January, February & March 2025

Welcome in 2025!

We plan to continue with our regular programme of lessons alongside our additional special events in the school holidays - booking via ECPro, Unaffiliated Dressage Competitions once a month on a Monday and monthly pole clinics., bookable via My Riding Life.

We are delighted that the Dressage Clinics with International Grand Prix dressage rider Kate Cowell have proved very popular and will be continuing in 2025. We have so far hosted a clinic in February and March with the next dates in the diary for Monday 12th May and Monday 9th June. These are bookable via My Riding Life.

Horses - the welfare of all of the horses at Witham Villa is a top priority and over these last few months, whenever required they have had treatments from Tony Nevin - Osteopath, Anna Tyler - McTimoney chiropractor, Stephanie Allen - Equine Touch. They are all routinely vaccinated for flu and tetanus and all their veterinary needs are met by our longstanding vets - Chine House Veterinary Hospital. Our farrier Guy Sheffield ensures their feet are suitably rasped or re-shod as individually needed. Their teeth are checked and rasped as needed by Equine Dentist Mary Kate Batterbee.

The horses all have their body condition assessed and are weight taped with results recorded weekly. We were pleased to welcome the BHS who came over with a weigh bridge for a totally accurate weighing session.

Tack - each horse has its own individual tack with a correctly fitted saddle and bridle and suitable bit. As part of our licensing requirements we work with master saddlers to ensure that all of the saddles remain in good condition and maintain their fit. Thank you to Sue Carson Saddles who look after the air saddles and to Phil Lowe of Midland Performance Saddles who looks after the flocked saddles.

Stable Yard and Fields - These require ongoing maintenance to keep them in good order. Over the last few months we have done work on the field fencing and the gateways and car park and thank you to Andy Kirk for his work on this. We have also made stable repairs and thank Jim Roberts for his help with this.

Clippers - we are very grateful to Ashley Williamson of Let’s Get Sharp who services our clippers and sharpens the blades. Look out for future dates that Let’s Get Sharp come and have a pop up shop here and you can bring along clippers, blades, kitchen items, garden equipment

Staff - We said goodbye to Mia Osborne who having successfully completed her level 2 apprenticeship with us and achieved her BHS Stage 2 Care decided to have a change and move away from working with horses. We wish her every success in her new job.

We also said a reluctant goodbye to Claire Harrison who worked part time in the office and thank her for all of her sterling work on ECPro and customer communication.

CPD - all of our staff are qualified and as such undertake relevant CPD. In March Ali, Serina and Kate all updated their Safeguarding qualification

Horse Transport - Verity’s horsebox needed some tlc after the winter and as ever we are grateful to Guy Metcalfe of Equine Movers Ltd the home of Emsley- Metcalfe Horseboxes who looks after the box for us

Affiliated Dressage - India and Eddie did very well at the Winter Regionals finishing in 3rd place in the Inter 1 Gold on 68% and then going on to win the PSG Gold on 70.736% to become Regional Champions.

India had Nalla qualified for both Prelim and Novice for the regionals and had two positive educational outings with this lovely young horse experiencing the championship atmosphere for the first time.

Verity and Gaya went up to Bishop Burton for their regionals where Gaya didn’t give of her best in the Advanced Medium but Verity decided to finish the test rather than retire to build up the horse’s confidence in this championship arena. It paid off as Gaya then went on to finish in 6th place in the Advanced Medium Freestyle.

India is currently taking Ginty (Integra) out to compete at Prelim and the pair have qualified for the Summer Regionals achieving scores up to 77%. India will take her out at Novice next. This lovely homebred horse is currently up for sale and looking for a wonderful new home.

India is also competing Ziggy (Danzmayr) and he is now going out at Elementary level.

International Competition - India is in her final year at Under 21 level and has started to campaign Eddie (Escade) for the Young Rider European Team. This year’s championships are to be held in Germany. The first premier league show was held up at Myerscough College and they finished in 4th Place in the Young Rider Team test on 69.36%. Two scores of 70% are required for team selection, so just just 0.64% off this time! The next show is the CDI (International) to be held at Addington at the beginning of May.

December 2024

Unaffiliated Dressage. The month started off with the culmination of the Autumn Series Unaffiliated Dressage Championships. Congratulations to all combinations that have taken part over the last six months and in particular to our Champions and Reserve Champions:-

Intro Open Champion: Louise Hill and Buddy

Intro Open Reserve Champion: Alex Montgomery and Jeanie

Intro Veteran Rider Champion: Stella Gittings andBasil

Intro Veteran Rider Reserve Champion: Vivian Smith and Jimbo Boy

Prelim Short Arena Open Champion: Alex Montgomery and Jeanie

Prelim Short Arena Open Reserve Champion: Jayne Kallika and Dolly

Prelim Short Veteran Rider Champion: Ann Lee and Stan

Prelim Short Veteran Rider Reserve Champion: Duncan Hill and Victor

Prelim Short Veteran Horse Champion: Joanne Scholes and Bodey

Prelim Short Veteran Horse Reserve Champion: Duncan Hill and Victor

Prelim Long Arena Open Champion: Deb Cooper and Cindy

Prelim Long Open Reserve Champion: Sharon Marshall and Tino

Novice Open Champion: Alison North and Fernie

Novice Reserve Champion: Sharon Marshall and Tino

Novice Veteran Horse Champion: Alison North and Fernie

Novice Veteran Horse Reserve Champion: Deb Cooper and Cindy

Elementary Open Champion: Alison North and Fernie

Elementary Veteran Rider Champion: Sara Helmer - Castleview Dun

Elementary Veteran Horse Champion: Sara Helmer and Castleview Dun

Our Spring 2025 series starts in January 2025 - entries via My Riding Life

Dressage Clinic with Kate Cowell - our next clinic will be on February 10th 2025. and then March 24th. These clinics are bookable via My Riding Life

Christmas Holiday Activities it was lovely seeing plenty of tinsel and Christmas cheer at all of the school holiday activities from the Competition series through clear round jumping, junior experiences, games and handy pony. Great fun had by riders and ponies!

A highlight of the Christmas holidays was on Christmas Day when one very lucky girl found that Santa had delivered a pony! We welcome Crumble - approx 12hh chestnut pony who has come on working livery and will be joining the Witham Villa Team. We think everyone will love him!

Continual Professional Development - Verity undertook the necessary CPD training to maintain her qualification as a British Dressage Youth Coach and Assessor

Affiliated Dressage India and Eddie (Escade) completed qualification for both the PSG and Int 1 in the Gold section. We wish them good luck at the regionals in January.

