DRIVE FROM DOGDEAN FARM
SUNDAY 23rd AUGUST 2015

The morning of the drive from Dogdean  Farm was wet to say the least.  As we sat at breakfast the rain was really heavy and lashing the window.   Shall we go we debated?  Yes of course we would, we must put up with a little discomfort for the sake of our hobby.  So Jake was loaded on to the lorry, all be it a little reluctantly.  So armed with wellingtons, waterproof leggings and coats we set off through the heavy rain.   Along the way the road was flooded in several places and we began to wonder if we would even be able to get into Ann’s field let alone out again. We must be mad.
By the time we arrived thankfully the rain had eased to just a drizzle. There were already 4 other brave turnouts there getting ready to drive.   Ann welcomed us and showed us to our parking spot, we decanted Jake and the carriage and made a quick coffee which we drank while putting the harness on.  During this short time the rain stopped and the grey clouds were being replaced with some blue sky, hooray.
We fitted Jake with his reflective martingale and hat, donned our own waterproof reflective jackets and set off up the hill to head for the forest where a kind steward let us in through the barrier.  From then on we had a wonderful drive along the forestry tracks, the sun was shining the air was clear but it was not hot, and it was fly free.    Stewards saw us over the road crossings so we were all safe at the necessary places.There were 8 turnouts who made the drive which was about 8 miles, with a fair chunk of forestry tracks, as well as quiet lanes.
We were joined later in the day by an 9th turnout who just joined us take part in the challenging cones course that Ann and Terry had laid out for us to tackle upon our return from the drive.  We all had several attempts to get round and had good fun.
The day came to a close with a gathering in the barn for some catch up information from A. C, Dryden Pennington, a good chat and banter with friends and fellow drivers and the most important tea and some super homemade cakes that were eagerly enjoyed by everyone.  
We made the right decision in the morning, having had a lovely drive,  good fun and spent time with friends.  That’s what driving should be all about.
And yes, we did get back out of Ann’s field with no problem.
Thank you, Ann and Terry for the venue and all those who gave up their time to help.  We can’t do it without you.

Hugh Blakemor

Demonstration day at Kingston Maurward
 Sunday 9th August 2015

We hope everyone enjoyed a brilliant day seeing all the different driving combinations:
·         Single
·         Tandem
·         Troika
·         Reverse pickaxe
·         Team of 6
·         Team of 8
·         Pair
·         Unicorn
·         Team of 4
Not only did we see all the combinations but anyone who wanted to from the BDS could sit upside Tony and have the chance to drive.
I asked one of the BDS members who had got off the Troika from having a drive what it felt like. He had the biggest smile and said he had driven a pair with Tony and thought they felt like a Ferrari but the troika was like a Ferrari on steroids and he loved it. Adrenalin rush or what! And that was only at walk.
The owners, helpers and grooms were amazing to get this organised but I think the biggest thank you needs to be to the eight horses that did all the hard work. They came from two different teams of 4  (Tony Munt and John Davies) and had never worked together before, but you would never have known it, they were amazing. I think extra carrots for all and a scratch on the neck.

Jen Vaniwaarde

Highstepper Drive
Sunday 5th July 2015

What a lovely day for a drive through Moreton Forest (even the weather was just perfect). I always love going through the forest and then finished it by going through the ford, but it was especially lovely for me this year as my pony was back in work after injury. There was loads of turnouts, I heard someone say about 30 I think. We got to meet Dryden our new area commissioner as we started and finished, and I know we were smiling from ear to ear when we completed it.

The hog roast from Tony and Sue gave everyone a chance to talk and catch up. I know that they had trouble with the hog roast and Sue  (plus helpers) did miracles to get the meat cooked in time. Thank you to everyone who helped to get the drive organised and gave us all such a lovely day.

Jen Vaniwaarden

BDS Dorset & South Wiltshire Area Show
Sunday 14th June 2015

Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, Dorset

A record number of entries for our Show this year, with strong classes keeping the judges busy in two rings and (thank heavens!) fair weather all day. Alison Trevett and her team of helpers had worked hard to make the Show a success and their efforts were rewarded by the numbers, enthusiasm and standard of the competitors. And plans are afoot for 2016...

By the way.... did you spot the printer's error in the last Newsletter's Show report? BDS Chairman Angela Sixsmith's long journey to our Show at Motcombe was, of course, a round trip of 460 miles, not 46! Many apologies, Angela, and thank you for your support.

Sandy Smyth

Click here for the Results

Click here for Photographs by Swingletree Photography
Prints are available to order by contacting Swingletree Photography direct

BDS FUN DAY 10th May 2015

Hosted by East Holton Driving Centre ( RDA ) and by kind permission of Holton Lee.

The day was hugely successful, enjoyed by all and enthusiastically supported by our new area commissioner. The event took place entirely within the grounds of Holton Lee consisting of a short off road route through woods and fields, followed by ‘have a go” cones and obstacles on a low key help yourself basis.
In all, nine turnouts attended plus one disabled service user.
For quite a few this was a welcome return to a site that was used for shows and events run by the late Margaret Newell a few years ago.

Many thanks to all the helpers both BDS and RDA and especially  Jonnie and Jane who gained permission and liaised with Holton Lee estate.

The enthusiasm is certainly there for us to hold future events but we need to get our request into Holton Lee early- watch this space!

Keith Demom

BDS QUIZ EVENING November 13th 2014

On Thursday 13th November, 18 members met at the Bere Regis Sports Club for a quiz evening. After time to get a drink and have a chat we divided into teams of four and the fun began.

Round 1 were questions about our local areas, surprising some of us with what we didn’t know, or couldn’t remember! The scores were to be a accumulative, so every point mattered! Next was a general quiz, followed by a round devoted to what one knew or didn’t know about the BDS. The final round was general knowledge.

Peals of mirth echoed round the room and disputes between different members of the team as to the right answer were frequent! It was a most enjoyable evening, with much laughter and amazement as correct answers were announced. Table four were the overall winners (Allison& Michael Terry & Jim) and were presented with their prize of a large box of chocolates, which they shared with everyone.

I would recommend others to join in when another evening is arranged as it is great fun, and there is always time to chat, meet up with friends and catch up with latest news.

Thanks go to Wendy Richards and Ann James for arranging the questions and organising the event.
As always there was an excellent raffle!!

Gill Smith.

Interval Drive and Hog Roast at Highsteppers. Pallington, July 6th 2014 

A great day out for the many turnouts who took part. Perfect weather, and a wonderful woodland drive, including fording the river at Moreton. Thanks go to Sue Wiles and Tony Munt and their team for the planning and organisation that made it such a success, and for the feast that rounded off the day!

Training Day, Kingston Mauward 2014

The Training Day at Kingston Maurward in May proved most instructive, as Naomi Harbach gave turnouts and spectators the benefit of her knowledge and expertise.Many thanks to all the helpers.

And once again the Interval Drive from Pallington  in July was a great day out for the many turnouts who took part. Thanks go to Sue Wiles and Tony Munt and their team for the planning and organisation that made it such a success, and for the feast that rounded off the day!

Sadly, the Interval Drive from Dogdean Farm on August 17th was cancelled, due to lack of numbers.

Christmas Lunch Sunday 8th December 2013 

A total of 37 people booked in for our Christmas Lunch at The Fox at Ansty and enjoyed a thoroughly good meal. As usual, there was a great deal of chat and humour, and a very good raffle, organised by Ann and Terry, concluded  the event. We have already  booked  for 7th December this year.

Treasure Hunt Sunday 6th October 2013

Wendy and Jim Richards organised another well planned Treasure Hunt at Chilbridge Farm on a warm October day. As usual Wendy had produced a challenging list of clues to be found along the routes. At the conclusion of the day  a delicious cream tea  was thoroughly enjoyed by all. It was sad, however, that very few of our Dorset members managed to turn out on the day. Wendy has kindly agreed to organise another event  in October this year, and it would be nice if we could  provide more support for all the hard work Wendy puts in.

Wareham Forest Drive 15th September 2013 

Six turnouts made the effort to take part, despite an uncertain weather forecast, and all returned safely back to base to enjoy a group picnic with much chatter and laughter. All went well till the rain arrived and we all loaded up and left for home as the heavens opened.

Many thanks to Peter Douglas for his help in marking the route, and to everybody who contributed to making the day a success.
Ann Harfield.

