Search results for ""quiller publishing ltd""

For just about everything we do with horsesfrom trail riding to top level competitiona healthy state of fitness is key to both performance and longevity. Every horse will go better for longer if his mind and body are well prepared for the ask.When it comes to improving fitness, whether for humans or animals, the success of an exercise relies on dosage. How an exercise is applied, the duration and frequency of execution, and the weekly schedule within which it is incorporated determine its impact on fitness.Equine training and conditioning expert Jec Aristotle Ballou has now provided a book that takes the guesswork out of fitness gains. It clarifies how long and frequently to do a particular exercise and provides guidance in how to combine it with others for best results. The result is maximized health and athleticism in the horse.The 33 workouts in these pages help accomplish the performance goals that many riders strive for but fall short of reachingstronger, more agile, and more bala

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Possessing the right mind-set and relevant mental skills has long been considered vital in achieving top performances in all sports. And yet, to many riders mental fitness still remains something of an afterthought. In Perfect Mind: Perfect Ride, the author demonstrates how to develop and achieve the right kind of attitude, motivation and mental skills to make the most of the rider’s abilities whether it be riding as a recreation or as a competitive sport. Horses are highly sensitive flight animals – they’ll react first and ask questions, well, never...! In essence, this means that every time riders get on their horse, they need to be fully committed, aware and in control of their body, their thoughts and their emotions, in order to communicate with their horse in precisely the right kind of manner. The combination of research in the field of sport and performance psychology and real-life examples contained in this book will help readers identify with and understand different topics. Current scientific theories surrounding sport and performance psychology are translated into practice, allowing readers to fully understand why they think, feel and act the way they do – and what they need to do to change it. Hands-on advice on how to develop relevant attitudes and mental skills will make Perfect Mind: Perfect Ride an essential companion for the rider wanting to get more out of the sport. Foreword by Mary King MBE

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A comprehensive guide to the care and management of horses and ponies. The aim of this volume is to provide a reliable source of information and advice on all practical aspects of horse and stable management. The manual has been compiled by a panel of experts each drawing on considerable experience and contributing specialised knowledge on his or her chosen subject. Filled with reliable information and advice on modern stable management practices, the book provides a sound foundation for Horse Knowledge and Care. Throughout, the emphasis is on the adoption of correct and safe procedures for the welfare of all who come into contact with horses, as well as for the animals themselves. Coverage includes: The Horse Care of the Horse Watering and Feeding Saddlery and Tack Specialist Care of the Competition Horse The Horse at Grass The Stable Yard

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Learning to ride should be fun, progressive and constructive, but all too often children can be frightened or put off. Teaching them is not easy. This book offers advice, exercises, lesson plans, games and teaching tips designed to provide variety and sound instruction, plus a range of innovative ideas for making learning to ride an enjoyable, worthwhile and satisfying experience, even for the very young.

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For riders at all levels, Carl Hester and Bernadette Faurie aim to make dressage training accessible with step-by-step guides for improving the horse's paces, riding dressage movements, and competing. Essentially this book is about every rider making the most of his or her potential and, in the process, producing a horse that is more pleasing to ride and more athletic in its body. The book offers advice on training all types of horse and in everyday language, explains how to set about improving the horse's paces and suppleness, whilst keeping him happy and enthusiastic in his work. It describes how to ride dressage movements, from simple circles to flying changes, and pointing out common mistakes and how to correct them. Carl Hester is seen, in over more than 100 specially shot photographs, schooling his horses at home, bringing on youngsters and fine-tuning the more experienced animals.

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Food is our most intimate and vital commodity, yet too many of us have lost touch with the reality of where it comes from and how it is produced. Farm to Fork: The Challenge of Sustainable Farming in 21st Century Britain attempts to address this knowledge gap by taking the reader on a seasonal tour of a British lowland family farm to explain the realities of modern agricultural life. Drawing on a lifetime of experience, the author illustrates how our food is produced and why our farmed landscape looks the way it does. Along the way, he addresses issues around the environment, climate change, trade and why Britain’s exit from the European Union is such a significant moment for UK food production. Agriculture is the core of a £122bn food and farming sector, and Farm to Fork demonstrates the pride, hard work and heart which goes into every mouthful of Great British produce.

