Tilly at Six

In 2001 foot-and-mouth disease struck. Although we were not in an infected area, pretty much all equestrian activities were suspended until late summer. But Tilly was not happy driving in our field and we started to take her down to Dounhurst Farm so that we could drive on the tarmac tracks. I started using a back pad as part of the problem was the cart bumping down on her back.

But in summer 2002, we had a series of lessons with Minta Winn. She adjusted the harness, got us to sort out the rattling and suspension on the cart; and sorted out the driver! We started driving on the road. We did have one bolt, when Tilly was frightened by a large vehicle going over a cattle grid but no harm was done. And by the end of the summer were competing in "dressage and cones" at Dounhurst Farm, where this photo was taken.

At Dounhurst Farm, 2002

Her mane looks dreadful because she now gets sweet itch and it was so bad, I had to hog it!