PS. This was the first event that Ann had laid on, assisted by Rod, and it was a great success.
Peter Douglas

BDS Dorset Trec, August 11th 2013 by kind invitation of Ann and Terry James

Angela Atkinson writes: The sun was shining and a nice breeze blowing as the 10 turnouts competing in the Trec arrived at Dogdean Farm. After checking in we were given the order of the day and went off to inspect the Skills course, then put to and completed the first part of the Trec – the Presentation. Then it was off through the farmyard to the start gate and out on the drive up the road and on to Forestry tracks. We had to be aware of time and distance as you have to complete the drive in a given time limit. Fortunately for me, my groom was keeping a keen eye on the time and our position on the map and let me know if I could let the pony walk for a bit or if we needed to push on. We made all the check points and managed to arrive back at Dogdean Farm in good time.
Then it was off to the arena and an exercise involving a one-handed 20-meter circle and a figure-of-eight, followed by the final test: the Skills course. This involved driving through parallel poles on a right-handed angle (without touching the poles!), driving over a wooden bridge, doubling back and driving through an obstacle, then driving close enough to a table to allow the groom to pick up an envelope, on through an obstacle course and getting alongside a post box so the groom could post the envelope. Next was a timed walk and trot section and the final task was a cones course.
Having completed everything, it was time to wash down the pony, give it a well-earned haynet, then gather in Ann's garden with our picnic. There was a  lot of jolly conversation and everyone enjoyed the chance to socialise. Finally, out came the cakes (much appreciated),  together with the rosettes. Ann and Terry announced the placings and Peter Douglas, on behalf of everyone there, thanked Ann and Terry and all their helpers for organising yet another super Trec Day at Dogdean Farm.

Results: 1st: Yvette Cheeseman; 2nd: Angela Rickards; 3rd: Michelle Beck; 4th: Neil Edwards; 5th: Janet George; 6th: Gill Smith.

BDS Dorset Area Show
Sunday 16th June 2013
Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, Dorset

There is always plenty of opportunity to get involved with our BDS Dorset Area Show, either as a sponsor, competitor, steward, or spectator.  This year saw more folk than ever before on the Turnpike Showground at Motcombe, with many wearing two or more ‘hats’ and one notable couple donning all four and more!

Under a mediocre June sky, the classes kicked off with the In Hand Driving Horse or Pony Class, with five entries forward.  Sadly we didn’t reach entries of double figures in any of the classes, but nonetheless the competition was keen in most and BDS panel judge Jane Brightwell struggled to separate the entries in quite a few.  As has become the norm at our show, we welcomed several turnouts making their show ring debut.  Just six Dorset Area members competed, but the entries were swollen with competitors from surrounding counties and also as far afield as Norfolk and Kent.

The biggest class of the day was the new BDS Red Rover Show Drive.  The 4½ mile route took competitors around Motcombe, where they received a warm welcome from the villagers out lining the lanes to greet them in the afternoon sunshine.  Not only did Jamie Bailey and his Dutch KWPN Tom lead the drive, setting a good pace for everyone, he also headed the honours when the competitors returned to the showground, taking first place ahead of Richard Berry and his tandem of New Forest ponies.

Earlier in the day, Dorset Area member Lee Hughes had made his show ring debut with his coloured cob Danni, and was thrilled to win the Novice Newcomer Whip class and take second in both the Exercise Vehicle and Novice Horse or Pony classes.  His young groom, son Callum, provided one of the most joyful sights at the show: He did an excellent job supporting Lee and his permanent broad smile was delightful and the whole family was clearly enjoying their day.

Callum was one of six grooms forward in the show’s new Grooms Championship, where Jane Brightwell found her champion in Edward Elliott who qualified while grooming for his wife Julie driving her Morgan, GWM Duchess of Monico in the Over 13.3hh Private Driving class.  Julie had earlier won the Concours d’Elegance class, which was judged for us by Fanny Charles, the editor of the Blackmore Vale Magazine.

Sandy Smyth’s groom Nicki White took the reserve in the Grooms Championship.  Sandy has enjoyed success at our show in previous years with her cob Boris put to a trade vehicle, and the move this year to a 4-wheeled pleasure vehicle was equally successful.  They won the well contested Pleasure Driving class and went on to head the Dorset BDS Area Championship.

The Show Championship was the crowning glory of a great day, with the seven turnouts forward looking spectacular in the large ring.  The championship ribbon and £100 prize went to Jamie Bailey’s Tom, driven this time by his cousin Charlie, making the family’s trip to Dorset from Kent well worthwhile.

The show simply wouldn’t be possible without all the fabulous support it enjoys.  Gillingham & Shaftesbury Agricultural Society was once again the most affable host.  Our incredibly generous sponsors put nearly £800 in the pot towards the £1,200 cost of staging the show.  The team of hardworking stewards included Sheila and Ron Clarke, Keith Damon, Sue and Peter Douglas, David Guy, Janet and Roger Howard, Ann and Terry James, Carol and David Mann, Gill Smith, and Michael Trevett.  Sheila Clark and her team masterminded all the catering in spectacular fashion; Sheila’s Orchard Park provided the ring decorations; Saranna Cogswell provided us with a marquee; and Sue Prust sported her camera all day to record the action: Massive thanks go to all of these and all those who contributed to a fantastic show.  On the financial front, we didn’t quite break even, with a loss of £37.01.

A question for you – should we do it all again in 2014?  Please let me know what you think.

Alison Trevett - Show Secretary
Mill House, West Street, Winterborne Stickland, Blandford Forum, Dorset, DT11 0NT
Tel: 01258 881295 (evenings and weekends

Click here for Results
Click here for Photographs

Sunday 29th July
BDS Trec at Dogdean Farm, Wimborne, by kind invitation of Mrs Ann James.

Jen Van lwaarden writes:
I have been asked to write about my experience at my second Trec, the first one being on the previous weekend. Being a novice whip, I still make mistakes and my wonderful pony (and of course excellent groom) look after me. We are still finding out the things we really enjoy doing well, Trec is one of them! We had a wonderful day at the Wimborne Trec and the weather was just right. We started with the drive, which had a little bit of roadwork and then lovely forest tracks. We managed to keep to time, even though we misread the map – sorry if our tracks took anyone else the wrong way. Then we came back to a 10 minute rest and then the to the pace control and obstacles. My pace control was not that good, with my trot being too fast and the walk being slow, but now I know what I have to work on. Obstacles I really enjoy doing, and we all have a laugh doing them. My long-suffering groom gives me directions and then remembers l do not know my left and right! Ann and Terry had organised a wonderful day and made me feel really welcome. They had even organised two rosettes for each place so that, when we came second, my groom had a rosette as well as my pony and I. It was a fab day and I will definitely be back next year.

Sunday 1st July
The Queen's Diamond Jubilee Drive

Laid on by Tony Munt, ably assisted by Sue Wiles, members of the family and a host of volunteers was a great success. A superb 11 mile drive through the forest around Pallington and the Bovington Training Area, which included a Ford around 60ft wide, was enjoyed by us all.

After the drive Sue and Tony had a Hog Roast and refreshments laid on which was enjoyed by all. The British Driving Society provided Queens Diamond Jubilee Rosettes for all Turnouts.

BDS Dorset Area Show
Sunday 17th June 2012
Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, Dorset

In any report of an event it is tempting to give a blow-by-blow account of the day's proceedings, but hopefully you will have already seen such reports of our 2012 Area Show in the BDS National Newsletter, Carriage Driving Magazine, or the Blackmore Vale Magazine. Hence here, amongst our Area members, I would like to take a different approach.

When so many events have been hindered or even halted by the 2012 summer (and I use the word loosely!) weather, our Dorset Area Show on Sunday 17th June must count as one of the lucky few taking place under blue skies and sunshine.

The superb Motcombe showground was our venue once again, where the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Society went to great lengths to ensure we had good ground conditions and also provided all the vital facilities including the ring equipment, the first aiders the loos, and the gate steward. Their Show Supporters Club took care of all the catering. All this for a fee of just £365.. Huge thanks must go to this team, the main players of which were Sam Braddick, Brian Bennett, Linda Young and Julia Trim. Without their hospitality and input the show would not have been possible.

Activity on the showground bean shortly after dawn with the setting up, and our stewards, Michael Trevett, Ann lames, Terry James and David Guy, all did a fabulous job and kept the Show running smoothly throughout the day. Well done and thank you.