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Author Jamie Blackett arrives home from the Army to take over a small family estate on the Solway Firth in Dumfries and Galloway, and finds a rapidly changing countryside. In a humorous and occasionally moving tale, he describes the return of the native to grapple with the intricacies of farming, conservation and estate management, telling the story of founding a pack of foxhounds and a herd of pedigree beef cattle. Part childhood memoir, part biopic of rural life, readers are transported to a remote and beautiful part of Scotland and acquainted with its wildlife, its people and its customs. One minute he is unblocking his septic tank, and the next he is watching Glenn Close film a sex scene in his bedroom. The book follows in the tradition of countryside classics by John Lister-Kaye, James Herriot and James Rebanks. Set over the first two decades of the twenty-first century, through the Scottish independence referendum, Brexit and the hunting ban, the result is an enlightened review of the challenges threatening a vulnerable way of life and an emerging philosophy about the directions Scotland, farming and the countryside might take in the brave new world of Brexit.

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Artist Norman Thelwell is best known for his cartoons depicting plump, petulant ponies and their young riders, but The Effluent Society shows another aspect of his work and character. Thelwell was passionate about the countryside and nature. During his life he became increasingly concerned about the impact of development, pollution and society’s treatment of the environment. When The Effluent Society was first published in 1971, his concerns were way ahead of their time. Today, environmental and conservation issues are in the mainstream and have become a global priority. Although the cartoons focus on a serious topic there is no mistaking Thelwell’s inimitable style. He used his talent and humour to convey a powerful message: the need to protect the environment. He also takes a wry look at modern life and so-called progress. Thelwell admitted that out of all his books, The Effluent Society was the one that gave him the greatest ‘personal satisfaction’ and, as such, the re-issue of this title is a fitting tribute to the artist.

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This is leading British sporting and wildlife artist Rodger McPhail’s retrospective collection of his most accomplished paintings and portraits of the last 20 years. As a keen naturalist who has spent countless hours tracking and observing his wildlife subjects, Rodger has selected these works on the basis that they truly capture his fondness and enthusiasm for the natural world. With an extraordinary versatility, Rodger is equally at home in watercolours as he is in oils — a master of the finest detail, his remarkably fluid and evocative paintings pay homage to his impressive and multifaceted career. This sumptuous, hardbound coffee table book seeks to shed a light on how his genius works, and Rodger has concluded the book with a chapter that addresses the questions he’s most frequently asked, such as how long it takes him to paint an average picture, or whether he can only paint when the mood strikes — featured alongside plenty of other stories about his life and his art. Appreciated and sought after from all corners of the globe, his paintings and portraits are to be found in some of the most important collections worldwide.

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A step-by-step guide to modern shooting etiquette stuffed full of amusing quotes and anecdotes, which will instruct the Gun on how to be the perfect guest out shooting — and hence, how to be asked again. Inspired by the fact that so many more people are taking up shooting as adults and may have missed out on the vital apprenticeship in the field as a child, it encapsulates everything you need to know but no one will ever tell you out shooting as 'you are expected to know'. The book covers in a logical way what happens, or should happen: from the moment you receive a shooting invitation to arriving at the shoot, shooting safely and courteously, how to hold your own, how to mark up your birds, what never to say and how to tip the keeper. Much of this information comes from almost a hundred interviews with beaters, keepers, flankers, pickers up, shoot organisers, shoot owners, and grouse moor owning earls and dukes. Hilarious cartoons by Oliver Preston make this a very entertaining book on shooting, the perfect gift for any shooting man or woman, either novice shot or experienced Gun.

