MARDEN & DISTRICT RIDING CLUB - Late Summer/Autumn/Winter 2010

From April to Sept this friendly unaffiliated local-level Club hosts six, monthly outdoor Shows at Houghton Court, Bodenham, Herefordshire HR1 3HZ & all entries are taken on the day

The Showground has good access & parking & is easily reached from Herefordshire & beyond: A417 from Gloucestershire, A49 from Shropshire, A4103 Worcestershire & A465 South Wales

There's a warm welcome at all events for Members & non-Members of all ages and abilities - from those with a "fun, leg at each corner neddy" - to the more ambitious who wish to progress

Spectators can enjoy panoramic views & ringside parking, plus the usual facilities - Toilets, Caterer (Georgie Haynes), M & M Ices, Chas Ashby (C First Aid), Tack Stall (Sue Mason's Equestrian Bargains - www.newhunthorses.co.uk) & Photographer Simon Raitt (www.equine-photos.co.uk)

During the past 22 years the Club has increased in popularity thanks to the efforts of volunteers (Committee & helpers) who work hard to retain it's unique, "inclusive" atmosphere, where old-fashioned values, good sportsmanship, support & encouragement are appreciated  

Dress code & rules are relaxed in certain Rings, enabling newcomers to "test the water" & gain confidence before progressing to something more serious. Changes to the Showground layout were  made this year to make it more "user-friendly" & we are always looking at ways to improve

April, May & June Shows offered 3 Showjumping Rings: Clear Round, Very Novice & Main Ring (incl. Cricklands Jnr & Snr Champions of Great Britain Qualifiers). 2 Showing Rings: Mixed & Ridden Classes. Handy Pony & Gymkhana, with a Working Hunter Ring included in July & August

The final outdoor event of 2010 will soon be upon us:

OPEN FAMILY FUN SHOW & TEAM SHOWJUMPING - SUNDAY 12 SEPTEMBER

All are welcome - there's Clear Round, "Fun" Showjumping & Showing (including Worst Turned Out, Dog + Handler, Horse + Rider & Bike + Rider relay!), Handy Pony & Gymkhana or why not get together with friends & put together Teams (any age) from your Pony Club, Riding Club, School or Livery Yard - or get together with others on the day!

Followed by:

Surplus portable Cross-country, Working Hunter & Showjump fences are to be sold. Viewing from 12 noon - auction to follow at 1pm. All items purchased must be paid for & removed on the day. Ring Chairman for details (01432 820574) or e-mail a message

Full details of remaining "Marden" events including Presentation Night & Indoor Unaffiliated Showjumping at Kings Equestrian, Bromyard will be posted shortly - along with details of any other "Marden" news or activites. Don't forget - your own news & photos are always welcome

Finally, thanks to those who joined the Club this year (155 Members) - the List closed on 31 July & new Memberships or renewals will be available from 1 April 2011

MEMBERS PLEASE REMEMBER TO SHOW YOUR CARD WHEN PLACING ENTRIES