Our horses
We currently keep six horses of our own.
Duke, a 15yr-old 15.2hh skewbald Cob, is on permanent loan to Fairfield Farm College in Wiltshire, which helps young adults with learning disabilities to live independently. We bought Duke as a well-schooled four year old, and he went on to become a bombproof hack and totally reliable all-rounder. He competes regularly on the South West circuit. Despite his heavy build, Duke loved jumping, and was doing well over spreads and small courses as a young horse. However, he now prefers to show off his beautiful markings for coloured cob judges.
Smokey is a 14.3hh dark bay retired endurance horse. His long and fulfilling life led him to a well-deserved retirement out at pasture with his enormous fieldmate, another skewbald called Bonnie, who stands at 16hh. She dwarfs him in the field but they are the best of friends, just like their owners Alison (5’4”) and Fiona (6ft). Smokey now enjoys occasional weekend hacking and loves his new role in life: being groomed and fussed over.
Boss, a Freisian X Cob, is a recently acquired youngster. At three years old, he stands just shy of 17hh and is pure black but for a smattering of grey on his face. He had been turned away after light backing when we bought him, and shared a large field with three friends. On our first meeting, he cantered over to greet us and really showed off his big, extravagant paces. We are currently re-backing him with the help of equine behavourist Emma Cole, of Chitterne, Wiltshire. He is a fantastic, affectionate horse. But when he wants to throw his weight around, boy, do we know about it – he certainly thinks he’s the boss!
Polly, Molly and Queenie – the three Shetlands: These three musketeers are adorable. They stick together like glue in the field, having been bought as rescue ponies running with a herd kept in West Wiltshire. Queenie is pregnant and due any second, so she is snuggled up in a cosy barn awaiting the imminent arrival. Polly and Molly are inquisitive little ponies who like to search pockets in hope of a treat. Queenie prefers to remain aloof, helping her earn the nickname Drama Queenie. We will of course keep our website readers posted as soon as the little bundle of joy arrives. We may even run a ‘Name the Foal’ competition. We’re very excited.
