Our Chief Equine Officer Prodney was insistent that he started a blog to share his astute observations about Park Lane life as well as fascinating stories from his past.
For balance (he can be a bit opinionated) you’ll find other articles here too, including horsey tips and guest posts.
Lee’s story perfectly illustrates why we do this job
By Natalie O’Rourke
We first met Lee (not his real name) a few months ago when we took ponies Barney and Polly with us to meet the residents of a local children’s home. Although he was curious he watched from a distance and didn’t talk to us.
Prodney’s Blog: Taking Polly under my withers
By Prodney
I’m spending my summer in what Natalie rather rudely refers to as the ‘oldies’ field’, currently in the company of Mini, Barney, Rusty, Black Jack and Jay, all of us now getting a bit long in the tooth and enjoying a quiet life after many years of service with Park Lane Stables.
Farriers, files and horseshoes – a quick guide
By Natalie O’Rourke
When Des the beautiful bay gelding came to live with us he was scared of everything, and that definitely included our wonderful farrier Charlie. This photograph captures a touching moment of connection between the two and shows just how far their relationship has come.
It’s time we introduced Charlie and the crucial role of the farrier.
‘Prodney’s Blog: A la carte dining’, and summer fields
By Prodney
At my time of life I deserve a bit of special treatment. I’m 40 you know, and still have my own teeth (oh hang on, that bit’s not quite true). Louis is one of my favourite servants. Here he is in a supporting actor role to my lead…
Prodney’s Blog: Ever the style icon, my favourite outfit is ...
By Prodney
Like all icons, I know my own style and I’m not afraid to be an individual. I’m so much more than ‘one of the herd’. I’m not a Barbie doll and I’m not prepared to be dressed up, even by Natalie who mostly knows better than to try.
Years ago I remember we were going to a show...
Our move through the eyes of our participants
By Natalie O’Rourke
Many friends and RDA participants have already dropped by to see us. Some, children and adults alike, are vulnerable, and the disruption to such an important part of their life and wellbeing has loomed large.
Prodney’s Blog: Now I’ve seen everything, I’ll never understand humans
By Prodney
When I’m not being a media star in Teddington, I’m resting in our peaceful pasture in Surrey, where nothing much happens and we entertain ourselves.
Prodney’s Blog: Proud to be a Russian Trotter
By Prodney
I’m usually referred to as ‘a Russian gentleman’ but as nobody else has elaborated on this I thought it was about time I explained
Prodney’s Blog: A horse with a name
By Prodney
I suppose I got off lightly over the mad few Save our Stables weeks. Nobody clipped ‘SOS’ into my bum, and I thought the ‘Thank you!’ sign hung round my neck was quite fetching. I made a special point of wiggling it in the background for the TV cameras when the humans were saying their piece…
Can you read a horse’s ears?
By Natalie O’Rourke
You can tell a lot about what a horse is thinking just by watching their ears, and experienced riders swear by it. Ears forward, or back, or wiggling, do you know what they’re saying to you?