About the Group

History    Activities   Committee

History

The Group started almost by accident in 2004 when the Forestry Commission wrote to a local rider to invite comments on a forest management plan.  It quickly became clear that  the Commission was keen to provide and improve facilities for riders but  did not know who to talk to. This led to a public meeting, sponsored by the Commission, which over 60 riders attended, and the Group was born.

About the same time the Land Reform (Scotland) Act came into force which gave everyone a right of responsible access to most of the countryside. However, a right does not mean that it is physically possible to ride at will. Some landowners persist in locking gates or being obstructive; paths and tracks may be blocked by fallen trees or have become overgrown or quite simply routes may not exist. Amazingly, in Moray there are currently no trails or paths specifically built or managed for horse-riders.

None of us like riding on increasingly busy and dangerous public roads, but many of us have little choice and find ourselves restricted to one or two short hacks.                                                                Trot to top

Activities

The Group has a range of activities.

We work with the Forestry Commission, Moray Council and other landowners to improve access to the countryside for all riders and to provide information on where you can ride.

Currently we are working to develop a network of horse trails and horse-friendly parking facilities at Teindland Forest. We have mapped out two trails, totalling about twelve miles and will soon start applying for grants for the work.

If you are new to the area or would like to ride somewhere new, our pleasure rides will help you explore the easy way and introduce you to new areas. Rides are very informal; where possible we divide into groups, with a leader, going different distances or paces. 'Tame' or 'game', it's up to you.

If you have an access problem we should be able to help to resolve it

Our regular newsletter will give you information on where to ride, (and where not to ride if there are forest engineering or harvesting operations underway, or other events such as motor rallies or shooting days that might spoil your enjoyment) and a variety of other articles.

Regular social activities will help you meet other like minded riders

We also represent equestrian interests on the new Moray Access Forum to ensure that our needs are recognised and catered for fairly. Strength in numbers gives us a stronger voice. We will contribute towards the development of the new Core Paths Network.

Finally, members get reduced rate membership of the British Horse Society.

We seek to complement rather than compete with the activities of other riding clubs.

Committee

We have a loose committee structure but all members are welcome to attend any of the Committee meetings.

Trot's On?

Subs for 2008/09 are now due!