A few months ago I met Neville Jones and his daughter in law Katja.  Neville had agreed to be our "Really Get To Know ... " and he kindly gave me guided tour of the Conygar cobs and carriages.  Most of you will know of Neville through his work with Cusop Village Hall and as Hay's famous ex-baker.  Neville used to be Chairman of The Hereford & District Carriage Driving Club.  Katja is their secretary.  He mentioned to me back then that I may be interested in coming to take photographs at the Bank Holiday Rally which was being held up on The Begwyns.  I said I certainly would be and made a note in my diary.  I was looking forward to this.  Something new and interesting to photograph - with amazing views too!

On our arrival at the meeting place on The Begwyns, Katja suggested that I follow Richard in his truck to the spot where they were all going to stop for a drink and something to eat.  Richard led and I followed.  I could have done with a truck or a 4 x 4 vehicle, but actually my car managed very well.  At least the ground conditions were good and my car coped really well over the bumpy turf and rutty lanes.  Richard gave us a glass of port and a welsh cake while we waited for the carriages to arrive.  Very civilised!

 

One by one, ponies, carriages and drivers appeared over the horizon.  A fantastic sight.  Neville and his wife Joan were one of the first to arrive in a beautiful carriage pulled by a gorgeous little Palomino pony, accompanied by outrider Katja on Red, her super cob.  About a dozen or so carriages came to rest by the lunch spot up there.  The views were absolutely magnificent.  Everyone was in good spirits, especially after a dram of whisky or a shot of port!  After a break of about 45 minutes, the carriages were off again, back to the horseboxes near the cattle grid on the road up from Clyro.  They travelled a distance of about 9 or 10 miles altogether.  What a wonderful day out!

 

 

 

For further details of the Hereford & District Driving Group, please visit their website, www.hddg.co.uk

 

Clare