Wednesday 20 May 2009

Horses & Politics

I've had a bit of an exciting week!

On Tuesday, we at Spike Media went to film the Socialist labour Party European Election Broadcast, which is always a pleasant job to do. We had a very tight deadline, which so far, with my nerves intact and only just, we have met, but we have used SO many tapes and couriers etc, I just hope people will vote on the 4th, especially women.

I have to say, the people we deal with in the Socialist Labour Party are delightful, and once again the weather was fantastic, which makes filming pick up shots easier. The sandwiches and cakes at the end of the day are always a bonus, so thank you Louise for organising that. A big thank you also to Ricky Tomlinson for giving us a copy of his autobiography, called "Ricky", a generous gesture and appreciated.

Sunday was a day off from editing politics, and I went with my friend Jacqui to Glenbrae Riding Club Open Show. I spent Saturday night plating and making Mum's horse Bombay look wonderful, cleaning tack - again! And generally trying to get my act together for an early start in the morning.

The sun shone all day for us, and the horses coats gleamed. All was well. I had entered two classes, Riding Club Horse and Riding Horse. Eventually, when I was tacked up and ready to go, I felt the Bombay getting a bit excited, but didn't think any more of it as he hadn't been out and about for a while. Got into the ring, and I could feel him coil up like a spring underneath me. I did think a smack on the bottom would settle him, but I also thought I could end up in the next county, so decided just to try and ride him out of this mood - he was exceedingly agitated. The photo above was taken a few seconds before he blew up and chucked me off!

The only excuse I can think of for Bombay's behaviour, which was totally out of character, was that he was reacting badly to pollen or whatever. He has an allergy problem which is exacerbated at this time of year.

Anyway, I didn't get back on board, as I thought he would repeat the performance and I had injured my shoulder when I landed on it. And to be truthful, I was a little shaken.

Jacqui and Annabel Lea had a wonderful day. They were placed first in the Veteran In hand class and forth in the Ridden class, which means they qualify for the Veteran's - whatever! Qualifying for the veteran's was he reason we were there in the first place. Annabel is 23 years old and looks much younger and her zest for life and work has not diminished.

Back to the PEBs, most of the English and the Welsh versions are being broadcast tonight. - Don't forget to vote on the 4th June!!