Tuesday 16th January 2024

Pretty chilly on the hill but also very beautiful with bright sunshine and clear blue sky. Had a cunning plan, drive to the east gate and check for the ponies there, then drive onto the west gate and do likewise. That way you can look to see if they're by the road when you drive down. They weren't up the top and no evidence of them being there. The ice in the trough had been partially broken, Colin I presume, so fully broke it and removed all the chunks. Bea's tip about rubber gloves is genius. I left a small rock tucked away beside the trough in case anyone forgets to take something to break the ice with. 

Then down to the main gate and there they were not a million miles away from the trough enjoying the sunshine and grazing happily. They looked very well and seemed comfortable with the cold. Eyes nice and clear, coats looking fabulous and moving easily. Little puffs of steamy breath every now and then. Doune came over to say 'Hi' and she had really warm breath, so that's a good sign. Broke the ice again and removed some big chunks, and Kat made right for it. I had to break one of the big chunks (see photo) as Kat was rubbing against it and I was worried it might have sharp edges. 

Also, Fiona, on my travels I found a mattock buried in the grass. It's in my boot as didn't want to leave a potential lethal weapon lying around unattended but I'll return it next time I see you 👍😃.