The other horses with regionals qualification are India and Nalla (Vanilla P) in Prelim Gold and Novice Gold and Verity and Gaya in Advanced Medium Silver and Advanced Medium Freestyle Silver.

November 2024

Horses - We welcomed a lovely new horse - Maghera Bear to join the Witham Villa Team. He is approximately 15hh, cremello Connemara gelding and will be known as BEAR. He came from a private home and has previously done flatwork, pole clinics and jumping as well as hacking out. He will be assessed by the staff prior to becoming available for client lessons.

Vending Machines - as we were unfortunately unable to find anyone who wanted to take on the cafe here, the decision was made to install vending machines. We now have a Rijo hot drinks vending machine, from which you can get Bean to Cup coffee, leaf tea, decaf coffee and hot chocolate.

We also have a machine to dispense snacks and cold drinks and this will be stocked up shortly.

Saddle fitting - it is very important that saddles are checked for fit for the horses and ponies on a regular basis and we were pleased to welcome Lewis from Sue Carson Saddles to re-fit the air saddles this month.

September and October 2024

Where have the last two months gone! We have had a busy time getting vehicles through their MOT’s, yard and field maintenance, alongside all of the everyday riding school activities.

Staff - Congratulations to Olivia and to Mia who passed their BHS Stage 2 Riding Assessment so they both now have the BHS Stage 2 Complete Qualification

October half term saw various special daytime events with some great spooky decorations on the show jumps and handy pony course all designed by our very talented Kate Deacon - thank you Kate, it looked amazing. Fancy dress was worn for several of the events and it was a good Halloween. Watch out for the Christmas Holiday programme which will be available shortly and bookable via ECPro.

Pony Club - Verity and India held a Dressage Demo for the Atherstone Pony Club and our own Pony Club Centre members. India rode 6 year old Nalla (Vanilla) to show the development of the young horse and then Eddie (Escade) to show the advanced dressage movements. There was great involvement from the members with lots of questions that Verity and India were able to answer for them.

Dressage Day Camp - Verity held a day camp in October, working with a lovely group of riders and their horses. All levels are welcome at these very inclusive camps. The final Day Camp date for 2024 is on Monday 16th December.

Kate Cowell Clinic - Kate held a day clinic in September and again in October. Her next day is on Monday 25th November - bookable via My Riding Life

British Dressage - The Young Rider European medalists, which included India were invited to take part in the medals parade held at the British Dressage National Championships at Somerford Park in Cheshire. A lovely occasion when the GB Olympic Team and Para Team members were also in the parade.

India and Eddie attended the Under 21 National Training Camp at the Unicorn Centre and we were delighted that Eddie got the gold star for his health, condition, saddle fit and performance. The pair are now training at home towards Grand Prix.

India and Eddie (Escade) competed at Onley Grounds EC in the PSG - Gold Section and won with a 74% score, completing qualification for the regionals in one outing

August 2024

Summer holiday special events continued throughout August with Junior Experiences, Paint Your Pony and fancy dress, the Witham Villa Competition series flatwork and jumping show, clear round jumping and finishing off with a special day for our Witham Villa Junior Trainees.

October Half Term - Watch out for our half term programme for the October half term holiday which will be published shortly

Unaffiliated Dressage - We continue to hold our monthly Unaffiliated Dressage show on the first Monday of the month. These are bookable via My Riding Life. Each show is a qualifier for the Autumn Series Championship, kindly sponsored by Rowleys Accountants - www.rowleys.biz

Pole Clinic - a fun way of improving horses gymnastic ability. Alison West holds a clinic each month, bookable via My Riding Life

Dressage Day Camp/Clinic - Verity Saul who is an Accredited British Dressage Coach (UKCC L 3) and BHS Senior Coach holds a monthly clinic, bookable via My Riding Life. Her next Day Camp as well as clinic is on Monday 16th September

Affiliated Dressage - Verity and Gaya competed in the Area Festival at Onley Grounds EC in Medium, Advanced Medium and AM Freestyle, and whilst there were no podium finishes this time, it was a good and enjoyable championship experience for them.

The combination have now started to work towards qualification for the Advanced Medium Silver Winter Regionals and continuing with training towards PSG

Horses - We waved Izzy (Issey Magic) off at the beginning of August to go to her new owner. She has gone to a lovely rider who just fell in love with her when she came to try her. We are excited to follow their progress as they continue to compete in British Dressage. Izzy had been with us here for 8 years from when she was a 3 year old and had achieved an excellent competition record being competed by both Verity and India.

July 2024

Unaffiliated Dressage - we held the first of the Autumn Championship Series shows. In these shows there are classes for Open riders, Veteran Riders and Veteran horses across all classes from Intro through to Medium. There is also a Pick Your Own class each month so perfect if you want to practice a particular test - could be BD, Pony Club, Riding Club, eventing, whatever you need!

We are delighted that Rowleys Accountants are sponsoring this series. You can find their details at www.rowleys.biz for all your accounting needs.

Pole Clinic - Ali West holds a monthly pole clinic - with varied and fun exercises to help with the gymnastic development of your horses. Bookable via My Riding Life

Summer Holiday Activities - In addition to our normal lessons we have a programme of special events that run over the school holidays. There is a list on our website under activities and all are bookable via ECPro.

International Dressage - European Championships - Following their selection for the Young Rider Team, Eddie (Escade) and his team of India, Verity and Serina set off on 9th July on their journey to St Margarethen in Austria. Initially down to the base near Dover for final team trot up, then across on the ferry to Calais on 10th July stopping overnight at a stables in Belgium, driving to Germany on 11th, Austria on 12th and to the showground on 13th. Eddie travelled very well and settled in to his stable in the GB Camp.

On 16th July it was trot up day when each of the competing horses is presented to the vet team and trotted up. All of the horses passed and it was time to get ready for the competition.

The team test (PSG) is split across two days with two of each team competing on each day. India and Eddie were the last GB combination to go, so there was a lot resting on their shoulders as we knew that if they went well the team were in medal contention. They produced a lovely test achieving the magical 70%+ score that secured the Bronze Team medal. They finished in =12th place in the class of 60+. This is their third bronze medal, having won Team bronze at Junior level at Hartpury in 2022 and Team Bronze in Hungary in 2023. Eddie truly is our wonder horse.

After the podium celebrations for the team it was then on to the individual competition. This time they scored just short of 70% on 69.471% and finished in 16th place securing their place in the freestyle on the final day.

