It was a first for us when Olivia arrived at the reception riding her horse side saddle; her beautiful wedding gown and veil streaming out behind as it was caught by the blustery wind. The Matthew walked beside her with their 9-gun dogs, snoopy, and a sheep dog. The result was the most amazing photo opportunity as they posed on the lawn in front of a gorgeous rhododendron and the Union and Ukrainian flags fluttering in the breeze.
Once the horse had returned to the farm, the couple were saluted by a guard of honour of twelve guns made up of friends and family. A surprise arranged by the bride, for the groom.
We wish Olivia and Matthew much love and happiness.
I have never known the weather and field conditions to be like they are this June. You cannot make good hay when it is cold, and rain is threatening as is predicted over the next couple of weeks. There is far too much grass in the grazing fields, so we are keen to cut some for hay rather than allow the cattle to trample it under foot.
Looking on the bright side, thanks to the wet conditions the herbal ley we planted is up and looking healthy. It is often dodgy doing so at this time of year when the chance of a drought is a risk, but not this year.
As they say, farmers are rarely happy, but I think with years such as this, we do have cause for a little moan.
I have been writing this column since 2007. I believe now is the time to bow out gracefully.
I never have conformed to being PC, and I do believe in free speech. I apologies to those who may have been upset by some of my topics, which caused them to complain to the editors. I am sure those who now take over my column will be far more professional, PC and conform to the rules and regulations.
It has been a pleasure to be associated with the West Sussex Gazette, the Editor in chief Gary Shipton, and the sub-editors, all of whom have been charming and very tolerant.
My thanks also to the many readers who have contacted me over the years, for your kind and positive messages.