And so into England

Another day dawned at Plas Dynam and it all looked very promising but by the time we had had a very hearty breakfast the outlook in the clouds was decidedly menacing, such is the climate in Wales! We met Jean Jones at her farm: she had had a party also the night before and both Rebecca and Emma had a lovely time, quite right too.







The Jones family entered into the spirit of our venture with such enthusiasm that it touched our hearts. Tim and Dan are pictured here and clearly run a very efficient farm. WE set sail with a smaller party towards Powys Castle, the point at which we handed over from all those who supportedvus in Wales to those who took the mantle on in England. Charlie Nutting (shown at right) our man there had done a grand job and we riders will all remember the kindness showed to us in Wales.





We rode with speed and determination towards our goal led by Margaret, another friend and helper of Jean's. We had to change into our costumes at Pen y bryn in preparation for our arrival at Powys Castle. However matters were complicated by the various birds of prey which also resided where we were changing. Stitch, Thatch and a few others were less certain of the hooded beasts.

At the bottom of this page is a brief video shot as we left for the day>

On we went and the accompanying photos show our progress. The weather was ' undecided' but warm. The scenery was impressive for being so green and entirely pasture and we had to avoid a host of frenatic activity as farmers cleared their sileage.






WE made the park at Powys Castle by 1130 and were met by a good crowd including the Lord Lieutenant, Mrs Shan Legge-Bourke. She is seen here presenting the ceremonial carrot! We were able to enter the courtyard of the Castle where various local journalists photographed us.

After a good lunch arranged by Peter Knox we set on our way again over the River Severn several times and ended up at Hilley Farm where Anna Jones and her husband farm when she is not helping out Peter in the ABF office in Shrewsbury. Philip Jones, Master of the North Shropshire on a very smart looking horse guided us with some style. Clive (left "what would we do without mobile telephones!), my son got a ride on Mr Stitch having driven up from Gloucestershire to support us.





As usual it seems there was a fund raising event at Shrewsbury School where Richard as ever spoke brilliantly, but this time on Marlborough. For us riders this was somewhat of a relief having heard about 1485 four times! Richard was at his best and the his audience loved it! Well done Peter and Anna for a really good event. We have all been incredibly well looked after by Edward and Ros Tate who have put the entire gang up at their ancient and historical house, The Isle, which nestles in an almost complete loop of the Severn River. As ever the hospitality freely given is humbling.



Mr Stitch a 17 hand 1 " thoroughbred was bought from a Master of the Quorn 3 years ago and by the first day of his new ownership he had dumped his master twice. But now this 17 hand 2 " has settled down into a really reliable horse that will take a fence and still have time to light a cigarette. He is a joy in the stable and already he is favorite in the string. He has however lost his name in being obstinate in getting intop trailer.; he has much to make up for!! Thank good ness for his adviser and confidante Melissa, who looks after him at Oxlease Farm. I have really enjoyed riding him on this trip, he is well mannered, long suffering and so far he is sound.


We have had a farrier on site for a couple hours, the shoes of many have been worn down and Thatch, Doughnut and Mr Stitch have had their hind hoofs re sorted. He seemed a business like young apprentice., who had no difficulty on dealing with such a sudden and urgent demand.



Wogan is Arthur's horse and by some sort of telepathy he is remakably similar in character. 17 hands and 3 inches. a fine hunter from Ireland. He has hunted in the toughest countries of the land, eg, the Wynnstay, Meynell and Golden Valley. He has also competed in the Wessex Yeomanry Race and is a kind and constant companion to Burt , the donkey. He seems a pleasant character., although when swimming out of his depth in the River Wye was thought to be a noisy and ferocious hippo.

Thank you to all those who are reading this blog nonsense for your enthusiasm and interest.

To morrow is a quieter day and this is as well as all the horses are showing signs of fatigue ( and so am I) and a quiet day or two will now get us there.