Sunday 22nd February - All 8 seen

At 14:30 this afternoon, the ponies were grazing east of the path alongside the racecourse, enjoying the warm sunshine. They took turns coming over to say hello and happily accepted plenty of strokes and rubs. The girls were relaxed, content, and looking well.

As the afternoon went on, they gradually moved west, alternating between foraging for acorns beneath the trees along the fence line, browsing gorse, and returning for longer neck and back rubs. Several enjoyed having their backs and sides brushed, as well as gorse removed from their manes and tails. Before long, some began to rest beside the path, carefully positioning themselves to remain in the sunshine. They were happy to be approached for more strokes, fully relaxing and even closing their eyes.

By 16:50, the ponies had moved further west towards the bend in the main path. Most were browsing gorse, while a couple continued foraging for acorns in the soft, muddy ground. I said my goodbyes shortly afterwards, although one pony followed me, keen for some uninterrupted final strokes. After about ten minutes, I quietly slipped away, leaving her resting peacefully.

The ponies were all good today.