In the freestyle, another beautiful test for 72+% and 11th place.

The showground in Austria was in a spectacular setting with wonderful facilities and it was very special to be there and to be part of the GB squad. The Young Rider team comprised India, Izzy Lickley, Oliver Gould and Hermione Tottman. The journey home commenced on the Sunday following the freestyle and we arrived back home on the evening of Tuesday 23rd July.

Eddie walked happily off the lorry and trotted down the yard to be welcomed back by his stable mates!

The combination are currently ranked 20th in the World Young Rider Dressage rankings.

Paris Olympics - Congratulations to the British Team of Carl Hester, Lottie Fry and Becky Moody on winning Team Bronze in the dressage. Lottie also won Individual Bronze. The Eventing team and Show Jumping Team both won Gold!

So good to see horses and riders working together harmoniously and to be rewarded with these achievements.

June 2024

Unaffiliated Dressage Spring Championship - The final show in the Spring series was held in June and presentations were kindly made by our judge on the day, Sandra Smith. The series had run from January through to June with great competition for the championship awards. Thank you to everyone who takes part in these shows, it is lovely seeing you all and your beautiful horses. Our prizewinners were:-

Intro Open - Champion - Louise Hill riding Buddy

Intro Open Reserve Champion - Lucie Svandelikova riding Wilma

Intro Veteran Rider Champion - Ann Lee riding Stan

Intro Veteran Rider Reserve Champion - Vivian Smith riding Jimbo Boy

Prelim Short Arena Open Champion - Claire Green riding Cohen

Prelim Short Arena Open Reserve Champion - Alex Montgomery riding Jeanie

Prelim Short Arena Veteran Rider Champion - Rebecca Wood riding On The Buzz

Prelim Short Arena Veteran Horse Champion - Bodey - ridden by Joanne Scholes

Prelim Long Arena Open Champion - Sharon Marshall riding Tino

Prelim Long Arena Open Reserve Champion - Sally Lane riding Mocklers John

Prelim Long Arena Veteran Rider Champion - Rebecca Wood riding On The Buzz

Prelim Long Arena Veteran Rider Reserve Champion - Nicky Barr riding Epetia

Novice Open Champion - Allison North riding Fernie

Novice Open Reserve Champion - Deb Cooper riding Cindy

Novice Veteran Horse Champion - Fernie - ridden by Allison North

Novice Veteran Horse Reserve Champion - Cindy - ridden by Deb Cooper

Elementary Open Champion - Allison North riding Fernie

Elementary Veteran Rider Champion - Sara Helmer riding Castleview Dun

Elementary Veteran Horse Champion - Castleview Dun ridden by Sara Helmer

Competition for the Autumn Series, kindly sponsored by Rowleys Accountants runs from July until December.

Saturday Evening Dressage Demo - Verity and India hosted this demo - “In The Zone”, showing how we train and compete our dressage horses. The horses used in the demo were 6 year old Nalla (Vanilla) owned by India and Pat Ruck, showing training up to Elementary, 13 year old Gaya owned by Verity showing Medium and Advanced Medium and 15 year old Eddie (Escade) showing work up to PSG/Inter 1 and a little towards Grand Prix. We had a lovely audience and a good interactive evening with plenty of questions from the audience. Thank you to everyone who came and supported us.

Dressage Clinic - we were delighted to host another dressage clinic with International senior rider Kate Cowell. The next date with Kate is Monday 30th September - bookable via My Riding Life

Repairs and Renewals - in line with our policy of works to maintain and improve the riding centre, this month we replaced the lights in the outdoor school with LED lights so come the winter and darker nights we will all benefit from these with a bright and evenly lit arena to ride in.

Fencing repairs were also carried out this month.

Witham Villa Horses - we are delighted to welcome a new pony - Romeo here to Witham Villa. Romeo is very kindly on loan to us, coming from a showing background. He will initially be worked by our staff before he becomes available for lessons.

British Dressage - Ginty (Integra) who was Shannon’s foal went to her first affiliated competition and had a good outing to Newbold Verdon EC scoring over 69% at Prelim

Izzy (Issey Magic) completed qualification for Medium Gold Regionals ridden by India.

International Dressage - We were delighted that India and Eddie achieved selection for the Great Britain Young Rider Team for the European Championships. They attended a pre-Euros camp at the Cotswolds Club this month.

May 2024

Let’s Get Sharp - Mobile Sharpening Service came to Witham Villa on two occasions in May. They provide a sharpening service while you wait for Garden tools, kitchen tools, clipper blades and much more! It was great to use some of our tools after they had been sharpened - they worked like new! We look forward to seeing them here again.

Half Term Events - we ran a pole clinic on Bank Holiday Monday, Witham Villa Competition Series show on the Tuesday where it was great to see everyone developing their skills in both the dressage and showjumping phases. On Wednesday it was clear round jumping, Thursday was Games Day and Friday was Junior Experience Sessions day. We love seeing the children enjoying themselves at these events with the horses and ponies and making new friends. Our Summer holiday program is being planned now and will be advertised shortly.

Horses - many of you will remember the wonderful horses Ceasar and Ben who were here for many years in the school before going to my friend Debbie’s yard to enjoy a fabulous retirement together. Sadly they both became ill in May and the decision was made for them both to be put to sleep. They remained happy until the end, the very best of friends. Thank you Debbie for ensuring they always had the very best care and surroundings.

International Dressage. We are delighted that India and Eddie (Escade) are now on the short list for this year’s Great Britain European Young Rider Team. In May they competed at Hickstead CDI coming second in the Team Test with 68% and winning the Individual Test on 70.5%. They also competed at Somerford Premier League, winning the Team test with 73.63%.

British Dressage Verity and Gaya made the step up to Advanced Medium and have completed qualification for the Area Festivals at this level and also for the Freestyle AM and the Veteran Rider Championships. India and Nalla (Vanilla) did their first affiliated competitions and achieved plus 70% scores in each and are now qualified for the Prelim Gold Regionals

April 2024

British Horse Society Riding Schools Championships - On Wednesday 3rd April we set off just before 7am from Witham Vila with our team of qualified horses and riders for this National Final. The horses we took were Preston, Mac, Orla, Victor and Murphy in two horseboxes. Verity and India each drove a lorry and supported our riders throughout the day. It was wonderful to have parents/ partners and friends there too to give support and thank you for the marvelous picnic they provided,

We had a great team atmosphere and everyone had an enjoyable and productive day.

