Our training program has been increased and moved to a new venue this year. We are hoping to run more days of training, with members suggestions very welcome. Our training officer, Felicity Stubbs is incredibly enthusiastic and keen to increase both the frequency and popularity of training throughout all disciplines within our sport. Felicity herself is a keen competitor, producing her lovely turnout regularly throughout the season, aided and abetted by Avril Pluck.

The new venue itself, is new in every sense of the word! Situated near the beautiful old town of Much Wenlock, we were welcomed into the brand new facility, the Cavalier Centre! This massive complex, with indoor school, outdoor arena and driving track , is the new home of Perry RDA. This group is one of only two in the country offering all four RDA disciplines, being riding, vaulting, hippotherapy and carriage driving. The centre was only opened on the 10th of April by HRH the Princess Royal, with a program of poetry, music, and displays celebrating the work of the RDA. This is especially poignant in this the fiftieth year of the Association, whose work goes from strength to strength. The brainchild of Jane Barker, this project has been funded by donation, and at times, sheer will power! We at Area 27, are so proud to have supported this, and continue to help fund the running by moving our training here, and would encourage the use by other groups. The indoor school is a massive 30m by 70m and was created with carriage driving in mind!

Area 27’s new training program kicked of on Monday the 29th April, warmly welcomed by new centre manager Graham Taylor, starting the day with coffee and cake for all. A number of turnouts enjoyed training with Sarah Wildy delivering her charming brand of advice, instruction and constructive criticism, with empathy and humour. Members of Area 27 were joined by Giselle Lockett from the Wolverley and District Driving Club, and later on in the day, some classes on long reining proved a diverse and interesting conclusion to a very successful day.

Photos show Sarah Wildy coaching Area 27 stalwarts, Sue and Ian Cole, with their heavy vanner Sam the Man. Sue and Ian are very well known, and always have a kind word for everyone and are ready to help any new member. Other photos are of the centre, although dont do justice to the scale of it!

Further dates for Area 27 training to be announced, but meanwhile we look forward to the Sherriffhales drive on bank holiday Monday, and the Newport Festival of Transport. In August we have a drive from The Citadel, Weston-under-Redcastle, which I can personally recommend because it includes a bring and share picnic afterwards, As always, please check our website and facebook page for dates and entry forms, contact detains and any other information on the varied activities Area 27 has to offer.