023

Friday 8th Monday 11th September at Little Lodge, Thetford. Members only. Contact our membership secretary, Alison Craigmile on ebamemsec@yahoo.co.uk

Note: only members aged 18 and over may vote at the AGM

12 13

8.00pm

Short break

8.10pm Our guest speaker

The work of the Chigwell Riding Trust with Deborah Hall, MBE

Chigwell Riding Trust (CRT) has capacity for 14 horses and ponies ranging from 11.2h up to 16h. They hold annual events, some of which are for fundraising as they receive no state aid at all Chigwell also likes to think it’s a competitive yard as they have a number of Para riders, of which some have been very successful.

9pm Close

Volunteers helping young disabled riders

Little Lodge in the autumn mist

Ride and Share Scheme

The Ride and Share Scheme is exclusive to EBA members and is designed to encourage you to explore the countryside together on horseback, where a Ride and Share host welcomes you to their yard and takes you on a guided ride around their local area.

Here are two reports from recent rides in the Spring and Summer this year.

The first took place in February (too late for the Spring edition of Update) when Erica took her young horse Rocky to meet Jane Skinner and Arrow at their private yard on the Herts/Essex borders.

Here’s what Rocky had to say about his day: Mum took me to a new place today. There was just one horse called Arrow. I was a bit nervous at first but as soon as we set off, Arrow made me feel at ease and led the way along the beautiful bridleways which are a lot better than we have at home!

I got spooked by one of those bird scarers used by farmers but Arrow showed me it wasn’t really scary it just goes round and round in the wind, and we also saw one of these… A funny house with no people in it! Mum said it was a well Well? What’s that?!

But with a bit of encouragement from Arrow’s lady and my Mum I was soon grazing next to it. The pub was closed but I didn’t mind about that Then we had a lovely canter through the trees on the way back. I wasn’t a bit tired after two hours and all the new things to see and do. You know what? I recommend ride and share and can’t wait to go again!

ROCKY

Sue on her cob, Skye, (left) with A ison Power and her horse, Louis Springer enjoy ng a leisurely hack around Castlepoint Alison is the Area Rep and knows her patch wel !

In August this year, Alison Power welcomed Sue to her yard.

Alison writes:

Sue contacted me as she wanted to get out more in her box but was a bit nervous about driving on her own. I invited her to come and have a recce in the car first so she knew exactly where she was going and how big the yard was etc.

As we don’t live that far apart it was a nice short journey for her first foray alone Since that first outing we have met up a few times and both horses get on really well. Sue enjoys riding around Castlepoint and was surprised by how good the riding is around the area

Alison continues: “On our mid August ride, we were out for about an hour and 40 minutes mostly at walk as the ground is so hard and Louis has arthritis We crossed the A13 twice, the second time by the side of the delightfully named ‘Bread and Cheese’ pub We also went out and back along Coniston which is a bridleway EBA was successful in claiming through user evidence many years ago.

Alison adds: My horse Louis is a trotter (Standardbred) who was rescued from EHPPS in 2016 when I took him on He is now 14 but due to his bad start in life he has hock and pastern arthritis so he is quite limited in what he can do these days He still enjoys a hack and I am fortunate to have lots of tracks and Bridleways directly from my premises.

Map of Erica and Rocky’s outing, using Map My R de app (Based on Google mapping)

More information can be found here: https://www.essexbridleways.co.uk/where-to-ride-in-essex

Erica w th Rocky (left) and Jane Skinner and Arrow

Prince of Wales PH at Green Tye, Herts

16

RIDES ROUND UP

Well what a year so far, and it’s not over yet! It has been quite a difficult year to organise rides, we’ve had to cancel a couple, reschedule one and make last minute changes to several.

The year started off, as usual, with our Middlewick ride, east of Southminster in April The weather was exceptional for the start of the season, warmish with enough spring sunshine not too much mud. A pleasant a change from previous years when riders have done their best to get round in high winds and driving rain! The tracks were in very good condition and many riders enjoyed some lovely canter stretches.

Our next ride in May at Highwood, is always a very popular ride, and rightly so as there are lovely varied tracks. Weather conditions again were ideal, with good going with were lots of places for participants to enjoy an energetic leg stretch in the sunshine Others preferred to take a more leisurely pace, chatting to their friends while admiring the lovely countryside on every hand.

Mid June was an opportunity to ride in Hatfield Forest, near Gt Dunmow taking in the ancient woodlands and tracks around this ancient medieval park. Thankfully this year, the cattle were not much in evidence to jump out from

By Sandra Deeran and Alison Power, Ride Organisers

behind the trees at unsuspecting riders. The theme continued with sunny weather too much so! The heat and sunshine has been relentless this year

Our next ride was Ashfields scheduled for mid-July and, to be dedicated to Deirdre Graham, President of EBA, who had recently died However , as the ride date approached and the thermometer continued to

creep upwards, with forecasters warning of temperatures reaching 40C, we made the only decision possible and cancelled the ride Although this was done at relatively short notice, all those concerned were understanding of the reasons why we took this decision.