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Just the book for any horse owner in the current economic climate! Budget Horse & Pony Care offers an array of ideas and advice on making hard-earned money go a little further.

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Once again, firearms expert Bill Harriman shares his extensive knowledge in this BASC produced owner's manual. Topics covered will include: * The pros and cons for each type of shotgun and the different bores * The pros and cons for the differenct types of rifle - bolt action, straight pull, semi-auto (.22) and calibres * Law and security and safety * Cleaning and routine maintenance - stock oiling, putting into storage * Patterning a shotgun , fitting a scope and zeroing * Basic introduction to ballistics - 1" high @ 100 yards etc - ballistic charts/drop/windage etc * Charts and tables - velocities, bullet weights explained

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A Guide to the Deer of the World is a long-overdue review of deer as we understand them today and includes several species which have only recently become known to science. Writing for a wide readership in a straightforward and easily accessible style, Charles Smith-Jones has produced an authoritative and attractive reference work with a strong conservation focus. Lavishly illustrated throughout in colour, the guide looks at deer evolution, biology and lifestyles in general before covering each of the fifty-five true deer, seven musk deer and ten chevrotain species as well as their subspecies in more detail with photographs, general information and distribution maps. In addition, there are fact boxes which include descriptions of individual recognition features, habitats, behaviour, breeding and conservation issues for each member of this widely diverse and fascinating group of animals. Forming an iconic and important part of almost all the world’s ecosystems, many of the species featured are elusive and only very rarely photographed or observed. Any areas of taxonomical confusion and ongoing discussion are highlighted in readily understandable terms. This book will have a valued place in the library or on the coffee table of any nature lover or deer enthusiast.

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Every horse person strives to grow in ability and understanding over time whether in the saddle, on the ground, or in the stable; whether in ways that are small or those that are significant. This effort, when done right, lasts a lifetime, and along the way requires the addition of knowledge and experience gleaned from numerous others. Where does one find leadership within the equine industry? How does one know to whom to turn for information? Does riding require an instructor, a trainer, a coach? Can you get by with part-time guidance? Can you effectively learn on your own, with just the occasional directive, and still find personal or competitive success? With this book, renowned clinician and international team coach Eric Smiley intends to fill the gap when it comes to these questions and others, providing a reliable resource and educational companion for any aspiring equestrian. Smiley addresses fundamental topics pertinent to riders, with philosophical discussion and practical exercises applicable to all levels. Along the way he strives to educate them on being taught, and perhaps, one day, becoming the teachers. His aim is to bring together the mind of the rider with the mind of the horse, while highlighting the key component in their synergy: understanding. How that understanding is acquired, retained, and put to use is the key to success.

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There are many books and DVDs devoted to the technical training of horse and rider - how to perform movements correctly, clear obstacles, communicate efficiently, and in other ways attain the idealised image of an athletic partnership that results in competitive success. But this book is different: its focus is how the rider and trainer can make it easier for the horse to perform optimally. This includes improved understanding of what are reasonable expectations for a particular horse at a certain level of schooling, how to improve his fitness (including strength and conditioning), as well as background on how injuries may develop as a result of interaction between internal and external factors, such as genetics, conformation, management, and training. Relying on her veterinary background, in-depth research, and dozens of interviews with top riders and trainers from around the world - including Beezie Madden, Carl Hester, and Pippa Funnell, to name just a few - Lonnell provides guidelines for nurturing a happy, healthy equine athlete. With special focus on conscientious pacing when building the horse's physical capability over time, diversification of schooling practices, detail-oriented management and care, and putting the horse's needs above competitive ambition, readers are given a solid grasp of what it takes to truly reach the pinnacle of equestrian sport - and remain there - on a consistent basis. Throughout, gorgeous colour photographs of world-class horses and the people who work with them visually demonstrate the success of these methods.

