Ebony’s Blog Life at The Shelley Centre

Louise bathing Monarch

At last we have some sun and drier weather, which has proved popular with the ponies, riders and helpers alike.  The muddy gateways we have battled with for months are drying up, as are the bridleways we ride on.  It has been so warm on some days that the ponies have had their rugs taken off giving them the freedom to have a really good roll.  Of course, the rugs are put back on at night to keep them warm.  It has been nice enough weather to smarten up many of the animals with a new clip and even a bath, which most of them really enjoy.  Photo shows one of our helpers, Louise, giving the grey pony Monarch a bath. 

Our riders are enjoying the better weather too.  We have managed to take some out on a ride along the surrounding field edges rather than be confined to the school, a really exciting adventure for many of them.  This term preparations are underway for the dressage tests and countryside challenge – a sort of obstacle course on horseback.  It is important that horses, especially those new to the stable, and the riders are familiar with the obstacles.  For two of the newer ponies, Robin and Cookie, this will be their first time doing these tests.  Both are doing very well and after their initial trail period we are delighted that they are now be part of the regular RDA team.

It is also the time of year when our fundraising events are in full swing.  We very much hope that you will find something of interest and join us at one of the following:

Race Night   5th April at Whatfield Village Hall

Equestrian Car Boot Sale  13th April at The Shelley Centre.  9am sellers, 10am buyers.  £5/pitch.  Refreshments available. Phone Jazz on 07903 326641 to book a pitch. 

Stride out for Shelley,   Sunday 4th May.  A spring walk from The Shelley Centre in the wonderful Brett Vale countryside followed by homemade refreshments.

Hadleigh Show, 17th May.  We run a cake and plant stall at the Show and would welcome any donations to the stall as well as buyers on the day!

Details on the above events and online booking on our website, or contact fundraisingshelleyrda@gmail.com

Website: www.shelleyrda.com

Facebook:  Shelley RDA Centre                                           Telephone: 01473 824172