Hi, I hope you have all had an enjoyable summer, the newspapers tell me it’s been the worst summer for years. Can’t say I have noticed, perhaps because I got bored with being a “Greek God” and try to keep myself out of the sun these days. I know I keep moaning on about the recession, but it is hitting small businesses in the leisure industry like ours, so we are most grateful for your support. We had the Painshill gymkhana a couple of Fridays ago. We have a number of youngsters who help us in the holidays and at weekends, so Carleen and other friends decided to hold the event by way of thanks to these great girls, and with a couple of adults joining in to swell the numbers, we had a great day! Even the rain failed to stop the fun, (pictures on Hopeful Earl facebook page) We will definitely have a repeat performance, adults welcome. Congratulations to Carrie, voted best instructor, Saffron 1st overall, just pipping Lydia, thanks to my daughter Alex (judge for condition and turnout), Laurel (for the fabulous photos) and me (for not poisoning anybody with my cooking!). The August bank holiday brings “Wings and Wheels” to Dunsfold Aerodrome, (Top Gear’s location also) when I have to liaise with the organisers because some of the flying displays can frighten the horses. This year was quiet - the Typhoons (euro fighters) were absent shooting at Mr Gadaffi, the Red Arrows were grounded after their tragic accident the week before, and the Vulcan was missing (shame). Anyway, thinking I was safe I took Earl out but coming back across the farm he got most disgruntled that a tractor and bailer were working in the field, then, having just calmed him down a little, a Hawk Trainer flew over our heads, upside down, about 400 knots blowing coloured smoke out the back! Thought I might have written my last newsletter.
Went on another trip to the South Downs this month. Peter came this time and Heather Graham, who agreed that all my ravings were justified - our first ride was in heavy mist, magical but a bit scary when sheep etc suddenly appear out of the gloom. We do the quiz in the local pub there on the Tuesday night, came fourth this time. By the way, we still have a space on our trip in early October. The Hopeful Earl quiz team are becoming a force to be reckoned with - we hit The Richmond in Godalming last week, Peter, Laurel and me, joined by Penny, a recent volunteer (pretty blonde, spaniel called Cloe, and a labradoodle called Charlie -puppy, dead cute). Came fourth again - if we get better might give up riding and just go for the prize money.
I am looking at designing another short break if there are any takers, an overnight stay near Bury (between Pulborough and the sea). Not sure which way round, but a beach ride, overnight stay and then a ride on the South Downs the next day...... or the other way round. If you are interested in a short break this Autumn I can also do The New Forest October or November (two or three nights) or the South Downs (two nights). We are having a bit of a run on day rides at the moment, and there are a couple of dates for beach rides. We are hoping “Equestrian Escapes” are going to promote short breaks in the Surrey Hills - they came to see us this week and were most impressed with our riding, horses and local accommodation. Carleen has been on three holidays with them, the latest being in Peru. Dates will be available for cross country training this week. Anything else you want to do, providing it is legal, just send me an email or give me a ring. Thanks again for your support.
Ian.
PS. Hopeful Earl on facebook for all the latest.