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The first edition of The Principles of Riding was published more than 50 years ago, imparting mandatory basic knowledge for all areas of equestrian sport and horse-keeping and this 28th edition, Basic Training for Horse and Rider, has been completely revised regarding language and content, while still taking into account the well-established principles. The consideration of traditional principles leads to the education and training of the horse according to its nature and thus to its health, well-being and performance capability. The horse's instincts and natural behaviour are presented in detail as the basis of communication and understanding between horse and rider. Modern scientific research relating to training theory and biomechanics has influenced the systematic training of the rider as well as that of the horse. The Principles of Riding provides versatile, practical assistance to horse lovers and readers of this book who want to learn, irrespective of whether they ride for leisure or competitively, are interested in hacking or hunting, or want to develop and improve their basic training for dressage, show-jumping or eventing. These Principles should be indispensable for all riders, drivers, trainers and judges, and to all of those who are interested in the appropriate training of the horse, according to the horse's nature, and who place importance on a harmonious cooperation between horse and rider.

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This book is about developing that 'perfect understanding'. Whether you practice dressage, hack, event or show, the improvement of your horse through an understanding of 'his' language, should allow him greater ability and confidence in all your work together. The aim of The Balanced Horse is to confirm in people's minds what they should be doing for each request, and what they must avoid. The author abhors the use of force and gadgetry in the schooling of horses and believes classical riding is the best way forward for all the disciplines.

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The artist Norman Thelwell (1923–2004) was famous for his horse and pony cartoons, but his work was far more wide ranging. He focused his exceptional talent and humour on many diverse subjects, with his witty and wry observations providing amusement and sharp social comment. Some Damn Fool’s Signed the Rubens Again is Thelwell’s look at life in Britain’s stately homes, and what happens when they are opened to the public. Here are the castles, country estates, and the quirks of the British class system all depicted in the artist’s inimitable style. When an ancestral home is crumbling, or an aristocratic family is debt-ridden, the solution calls for drastic action. It is time to welcome in the paying public. Thelwell’s cartoons capture the comic situations that result when the noble residents come face to face with the curious visitors. See the duke in his tower preparing to repel the coachloads with boiling oil; a ghost train in the family vault; toddlers wrecking treasured heirlooms; and animals in the safari park watching the hilarious human spectacle unfold.

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Do you like playing games with your dog? Here is the indoor and outdoor schedule to overcome boredom and provide lots of fun! Whether it’s in the park, in your own garden or in the living room – with this comprehensive book of games you can occupy your dog appropriately at any time with new commands, tricks and mental exercises. Lots of step-by-step instructions with pictures will always banish boredom and you can see the time required, level of difficulty and space needed for the game at a glance. Exercise courses fit for the Olympics, daring feats with lots of tricks or also brain-teasers will give new impetus to the everyday life of your dog – when you go out for a walk in the sunshine or are at home when it’s raining or there’s a storm!

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Barking Mad taps into the British passion for dogs by bringing together a unique collection of extraordinary, touching and sometimes bizarre but true stories covering sporting dogs (and hounds) military mascots, eccentric companions, war heroes and Royal dogs. Many of the best and most intriguing stories, which date back to the early nineteenth century, have been discovered in long-forgotten books and magazines, but all reflect our enduring passion for man’s best friend. Stories include everything from the Labrador that saved its master from drowning to the hound that spent years travelling unaccompanied across Britain by train, and the pooch that carried a penny to the local bakery every day to buy its own cakes. Beautifully illustrated by Nicola L. Robinson this book is a wonderful anthology for all who love man’s best friend.

