Positive BE Post

[xDundryx]

Yesterday some friends and I volunteered to fence judge at Little Downham. I couldn't believe how well we were looked after from the initial briefing in the morning complete with tea/coffee and fresh bacon rolls, lunches of fresh baguettes with a choice of filling and healthy snacks for lunch and thoughout the day we had lovely ladies come round with hot drinks/water/biscuits and homemade goodies. At the end we received wine and xc vouchers to come via email. I was blown away by the friendliness of both the officials and competitors and families, many of whom had volunteered over the pervious 2 days as well as compete.

We all have youngsters at varying stages of their education, the aim being to event them (hopefully) so it was great experience from the other side of the coin. It was a long day judging from half 9 until nearly 6pm but definitely something we will continue to do. Having been 'used and abused' at unaffiliated events in the past it was quite a contrast. Whilst there are problems and change is needed, BE is definitely something of a family it really would be a shame to lose it.

 

[Bernster]

Munstead is similar and I really enjoyed that although it’s a long day. Well done for volunteering!

 

[monte1]

Tweseldown is also a fab venue to volunteer at, I have both stewarded and written for dressage judges quite a few times over the years and always well looked after with food on arrival, drinks throughout the day, a decent lunch box and XC vouchers or wine to say thank you

 

[gunnergundog]

Oooo.........standards have fallen!

It's a long time since I was a listed dressage judge, but Withcote Hall 2 day in Leicestershire was my favourite from the catering perspective!

How can I put this without offending anyone? Just bear in mind that I loved this event.....lunch was in the grand hall...think wood panels, family oil portraits, crystal glasses, silver cutlery......BUT, although everything was lovely, it was well past its sell by date and as tatty as hell. It was part of the character and atmosphere. It was wonderful!

I will always remember Janet Poulden handing out canapes and telling me ' Now, remember, the poll must be the highest point!' What the hell JP was doing there, let alone serving food, I never found out!

Is Withcote still going?