Our BDS judge Roger Jacobs also did a superb job, with several competitors praising the advice and suggestions he gave them. As much as we enjoyed having Mr Jacobs with us, I received a card from him thanking us for providing him with one of his nicest judging appointments to date. We welcomed back our 2011 Concours d'Elegance judge Carol Besent, this time to judge in dry weather rather than battling with the wind and rain of last year's Show.

Our Show was well blessed with entries; thank you to the 17 competitors who gave us a total of 30 class entries - far more than many shows have received this year. However, while some classes were well contested we had just one entry forward in others, which was disappointing.

Our Show hosted a total of 12 end-of-season championships qualifiers, with all three of the Victoria Food Company Championship qualifiers being awarded, and we wish Liz Coombes, Pauline Holcombe and Jen Van lwaarden good tuck at the finals at The Hand Equestrian Centre. Four Osborne Refrigerators BDS Championships qualifiers were awarded, and again good luck to David Bull, Liz Coombes, Sue Courtney and Vanessa Neal when they go forward to the finals at Addington on 22nd September.

For the first time in the four year history of our Show, 2012 has seen the finances come out on the right side, rather than make a loss. £32.67 is a modest profit, but a profit nonetheless! The Show relies heavily on its sponsors and a massive thank-you goes to each of our sponsors (detailed in the results listing) to Kathleen Hill who made a donation and BDS HQ who also contributed.

We have enjoyed good Shows in the past, but with this financial outcome, the excellent weather, the good competition, the support and the fantastic team that worked so hard to make it all happen, I think 2012 has been perhaps the best yet. Any BDS Area would be proud to end their show with the spectacles that our Dorset Area and Show Championships provided at the end of our day.

Attention is now turning towards 2013. Please contact me if you have any thoughts and suggestions.

Alison Trevett - Show Secretary
Tel: 01258 881295

Click here for Results
Click here for Photographs

Thursday 17th May 2012

Talk and Demonstration by Ginnie Ince, Human and Equine Therapist. Organised by Hazel Lappin and Hugh and Maureen Blakemore, with tea, coffee and cake laid on (thank goodness, as it was a very cold and windy night) .We had a very good turnout of 22 members, despite the weather.

Ginnie gave us an excellent talk accompanied by a full demonstration on Maureen's cob, explaining what she was looking for and where she thought there were minor problems. Despite the pony being initially not sure of what was happening, by the end of the session Ginnie had her dozing off…  The evening ended with more hot drinks and a general discussion on members' questions.

Sunday 6th May 2012
Training Day at Kingston Maurwood.

We had a full house of nine turnouts for our training day, a mixture of new whips, others who had had very little training, and those who wanted refresher training. We also had a very good turnout of spectators, some who were looking to take up driving and some who had come along to listen to the instructor.

Caroline Douglas was, as always, brilliant, giving each turnout time to settle in whilst watching their every move before giving them a full briefing on the advice they requested and then going on to give them further advice that would improve their driving skills. In all cases the whips left the arena feeling that they had learned a great deal. In the case of the spectators, again, it was a matter of "you are never too old to learn", Our sincere thanks to Caroline for a wonderful day.

Thursday 8th March 2012

Our speaker, farrier Andy Reader-Smith, certainly captured his audience with an interesting review of the role of shoeing in the horse's well-being and action. It seems there's an awful lot more to caring for equine feet than many of us know, and Andy's enthusiasm for bringing his own brand of holistic analysis to every horse he shoes was refreshing. He began his career as a teenager in New Zealand, shoeing working horses on sheep and beef farms, then worked his way across the world to Dorset, and is now competing regularly at world championship level. An interesting selection of shoes were on display, and audience questions came thick and fast!

One tip from Andy's 25 years of experience we might all take on board: it's a good idea to take the shoes off your horse for a while every year to rest the feet.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Sunday 4th December 2011

The Fox Inn at Ansty was again the venue for our Christmas Lunch. A variety of starters and puddings, a superb carvery for the main course, it was certainly a feast to satisfy everyone, some more than others. The conclusion was a raffle with a lovely selection of prizes organised yet again by Ann and Terry James, many thanks. The volume of the chatter at the tables indicated that a good time was had by all.

Area Annual Meeting
Thursday 1st December 2011

As they say, "The best laid plans etc.", with ten minutes to go before start time we were hunting around for more chairs, new members mingling and being made very welcome, and a nervous A.C. hoping his first Annual Meeting would go well. I am glad to say that the members were enthusiastic, and participated in the discussions regarding the past season and out thoughts for 2012. The meeting was followed by an excellent buffet and a great deal of chat amongst the members.

EVENING MEETING
Thursday 27th October 2011

Our speaker, Edward Roland, from Balanced Horse Feeds, was arranged by Hazel Lappin. Edward spoke about the horses digestive system and process, how this relates to practical feeding, including the importance and role of fibre in the horses diet, the types of forage, compound foods and how best to select the correct feed. As you can imagine we had a full house at the meeting with lots of questions from the members.

TREASURE HUNT
Sunday 9th October 2011

Another wonderful day at Chilbridge Farm by Wendy and Jim Richards. Yet again the weather was excellent and the clues challenging. A drive of around ten miles, depending on how well you coped with the clues, around wonderful countryside. Having finished the drive, washed down and cleaned up, it was into the barn for a superb cream tea, raffle and the usual banter. All proceeds from the day were donated by Wendy to the Brooke Hospital for ponies and donkeys.

INTERVAL DRIVE
Sunday 18th September 2011

A drive of approximately 9 miles around the Wareham Forest organised by Yvette Cheeseman, assisted by Hazel Lappin. Although not the best of weather the drive was thoroughly enjoyed by all. The route allowed for our Whips and Grooms to enjoy the scenery and our horses and ponies to go at a steady pace. By the time all the turnouts returned the sun had come out and we were all able to sit around and enjoy our picnics. Another wonderful day out.

BDS TREC
Sunday 31st July 2011

It was great to see some of the familiar faces from previous years returning to take part in this year’s BDS Trec at Dogdean Farm, but in addition we welcomed some newcomers, giving a total of twelve turnouts to take on the challenge posed by host and organizer Ann Poole-James.

Blessed with good weather, the whole event had an air of relaxed fun, but careful attention to the instructions throughout was needed by the whips and their grooms if maximum scores were to be achieved.  This included being ready at the allotted time for the initial safety inspection, under the watchful eyes of Tessa and Stuart Johnstone, where points were gained for clean correctly fitting harness and vehicle, and safety equipment such as hard hats, spares and florescent gear on the whips, grooms, horses and vehicles.  After the inspection Mavis and Jackie saw the turnouts off out the gate at intervals for a drive of eight miles, much of it on forest tracks and to be completed as close to the optimum time of one hour and twenty minutes as possible. When they arrived back at Dogdean several whips reported having got a bit confused with the directions and map, but despite the odd extra loop here and there everyone made it safely back, having seen Dawn Harry, Sue Pulford, Ray Ellery and Janette Dacombe at the various check-points, and roving stewards Wendy and Jim Richards, en route.

The trick to the final phase of a BDS Trec is for both the whip and groom to walk the course on foot ahead of getting ready for the safety inspection, so you know just what is ahead of you when you get back from the drive.  The ‘Blakemore Bridge’ which we have seen at previous Dorset events was amongst the eight skills this year, and a bit like Marmite, the horses either loved it or hated it and the cardboard cut out camel at the barrels received serious eye-balling from some horses as well.  The one handed figure of eight at a collected trot sorted out those whips who could from those who couldn’t – with a single circle you might get lucky, but not here!  The only timed skill was to trot as slowly as possible in a straight line between two markers and then walk back as quickly as possible, with points gained for the two closest times.  Chief scorer Terry James had Keith Damon, Linda Baker and her friend all closely monitoring everyone’s round.
 
With the horses unhitched, washed down and munching happily on their hay nets we gathered for the prize giving.  Terry admitted that he had had to make some tweaks to the scores because everyone had done so well and there was hardly anything to separate the competitors, but in the final reckoning the results were:-

                                                1st        Alison Trevett
                                                2nd        Hilary Sandon
                                                3rd        David Bull
                                                4th        Ruth Kent
                                                5th        Simon Wills
                                                6th           Donna Rideout

We were really chuffed to bring home the lovely trophy Ann and Terry presented to us, which will forever be a reminder of a fantastic day out with our cob.

