Annabelle's Walk
Nine year old Annabelle undertook a sponsored three mile walk to raise funds to pay for Roger's (one of our ponies) veterinary treatment. Annabelle has cerebal palsy which affects her legs and to walk that distance must have taken incredible determination.
Annabelle raised a phenomenal £502. This was enough to bring our Roger campaign to a close.
Manager of Chigwell Riding Trust, Deborah Hall said: "I cannot thank Annabelle enough. She is a real inspiration to others. I am delighted to say that Roger's treatment was very successful and Annabelle has just learnt how to canter on him.
A truly remarkable achievement and a fantastic end to our "Let's help Roger" fundraising campaign. Thank you to everyone who contributed.
Christmas Nativity Service
The annual Christmas Nativity Service was a great success. The service was led by the Reverend Peter Trendall of St. Mary's Church, Chigwell. Riders, volunteers and staff all took part and enjoyed both the service and the refreshments afterwards.
Health and Safety
Manager of Chigwell Riding Trust Deborah Hall has always been keen to embrace new technology and to comply with the very latest health and safety legislation. Deborah is seen here investigating a possible replacement for the ponies and horses.
The Barn Dance September 7th
Checked shirts, blue jeans and cowboy hats were in abundance when over 250 people attended a really wonderful barn dance and picnic organised by The Rotary Club of Loughton and Buckhurst Hill and held in the indoor riding school at Chigwell Riding Trust. The superb live music was provided by the Bucket Band. A night to remember and a great fund raising event.
A very shiny horsebox
In 1998 Chigwell Riding Trust was kindly donated this superb horsebox by the Epping Forest District Council Charity Appeal. After travelling many thousands of miles and carrying many horses it was really in need of considerable refurbishment.
Following a very generous donation from Edwards Duthie Solicitors the horsebox has had all the necessary mechanical work carried out and a new coat of paint.
We look forward to attending many more competitions over the next years - and maybe winning one or two.
A Very Friendly Visitor
Woody had an unexpected visit from a young and very tame fox. This fox was so friendly and playful we think that it must have either escaped from somewhere or had been dumped by someone. It was also extremely hungry. We contacted a fox rescue organisation and it is now in a sanctuary in Northamptonshire.
Open Day July 22nd
Over 1000 balloons take to the skies in our annual balloon race on Open Day.
Despite having to postpone for two weeks due to the very wet weather Open Day was a great success. Riders and staff gave exciting displays of riding and volunteers and riders ran some great stalls. It was good to see so many new faces on the day and we look forward to seeing them again as new volunteers.
Balloons and labels 100% biodegradable. (Before I am swamped in e mails)
New Heating System
Following the installation of the new central heating system the management of the Trust discuss whether it was a good decision to have accepted the lowest estimate.
The National Championships 14th - 15th July
A great weekend was had at the National Championships at Hartpury, Gloucestershire.
Adrian Hare rode Woody and had a difficult first test. The conditions were terrible with rain and wind making things very difficult. However, his second test which was to music and indoors was fantastic and I am delighted that he came first.
Jenny Brown rode Jake and came second riding to music and third in her other test. Another good result.
Jason Marques rode William. His first ride was to music which was a huge challenge as he is hard of hearing. This was great fun to do but unfortunately he was not placed. Jason's second test was very different. During the warm up outside, William, through no fault of his own or Jason's, became tangled up in some temporary fencing and both ended up on the floor. It was very dramatic but both horse and rider got to their feet, were brushed off and then went on to complete the test. An amazing achievement after such an incident. I am sure that Jason will be back next year.
Vicky Barrick rode Jake and was placed fourth in both tests. She rode to some unusual didgeridoo music(?).
A fantastic effort from all the riders.
Visit from Chigwell School
A visit from our neighbours Chigwell School at the end of June. Chigwell School have kindly and most generously supported us for many years and are sponsors of the horse Smartie.