Congratulations go to everyone who attended these championships - we were very proud of you all and we were delighted to take some trophies home too!

Trophy Winners:-

Rowan on Victor - Winner of the 18 and Over Preliminary Dressage riding Victor. Winning Instructor Louise Mellor

Olivia Howe on Mac - Winner of the 13-17 Complete. Winning Instructor India Durman-Mills

Pony Club Centre - This month was a celebration of 25 years of Pony Club Centre Membership. We continue to run our non-ridden evening on a Monday for Pony Club members to learn more about Horse and Pony care and gain badges and awards and to meet up with other members. Monday night sessions are bookable via ECPro

Horses - we welcomed two new horses to join the Witham Villa team during April. So look out for Darcey - black Irish mare and May, 13.2hh pony who will start to become available for lessons.

Kate Cowell Dressage Clinic - we were delighted to host another clinic with Kate during April. She is an excellent coach inspiring her riders and their horses to develop to the best of their abilities in an encouraging manner. The next date we have for Kate is Monday 24th June - bookable via My Riding Life

Dressage Day Camp and Clinic - Verity held another enjoyable day in April where again it was lovely to see horses and riders developing their training in dressage. Next day is Monday 13th May, bookable via My Riding Life.

British Dressage During April Verity and Gaya completed qualification for the Medium Silver Regional Championships. They then made the step up to Advanced Medium with the aim of qualifying at this level also.

Verity also took Izzy (Issey Magic) out to compete in Medium Freestyle, debuting a new plan and music. They are now qualified for the Area Festival Music Semi-Finals.

The Winter Championships were held in April at Addington Equestrian Centre. India competed Ivan in the Elementary Gold at this his first major competition. Although he finished outside the top ten, he handled the atmosphere of the big Indoor school well and had a really good experience with India which will set him up well for the future.

We were then thrilled when India and Eddie (Esacde) came out as Champions in the Inter 1 Silver. This was a fabulous result, following on from them winning the PSG Championship last year.

India and Izzy also had a wild card for the Medium Gold at the Winter Championships but were unable to go as it was on the same day as the Inter 1.

India and Eddie attended the Premier League at Addington, finishing in 2nd place in the Young Rider Team Test (PSG)

March 2024

Staff - we are delighted to announce that Mia completed her Level 2 Equine Groom Apprenticeship in March. Mia is staying on at Witham Villa to continue with her training towards BHS Stage 2 Teach and Stage 3 exams.

BHS Annual Inspection - we had our annual unannounced inspection in March and we are pleased to report that we passed with flying colours retaining our Highly Commended status.

Repairs and Renewals - we are continually vigilant to ensure any repairs are dealt with speedily. This month we welcomed Rachel to do tack repairs including horse rugs so that all can go away clean and fully repaired ready for next year.

Easter Holiday Special Events - we put on various special events which were fully booked and enjoyed by all. Thank you to the staff for their wonderful artistic skills, ensuring there were some lovely Easter decorations - eggs, bunnies galore!

Unaffiliated Dressage - we had a wonderful entry for our March show, so lovely to see all your lovely horses and ponies. Points are accumulating towards the Spring Championships Series which concludes in June.

Pole Clinic - we continue to run our monthly pole clinic here, great gymnastic exercise for the horses and fun for the riders - booking via My Riding Life.

Kate Cowell Clinic - It was great to welcome Kate to Witham Villa to hold a dressage clinic here. Kate was previously an BD International Youth Team Rider and has competed at Senior Level though to Grand Prix. She is an encouraging coach with a wealth of experience to pass on to her clients. Her next clinic here is on Monday 29th April, booking via My Riding Life.

DMU B Team Competition - De Montfort University train here for the BUCS competitions and had some good individual placings in their B Team competition this month. Teams of 4 riders compete against one another in a dressage test and then a showjumping round. Each horse competes in either the dressage or jumping and is ridden by 4 riders - one from each team.

Training - Verity and India both attended the BD Principles of Dressage Convention, ensuring up to date CPD. This weekend showcased the new BD tests that will be used from July 2024

Affiliated Dressage - we have three horses qualified for the National Winter Championships - Eddie (Escade) for the Inter 1 Silver, Ivan (Ivan The Terrible) Elementary Gold and Izzy (Issey Magic) for the Medium Gold.

February 2024

BHS Riding Schools Competition- Regional Final - we held a regional qualifier here at Witham Villa during the half term holiday. We were delighted that so many people took part - some competing for their first time and also some that have done the competition in previous years. Congratulations to everyone who took part and we have the following riders going through to the National Final to be held at Pickering Grange Leicestershire on Wednesday 3rd April:-

12 & Under Complete - Beau and Niall

13-17 Complete - Olivia and Nichola

18 & Over Complete - Eden and Rowan

17 & Under Prelim dressage - Sophia Pratt

18 & Over Prelim dressage - Rowan and Sarah

Good luck in the final everyone and have a wonderful day.

BHS Stage Training - a new course for the care section of Stage 1 and Stage 2 started this month, running at 4pm for Stage 1 and 5pm for Stage 2 on Monday evenings and run by Louise Mellor

Horses - in February we had our annual Local Authority vet’s inspection for the horses and are very pleased that they all passed and looked very smart, shiny, fit and well. We have a continual programme for each of our horses to be seen by vet, physio, massage, chiropractor, osteopath, dentist, farrier, whatever is needed to keep each individual horse fit and well.

We also make sure that we keep ourselves well looked after with trips to physio, massage, osteo, etc and keep as fit and as supple as we can to help our horses when we ride them.

British Dressage - We were pleased with the regional results for our horses - India and Izzy got 69.46% for a 9th place in the Medium Gold competition at Onley. India and Ivan got 69% for 8th place in Elementary Gold. Verity and Gaya were 7th in the Medium Silver Freestyle. Fingers crossed for some wild cards to the National Winter Championships!

India and Eddie attended an Under 21 International Training Camp at the Unicorn Centre, which included Test Riding the Young Rider Test (PSG), training with Peter Storr, Rider strength and conditioning, psychology, nutrition and Horse vet check, tack check and physio check. and a lecture on international horse travel.

India and Eddie continue to train with Gareth Hughes and also with Peter Storr.

Verity and Gaya benefit from training with Kate Cowell and Gareth Hughes.