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In 2013, Mick May was diagnosed with the fatal asbestos-linked cancer, mesothelioma, whose average medical life expectancy is 10 months. Seven years later he is flourishing, full of joie de vivre, with a long life-expectancy ahead of him. His case has made medical history and is giving new hope to a multitude of terminally ill cancer sufferers around the world. Mick's medical journey makes for a fascinating read as it weaves from the pain of his many treatments to the pleasures of his frequent fishing trips to British and exotic International rivers. Threaded into this are snapshots of Mick's creation and leadership of a leading offender rehabilitation charity; his deepening religious faith; his successful legal action against the merchant bank whose offices exposed him to asbestos in the 1980s; his chairmanship of a school ravaged by the 2017 Grenfell Tower fire tragedy, and the happiness of his family life with his remarkable wife and six children.

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With many readers coming to cockers for the first time, this book offers complete guidance for their very earliest care and training at home, and then introduces both cockers and their owners to a range of different activities and competitions. Drawing on more than a quarter of a century's experience with cockers, the author takes you on a wonderful journey from the moment your puppy arrives home to the day that you start enjoying sports and activities together. The Cocker Spaniel covers every aspect of cockers, from the history of the breed to healthcare and problem-solving guides. There is also valuable information on contacting the wider cocker community and on joining groups and clubs. Many cocker owners also want to work their dog as a gundog in country sports, including field trials and working tests. With The Cocker Spaniel, the transition from family dog at home to elite performance dog in the field is seamless and straightforward to achieve. There is invaluable technical instruction on how to work your cocker in the field, as the author has achieved successfully, with five Field Trial Champions to her name.

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Being an effective hunter with a modern precision air rifle requires; being suitably well informed about the intended quarry species, have a wealth of knowledge concerning different hunting methods, a detailed understanding of how their air rifle performs, and know how to maximise its attributes to optimise efficacy in the field, and a level of proficiency in shooting an air rifle. The Airgunner's Companion: A Field Guide to Hunting with Air Rifles, provides the reader with the fundamental knowledge necessary to be an effective hunter. With detailed discussion about the different types of airgun and selecting additional shooting equipment (such as telescopic sights, moderators, laser range finders, etc). Chapters include how to use camouflage effectively, manage serious vermin control and conservation projects, stalking, lamping rabbits, how to decoy woodpigeon and corvid species to the ground, hunting around farmyards and woodland and a dedicated section on the effective control of grey squirrels. The book unites the latest developments in airgun technology, tried and tested methods for hunting, and the latest scientific knowledge concerning animal behaviour.

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The Enigma of Kidson is a moving, thought-provoking, inspiring and hilarious biography of an inspirational and controversial teacher. Move over Mr Chips. Kidson had everything that central casting requires of a legendary schoolmaster: a passion for his subject, a brilliant didactic style, a silly walk, a smelly spaniel, breath-taking rudeness, eccentric mannerisms and catchphrases, a maverick attitude towards authority, and above all, a deep empathy, loyalty and dedication towards his boys. He had an extraordinary influence on his pupils - David Cameron, the Archbishop of Canterbury, Johnnie Boden, Nicky Henderson, Sir Matthew Pinsent, `Lupin' and Dominic West among them. This unique portrait features recollections and vignettes of incidents in the classroom and the tutorial. As Kidson was an inspirational History Beak (master), history is a strong theme throughout the book and through Kidson's life story we get a vivid social history of the latter part of the twentieth century where the themes of education, culture, teaching, adolescence, discipline, mentorship, pronunciation, parenting and old age are all examined.

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The international bestselling book from renowned dog training expert Pippa Mattinson. The definitive dog and puppy training manual - easy to read and designed to help all dog owners with one simple but overwhelming problem: their dog won't come back when they call him or her! The book is divided into three parts: Preparation: all the information you'll ever need in order to prepare and support yourself and your dog as you work through the training programme, including information on how your dog learns, practical training with rewards and beyond training. A detailed Recall Training Programme complete with exercises to work through. In other words, the 'how to' section of the book where you'll learn puppy recall; pre-recall for older dogs; basic recall; on location training and ultimately recall for life. The problem solving section, where you can discover why you got into difficulties in the past and learn how to avoid making the same mistakes again in the future. Enjoy your training journey, improve your relationship and have fun with your dog! A must-have book for all dog owners!