Spains Hall was next on the schedule However, the ride organiser Brenda Hatch, was unwell and in hospital. and unable to organise the ride from her sick bed. (we are pleased to report that Brenda is now making a good recovery and we wish her a speedy return to full health) Another ride cancelled this year how disappointing. However, as all the preparations for Ashfields were in place with regards to the route,

marshals and overall agreement with the venue, we chose to offer it again, with a change of date not the 14th but 7th August. We realise this isn’t helpful for those of you who book transport at the beginning of the year, but unfortunately, we didn’t have much choice, it was either the rearranged date or not at all Oh, the trials and tribulations of organising a ride. Ashfields went ahead and even though it was still a warm day mid twenties horses and riders enjoyed their outing and were not disappointed, despite the continued drought causing very firm going so that many of the lovely tracks we normally have at Ashfields were just too hard to canter on. There was plenty of shade in the lanes and everyone returned to the venue with smiles on their faces, which naturally pleased our Ride Organisers, Sandra and Alison!

Our next ride in September was at Little Easton In previous years, the landlord of The Stag PH had been most accommodating. However, the pub has now been sold in preparation for houses to be built on the site. Glen Miller (yes, that’s his name!) was kind enough to recommend Little Easton Manor, just around the corner Andy Mahoney, a newcomer to our game, was super-helpful and listened carefully to our requirements. He offered us his field and facilities Thank you Andy! When marshals dropped out in the last week, leaving is very short, we almost cancelled the ride for safety reasons. Thankfully, several Committee members stepped in at the last minute to save the day The

next worry was the weather the long dry spell ended with downpours and our concern was slippery conditions on the hill leading to the parking field. Would the horseboxes cope?

Sunday 11th September brought 95 riders to Little Easton Manor our new venue. The early morning mist cleared to give riders a classic September outing, balmy and mild, where recent rain had softened the going, to everyone’s delight Many also praised the catering arrangements and the quality of the food on offer at Little Easton Manor Some of the orange marker tapes had been removed overnight –the work of local woodland gremlins perhaps, but with sufficient marshals on hand, no-one missed their way and all riders were safely accounted for

Dawn Grocock tastefully framed by an ornamental arch at the lakeside Little Easton Manor

Karis Parker – working with BHS Essex

Over time the BHS has become more efficient with recording such statistics via the website and also more recently via the Horse i app However, it is still believed that only 10% of incidents are reported!

Within the BHS Essex Committee we run a variety of events throughout the year Some of these include BHS safety evenings, aimed at all venerable road users and are open for everyone; drivers, walkers and cyclists to attend.

if you would like to develop your skills further.

These clinics are designed for small groups /individual riders of varying abilities and if you own a horse or exercise someone else’s, of course you are welcome to attend.

I’veowned horses throughout my life and at one stage it was my career. After qualifying as a BHSAI at Hallingbury Hall I went on to run my own business breaking and training horses and teaching riders the art of equitation. However, having sustained several falls from challenging mounts, I found an alternative career.

I continue to ride my own horses which I have found to be marginally less dangerous!

I reached out to the BHS after seeing a request for Safety Advisor volunteers on Facebook and following a brief interview with Des Payne (BHS Safety Team Lead) I was introduced to Janet Wilson, Regional Manger for the Eastern Region.

By Karis Parker, Chair of BHS Essex (Karis on far right)

I’ve been working within the Essex Committee for the last 4 years as a Volunteer Safety Advisor, working alongside about 12 other likeminded people and more recently have taken on the role as Essex Chair, following Sue Dobson’s retirement from the post in May this year.

Volunteering is very rewarding in a number of ways Collaboration, working together and being part of a team is crucial to our success Within our committee, volunteer roles vary from welfare and access to safety and event planning We cover the whole of Essex, linking up with neighbouring committees when the need arises.

My role as a Volunteer Safety Advisor means that I am part

of the bigger picture As the number of vehicles, housing and population increases, the more our access to off road riding decreases Riding on the road has become more dangerous and our aim within the safety team is to reduce the number of incidents and fatalities involving horses and riders. Each year, the BHS Safety Team collates statistics which are then shared to each committee group in the UK

Between 1st January 2021 and 31st December 2021 in the UK there were:

• 2,943 road incidents involving horses

• 66 horses died

• 129 people /riders were injured

• 13% were victim of road rage or abuse.

Recent work of the BHS Safety Team included lobbying and collaborating with cycling UK, DVSA, Living Streets and DfT to suggest much needed Highway Code improvements and as of 29th January 2022 the “Dead Slow Campaign” is now incorporated into The Highway Code It includes how to pass feral and semi feral horses as well as recommendations for all horse riders to complete the BHS Ride Safe Award

It also looks to educate motorists and riders to be respectful of each other whilst using the road and it asks...

If I see a horse on the road then I will…

We usually experience a good level of turnout and following a brief discussion and video presentation by Des Payne (Safety Team Lead) or Alan Hiscox (Director of Safety) we invite the audience to put questions to our panel of experts including local police constables and PCSO’s, safety/access working groups, off road riding associations and members of parish and county councils. We sometimes hold a raffle and there is always plenty of tea and biscuits!