International Horse Transport - to travel horses abroad post Brexit requires a lot of planning and ensuring everything is compliant with European law. To this end Verity and Chris undertook a mammoth trip across to Southern Ireland to get the horsebox checked and certificated as suitable for use in Europe. This entailed leaving the yard at 7.45pm on Saturday evening and driving up to Holyhead, catching the 2.40am ferry across to Dublin, driving to Coopers where the lorry was checked by the vet, then driving back to the port to get the 2.30pm ferry back to Holyhead and then driving back home, arriving back at 10.20pm! Very pleased to say that the lorry is now fully certificated and compliant!

Dressage Camp - very sadly Verity had to cancel the day camp for February due to completely losing her voice! India very kindly stepped in and was able to give a lesson to each of the riders, which they all enjoyed. The next camp is on Monday 22nd April, bookable via My Riding Life.

Staff - congratulations to Olivia who passed her NVQ 2 this month, achieving the Level 2 Modern Apprenticeship. This involves a lot of dedication and hard work, so very well done.

February was also the month for our Staff Appraisals - a great opportunity to sit down and reflect on the achievements of the past 12 months and to set goals for the next year.

Future Events - look out for Pole clinic on 11th March and we are delighted to be hosting a Kate Cowell dressage clinic on 25th March - booking for both via My Riding Life

January 2024

BHS Training - Continuing Professional Development - Verity completed a BHS online Guide To Jump Coaching training session with Part 1 looking at what is required for the BHS Stage 2 Teach Jump lesson and Part 2 looking at Stage 3/4 Jump lesson.

Kate Deacon represented Witham Villa at the online BHS Biosecurity course, ensuring we are always fully up to date and compliant and that we do everything we can to ensure our horse’s welfare is the top priority.

Bridle Fitting - we welcomed Olivia Turner back to come and do some bridle fitting for us. Along with the importance of correct saddle fit it is also vitally important that the bridle should fit correctly and be suited to each individual horse, along with the correct bit.

Vet/Osteopath/Massage/chiropractor/Farrier - we believe in working with other professionals to ensure our horses are kept in great condition. We use Chine House Vets, Kate Deacon does massage, Tony Nevin osteopath, Thomasina Spilman and Anna Tyler McTimony chiropractors. The horses loved their treatments. Guy Sheffield and Ollie Ainsworth look after their feet.

Unaffiliated Dressage - It was lovely to welcome competitors back for the first show of the Spring Series Championship series. Entries are via My Riding Life and we run monthly Monday shows.

Dressage Day Camp - Verity ran the first camp of 2024 and an enjoyable day was had by all. These are generally held monthly, on a Monday and are bookable via My Riding Life. They are suitable not only for riders on their own horses but also for Witham Villa Clients on one of the school horses/ponies.

Training - Verity took Gaya for a lesson with Kate Cowell, India took Eddie for a lesson with Gareth Hughes ensuring we continue to progress horses and riders.

Things Don’t Always Go To Plan! - India and Serina went off to Arena Uk with Ivan for a pre-regionals run and the horsebox broke down as they were just setting off to come back home! Fortunately we have roadside assistance on the lorry and as it could not be fixed that evening another lorry was sent out to take Ivan, Serina and India back home - a very long day by the time they all arrived safely back. Our horsebox was recovered the following day and delivered to Equine Movers Ltd who worked their magic so it was soon repaired and back with us ready for another outing.

British Dressage - Regionals - we were delighted that India and Eddie (Escade) took the win in the NAF Superflex Inter 1 Silver with a convincing 71.863% to become Regional Champion and qualify for the Winter National Championships which take place in April.

British Dressage North and East Region Ball - Verity and Chris, Serina and Paul and India all enjoyed the ball and congratulations go to India for being presented with the Esberger Bronze for the second consecutive year - awarded to Under 25 rider having notable International success in the year

December 2023

Happy New Year - As I am reflecting on our December news, I would like to wish everyone a Happy New Year. It is a good time to set new goals - from small goals to medium to long term and even those dream goals. Do let us know of any particular goals you have with your riding or horse care and we will do our best to help you achieve them.

We enjoyed Christmas celebrations, with the Witham Villa Staff and liveries Christmas party at the beginning of the month getting us into the spirit.

Christmas holiday activities - we ran the 12 days of Christmas Clear Round Jumping, with artistically decorated jumps - well done Kate and team for all your efforts, the jumps looked wonderful and I think were enjoyed by all.

Jingle Bell games and Junior Experiences were just some of the other activities.

We had a day dedicated to our Witham Villa Junior Trainees, run by India and including team building, games both with the ponies and without , lunch and a muddy finish in the fields. Thank you India for putting on such a good day.

Unaffiliated Dressage - We ran our Championship show, kindly judged by Sandra Smith and culminating the Autumn Series that was generously sponsored by Rowleys Accountants - www.rowleys.biz Thank you.

There were champions in each class, winning an engraved trophy, congratulations to each of our winners:-

Intro - Open - Duncan Hill riding Shannon

Intro - Veteran Rider - Vivian Smith riding Jimbo Boy

Prelim Short - Open - Alex Montgomery riding Jeanie

Prelim Short - Veteran Rider - Stella Gittings riding Basil

Prelim Short - Veteran Horse - Joanne Scholes riding Bodey

Prelim Long - Open - Sally Lane riding Mocklers John

Prelim Long - Veteran Horse - Tammie Huntley riding Jordan Well Darcey

Novice Open - Allison North riding Fernie

Novice - Veteran Rider - Stephanie Allen riding One Out of The Blue

Novice - Veteran Horse - Stephanie Allen riding One Out of The Blue

Elementary - Open/Veteran Rider - Sara Helmer riding Castleview Dun

Elementary Veteran Horse - Stephanie Allen riding One Out of The Blue

Our Spring Series starts with our first show of 2024 on 8th January

British Dressage - India took Eddie (Escade) out to Newbold Verdon to compete in his first ever Inter 1 class and we are delighted to report that they won on 71.92%, qualifying for the Regionals in one outing. We wish them luck.

Atlantic Harmony - India and Verity took Eddie to Pickering Grange on a very cold December evening to put on a dressage demo at Atlantic Harmony’s first public event. Verity was on the mike and India rode Eddie demonstrating work at PSG/Young Rider and then showing the training to Grand Prix with some one time changes and work towards the piaffe/passage. Eddie was very well behaved and thoroughly enjoyed the whooping and cheering from the audience - a bit different to the normal competition outings. Atlantic Harmony are a local horse riding clothing business. atlanticharmonyequestrian.co.uk

BHS Exams - we hosted a Stage 1 Ride and Care exam for the BHS.

