Forced to leave Teddington, an emotional day

Buying a home is often fraught with setbacks, and although we piled our energy into trying to secure Park Lane Stables it became clear that we couldn’t do so by the 31 May deadline and would have to leave.

In an extraordinary twist of fate, Pete McCormack got in touch from the gorgeous Manor Farm Stables in nearby Petersham. He had space available and offered it to us for as long as we needed.

As someone with a close family member with a learning disability he was acutely aware of the value of what we do, and simply recognised that he was in a position to help. We cannot thank him enough for throwing us this lifeline.

Hundreds of our Teddington friends and locals came to say goodbye and wish us luck on an emotional moving day. Closing the gates of the empty stables felt very poignant, but we hope it won’t be for the last time. Park Lane is where our heart is, and this chapter in our story is not yet finished.

When life gives you lemons, make lemonade

Thanks to the warm welcome from Pete and Sinead at Manor Farm, some of the stress of the last few months has since fallen from our shoulders. With the arrival of sunny weather and the clocking of the ball from the polo field next door there’s a definite holiday air for now, something we needed.

Our lovely horses are remarkably settled. The surroundings may be new, but they’re with the herd and the humans they know, and with two homes – the Stables and the pasture near Claygate – they’ve never been fazed by an itinerant lifestyle. They all got very excited the first time the neighbouring polo ponies started galloping around the pitch, but the novelty wore off in 10 minutes and they returned to chilling.

Wednesday adult RDA rides have resumed

Two intrepid groups of RDA riders have already explored peaceful bridleways taking us across water meadows and in front of Ham House. Despite these routes being entirely new to the horses, they’ve behaved perfectly, and everyone left their afternoon with smiles on their faces.

What’s next?

We’ve always been optimistic about staying in Park Lane, but that can’t be at any price, so as discussions continue we’re also still looking at suitable alternatives in the borough.

One thing is for certain. Our work goes on, and even if we don’t yet know where, we will need a permanent local home for the horses and the team. And when we finally move in we’ll be celebrating with the biggest street party ever.

You’re all invited.