Sunday 15th February - All 8 seen

At 14:00 this afternoon, the ponies were grazing and foraging for acorns just around the bend leading onto the path along the side of the racecourse. I had timed my visit well, arriving during a break in the rain, although the ponies were all soaking wet after yet another rainy day. The girls were very friendly, taking turns to come over to say hello and enjoy plenty of strokes and rubs. After our initial greetings, the ponies alternated between grazing, resting, and returning for more attention. They were especially attentive, with at least one choosing to stay close by my side at all times. They thoroughly enjoyed long neck, shoulder, and back rubs. All were happy, content, and looking well. The chestnut pony still had a small amount of white discharge in the corner of her left eye. After relaxing into a long neck scratch, she allowed me to gently wipe it away. Otherwise, her eye continues to show signs of improvement. The ponies gradually moved up the hill, browsing gorse on both sides of the main path. At around 15:45, it started to rain once more and seven of them suddenly ran at full speed towards the woodland in the far southwest corner, clearly keen to avoid getting wet again. Tilly lingered for a few extra strokes, but after about five minutes, as the rain grew heavier, she too made a dash for shelter. Although I had planned to head off, I walked over to check they had settled. The girls were sheltering under the trees while foraging for acorns. They were happy for me to join them and soon came over one by one for a few extra strokes and rubs. I said my goodbyes shortly after 16:15, during another break in the rain, leaving them either foraging or resting. The ponies were all good today.