Cross Training - India took Ziggy over to Aylesford for some cross country jump training. She was accompanied by Serina who took Murphy. Both horses and riders had a very enjoyable trip out.

London International Horse Show - Verity enjoyed a day trip out with friends down to London to watch the Dressage World Cup Grand Prix Freestyle, with Great Britain taking first, second and third.

Witham Villa Staff - We would like to take this opportunity to thank all of our staff for their dedication and hard work and for covering the holidays over Christmas

Horses - Wilma - one of our lovely clients persuaded us to sell Wilma to her as her first horse. Wilma will continue here on working livery initially. We wish Lucie every success with her and know that Wilma will have the best of forever homes with her.

Louis - we are very sad to announce that Louis was put to sleep in December as despite veterinary treatment we were unable to get him sound and pain free. He was a truly beautiful horse and will be forever missed. RIP handsome boy.

November 2023

Christmas holidays - our programme of special activities is now available to book via ECPro

University Competition - De Montfort University train here at Witham Villa and after selection trials they now have an A and B Team. The A team had their home competition here in November comprising a dressage test followed by a showjumping round on a different horse. The teams are made up of four riders per team for each university competing. Each horse is ridden around the same course by one member of each team and points are awarded on the best round per horse and accumulate for the team result. Horses that take part are Orla, Mac, Buddy and Roxy, Murphy, Jeanie, Shannon, Victor, Deacon

Staff - Friday 24th November was staff pizza day as part of the Good Employment week. Thank you to Ruth in the cafe for putting on a great spread that was thoroughly enjoyed by all.

British Dressage - we now have several horses qualified for the Winter Regionals:- India has Ivan (Ivan The Terrible) qualified for both the Elementary Gold and Medium Gold and Izzy (Issey Magic) qualified for the Medium Gold, Verity has Gaya qualified for the Medium Silver Freestyle.

Training - Verity took Gaya for a lesson with Gareth Hughes which was very beneficial and also a clinic with Kate Cowell. India continues to train with Gareth.

World Class Programme - India attended the Equine Sport Science Day held at Hartpury College with lectures on biomechanics, fitness, training, use of different surfaces, use of water treadmills and other topics.

Dressage Camp and Clinic - Verity held the final camp of 2023 in November, dates for next year are now available on My Riding Life and are generally the third Monday of each month.

British Dressage Convention - held at Addington this celebrated 25 years of British Dressage. India was delighted to be invited to attend as a demo rider for a session that was run by Gareth Hughes. We were very proud of them as they performed beautifully in front of a very large audience demonstrating work on half passes, canter pirouettes, 4 time, 3 time and 2 time tempi changes. and finishing by showing work developing the one time changes required for Grand Prix.

October

Unaffiliated dressage - This month’s dressage competition was kindly judged by India Durman-Mills. We love welcoming competitors to Witham Villa and always aim to run a friendly and supportive event. Alongside people competing on their own horses we also some of our regular clients competing on the Witham Villa horses. Entries are made via My Riding Life and a caller can be booked if required so no need to stress!

We have just two competitions left before the Autumn Series Championship trophies are awarded at the December show. We award trophies for open riders and horses and also veteran riders and veteran horses in each class.

If you ride with us and would like to compete please speak to your instructor.

Dressage Day Camp and Clinic - Verity had a busy day welcoming regular clients and some new faces to this month’s event. An enjoyable day with a great group of horses and riders all here to progress and have fun doing so. There is one more day planned for this year - Monday November 20th and then dates will be released for next year. Bookable via My Riding Life.

British Dressage - India took Ziggy (Danzmayr) out for his first affiliated show at Prelim level and we were delighted that he was third in the first test with 65.86% and then improved to 71.25% in his second test and came 2nd. Ziggy is five now and was bred here out of Verity’s PSG/Inter 1 mare, Abi (Debutante)

Pole Clinic - we continue to run our Monday pole clinics with Alison West. Always an enjoyable session and very good for developing gymnastic ability in the horses. Details and bookable via My Riding Life.

Half Term Activities - we enjoyed a spooky Halloween week. A big thank you to Kate Deacon who created fabulous decorations for the Halloween Clear Round Show jumping and the Handy Pony. And a big thank you to all of you who came and took part and we loved the Halloween costumes!

It was also good to welcome some of our adult riders for a half day Stable Management session - learning more about how to care for the horses.

BHS Stage 2 Teach Exam - Witham Villa hosted this teaching exam in October and we are delighted to report that the Witham Villa staff who took the exam were all successful, so congratulations to Laura Adderley, Kate Deacon and Jessie Potter and thank you to Nicola Monks for doing a great job with the training.

First Aid and Safeguarding - this month saw many of our instructors updating in both First Aid and Safeguarding. We are pleased to say that they all successfully updated their qualifications.

International Dressage - India and Eddie (Escade) attended a two day camp at the Unicorn Centre in Stow on the Wold. This included ridden sessions with Peter Storr - list 1 judge and Team Trainer; Vet, Physio and Saddler sessions, Rider Strength and Fitness etc, Another excellent training camp organised by British Dressage and lovely to meet up again with the other youth riders and their supporters. #BDYOUTH

India also trains regularly with Gareth Hughes.

Horses - Splash (Brickyard Splash) - A truly wonderful pony who took part in both flat and jump lessons here at Witham Villa and had been India’s first serious dressage competition pony. After enjoying a restful summer, unfortunately health problems meant we were unable to keep him sound and happy any more and in consultation with our vets it was decided the correct thing to do was to put him to sleep. Always the hardest decision, but the health and happiness of all of our horses is always our top priority. RIP wonderful boy.

August and September

August

Horses - Millie went off to our vets - Chine House Veterinary Hospital to have an operation following an injury. The operation went very well and we are hopeful of a full recovery for her. She now has a rehab programme and will return to lessons when she is fully fit again.

Izzy (Issey Magic) went back out competing after her time off and achieved 66% and 67% winning both of her Elementary classes with India riding.

Unaffiliated Dressage - our shows are held generally on the first Monday of the month running from Intro through to Medium. There is also a Pick Your Own class, so you can come and run through a test of your choice which can be invaluable if you have a championship coming up and want to practice a particular test. We run an open section, veteran rider and veteran horse section in each class towards our championship. After the successful Spring Series we are now in our Autumn Series with our final show in December when presentations will be made. Booking is via My Riding Life. The Autumn Series is kindly sponsored by Rowleys Accountants - www.rowleys.biz

HGV - Verity was delighted to pass her test in August, now holding the HGV Cat C license

Exams, we would like to congratulate India Durman-Mills for passing the British Dressage UKCC level 2 coaching award making her a British Dressage Recognised Coach in addition to her previous qualifications.

