28th October 2016

I’m sure it is as beautiful in other parts of the country too, but here in The Woolhope Dome is absolutely stunning, the colours on the trees are breath taking. If any reader should be an artist, you would be most welcome to sit at the top of the gallop with your palette. There would be no better time of year.

Richard Johnson was here this morning to give us a hand with some schooling. Polydora, Russian Service, Agamemon, Amalfi Doug, New Member, Bells on Sunday and Kimberlite Candy jumped some hurdles. Brandon Hill and Chase End Charlie schooled over fences. Mrs Newell was here to keep an eye on proceedings and David Kellet spent the morning with us too. Amalfi Doug and New Member could head to Hereford on Monday, many of the aforementioned have entries next week too. Looking at the weather forecast hourly in the hope of rain has become an addiction.

The 3 year olds all had quiet canters up the hill as did the older horses who didn’t school. Rachel has been here since 8 O’clock this morning sorting out the office, Rachel has helped me since we moved to Herefordshire and has now taken on a lot more work in the office, she is a god send and I wonder how I ever managed without here.

We have declared Kimberlite Candy and Pinnacle Panda at Carlisle on Sunday, I will walk the track in the hope that the ground is genuinely good to soft. There is every chance I am missing something regarding novice chases. I’m sure, later in year, when people worry about losing their novice status they cut up but for now you need a good horse to win one. This is the first season I have had to concentrate on them, the beginners chase at Uttoxeter this afternoon warranted listed status. I am certainly finding it hard to place novices and am told others are too. More novice handicaps please………..