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Stalking Fallow is an extensive guide to the challenge of management and techniques of stalking fallow deer. It has been written not only with the novice and experienced stalker in mind, but also the deer manager and landowner. There is also much to learn if you simply stalk deer with a camera. Thornley provides a unique insight into how to stalk woodland and open ground and the techniques in the use of using high seats. It also highlights the risks involved for the stalker as well as the deer. Managing the population, dealing with crop damage, arranging and participating in collaborative team culls are all covered for those faced with a wider management responsibility where large populations of fallow exist. This definitive guide is essential reading for all associated with the management of fallow deer.

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New paperback edition. This is the bestselling autobiography of Ted Dexter — fondly known as Lord Ted — the ferociously powerful and debonair former England international cricketer who captained England in 1961-2, stood as England’s chairman of selectors from 1989-1993 and then became President of the MCC in 2001. He is undeniably one of England’s most prolific cricketers but, as he’s eager to stress in the introduction of his book, he also lived a rich, lively and fulfilling life outside of his sporting career, with tales galore of his various escapades along the French Riviera, his experience of running a sports PR company, flying planes (just “because he could”), playing championship golf, racing greyhounds and so much more. A riveting read not only for those who recall his sporting legacy, but for anyone who resonates with Ted’s fervent enthusiasm for both cricket and life. All book royalties will be donated to the MCC Foundation — Transforming Lives Through Cricket. Nominated for The Cricket Society and MCC 'Cricket Book of the Year' award.

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Aimed at the first-time pony owner, this book provides sound and practical advice on all aspects of finding, buying and caring for a pony. Beautifully illustrated throughout, Pony Care: A Complete Guide to Buying and Caring for Your First Pony is an essential step-by-step guide for the non-horsey parent. Topics include: Points to consider before buying, how to find and try the right pony and when to buy Where to keep the pony, transport Daily routine, feeding, health and exercise Shoeing, tack and equipment, clipping and turnout Selling the pony. Written in an accessible and light-hearted style, readers will benefit from Alison’s wealth of experience and gain a true insight into what is involved in owning a pony.

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Pilates is an invigorating and proven body conditioning method which helps to strengthen the core muscles used in riding, whilst simultaneously restoring the body's balance. In light of this Pilates for Equestrians is packed with colourful, easy to follow photographs, listing common rider injuries and niggles, with a list of core strengthening exercises to help maintain a more flexible, leaner, fitter body.

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Eventing Explained is a unique, all round view of how to start eventing for riders of all ages wanting to compete in their first affiliated Horse Trials. Packed with top tips and exercises for riders in all three phases, it is an ideal aid for parents or other halves of would-be event riders whose weekends will never be the same again once they hit the eventing circuit! Sections on rider fitness and sport psychology will help you prepare for the event and do your best on the day. An indispensable guide for all those new to the sport of eventing.

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Real Riding offers different ways to approach traditional and natural principles of horsemanship. The emphasis throughout is on employing empathy and understanding and looking at things from the horse's point of view. It sheds light on common misconceptions, difficulties and contradictions, and the pages are crammed with exercises, simple "tricks" and things to do that can make a real difference. Perry Wood aims to put harmony with horses within grasp of every rider and brings the art of riding into the 21st century.

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Whilst the horse world is rich in descriptions that tell us what horse and rider should look like, we lack good information about exactly how to produce the desired results. Good horsemen ride well without knowing how they do it, and without understanding why you are not like them and cannot do it too. During 23 years of research it has been Mary Wanless's personal mission to expose the secrets of horsemanship, breaking down riding skills into 'bite-size chunks' and finding ways of describing them that work for average riders. By using the learning strategies given here the rider should discover how to connect with the horse in a way that makes sense to him and enables him to carry himself well, in self-carriage. At the same time the techniques aim to offer the rider security, stability and effectiveness in the saddle. This title sets out to simplify Ride With Your Mind methods and to provide a basic tool-kit for the acquisition of a truly independent seat in walk, trot and through transitions, on straight lines, turns and circles — and, importantly, how to make corrections when things don't go exactly to plan. Mary explains how to use the hands, legs and body correctly, and gives the ingredients for perfect contact. In each section, the instruction is backed up by practical self-tests and exercises to ensure success, and there are ideas for troubleshooting during the learning process and in the future.

