Some Eriskay Pony Society members and their ponies decided to do a ride in the Borders this year as a first all Eriskay adventure.

Those taking part were Janis Bright on Farne Robbie from North Yorkshire, Ruth McMinn on Doonies Brogach from Aberdeenshire, Catriona Rowan from Perthshire on Hardiston Cobweb and Mary McGillivray from Perthshire on Braincroft Thrift. They stayed in Ettrickbridge at 'Sunrise' where they were well looked after by Anne and George Turnbull and where there was grazing for the ponies.

The first day they were fortunate in starting out in the dry and headed towards Bowhill on the Buccleuch Ride via Witchy Knowe. Despite strong winds and a steep climb, the ponies showed they were well up to this type of activity. The views were fantastic and all the riders enjoyed the variety of bird life. The route followed the river taking them back to Etterickbridge.

After heavy rain overnight the day dawned warm and sunny and the ponies and riders set off with enthusiasm up the road to link up with the Fanns ride. This took them in a southern loop over heathland where there were magnificent views, through forest and farmland with some steep climbs on the way, eventually heading towards the river Ettrick. The water at the ford proved to be too high to cross so the riders had to divert over the bridge at Carterhaugh. After this the route wound along the river taking them once more back to Etterickbridge.

The ride was a great success with the surefooted Eriskays coping well with the hilly routes and covering approximately 30 miles over the two days and climbing to 1500 feet.

It is hoped that some money will be raised for the Equine Grass Sickness Fund as a result of this ride.