The Essex committee are currently in the process of organising a series of flatwork clinics in North Essex with dates being announced soon cebook Do follow our

//www facebook com/ astRegion/ and book on

Tickets for the event will be via Ticket Tailor

You can learn more about the BHS Eastern Region here

https://www.bhs.org.uk/bhs in your area/east of england/ and for incident reporting visit

–

https://www bhs org uk/go riding/report an incident/ or download the free horse i app

Remembering Our Queen

Left: Future Queen with her father, King George VI

Below: In 2011, aged 85, with granddaughter, Lady Louise Windsor (7), who broke her arm shortly after this photo was taken, and her three year old brother James, Viscount Severn

With Granddaughter Zara Phillips (left), and Princess Anne on a smart trio of coloured horses

Labrador Spaniel Bulldog

Poodle

Flat Coated Retriever (2)

Dachshund

Jack Russell

Border Collie

German Shepherd Beagle

Chihuahua Cockapoo

Pug Old English Sheepdog (3)

No Corgies - but you may find your favourite dog here in our... Pooch Wordsearch

The Association now has a Christmas Card!

Be the first to send an EBA card to all your horsey friends and connexions this Christmas!

We will be selling the cards at our events and at the AGM in November. £3.50 for a set of five cards and £7.00 for ten cards with envelopes.

Join us!

How to join:

1. Online Log on to www essexbridleways co uk and on the ‘join us’ page you can find links to join online, renew your subscription or download a membership form Joining online helps us by cutting down on administration and saves EBA money.

2. By post Ask our membership secretary to send you a membership form, download from our website or pick one up at our rides. Contact: ebamemsec@yahoo.co.uk or write to Alison Craigmile, EBA Membership Secretary,

EBA needs your support to fight for safe off road access for horse riders. Membership costs just £15 a year and is free for under 16s.

40 The Chase, Romford, Essex RM1 4BE

Save our resources: Choosing to renew your membership automatically via PayPal or by standing order cuts administration and reduces EBA print and postage costs.

Members’ benefits:

• Up to £5 off EBA rides entry fees

• Priority entry to some EBA events, including EBA holidays.

• EBA Update magazine delivered to your door twice a year

• Email notifications of news

and events.

• Access to EBA’s Ride & Share Scheme

• Help with bridleways issues and claims

• Up to 10% discount on new insurance policies from South Essex Insurance Brokers

• 10% discount from John Griffin Trailer Training

• 30% discount on your first BHS membership join by phone or paper application, state that you are an EBA member and give your membership number to receive your discount This action cannot be done via online applications.

Chair Julia Wilson 07795 818856 juliawilson012@hotmail co uk

Vice Chair Jan Arthur 01277 650985 j arthur0985@btinternet com

Treasurer Louise Fuller 01245 421614 louiserfuller@hotmail.com

Secretary Lisa Guy 07792 166591 lisa@lifetimefinancial biz

Membership Secretary Alison Craigmile 07956 318502 ebamemsec@yahoo co uk

Rides Entry Secretary Denise Dillon 07545 213056 denisedillon77@btinternet.com

Rides Co ordinator Sandra Deeran 07958 909319 sdeeran@gmail com

Rides Co Ordinator/ Alison Power 07932 678524 alisonjean6@yahoo co uk

Social Media

Ride and Share Julia Wilson 07795 818856 juliawilson012@hotmail.co.uk

Bridleway Clearance Brenda Hatch 01277 899541 brendahatch eba@outlook com Co Ordinator

Website Administrator Sally Crone 07731 504438 s.a.crone@btinternet.com

Press and Publicity

EBA Update Editor Jane Skinner 07757 916138 janeskinner51@gmail com

EBA Officers

Bridleways Development Martin Crisp 0772 088 6756 martincrisp eba@gmail com

Projects and Funding Christine Rust 07849 029632 ebaprojectmanager@gmail com

Area Representatives

Basildon Jan Arthur 07813 905022 j.arthur0985@btinternet.com

Braintree Mandy French 01371 850215 amandajfrench1@gmail com

Brentwood & Havering Vacancy

Castle Point Alison Power 07932 678524 alisonjean6@yahoo co uk

Chelmsford Sue Fincham 01245 440795 Suefincham780@btinternet com

Colchester Lisa Wilson 07525 323430 lisa@dengie com

Epping Forest Heather Brady 01992 578072 Liz Hollingsworth 07855 329059 eppingforestrep@gmail.com

Harlow Vacancy

Maldon Caroline Cowell 07941 471508 capbailey@hotmail.com

Rochford & Southend Geoff Box geoff.box@btinternet.com

Tendring Vacancy

Thurrock Vacancy

Uttlesford Sarah Hodgson 07871 169406 hodgsonsmh@btinternet com Sarah Moss 07966 994367 sarahmoss77@hotmail co uk

www.essexbridleways.co.uk

Bridleways Association, PO Box 12014, Chelmsford CM1 9UD

www.essexbridleways.co.uk

Essex Bridleways Association Twitter @EssexBridleways

Bridleways Assoc

@EssexBridleways