Thanks to the generosity of several senior Side Saddle Association (SSA) instructors, The British Horse Society (BHS) East of England Region are able to organise an annual taster day for riders from the area and surrounding counties wanting to try side saddle. This year the event takes place at Writtle College, Chelmsford in Essex, on Tuesday 6 April with Trish Drake, a leading side saddle judge and instructor. Attendees just need to present themselves, suitably clothed, and the BHS does the rest.

The SSA provides the saddles and Writtle College kindly provides the horses. The day is split into two sessions, the morning for those who have ridden side saddle before and the afternoon for those for whom this is a brand new experience.

As well as learning a new skill, those attending can benefit from a short demonstration by a leading side saddle rider and learn how to fit the saddle.

This event is a great way to try something different, or even makes for a special occasion present. Cost is just £35 for BHS and SSA members and £40 for others. Places are limited to eight per session so early application is advised. Send an sae and cheque, made payable to BHS Eastern Region Training Fund, to Anthea Freemantle, Thornycroft, Hargrave, Bury St Edmunds, Suffolk IP29 5HX or contact Anthea on (tel: 01284 851051).

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