As ever, huge thanks to Ann, Terry and everyone who made the day possible.  Just prior to us leaving Ann was mumbling that having organized Trecs since 2003 this might be the last one ever at Dogdean Farm, but worry not, having spoken to her since, she is talking about changes for next year – so if you missed the 2011 event be sure to look out for the date in 2012.

Alison Trevett

DRESSAGE AND CONES DAY
26th June 2011

Ann & Terry had yet again organised a warm sunny day at Dogdean Farm  for the 13 turnouts to drive dressage and cones.   The turnouts were very varied,   from small ponies on their first outing, to large experienced horses, including two pairs, as well as whips driving for the first time at an event.  The dressage judge was extremely helpful going to talk to each turnout before they left the arena giving them useful help and information on their performance.  There were two tests that could be driven giving everyone plenty of opportunity to practice their skills.

Terry gave every one a challenge with his stiff cones course.  It could be driven 3 times, one “have a go” for practice, one clear round and one timed which caused some excitement.

The day was rounded off with tea, cakes and much discussion about the days proceedings before prize giving and a chat about forth coming events.

Thanks to Ann & Terry for all their hard work which was enjoyed by all who attended.

BDS Dorset Area Show
Sunday 12th June 2011

Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, Dorset

Click here for Results

Click here for Photographs

Evening Metting
Thursday 10th March

Another well-attended meeting which, judging by the volume of sound, we all enjoyed. We started off with our Bring-and-Buy session which created a lot of interest - thank you to all those who set up their stalls. This was followed by an update on the Dorset Show from Alison. It really does sound as though it will be a super event. Please remember that, in addition to entries, we also need volunteers to assist on the day.
Further details on forthcoming events were given by Ann, Hazel and Yvette (see Forthcoming Events), and then we had an Open Forum and Quiz to round off the night.

Evening Metting
Thursday 10th February

My first  evening meeting as the new A/C. My nerves  eased gradually as the numbers swelled and the noise level grew -  a good sign. Twenty-six people in all,  including visiting non-members. Anne and Terry were very busy running the raffle and collecting  donations from our visitors.

Rachel Norris, our Speaker, was super. She had a vast knowledge of her subject and put it across in a manner that kept her subject clear and interesting to all of us for just over two hours. Lots of questions from the floor, and several people  lined up at the end to ask further questions.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH
Sunday 12th December 2010

The Fox Inn at Ansty was the venue for our Christmas Lunch, a wonderful venue and a superb menu. Starters and puddings were individual choice and the main course was a carvery, providing a splendid choice of meat and vegetables. It was certainly a feast to satisfy us all.

The Fox Inn is already booked for this year.

TREASURE HUNT DRIVE
Sunday 10th October 2010

Another wonderful day at Chilbridge Farm, hosted by Wendy and Jim Richards. How they manage to ensure such good weather is a mystery, but it is always a nice sunny day for this event. As usual, the clues were difficult enough to stretch the mind and ensured a varied and interesting drive. A superb cream tea was laid on after the completion of the event, with a raffle, all proceeds from which were donated to the Brooke Hospital for Animals.

TRAINING DAY, SUPPER & FUN DAY
Saturday 28th & Sunday 29th August 2010

With low entry numbers it was decided to abandon Saturday’s planned training day and supper, and also Sunday’s dressage class, and run just on the Sunday at Hazeldene Farm.

Our hosts Maureen and Hugh Blakemore made us very welcome and Sunday’s action kicked off with individual training sessions with Barbara Nadin and an opportunity to practise cones and obstacles around the excellent courses that Maureen and Hugh, together with Philip and Julie Renfrey, had built.

After some hefty rain showers at lunch time, the afternoon classes ran largely under blue skies.  The four obstacles on the timed drive were superbly built, and with up to six ‘gates’ on each, proved to be good tests of driving skills as well as memory.

Thank you to Maureen, Hugh, Philip, Julie and Barbara for a truly fun day, and also to Wendy and Jim Richards and Sarah Best for stewarding.                                     

BDS World Horse Welfare Visit
3rd July 2010

Members from Dorset, Somerset, Wiltshire and Devon visited World Horse Welfare's Glenda Spooner Farm near Somerton on 3rd. July 2010, where they met Chive, an 11hh, 7year old Welsh Section A driving pony looking for an experienced driving loan home under their Loan Scheme.  Further details on the World Horse Welfare website www.worldhorsewelfare.org

BDS Dorset Area Show
Sunday 13th June 2010
Turnpike Showground, Motcombe, Dorset

Click here for Results

Click here for Photographs
Mark Coutts Photography

DRESSAGE & CONES FUN DAY
Sunday 30th May 2010

Just three turnouts were able to make it to this new event in the Dorset Area calendar, which allowed each of us to have lots of goes at the dressage tests and the cones.  Very many thanks to Ann and Terry James for hosting a superb day, also to Julia Liles who judged the Dressage classes and provided each turnout with some expert advice, and all the other helpers, including Ann Harfield who filmed and kindly gave us each a DVD of our performances.

INTERVAL DRIVES
Sunday 2nd May, Sunday 25th July & Sunday 15th August 2010

These three interval drives, from Winterborne Whitechurch, Marnhull and West Knoyle, were all well supported, with eight or more turnouts enjoying drives of varying lengths, at their own pace, on country lanes and off-road.

Thank you to Michael Trevett, Carol Cuff and Sue and Peter Douglas for hosting these events and to their helpers, and also to the landowners.

Due to changes currently being made in Wareham Forest,  it was decided to postpone our September drive.  Organiser Yvette Cheesemen hopes to reschedule the drive for Spring 2011.

TRAINING DAY
Sunday 25th April 2010

Caroline Douglas was our instructor for this training day at Kingston Maurward College indoor school.  Several familiar faces enjoyed training with Caroline, but we also welcomed some new members and new horses, including a young pony who had a lungeing session.

Thank you to Caroline and all those who helped make the day possible, including BDS HQ who provided a £100 grant towards the costs of the day.

Evening Meeting
Friday 19th March 2010

Jim Green, Watch Manager of Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service’s Animal Rescue Team left us in little doubt about his passion for the job when he came to talk to us about the Team’s work.  Illustrated with photographs and video footage of actual incidents, Jim outlined the procedures they adopt and how the pioneering work of the Team is leading the way in which rescues are conducted, through their training programmes both in the UK and abroad.  What was most intriguing was the animal psychology involved in carrying out successful rescues, and indeed the impact of the psychology of the humans present, most notably that of the animals’ owners and handlers –
this is no place for an hysterically screaming owner!

This was a serious subject presented in an entertaining and highly informative manner, and thanks to the generosity of the 22 folk present, from the proceeds of the raffle we were pleased to make a donation of £65 to the Team’s work.

Quiz & Supper
Friday 26th February 2010

This evening gathering saw a good and enthusiastic crowd of nearly 30 of us wrapping our grey cells round Fran Fornai’s excellent quiz questions and  dingbats.  Sue and Peter Douglas, together with Michael and Alison Trevett (alias ‘Dumb, Dumb, Dumber and Dumber Still’) triumphed, with Ann and Terry James and Sue Prust a close second, and in third place Wendy and Jim Richards with Felicity and John Singleton.  Thank you to Fran for providing the quiz and also to everyone who contributed to the supper.

CHRISTMAS LUNCH Sunday 13th December 2009

The Fox Inn at Ansty, near Dorchester, looked after us very well, providing nearly 40 of us with an excellent Christmas lunch.  It was a convivial affair, and thank you  to Ann and Terry James for running the raffle, which, thanks to everyone’s generosity raised £100 for Area funds.

EVENING MEETING WITH DORSET HORSE WATCH
Thursday 12th November 2009

Anyone thinking this evening meeting was going to be a dry old lecture on all the security measures we know we should have in place but perhaps don’t, would have been sorely disappointed! In an interesting talk Moira Connolly and Dave Brown of the Safer Neighbourhood Team at Wareham Police Station gave good practical advice and showed us some innovative products for protecting our property and animals. It was reassuring to hear of the low numbers of actual crimes in the equestrian world in our neck of the woods; it seems there is a lot of rumour and speculation, not least the recently reported plaiting of horses manes, which it was feared was a method used to mark horses as potential targets for theft. Not one of these horses has actually been stolen and it is now thought that the plaiting is connected to some form of pagan ritual.

