Driving volunteer helpers tend to be a little more "horsey" than their riding counterparts. This is probably because of the more specialised equipment, in the form of carriages and harnesses. Also the techniques of driving involve more training and road sense in addition to the common sense that's required for both. But don't panic, it is not rocket science and once learnt, driving is very enjoyable.

For anyone who develops a keen interest in and commitment to the driving, there is training available to become an Able Bodied Whip.  The Group currently has 5 AB Whips and 3 carriages.  Two x two wheelers and one four wheeler.  We are in the throes of purchasing a fourth  two wheeler to fit a 14.2 pony.  As we drive twice weekly at the moment we always have a need for new volunteers.

The hardest work probably comes at the beginning and at the end of the driving sessions when we have to load harness and carriages and horses up, drive to our venue, unload, harness up and put to.  Sometimes we have wheelchair users who drive with us and we have to take out one of the seats in the carriage and attach clamps for the wheelchairs, on other occasions we have semi ambulant drivers who use the conventional seats.  The vehicles have pull down ramps up which the wheelchairs are pushed, the ramps are put back up and the wheelchairs are then fastened into place with the clamps.

All the ponies are required to be safe, sound and suitable for the work. They are all good to handle and can be managed by anyone with a modicum of horse knowledge.

The two wheeler vehicles do not have a spare seat for the 'groom' which means that a helper has to either walk alongside or ride a bike to accompany the vehicle.  The four wheeler has a third seat.


Anyone wishing to help please contact Jane Barker - see bottom of page 1 for details