Summer Programme this ran throughout the school holidays and it was lovely to see the participants learning and having fun

Dressage Day Camp - with Verity Saul BD Accredited Coach - again well supported and lovely to see the horses and riders developing their skills in a relaxed and friendly supportive atmosphere. The next camp is on Monday 16th October, bookable via My Riding LIfe

Pole Clinic - Alison West continues to come up with different exercises to help horse and rider improve their agility and have fun at the same time. These clinics are bookable via My Riding Life

September

International Dressage - Eddie (Escade) is now back in work following his holidays after this year’s successful season. India and Eddie finished in 23rd place in the World Young Rider Rankings - a creditable performance in their first season at this level. They will now concentrate on training and working towards Grand Prix work strengthening their performance ready for the 2024 season. India trains with Gareth Hughes and Peter Storr alongside Verity

First Aid - September saw many of the staff here updating their First Aid qualifications to ensure that we are all all up to date and qualified to offer First Aid assistance if required

BHS - The East Midlands region organised a CPD day which was hosted here at Witham Villa. The theme of the day was “Futureproof Your Coaching” - run by Jo Winfield FBHS. Our staff and horses did the demos and did us proud, thank you everyone. Verity, India and Megan all attended the course as CPD.

BHS Stage 1 course - Louise Mellor runs this course for the stable management section of the exam, which started this month. Bookable via ECPro

July 2023

International Dressage - wow, what a start to the month - India and Eddie (Escade) were selected for the Young Rider Team to represent Great Britain at the European Championships to be held in Pilisjaszfalu, Hungary.

This resulted in India, Verity and Serina leaving Witham Villa in the early hours of Wednesday 5th July for a journey in the horse box that took us through 6 countries and over 1500 miles, arriving at the showground on Saturday 8th July. Eddie travelled so well, with overnight stops in Begium and Germany.

Once at the showground he settled into the stable well, alongside the other three British horses. With plenty of Union Jack bunting and a great poster with each of the horses and riders against the GB flag you could tell the Brits had arrived. The humans set up their own camp with the horseboxes forming a quadrangle for the marquee. Our Chef d’Equipe, Tom even mowed the grass!

The Official Opening Ceremony was held with a great party atmosphere,

All of the horses passed the trot up in style and we were then onto the Team Test Competition which fantastically resulted in a Team Bronze for Great Britain - congratulations to Lily Laughton, India Durman-Mills, Jessie McConkey and Annabella Pidgley. This was the first Young Rider team medal since 2005.

In the Individual Competition India and Escade finished in 18th place out of the 54 riders, resulting in them qualifying for the Freestyle class on the final day. They came 15th in the freestyle with beautiful music produced for them by Julie Geraghty of Equivisions. Lily finished in 19th place in the individual.

Fellow Brits, Annabella Pidgley finished as European Champion in both the Individual and Freestyle competitions posting personal best scores. Jessie McConkey finished in 13th place in the Individual and 9th in the Freestyle.

Once the competition was finished it was time for the long journey back home, but with such great memories and achievements. This is India’s first year at Young Rider level and we are thrilled with the start they have made and are looking forward to seeing their progress from here on. They are currently ranked number 23 in the Young Rider World Rankings

British Dressage Sports Science Day - Verity and India attended this day as part of continued professional development, with India riding Izzy in one of the practical demonstrations. A really interesting and inspirational day. Looking at The Power of Positive Thinking, Women in sport, Horse Biomechanics and more.

The Summer Holiday programme is in full swing with special events available to book on ECPRo

Dressage Training Serina and Verity have continued training with Kate Cowell and enjoying the progress being made by Bertie and Gaya respectively.

Transport - Verity began training for her HGV license and Certificate of Professional Competence, passing all of the theory tests in July ready to start the practical lorry training in August

Dressage Day Camp and Clinic - Verity’s monthly camp and clinic was well attended with an enjoyable and informative day had by all. This camp is available to book either on your own horse or a Witham Villa horse, via My Riding LIfe

Staff and Liveries Summer Party - we were lucky with the weather and had a fun pizza and wine evening. Great to have a chance to chat and catch up without any horses to interrupt!

May and June 2023

May saw the coronation of King Charles !!!.

We had some changes with the horses - Vegas was sold to one of our lovely clients who had fallen in love with her. She has now left the yard here for her new home and has settled in well and is having a great time with her new owner.

A new pony, “Pixie” was purchased for the school and after initial settling in and assessment she is now a popular pony in the lessons.

Our wonderful Ceasar is now retired and we are so happy that he has now moved to one of our friends where he has been reunited with former Witham horse Ben. They were so happy to see each other and are now just enoying the best time. So well deserved for them both.

A new Irish horse, “Callen” was purchased and is now settling in and being assessed before he will become available for lessons.

June

We held a BHS Stage 2 exam day and are delighted to report that Laura Adderley and Jessie Potter now has their Stage 2 Complete. Mia Osborne and Olivia Howe were both successful in the Care and Lunge Sections and will go on to take the riding section when we run our next exam here. Well done all.

Unaffiliated Dressage - June also saw the Championship decided for the Unaffilated Dressage Spring Series. Congratulations to the prize winners as follows:-

Intro - Open Section:- Chrissie Hale riding Goodbye Girl

Intro - Veteran Rider - Jackie Johnson riding Tommy

Prelim - Short Arena - Open Section - Deboran Cooper riding Cindy

Prelim - Short Arena - Veteran Rider - Stella Gittings riding Basil

Prelim - Short Arena - Veteran Horse - Joanne Scholes riding Bodey

Prelim - Long Arena - Open Section - Rebecca Wood riding On the Buzz

Prelim - Long Arena - Veteran Rider - Christine Hudson riding Darcy

Novice - Open Section - Alison North riding Fernie

Novice - Veteran Rider - Sara Helmer riding Castleview Dun

Elementary - Open Section - Rachel Greenhalgh riding Bruce Almighty

Elementary - Veteran Rider - Sara Helmer riding Castleview Dun

Elementary - Veteran Horse - Stephanie Allen riding Out of the Blue

Thank you to our judge on the day, Sandra Smith who presented the trophies to the winners.

The Autumn series of Witham Villa Unaffiliated Dressage commences with our show on Monday 3rd July and we are delighted to announce that Rowleys Accountants - www.rowleys.biz will be providing some sponsorship for this series, with trophy presentations scheduled for the December show.