Of the 25 folk at the meeting, those of us not already registered with Horse Watch took advantage of the opportunity to join, free of charge, and are now receiving regular updates from the Horse Watch ringmaster of problems in the area, together with details of suspicious vehicles calling at yards, offenders suspected of committing crimes, etc.

To find out more, contact Anita Rigler, Horse Watch ringmaster at Anita.Rigler@dorset.pnn.police.uk or Tel: 01202 226214.

ROAD DRIVING ASSESSMENTS
September & October 2009

Preparations for the Road Driving Assessments kicked off with an evening meeting on Thursday 10th September, at which Caroline Douglas explained to 25 or so folk the finer details of the test. Training days followed at Dogdean Farm on Saturday 19th and Sunday 20th September, kindly hosted by Ann James, where Caroline gave individual tuition to nine whips with their turnouts, and a further six arranged their own training on different days.

The day of judgement, test day, was Saturday 17th October, when 11 candidates came forward. Having travelled to Dogdean Farm that morning from Norfolk, our examiners, John Parker, Chairman of the BDS, and Susan Townsend, quickly put the candidates at ease as the assessments got underway. After harnessing up and putting to, each turnout went out on a road drive, and on return unhitched and unharnessed, all under the scrutiny of the examiner, and all the while answering their various questions.

Congratulations to the following who successfully passed the Road Driving Assessment test:-

Huge thanks to Ann, who not only hosted the training and test days, but also took on the co-ordination of everything when sudden ill health grounded Alison Trevett. Thanks also to Caroline for all the time and energy she gave so willingly to preparing everyone for the test. And thank you to Pauline Filler, Terry James, Tessa Johnstone, Anne Mouland, John Parker, Nick Poole and Susan Townsend.

If you would like to take the Road Driving Assessment please contact Alison Trevett. Given adequate interest, more training and another test day will be arranged and, thanks to the Salisbury Bursary Fund, if this is done before April 2010, the fee for the test is just £5 and training is also subsidised. There may also be an opportunity to take The Welfare of Animals Transport Order (WATO) Certificate of Competence at the same Test Day again, contact Alison if you are interested.

TREASURE HUNT
Sunday 11th October 2009

Having organized Treasure Hunts since 1989, it was clear that once again Wendy Richards had been wearing her creative thinking cap when she devised the clues for the 2009 Treasure Hunt at Chilbridge Farm. The14 turnouts taking part had plenty to think about, not least an egg to take care of en route! ‘Team Kira’, with Ann and Terry James and Clare Mouland won first prize. The Brooke Hospital for Animals was also a winner as, thanks to the generosity of the good crowd present, some £340 was raised for the charity.

Thank you to Wendy and Jim for their hospitality, and also to all their helpers, including Pauline Filler, Tessa Johnstone and Anne Mouland.

TRAINING DAY, SUPPER & FUN DAY
Saturday 29th & Sunday 30th August 2009

Word of how good this event is has spread across the South West, and this year Maureen and Hugh Blakemore welcomed competitors from six counties to Hazeldene Farm, near Sturminster Newton.

Saturday morning's individual training was re-engineered to private practice sessions, since, unfortunately, our instructor Barbara Nadin was poorly and unable to join us. A valuable rehearsal for the next day's dressage test was possible in the 30 minutes for which each turnout had the arena all to themselves. A cones course and an obstacle were also available to drive.

Philip Renfrey shared his skill and knowledge of grooming and back-stepping for Barbara with us on Saturday afternoon. At national level competition some of what is involved is highly technical, but Philip gave sound, practical advice, illustrated as we walked the obstacles, which was helpful to everyone tackling our Fun Day courses.

Maureen and Hugh, as always, had thought of everything, and this year, thanks to the generosity of some friends and Hugh persuading the local mobile fish and chip bar to come especially for us, some 50 folk enjoyed a freshly cooked supper in the comfort of a marquee on Saturday evening. If there was any doubt about whether or not the following day's competition was going to be hotly contested, you only needed to see how fiercely the evening's game of 'Killer' skittles was fought!

With 18 entries, Sunday's Dressage class started at 9.30am, with Julie Mounty judging. The most impressive test of the day, and perhaps the most surprised of all our class winners, was Dorothy Webb with her Welsh x Gelderlander Sebastian.

Gill Butler presided over the Cones, which was quite a testing course, but, with careful driving, half of all the competitors in each of the two cones classes achieved a clear round. The timed class saw some fast rounds, and just two seconds separated first and second places.

The highlight for most of the competitors was the afternoon's Obstacles course, where all five obstacles were superbly designed and built by Hugh, Maureen, Philip and Julie Renfrey. Each obstacle had any number of possible routes, allowing the more experienced competitors to take a tighter, challenging route, but at the same time there was the option for a flowing, gentler approach. The whole course drove well, including the new bridge at Obstacle 5.

Thirteen year old Jack Thorne made the journey from Bideford with his family and pony Indy worthwhile, winning both the overall points Show Championship and the Young Whip Championship. Hot on his heels to take Reserve was fellow Devonian David Whitfield, and just one point adrift, Dorset's David Bull, who took the new Dorset Area Championship trophy.

The weather wasn't as kind as it might have been, but that didn't stop Allison Cooper from getting some great photographs of the Fun Day, which can been seen at the website www.markcouttsphotography.co.uk/bdsdorset

We are hugely indebted to Maureen and Hugh for their generous hospitality. Thank you to our judges, also to Philip and Julie, Sarah Best, Paul Cuff, Doreen Butler, Amanda and Pauline Jefferies, Derek and Muff Mitchell, and everyone else who contributed to a fabulous weekend.

BDS TREC
Sunday 2nd August 2009

BDS Trec is becoming ever more popular across the country, and so it proved in Dorset this year, with 12 entries for the event at Dogdean Farm.

After the initial safety inspection, under the watchful eye of Maureen Patrick, turnouts set off at intervals for a drive of nearly 8 miles, much of it on forest tracks, and to be completed as close to the optimum time of 1½ hours as possible. The course for the final skills phase, judged by Keith Damon, needed careful driving, with points easily lost for a cone knocked, an inaccurate manoeuvre, or other error.

When the final scores were collated, Hilary Sandon was the clear winner, to take home the trophy, but little separated the remaining placings

As ever, huge thanks to our host and organizer for the day, Ann James, the judges, and Ann's band of helpers, including Janet Dacombe, Tara Grey, Dawn Harry, Terry James, Jenny Jones, Nick Poole, Sue Pulford, Wendy and Jim Richards, and David Shorter.

Photographers Allison Cooper and Mark Coutts recorded the day's action on camera, and the photographs can be seen on their website www.markcouttsphotography.co.uk/bdsdorset

DORSET AREA SHOW
Sunday 7th June 2009

We held our first ever Area Show on Sunday 7th June.  The excellent facilities at the Turnpike Showground, Motcombe and the hospitality of the Gillingham and Shaftesbury Agricultural Society provided the perfect venue, with big rings, good going and plenty of room for horseboxes and working in.  There was also the added attraction of the Agricultural Society’s Town and Country Fayre.

Our judge for most classes was BDS panel judge Mrs Jo Halnan-Blackwell, with Dorset based animal portrait painter Colette Fowler-Marson judging the Concours d’Elegance class and Dorset Area member Maureen Blakemore overseeing the Cones classes.

The classes began with an In Hand class for driving horses and ponies, where Lynda Rowland of Bere Regis triumphed with her Shetland Fusilier of Duntish.  The Ride and Drive class followed, and having been pipped to second place in the ride section by Hilary Miles, riding Margaret Cuff’s traditional coloured cob Free Spirit, Ivan Smith’s Freisan, Jelte, driven as a pair with another Friesan, took the drive section and hence was the class winner.  Sue Douglas of West Knoyle enjoyed an excellent day, winning both the Newcomer Whip class and the hotly contested Exercise Vehicles, with her and husband Peter’s Dartmoor pony Treacle.  The morning’s classes concluded with the Novice Horse or Pony, where Sue Courtney’s Welsh Section C pony from Hampshire headed the line.

Melanie Vyse and her family made their stop-over on their return trip home from Royal Cornwall Show worthwhile, when, with her Hackney pony Glenshane Playboy, Melanie won both the Concours d’Elegance class and the Private Driving class for 13.2hh and under ponies.  Colette Fowler-Marson had a hard task separating the contenders in the Concours d’Elegance class, but the honours finally fell to Melanie, just ahead of Dorset Area member Geoff Allen.  Mr Allen’s coloured cob Jethro, driven to a Stratford Cart built over 100 years ago, took the over 13.2hh Private Driving class, and then he went on to secure the Dorset Area members Championship, ahead of Ivan Smith’s pair of Friesan horses.  The overall Show Championship was a four way contest, where Glenshane Playboy won through.

