J

Littlelodge Farm, Santon Downham, Suffolk

Howdy folks and welcome to our annual trail ride weekend in Thetford Forest- looking forward to meeting friends , old and new on this years ride. The intention for the weekend is to have some good riding, good food, good chat & some fun games and activities. This is a charitable fund raising event and our charities this year are my local dog rescue centre and the Blue Cross who re- home cats, dogs, horses and any other animals that come their way. More info about our charities to come later. We have previously raised money for local hospital wards, McMillan nurses, a therapeutic riding centre, ILPH – time for mans best friend to get a slice of the action !!

New for 2008 the weekend officially starts on the Friday evening & we will be developing our reality riding competition. We will also have a slightly different arrangement for parking and horse penning and you will need to park & pen as per instructions.

For those who may be new to the western trail ride this is a quiet, safe and steady ride suitable for all members of the family to join in, designed for all levels of ability and experience. We ride in escorted groups- small or large depending on what folk want. If you want to head off with a map that’s fine- we will save you some chow if you get lost !! We try and ensure that the ride provides for everyone- whatever you may want .You have to let me know ! Goody bags and rosettes for all riders. A chance to win a camera courtesy of AQHA. Raffle and prize draw .Public liability insurance is provided by AQHA for all riders.

The schedule for the weekend will be flexible so you can ride as much or as little as you like but the bare bones are………

Friday – arrive from 4 pm onwards registration and camp set up.

Unescorted ride outs for those who want it.

Self catering food arrangements but we will probably organise a communal Chinese meal for those who want to join in.

Saturday 9.30 pre trail safety talk

10 am first ride out into the forest for the early birds

1.00 back to base –self catering lunch.

2pm Reality riding competition in the field –

Unescorted rides out for those who want to

5.30 food !! evening camp fire and chat

we are working on some entertainment !!

Sunday 9 am early ride out

11.30 breakfast/brunch

afternoon – free for you to ride if you want

Campsite cleared before 6.00

We can provide maps of the forest for those who may want to undertake some orienteering of their own. There will also be guided rides for those who want to saunter in company.

Our campsite is basic- a water meadow- so we have a river to practice getting the horses into. Horses will be kept in electric pens- please bring your own we cannot provide stakes/tape but you may be able to share a hook up /connection -speak to ride organiser . We have access to a portaloos. People sleep in their lorries or tents or trailers. We have a marquee in case of bad weather.

Thetford offers a variety of activities for the non riders so there are plenty of other things to do – cycling, walking & the activity centre. Dogs are welcome but need to be kept on a lead and under control at ALL times, please.

The following entry form needs to be back with us by July 3rd to guarantee a place – However entries received by June 1st qualify for early bird discount. Late entries may be accepted if space permits at a small supplement and at rider organisers discretion.

We look forward to seeing you on the trail and please do not hesitate to contact us if you require further information.

Chris Kent & Mike Dawson

Ride team