SUMMER CAMP FOR YOUNG DRIVERS

7th - 11th August 2006
at
Swingletree, Wingfield, Nr. Diss, Norfolk

In the Summer, John Parker is once again hosting a Young Drivers' Summer Camp at Swingletree Stables in Norfolk. The Camp welcomes young people of all standards, aged 10 - 18 years, from complete beginner to regular driver. The emphasis is on having fun with driving whilst at the same time learning and improving skills in a well supervised and informative way.

In an action packed week, there will be the opportunity to experience a wide variety of driving activities, including long-reining in the indoor or outdoor arena, driving on the quiet country lanes, dressage & cone driving in the international size arena or negotiating the cross country obstacles including a water complex.

Campers will each be a 'given' one or more Swingletree horse or pony to look after during their stay, but all will have the opportunity to drive different horses or ponies and carriages. The ponies can even be ridden. They may also have the chance to drive pairs of horses/ponies, as well as enjoying a four-in-hand carriage ride with John Parker.

Activities will be in groups but tuition tailored to drivers' needs. The number of people on the camp is limited to ensure individual attention from the experienced staff. It's not all serious, but safety at all times will be of paramount importance.

Those with their own turnout may bring it to the camp providing the pony is well mannered in company and safe in every way. Stabling with straw bedding will be provided free of charge, wood shavings are charged extra. Hay, hard feed, supplements and any medication must be provided by the owner. The horse/pony should have been recently shod, have a current tetanus vaccination and valid third party insurance cover. Even if you bring your own turnout, there will be the opportunity to drive other horses and ponies.

The camp is not a competition but everyone wants to know how they're doing. Campers will be judged throughout the week on their progress in driving, stable management and other skills even mucking out! There will also be videos and quizzes. The Swingletree staff will be on hand but are not there solely to judge. They are always ready to help with advice and encouragement. Friday night is prize giving night and campers' families are welcome to attend..

All campers should arrive on the Sunday before the booked camp, departing either the following Friday or Saturday. All meals are included in the price. These include breakfast, packed lunch and full evening meal, plus snacks and drinks during the day.

For the energetic, after dinner there is a Games Room with pool table, table tennis, darts etc. or campers may prefer just to sit and chat over a relaxing cup of tea. Campers should provide their own caravan, tent or horse box. All will be parked in the floodlight area adjacent to the house and stables. The area is fully supervised at night. Permanent toilets and a shower are close by.

HOW TO BOOK

Numbers are limited. Please email susan@swingletree.co.uk or phone 01379 384496 for a booking form. To find out more about Swingletree Stables, please visit our website at www.swingletree.co.uk