Tackling Hugh Blakemore’s cones course, Debbie Warren’s novice cob, Bob, secured a clear round, while Hazel Lappin and Harry won the Timed Cones class.

Results
Class 1 - In Hand Driving Horse or Pony (J Halnan-Blackwell): 1. L Rowland’s Fusilier of Duntish 2. Y Cheeseman’s Polly 3. D Webb’s Sebastian 
Class 2 - Ride & Drive: 1. I Smith’s Jelte 2. M Cuff’s Free Spirit 3. D Bull’s Smarty
Class 3 - Novice Newcomer Whip: 1. S Douglas’ Treacle 2. Y Cheeseman’s Polly 3. G Rendell’s Desmond & Smartie
Class 4 - Exercise Vehicles: 1. S Douglas’ Treacle 2. S Courtney’s Caebryn Jenson 3. A Rickard’s Holly
Class 5 - Novice Horse or Pony: 1. S Courtney’s Caebryn Jenson 2. S Douglas’ Treacle 3. I Smith’s Jelte & Joris
Class 6 - Concours d’Elegance(C Fowler-Marson): 1. M Vyse’s Glenshane Playboy 2. G Allen’s Jethro
Class 7 - Private Driving 13.2hh & Under (J Halnan-Blackwell): 1. M Vyse’s Glenshane Playboy
Class 8 - Private Driving Over 13.2hh: 1. G Allen’s Jethro 2. I Smith’s Jelte & Joris
Class 9 - Clear Round Cones (M Blakemore): D Warren’s Bob
Class 10 - Timed Cones: 1. H Lappin’s Harry
Dorset BDS Area Championship: Champion. G Allen’s Jethro Reserve. I Smith’s Jelte & Joris  Show Championship: Champion. M Vyse’s Glenshane Playboy Reserve. G Allen’s Jethro

To see a selection of pictures from the show see the Photographs section of this website, and go to www.markcouttsphotography.co.uk/bdsdorset where you will find 300 photographs taken for us by Allison Cooper.

INTERVAL DRIVES
Sunday 3rd May & Sunday 16th August 2009

Both of these interval drives were over routes of about eight miles, with a mix of country lanes and off-road driving. A very pleasant conclusion to each day was a relaxing tea, with scrumptious cakes, and a natter with friends.

Blessed with good weather, nine turnouts took part in the drive from Winterborne Whitechurch in May. Thanks to Yvette Cheeseman, Ann Harfield, Ann James, Hazel Lappin, Doris Mitchell and
Michael Trevett for their help.

The Bison Centre at West Knoyle was the starting point for the drive kindly hosted by Sue and Peter Douglas in August. There was no risk that our horses and the bison would get too close to one another, but in addition to the lovely countryside to enjoy, there was the unusual sight of a baby bison born just that morning.

TRAINING DAY
Sunday 19th April 2009

Once again we enjoyed the luxury of the indoor school at Kingston Maurward College, which is light, airy and roomy, with a super surface to drive on. Eleven turnouts came forward for individual tuition, keeping our instructor, Caroline Douglas, busy from 9am until 6pm. Both the morning and afternoon sessions began with a group talk about the movement of the horse, and how this affects its work thank you to our equine models, Lynda Rowland's Reg and Sue Douglas' Molly. In addition to the help each turnout received, Caroline's clear commentary gave a lot for the good crowd of spectators to enjoy and learn; one spectator said afterwards "In years of carriage driving, that's the best £3 I've ever spent".

Thank you to all those who helped with the day, including Yvette Cheeseman, Arlene Duncanson, Hazel Lappin, Ann James, Linda Rowland, Glenn Thompson and Michael Trevett.

The next Training Day is Sunday 25th April 2010
See 'Forthcoming Events' for further details

EVENING MEETING - Thursday 26th February - with Pam Mooney

Thanks to the generosity of the people present at this meeting, we had quite a big raffle, but at least one prize winner went home empty handed, leaving behind a bottle of wine and a computer kit. If one or both of these prizes are yours, call Alison - Tel: 01258 881295

TREASURE HUNT
Sunday 19th October & New Year's Day Dog Walk

Wendy and Jim Richards kindly hosted both of these great events at Chilbridge Farm, and in addition to providing us with two super days the Treasure Hunt raised £272 for The Srooke Hospital for Animals, while The Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust gained £366 from the Dog Walk.

TRAINING DAY, BARBECUE & FUN DAY
Saturday 23rd & Sunday 24th August 2008

Maureen and Hugh Blakemore kindly hosted Fun Days for us at their home near Sturminster Newton in both 2005 and 2006, but the 2008 event has to be the most ambitious - yet!
Not only did Maureen and Hugh open the doors of Hazeldene Farm to us for a Fun Day on Sunday 24th August, but on the Saturday we held a successful Training Day, followed in the evening by, thanks to heavy rain, a rather soggy Barbecue.
Barbara Nadin was our instructor for Saturday, when the morning was dedicated to individual tuition sessions. Barbara has many years of driving experience under her belt, including a vast amount of success in horse driving trials, and nine turnouts benefited from her kind, but firm, teaching.
Saturday afternoon saw over 20 of us walking the cones and obstacles courses together on foot, with Barbara talking us through the technicalities, and guiding us on how best to drive each element, to stay within the rules, stay safe and yet have an eye to the competition. This was an extremely informative few hours, which whetted everyone's appetite for the following day.             .            ..
Huddled in the marquee on Saturday evening, while the rain tipped down, we enjoyed good food and good company, but it was great to find the rain clouds had moved on by Sunday morning.
.Fifteen turnouts entered the Fun Day,with12 contesting the dressage. Under Barbara's appraising eye.· Everyone had a crack at the cones, driving two rounds each. Most of us had walked the obstacles course on Saturday and thought we knew what was in store, so it was quite a surprise to find on Sunday, that together with their 'right hand team' of Julie and Philip Renfrey, Maureen and Hugh had been dressing things up  -plain barrels became Arab Sheiks in flowing frocks, the arch at obstacle 3 had acquired some low flying ducks, and obstacle 4's farmyard animals had multiplied overnight - a particularly fine litter of piglets! All five superbly built obstacles drove well and were enjoyed by the experienced and newcomer whips alike.
The presentation at the end of the day was a jolly affair, with smiles all round. Overall Show Champion was Gary Fuszard, closely followed by Rachel Ball in Reserve. One of Dorset's newest members, Danielle Grant. driving Sue Mitchell's Cracker, made an impressive debut, taking third place overall and without doubt all of Maureen and Hugh’s months of  planning and hard work, and the help of many friends, resulted in a truly fantastic weekend – very many thanks to everyone involved.

Alison Trevett

BDS TREC Sunday 10th August 2008

This was our second Trec and the first time with my new pony Harry. After a safety inspection, eight turnouts set off at 10 minute intervals. The drive was most enjoyable, along quiet lanes and on tracks in the forest. This time we managed to read the map correctly but we were glad to check in with the stewards along the way to confirm the correct route.
Back at Dogdean Farm we tackled the skills phase. This was great fun – cones, posting letters, 20 metre circle and reversing.

After everyone had completed the Trec we chatted and ate lunch together, with time to discuss the fun we’d had. Then the presentation of rosettes, and to my amazement we came first, what a surprise. We took part because the Trec is such fun – why not have a go next time?  Finally a HUGE thank you to Ann and her large team of helpers and stewards for a brilliant day – we are already looking forward to the next one.

Hazel Lappin

NEW YEAR’S DAY DOG WALK

On New Year’s Day Dorset members of the B.D.S. and their families and friends left their horses at home and set forth on a 4-mile walk around Chilbridge Farm with their dogs.  The 40 dogs taking part were all impeccably behaved (as were their owners!) and all safely returned to the farm where Jim’s famous hot soup was waiting together with crusty bread, drinks and various titbits which were served in the barn.
A raffle followed and thanks to the generosity of everyone the wonderful sum of £330 was raised to support the Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust.
It was Christmas 2006 that the Dorset B.D.S. sponsored a donkey named ‘Dorset Holly‘ who is now very much appreciated by the hard working Gambian family to whom she was allocated.  At last year’s Dog Walk a further sum was raise enabling a cart to be added to Holly’s sponsorship this providing the means for the family to make a living.

