Anthea Greenlees 2009

Seven enthusiastic Junior Drivers came forward for the training day at West Newton, leading to the Award of Scholarships. They were Kyle Brooks and Madeline Wright-Davies from Central Scotland, Amanda Love, Suzie Love and Georgia Platt from the North of Scotland, and Isla Kirkhope and Max Smith from the West area.

 

All drivers had the opportunity to drive Beezer in his Traditional 2-wheeler, and either Bluebell in her competition 4-wheeler or Tiffy in her 2-wheeled exercise vehicle. While some were driving others were kept busy assembling a set of harness with Mandy Elder, or harnessing – up Dylan with his show/presentation harness including a full collar.

AG3

Audrey Barron had kindly set up her dressage arena and cones course for everyone to practise their driving. The Coachman - style rein handling is always a challenge but is essential for all to learn before they go on to driving in other situations.

 

Many variations were seen prior to the tuition – the biggest problem seemed to be the concept that Coachman-style meant one handed driving and not with the right hand supporting the left. However, with tuition and practise, all managed to master this.

 

As always we all crammed around Audrey Barron’s kitchen table for our picnic lunch – a good, social break from the bustle of the rest of the day. After lunch it was time to visit Audrey’s traditional vehicles where Joyce gave a very informative talk about them.

AG1

At the end of the afternoon session we all gathered for the presentation of the rosettes and awards.

 

All candidates received a ‘Participation Certificate’ and a rosette. After much deliberation by all the adults involved in the day it was agreed that as we had seven high-standard candidates one–hour lessons would be awarded to Isla Kirkhope and Suzie Love, and half-day scholarships to Madeline Wright–Davies and Georgia Platt.

AG2

A big thank you must go to Audrey Barron for providing the venue, Dylan, Bluebell and her collection of traditional vehicles; Joyce Simpson and Susan Don for bringing along Tiffy; Sheila McNeill for providing Beezer; Mandy Elder for her harness knowledge; Gillian Telfer for helping us all with anything and everything; Carol Smith for being our photographer; and Isobel Pocock for driving Beezer.

 

We would also like to thank the parents who drove vast distances so that their young people could participate in the day. 



Please send any additions or corrections to: BDSscotland@googlemail.com