Entries are made through My Riding Life and we look forward to welcoming all competitors.

International Dressage - India and Eddie (Escade) were selected to compete for Great Britain at Wellington CDI and produced a super performance in the Team Test for a score of 70.147% and 4th place.

March and April 2023

Pony Club - congratulations to the junior and senior teams representing Witham Villa who progressed from the Regional Finals through to the National Championship, finishing in 9th place. Great to have a top 10 finish out of all of the Pony Club Centres, well done everyone and thank you to our Pony Club Coordinator, Hannah Heaslip for support of the teams.

British Horse Society - National Finals of the Riding Schools Competition - wow, what a day - we came home with lots of silverware! But even better a day of such great team spirit between all of our competitors and parents/supporters. A big thank you to Louise Mellor and Verity Saul for all their help on the day.

Connie - winner of the Senior Novice Equitation

Amber - winner of the Junior Equitation

Rowan - Runner up Junior Equitation

Stella - Runner up Senior Equitation

Kay - 10th Senior Equitation

Lily - 10th Dressage and Jumping

Easter Holidays - we enjoyed seeing everyone who took part in the various events over the school holiday period. Our schedule is out now for the May Bank Holiday Half Term - check it out on ECPro

Demo - Verity, India and Serina hosted “An Insight Into Dressage” evening, riding Izzy (Issey Magic), Gaya and Eddie (Escade) showing how we progress the horses through the levels up to PSG/Inter 1. Thank you to everyone who attended and made it a lovely fun evening. We will be putting on another demo later in the year.

BHS Exams - we hosted a BHS Stage 1 care lunge and ride exam. We currently have a Stage 1 and Stage 2 course running ready for our next exams.

Unaffiliated Dressage - we run a competition each month bookable via My Riding Life with classes from Intro through to Elementary and also a Pick Your Own class which is perfect if you have a specific test that you want to run through, (including Eventing tests)

Pole Clinic - these are organised and run by Alison West and continue to be well supported - Enter via My Riding LIfe

Continual Professional Development - all of our staff maintain CPD. Verity completed the BHS Safeguarding Officer Course ensuring the highest standards of care for young people and vulnerable adults.

British Dressage Young Horse Forum - India was fortunate to be asked to be a demo rider for this forum and rode horses belonging to Tim and Antonia Brown. Verity attended the Forum, which again counts as CPD for British Dressage.

British Dressage Principles of Judging Seminar - At this event India again rode for Tim and Antonia showing horses at Elementary level, and then rode Eddie (Escade) for the PSG section. Verity again used this very informative Seminar for CPD.

Dressage Camp - Verity is running one day camp a month, bookable via My Riding Life, followed on by a late afternoon/early evening clinic. It has been lovely to see and work with the lovely horses and riders who have attended these.

British Dressage Competitions - Now that the International season is upon us, India and Eddie have been out at several shows - Addington CDI, Addington Premier League and were delighted to be selected for the Young Rider Nations Cup Team at Le Mans in France, where the team finished in First Place. India and Eddie were then 2nd in the Individual Test and 4th in the freestyle.

British Dressage Winter Championships - We were delighted that India and Eddie (Escade) WON the PSG Silver Championship. Eddie looked very smart and proud of himself in his blue rug, sash and rosette for the prize giving!

Dogs - We have a new puppy! Ebby (Ebony) is a little mini-me to Mia - another black labrador. Mia adores her as we all do, including our kitten Remi!

January and February 2023

Another year! We welcome in 2023 and have set plenty of goals to achieve.

BHS - Exams - in January we held Silver Challenge Award Ride Safe training and assessment. This award needs to be achieved by anyone wanting to take the BHS Stage 1 and 2 exams .

We also hosted a BHS Stage 2 Care and Lunge exam. Congratulations to our two staff members, Jessie Potter and Sarah-Jayne King who both passed.

A Stage 1 care and lunge training course started in January and runs for 12 weeks, instructor Louise Mellor

A BHS Stage 2 course started in February and runs for 18 weeks, instructor Louise Mellor

Inspections - In January we had our annual Vets inspection. This is a requirement under our Local Authority License. We are very proud to hold the 5 star approval rate.

We also had our Pony Club inspection and were very pleased to welcome our inspector - Amelia Payne who was previously Pony Club coordinator here.

These inspections ensure that Witham Villa remains up to date with all regulations and continues to develop and improve.

BHS Riding Schools Competition - Regional Final - This was held during the February half term and it was lovely to see so many of our clients getting the chance to take part and compete either in the complete section covering dressage, show jumping and stable management or in the dressage only sections. Congratulations to all who took part. Good luck to all of the riders who qualified for the National Final, which will be held at Onley Grounds Equestrian Centre on Wednesday 5th April.

Half Term - We held Games sessions, Clear round show jumping and Junior Experiences - good fun all round. Our Easter holiday program will be available to book soon on ECPro.

British Dressage - it is good to have the horses back out competing in what is now the Summer season, although the weather does not feel anything like that at present!

India and Eddie (Escade) went out at Young Rider level (PSG) to the Vale View High Profile show, gaining 70.29% and 3rd place in the Young Rider Team Test.

We are delighted to announce that they are on the long list for the Young Rider Europeans GB Team. They attended a training camp at the Unicorn Centre, with riding training from Peter Storr, and rider strength sessions, nutrition, psychology, planning etc all in preparation for the season ahead.

They needed a new Freestyle plan and music for PSG/Young rider which we are particularly grateful to Julie Geraghty for the new music which took a lot of work to find music that would suit and we hope the judges will love!

Verity and Gaya finished in 7th place at Onley in the Elementary Gold Freestyle Regional Finals. They are now planning to go out at Medium level.

India and Eddie were runners up in the PSG Silver Regional Final, less than a mark behind the winners.

Serina is going out successfully riding Steph Allen’s Bertie (Bolt Out of the Blue) at Elementary level with the aim of moving up to Medium later in the season.

Dressage Training - Verity held a clinic in February for BD Youth riders and also Senior riders and is running a day camp followed by a clinic on Monday March20th - bookable on My Riding Life.

HGV - congratulations to India for passing her HGV test so she can now drive a horsebox.

Horses - very sadly we had to say goodbye to Daisy as she had developed multiple health problems and working with our vets the kindest but hardest decision had to be taken for her welfare. She was an adorable pony who came to Witham Villa as the kindest 4 year old and provided so much enjoyment to so many children. She was loved by us all.