With grateful thanks from the Trust for everyone’s support.
W.R.

Supper & Skittles at The Greyhound Inn, Winterborne Kingston
7th November 2007

We gathered once again at the Greyhound Inn, where under new management we were greeted with a considerable reduction in food prices! The Chuckers again won the night with Sylvia Pope scoring  14 with three balls on their team, who were presented with “Horse- Go Slow” car stickers.
One of the Throwers

Langton Arms Quiz Night   - Friday 26th October 2007

A Quiz Night was held at the Langton Arms, Tarrant Monkton on Friday 26th October with a good attendance enjoying a excellent hot supper followed by a quiz. Janette Dacombe was our question master and had prepared a wide range of questions on equestrian topics, one being which horses are listed as marbled or frosted, unknown by myself although my husband drives an Appaloosa which was the answer. There were quite a few cryptic clues that made everyone ponder. The winning team included two new members from Bridport.

Ann Poole held a raffle and £50.00+ was raised for 'Dorset Holly's' upkeep (our sponsored donkey in the Gambia ).

Thanks were extended to Alison Trevett also to Ann and Janette for organising such a merry event in nice surroundings. All agreed to meet again next year as a good night had been had by all.

Val Bull

Rempstone Forest drive - Sunday 16th September 2007

We had planned to go to Rempstone Forest at the start of the season, but due to the terrible weather it was postponed, and then postponed again.  We finally made it on a pleasant day in September.
This drive was made possible by the kindness of Mr Guy Ryder of the Rempstone Forest Trust who permitted us to park in Burnbake field which is usually used as a camping site, and also the Forestry Commission who manage the forestry area, not forgetting Karen Johnson and Sue Wheeler who arranged the permission from the Rempstone Trust and planned the route.
Karen with Sue as her groom lead the drive with several Hampshire members having come to see the new venue following.  Our latest junior member Katie driving her pony pixie followed Audrey who had another new Dorset member George in front, and Sue took up the rear.
The drive was well planned with the chance to peel off at the half way point for those who felt 6 miles was far enough for their turnout.  Katie taking advantage of this option on this occasion.  The views across Poole Harbour were a sight to behold, and the forest produced some very different terrain to that of Wareham Forest for a nice change.
On our return to base the wind increased and the weather turned quite cold, ponies were attended to, and picnics eaten and as we left the area, the rain gently fell!  We had made it at last. Thanks to all who had made it possible, it was well worth the wait.
A participant.

Egdon Equine Fun Day - Sunday 9th September 2007

The day started fine and clear at a new venue very kindly provided by Gill and Ivan Smith, their first event for us having been cancelled in July due to the unforeseen circumstances of bad weather, uncut grass, etc. Ivan had spent very many hours building a new cross country course for us which included a river crossing and a new bridge. Ivan had also advertised the event in the Equine Life Dorset Magazine and The Advertiser. Already being our Rights of Way Representative, he is doing a marvellous job of Publicity Officer for us as well.
Whilst preparing for the dressage, members of the public poured into the car parking area in anticipation of seeing plenty of carriage driving. The dressage started at 10.00am after which, due to so much public interest, we stopped for a question and answer session together with some driving demonstrations before going onto the cones course.
Due to the lack of sufficient driving turnouts, the cross country obstacle course remained unopened. The removal of fencing and subsequent stabling of numerous horses for a few turnouts to drive the course was not viable. The local mobile caterer not only supplied food and drink, but also a gazebo complete with tables and chairs, from which to watch the event.  
The in-hand classes were well supported, the BDS ones being completed before the commencement of the Weymouth & D.R.C’s classes, and who very kindly offered us a driving class at their show next year.
We must give a very big thank you to Gill, Ivan, their family and friends for all their hard work in putting on this really good event and giving us the opportunity to show the public that carriage driving is a very versatile family friendly sport.  We must also apologise to them for the lack of support given to them on this occasion by BDS members.
Photographs may be seen on Moodz the Photographers website in due course.
Nicky

HAMPSHIRE AREA – BISTERNE MANOR DRIVE - Sunday 22nd July 2007

Nine turnouts met at Lower Bisterne Farm, part of the Bisterne Manor Estate, which is owned by the Mills family. Before setting off, we all gathered in the yard where we were given a brief history of the estate and the family. This was out first drive at Bisterne and we were welcomed by several members of the family who had arrived to see us set off on the drive.  News of the event had been in the village Newsletter and even the vicar had been told to cut his sermon short as the entire village wanted to see the carriage drivers!

Martyn Meaker, who took Hallam Mills’ daughter Isobel in his carriage, led the drive. Setting off down the tracks and through the woodland we could smell the aroma of the wild mint which grows in abundance either side of the tracks. From here we went down country lanes until crossing over into more woodland tracks. We then skirted round the edge of several large fields and from the top we stopped and had a wonderful view of Cranborne Chase and the Purbecks.

Everywhere we went the villagers were standing in their gardens waving to us.

We stopped and had our picnic lunch down by the Water Meadows and enjoyed the sunshine and the restful atmosphere. After the picnic we set off to drive along the main Ringwood to Christchurch road for about a mile and were followed by two motor bikes, who instead of overtaking us acted as outriders and stopped all the traffic from behind overtaking  - a big thank you to them for behaving so well! We turned into the main drive and lined up in front of the Manor House, where photographs were taken and then we had an “inspection of the troops” by Hallam’s father, who delighted everyone by coming and speaking to each turnout individually. We had a few words from Hallam Mills who said he was so pleased our first drive on his estate had been such a success and invited us for a return visit. A big thank you to Norman Light who worked out a really good route for us, drove around it several times repairing padlocks, cutting up fallen trees and who came out with us on the day carrying his bag of tools in case we had further problems. Without Norman’s assistance we would not have been able to hold the drive but I think he really enjoyed this new project! Also grateful thanks to Gail and David Crabb who did a fantastic job as Stewards. We were so pleased to have this new venue and a donation of £100 has been sent to Beaucroft School where Isobel Mills is a pupil.

Our special thanks must go to the Mills family who so generously invited us to spend the day on their beautiful estate and it was much appreciated by everyone. As one driver said “this is going to be a hard act to follow”

Wareham Forest Interval drive - Sunday 8th July

This was the second drive in Wareham Forest and we were once again very lucky to have fair weather, not as hot as last time but still dry!
There still may be a write up of this event coming from a young passenger, but in the meantime thought I would do a short report.
Due to a damaged bridge and wet weather on the far side of Wareham Forest we kept the course to the centre section which several turnouts had not covered before, and I think everyone was happy with the length of drive on offer.
Once again it was very nice to meet new members from other areas, one travelling 2 ½ hours to our drive.  When talking to those travelling far distances to join us, one realizes how very lucky we are living close to Wareham Forest.
We apologize to those whose photos do not appear on the website but will make up for it next time.  I think we were talking too much!
Nicky

Tooth 2 Hoof, An evening with Drew Manley. 20th June 2007

Firstly I would like to thank Debbie Warren and her colleagues for allowing us to use the fabulous Children’s Farm at Abbottsbury as our venue for the evening and to Peter Simpson who provided us all with much welcomed hot drinks.
Drews talk was held in the medieval tithe Barn, which has been impressively renovated recently and I can recommend that if you couldn’t make the talk the Children’s Farm and Tithe Barn are well worth the visit on any occasion.
Around twenty of us ventured out on this rather chilly mid-June evening for an informative talk covering a range of subjects, each of which could have warranted an evening of their own!
Drew began by introducing himself with some of the many things he has done with horses over the years, quite fascinating in itself. The first part of the evening began with equine dentistry including ageing a horse by its teeth, the reasons for rasping or ‘floating’ the teeth and problems that can arise throughout their life stages.
The second part of the evening touched upon muscle therapy using the Bowen Technique, a treatment which uses the same principle points on the body as acupuncture to ‘release’ muscle tension. Drew also gave us a brief insight into forming awareness to an animal’s energy, which could lead us to areas of trauma or damage that could otherwise go unnoticed.
In part three Drew spoke about foot trimming for barefoot horses and ponies; the importance of conditioning the foot over a period of time to be able to withstand a surprising amount of work. All the benefits that accompany this were also discussed as well as covering some of the pitfalls of keeping your horse or pony permanently shod without a break.
Many questions were raised throughout the talk and answers dually provided, accompanied with visual props - a skull, legs and foot parts - to demonstrate the points being discussed.
This all made for a very interesting and informative evening and I would like to thank Drew very much.
Sara Angel

