Monday News & Notes from Fleeceworks

Using all this extra time at home to catch up on chores? So is Tim Price – with, um, mixed results. I haven’t seen a glare that icy since the last time I tried to go for one more hole on my mare’s girth.

National Holiday: It’s National Doctors Day, and we all know how hard these guys are working around the world right now. Know a doctor? Consider sending them a little something to thank them for what they’re doing – even if it’s just a quick message.

Monday News & Notes:

Our eventing family is full of multitalented individuals, as Laura Collett proves. Not only is the British eventer a veritable superstar in her own sport, she’s also proving to be a key asset to the National Hunt racing world, too. Read all about how she helped Harry Whittington to his first-ever Cheltenham Festival win in this interview with Racing TV. [Laura Collett helps provide Cheltenham Festival joy for Harry Whittington]

It’s official: ponies lift everyone‘s spirits. Or at least these hard-working riding school ponies in central London do. While they can’t do their normal job of teaching the area’s children how to ride, they’re taking on another important role (and getting their state-sanctioned once-daily exercise in, too) by going on walks through Teddington so that the residents can look out their windows and see them. Prior to the lockdown, locals could put in requests for the ponies to drop by for a cuddle – now, stable manager Natalie lets everyone know when the ponies will be nearby so they can be sure to nab a good spot by the window. We’re huge fans. [City ponies lift lockdown spirits in London]

Stables could use a bit of help in these tough times. If you’re lucky enough to be in a position to help, check out the amazing raffle that the Talland School of Equitation has put on to raise vital funds for the horses and ponies in their care. Plus, there’s advice from TV presenter Jenny Rudall on how to set up similar fundraisers for your local stables. [Save a stable, win big: the Talland call to arms]

If you haven’t already, Leslie Threlkeld’s heartfelt think-piece on no longer being able to go to the barn is a must-read. These are some pretty rough circumstances we’re living in at the moment, and it’s absolutely normal to cycle through an exhausting whirlwind of emotions every day. But if you’re struggling with your barn owner’s decision to temporarily close doors, this will offer clarity, solidarity – and a little bit of hope, too. [The barn isn’t a safe place anymore]

Monday featured video:  What do you do when you’re face with the prospect of no outings for a while? You create your own version in your back garden, of course.