Photo courtesy of Wild Fell Photography

Sunshine and Success at North West

Driving Club’s Dalemain One-Day Event

Sunday 10th May 2026 saw the North West Driving Club’s first one-day event of the season at the picturesque Dalemain House. The event was kindly sponsored by Omega Equine and North West members Andy and Kerry Halliday of AH Plumbing and Heating Property Maintenance.

Club members were joined on the day by members of the North East Driving Club, who travelled over the Pennines to enjoy the excellent weather and stunning setting at Dalemain House. The event attracted competitors, officials, volunteers and spectators from across the region and further afield, creating a lively and welcoming atmosphere throughout the day. Club officials, drivers, grooms and supportive spectators all contributed to the friendly spirit that made the event such a success.

The event featured three phases of carriage driving: dressage, cones, and marathon.

The day began with the dressage phase, where competitors demonstrated accuracy, obedience, and presentation. Kim Usher took top place in the Open Driver section, Tina Harvey and Gillian Nicholson achieved joint top Novice Driver score, and Kerry Halliday took top place in the Small Pony/VSE section while also recording the best overall dressage score of the day.

The cones phase followed, testing precision and driving accuracy over a technical course. Kim Usher achieved the best Open Driver score with a double clear round, Sarah Harvey recorded the best Novice score, and Kerry Halliday again excelled with the best Small Pony/VSE cones score, a double clear round, and the best overall cones score of the event.

The marathon phase then concluded the competitive sections of the day, providing a challenging and exciting course that was well received by competitors and spectators alike. Tom Lloyd achieved the best Open Driver score, Jenny Cliff recorded the best Novice score, and Kerry Halliday took the best Small Pony/VSE score as well as the best overall marathon score of the day.

Across the three phases, the overall results were as follows: Kim Usher took first place in the Open Driver section, Jen Cliff took first place in the Novice section, and Kerry Halliday took first place in the Small Pony/VSE section and Overall Champion of the day collecting top honours for all three disciplines.

Dale Main House proved to be an excellent venue. The event benefited from the hard work and commitment of organisers, judges, stewards, volunteers, and supporters, whose efforts ensured a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone involved.

The North West Driving Club would like to thank all competitors, volunteers, officials, sponsors, and supporters for contributing to the success of the day and looks forward to future events at Dalemain House.

Detailed results can be found here 

A huge thank you to our kind sponsors, Omega Equine and AH Plumbing and Heating Property Maintenance and to our wonderful hosts, Dalemain House & Gardens.

Please take a moment to visit their websites and show your support for the fantastic work they do.

North West Driving Club

Murray House

Sunday 26^th May 2026

The North West Driving Club officially launched its new season with a highly successful and well-attended event at Murray House Livery Yard and Competition Yard, marking the first time the club has hosted a competition at this venue.

The new location proved to be an excellent choice, offering spacious and well-organised facilities for both warm-up and competition areas. The layout enabled the day’s events to run smoothly while providing an engaging and accessible experience for spectators.

A strong turnout of drivers competed across a range of classes, demonstrating a high level of skill, preparation, and sportsmanship. The event highlighted the diversity within the club, with both seasoned competitors and newcomers taking part. Turnouts were presented to an impressive standard, reflecting the dedication of all involved.

The atmosphere throughout the day was friendly and supportive, creating an ideal environment for members returning after the off-season as well as those beginning their competitive year.

A special rosette was presented to Helen Fenwick in recognition of her commitment to learning and supporting the sport over the past season. Helen attended numerous events last year, volunteering her time and back stepping to gain experience and assist fellow competitors.

Continuing her progression within the sport, Helen also competed on the day with her young, recently broken pony, Raffle King. Her transition from volunteer to competitor was warmly received and celebrated by fellow members.

The club extends its sincere thanks to the organisers, volunteers, and stewards whose efforts ensured the event ran efficiently and safely. Appreciation is also extended to Murray House for hosting the club and providing such a welcoming and well-suited venue.

This successful opening event sets a strong foundation for the season ahead, with the North West Driving Club looking forward to building on its partnership with Murray House and delivering an exciting calendar of events in the months to come.

Club Recognition

At the AGM, David Calvert was honoured with the appointment of Vice President of the club, in recognition of his longstanding dedication, commitment, and significant contribution to North West Driving Club. The club offers its warm congratulations and heartfelt thanks for his continued support and service.

Looking Ahead – 60th Anniversary Season

Next season marks a very special milestone as the club celebrate the 60th Anniversary of North West Driving Club. For six decades, the club has supported drivers of all ages and abilities, encouraged high standards of horsemanship, and fostered a strong and welcoming community.

This anniversary provides an opportunity to reflect on the club’s rich history, recognise past and present members who have shaped its success, and look forward with excitement to the future of carriage driving in the North West.

Conclusion

This year’s prize winners reflect the depth of talent and commitment within North West Driving Club. The club congratulates all trophy winners and extends its thanks to every competitor, volunteer, and supporter who contributed to another successful year.

As North West Driving Club prepare to celebrate their 60th year they look forward to an exciting and memorable season ahead.