Equestrian Life Magazine September Issue 220 | Page 93

Woolsthorpe-byBelvoir 4th August 2013 New riding association for everybody formed in Nottinghamshire Andrea O’Reilly on Drum Well-known Nottinghamshire farmer, Robert Bower, was approached some 18 months ago to form a club so that riders of all abilities could get together for social pleasure rides without the formalities etc., of hunting. difficulty. Support is confidential and includes one-off or regular payments, funding for things like essential household items, disability equipment, relief farm staff, home-help and care costs. Further information can be found on their website www.rabi.org.uk Robert has been associated with horses most of his life, he used to hunt with the Rufford Forest Harriers in his teens before it was disbanded and then in later life was Kennel Man and Second Whip to a local bloodhound pack and two seasons ago was a Joint Master of the South Notts Hunt. He also hosts lawn meets for The Grove and Rufford Hunt and The Four Shires Bloodhounds. Photos by Indiepics Robert decided to combine the two to form the new RABI Riding Association of Nottinghamshire. The idea is to visit different areas of private land, not normally accessible to horse riders throughout the Nottinghamshire countryside and organise approximately 2 hours of riding on dates throughout the year at sensible paces to suit all abilities. There may be some optional jumping depending on ground conditions etc. Having hosted pleasure rides for different hunts over the years, he has the experience to take this idea forward. Robert has been a pro-active member of the Royal Agricultural Benevolent Institution (R.A.B.I) for some 3 years and has recently been elected Nottinghamshire Chairman of this very worthy charity. R.A.B.I is a grant-making charity which helps farming people of all ages if they are in financial If you would like to take part in any of the rides, contact can be made through Robert Bower on his mobile 07973 479427 or alternatively the association can be found on Facebook – RABI Riding Association of Nottinghamshire. The next ride will take place at John and Vicky Miller’s Park Leys Farm at Kelham on Sunday 22nd September 2013 arriving at 12pm for 12.30 start. Robert Bower calling hounds on the legendary Bob the cob www.equestrianlifemagazine.co.uk EL-SEPT13-S6.indd 93 93 22/08/2013 21:49:07