BRISTOL EVENING POST 9th February 2008
WEATHER FORCES DRIVING CLUB'S SWITCH
A Club for carriage driving enthusiasts has found a new site for its annual open show.Bristol Horse Driving Club used to stage the event at Oldbury Court and last year moved to Wraxall, only to be hit by torrential rain, which made it difficult to get into and out of the site.
Now it has scheduled the show in May for Keynsham Rugby Club, where hard-standing for parking should make it easier for competitors and spectators.
The club is run for those who just enjoy going out for drives as well as people who like to compete and either take up showing or horse driving trials - the carriage driving version of eventing.
Driving is becoming more popular and the Bristol club currently has about 30 members.
Its chairwoman is Kathryn Dayer, of Frampton Cotterell, who recently took over from former Bristol tree surgeon Albert Cooper, of St Anne's.
Kathryn, who drives a Welsh cob-thoroughbred cross called Dominic, said: "I used to ride before I developed arthritis and all I want to do is enjoy myself.
"We do a bit of showing and I'd like to do some competitions going through obstacles. The club is run primarily to encourage and help those involved in carriage driving. We have a strong membership and welcome new members whether they are horse owners and active drivers or not.
"We hold regular monthly meetings in Wick through the winter and also have monthly drives. We shall be driving on Brean Down this month, weather permitting."
Dominic was broken to harness by Rowena Moyse in South Wales before returning to Kathryn, who was later forced to take a break from driving after suffering a stroke. But she was back with the 11-year-old at Dorset Steam Fair last year and they also took part in a driving show in Wiltshire.
Kathryn also passed her carriage driving test, which ensures drivers are capable of handling horses and vehicles.
The club's show at Keynsham is on May 25, when attractions include classes for potential driving horses and ponies, ride and drive classes and trade carts.
BRISTOL OBSERVER 27th April 2005
REPORT ON THE FUNERAL OF ARTHUR DAUNTON
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