This ride was well attended with 40 entries, including 6 that took part in the lead rein route. We had people from as far away as Dover enter, which was great! Despite threatening clouds, the rain never arrived and the sun shone for most of the day. The 11-mile route was a great mix of woodland, heathland, fields, bridleways and quiet country roads. Part of the route went along the Downs Link with fabulous views across the Surrey Hills. A big "thank you" to the organisers, stewards, and helpers who made this extremely successful event possible. Photos of the event are available on Flickr.

Our first dressage event at Merrist Wood was a great success - with over 100 entries, each of the four classes were oversubscribed. The weather was unseasonably hot, with temperatures reaching around 80 degrees Fahrenheit at midday! Despite this, horses and riders coped well. We had lots of positive feedback from the competitors, who commented on how friendly everyone was, and how constructive they found the judges' comments. A huge "thank you" to the organising committee, judges (Dan Shean, Amanda Keeling, Suzanne Holt and Inga Diggins), stewards, helpers, and scorers.

Prelim 18: 1st Tracey Smale (Salopian Bentley), 2nd Wendy Brennan (Barons Brief Encounter), 3rd Laura Heathcote (Lady Jasmin), 4th Claire Miller (Sharp Discovery), 5th Caroline Shenton (Callum), 6th Carol Mercer (Buffy)

Novice 24: 1st Sophia Halder (Condor), equal 2nd Bekka Brennan (Barons Brief Encounter) and Tracey Smale (Salopian Bentley), 3rd Val Bray (Cumara), 4th Sarah Oenter (Shadow), 5th Margy Harvey (Mary's Jester), 6th Lauren Harris (Malcolm)

WDBA Committee meeting dates 2012:

• Monday 30 January
• Friday 30 March
• Thursday 31 May
• Monday 30 July
• Thursday 27 September
• Monday 3 December

Dates subject to change. Members are welcome to attend any committee meeting. Please contact the Secretary on wdba1992@msn.com.