Longwood Farm drive, Woolland, Blandford Sunday 10th June 2007

Sunday 10th June bought a beautifully hot sunny day when we gathered at Longwood Farm by very kind invitation of Sandra and Steve Bailey and arranged by Ivan Smith. The area of Woolland is situated near the base of Bulbarrow hill ( which my dear husband kindly guided me up on the way home trying to find a shorter route!! and poor ‘Maggie’ standing in the trailer backwards, bottoms up, must have wondered what was happening!) and is a beautiful area with farms, quiet roads and lovely views.
The route was 7 miles in total with several hills, none of which caused any problems, the scenery along the way breathtaking, we drove through Belchalwell, and the surrounding areas, only some 5 cars were seen ‘on route’ plus one very large tractor and trailer which was out silageing and couldn’t have been more considerate.
I for one will be back for that drive like a shot, it is so nice to go somewhere different with really great scenery, clean open countryside, traffic virtually non existent, and a lovely clean, clover covered field in which to park. By the way Maggie didn’t touch a leaf of it! Too rich by far for her!
Those of you who didn’t come on the drive really missed a super day out. One of our company travelled from Andover to enjoy the day, no small distance, another who lives in Somerset, and the others from Dorset. Thank you very much, Sandra, Steve and Ivan.
Nicky

Kingston Lacey Golden Jubilee Drive Sunday 20th May 2007

Kingston Lacy saw the Dorset Area of the British Driving Society celebrate its 50th Golden Jubilee 1957 - 2007 with a gathering of members and their turnouts in the grounds of Kingston Lacy with kind permission of the National Trust.
The turnouts ranged from a pair of beautiful, now endangered rare breed of Cleveland Bays, ponies of all shapes and sizes, down to a sweet pair of Shetland ponies, put to a range of vehicles. 
 Members partook of a drive some 9 miles incorporating parts of the estate and local roads returning via Barton Farm for a sample of their now famous ice cream and thence to the lawn in front of Kingston Lacy House, where they were presented with beautiful Golden Jubilee three tiered rosettes in black, yellow and gold, and finally back to the parking field for their own picnics, with wine and soft drinks very kindly provided by Wendy and Jim Richards.
The drive was extremely well organised by Wendy & Jim who opened 29 gates and barriers in order for the carriages to travel around the estate, which has suitable barrier access for people on foot, wheel chairs, and bicycles together with ridden horses, but unfortunately not carriages.  Ann Poole and Terry James had then the in envious task of shutting all the gates after they had been passed.
 We must thank the National Trust for the use of the Kingston Lacy Estate, Wendy, Jim, Ann and Terry for all their hard work and organisation which made this event possible.
The sun shone and everyone had a marvellous time. We must remember how lucky we are to participate in a sport which we can continue for many years, especially as both able-bodied and disabled can enjoy carriage driving.
 We had some very senior members amongst us, one being Roly Robberts a mere 88 years young, who has been a member of the BDS for just under 50 years, and several others in their early 80’s. This is a sport for both young and old so come and join us.
Nicky

Supper & Skittles Night at The Greyhound Inn, Winterborne Kingston
Wednesday 13th May 2007

We gathered promptly at 7.30pm in the Skittle Alley of the Greyhound Inn with partners and friends split into two teams, the ‘Chuckers’ and the ‘Throwers’.

Two rounds were played before stopping for a hot supper ranging from ‘chips with most things in a basket‘, and ‘filled Jacket potatoes‘, all very nice.

The break to eat saw the ‘Chuckers’ behind but having been refuelled they soon rallied and won by a close margin.

The winning team was Sara Angel, Terry James, Wendy Richards, Brian Sims, Hazel Lappin, Dave Shorter, Gill Smith and Peter Simpson. The top score was Gill Smith and top male score Ivan Smith. Was it beginners luck!!!!

One of the Chuckers

Drive and BBQ at Dogdean Farm Sunday 29th April 2007

A big thank you to Ann Poole and Terry James for yet another pleasant and very enjoyable venue.

Weather was kind to us all with a gentle breeze to make sure that none of our equine friends got too hot. The drive took us down country lanes, passed thatched cottages and over little streams. Its amazing how much can be seen in just over 8 miles, we continued down through Whitesheet, passed Redbridge Manor which looked splendid in the sunshine and back through Broomhill and passed the Barley Mow pub and onwards home.

In Ann's lovely garden the BBQ was in place and thanks must go to Terry James and Dave Shorter for making sure that we were all well fed.  The afternoon was rounded off nicely with a piece of birthday cake for Wendy and of course a chance for us to congratulate Wendy and Jim on their Golden Wedding Anniversary.

Again another brilliant day.

Gill Shorter

A very big thank you to all who supported this event, I was able to send a cheque for £150.00 to Macmillan Dorset Appeal. Well done everyone.                                        A.P.

Wareham Forest Interval Drive - Sunday 15th  April 2007

What weather, what a turnout. They came from Devon, Hampshire, Somerset and Wiltshire. as well as our own area. All shapes and sizes to enjoy the tranquillity and open gate free areas of Wareham Forest. The forest is actually made up of three sections, divided by roads, but on this occasion, the first drive of the season, the driving was in the central section only. Next time two sections will be covered, giving a longer drive, with two road sections.

Many members also came and joined us with their picnics at lunch time to enjoy the superb weather, watch some of the turnouts returning, and have a good natter. Nicky

Sunday 2nd March 2007

Pre-season Overhaul talk evening was held at the very pleasant venue of the Bere Regis Sports Club where a good gathering listened to Debbie Warren our own fully fledged Harness Maker member on what to look for when checking over ones harness, recognising badly worn stitching, the fitting of cruppers, and how they can be altered in shape using boiling water and a rolling pin, looking at types of leather used for repairs, etc.

Ivan Smith on carriage maintenance including dealing with traditional wooden wheels, how to cover scratches using coloured polish, various types of axles, etc. and finally Sara Angel on feeding various equines, for amounts of work, size of animal, character of animal, and different problems which relate to feeding. Not forgetting the free samples of food in abundance, then sacks of food, equine tape measures, caps, etc . in the raffle which raised a brilliant £33.00

Thank you very much to you all who came out in the worst weather possible, making it a great evening.

Nicky

Sunday 11th February 2007
Photographic Fun Night

Gill and Dave Shorter very kindly offered us the use of the Forest Edge Camp Site Bar once again for our February meeting where I think all who attended enjoyed the evening. The number of photographs brought for the evening was overwhelming, well done all of you. We were very pleased to welcome two new members to our midst, Liz and Kirsty coming over from Blandford to join in the fun. The raffle raised a very healthy £22 which will go towards expenses for this and future events.

Nicky

10th December 2006
Annual Meeting and Christmas lunchat the Crown Hotel, Blandford Forum.

Once again we met at the Crown Hotel and the Annual Meeting was attended by some 20 members, the minutes of which will of course be produced at the one held at the end of 2007. During this meeting as Area Commissioner I decided to give a few awards to members for various reasons.  Wendy Richards received an award for holding the most meetings for members in 2006.  Ann Poole received an award for attending the most events in 2006,  and Sara Angel’s Tonic received an award for being the pony who excelled itself for the benefit of the BDS. This was, with the aid of one other turnout, giving some 120 children  carriage rides in two days of extremely hot weather without putting a foot wrong, during our Pony Club Camp visits.
Some 28 members and friends attended the Christmas Lunch at the Crown Hotel which was up to its usual good standard,  and Clare Wigmore who was in attendance, and being a member of the BDS Council, kindly gave us a short after lunch speech.
Nicky

10th November 2006
Quiz Night at the Langton Arms. Tarrant Monkton.

A quiz night with some 31 participants took place once again in the very pleasant surroundings of the Langton Arms.  Supper with waitress service was enjoyed before the commencement of the quiz took place.
During the coffee break a Birthday Cake was produced for Ann Poole who had reached a special birthday a week or so before.  Everyone enjoyed a piece.
The quiz kindly arranged by Ann Poole and Janet Dacombe who was once again the quiz master, commenced with much scratching of heads and conflicting answers, but was enjoyed by all. Many thanks to both of you.
Nicky