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We all want our dogs to live pain-free, and we all want ways to connect with them. The Masterson Method® is an interactive approach to animal bodywork that follows and uses responses of the animal to your touch to find and release tension in areas of his body that affect: - His ability to get around. - His physical and mental well-being. - The quality of and length of his life. - His connection with you and other humans and animals. A lifelong horse person, Jim Masterson developed his method for the purpose of releasing tension and improving movement in the performance horse. An interesting benefit was that it led to improved communication and trust, and a better overall relationship with the horse. Since dogs go with horses “like peanut butter and jelly,” Jim says, it was only natural that he began to use his bodywork on canines, too. The techniques used in the Masterson Method rely on reading and following the subtle changes in the dog's body language as you work with him. Once you learn to read his body language, you will be “on the same page” and communication is established. Your dog recognizes that you understand what his body language is saying, that there is no threat to his well-being, and that he feels better when you work with him. In these pages you will learn the steps to incorporating the Masterson Method in your dog's life, bringing happiness to both of you. The Masterson Method is practical, easy to use, and results oriented. You see the results in the dog's responses during the bodywork, and in his behavior, comfort, and movement afterward. Beyond Dog Massage is the ideal instructional guide for all those seeking a better quality of life for and deeper connection with their dogs.

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The Countryman Sets Forth Again is a wonderful compilation of articles covering a range of eclectic rural and countryside subjects. There is something for everyone to discover from the ancient language of field sports to the treasures to be found in old barns; the history of the landscape to dryland husky racing and much more. Divided into seasonal sections and featuring more than forty-five chapters, many of the articles have appeared in The Field magazine. Here are all aspects of country life described in vivid detail, from the flora and fauna to the folklore. Descriptions of ancient customs feature alongside accounts of pigeon racing and hound trailing; and stories of exotic plant hunters from past centuries. Readers will encounter mad March hares, owls, ravens, bats, pike, eels, and the rare capercaillie. Other subjects include coppicing, ancient trees, hanging game, stoats, terriers and, that perennial British favourite, the weather. The author also takes us back to his childhood with memories of charcoal burners and of harvesting wild food. Combining his engaging writing, expert insight and immense knowledge, Johnny Scott is a master at celebrating and chronicling the countryside. In this book he continues to convey his wisdom and affection for the magic of nature and rural life.

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There is something for everyone in The Countryman. Whether you are a country dweller, an urban nature lover, an amateur historian, or a budding naturalist, the variety of subjects covered is a real treasure trove. From the toad to the bumblebee, the cuckoo to the pheasant, the life cycle of the dragonfly, the attractions of the nightjar and the dove, the development of sheep breeds and the value of the cottager’s pig – these are just some of the characters of the natural world as described by Johnny Scott. What are the origins of Oak Apple Day and when and where is it still celebrated? What do you know about Morecambe Bay shrimps or gulls’ eggs – how do they make the journey from harvest to plate? What is a hag stone and what is its connection to a horse brass? Do you know what marl is and where would you find it? Answers to these questions and so many others are to be found within these pages. The author’s acute powers of observation and fluent style enable him to convey his lifelong experiences and knowledge of the natural world in an informative but accessible way. His understanding of the origins of country customs and celebratory festivals is extensive, and his affection for them and all that the countryside has to offer shines through. Be prepared to be enlightened, amazed or amused – or probably all three!

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Food is our most intimate and vital commodity, yet too many of us have lost touch with the reality of where it comes from and how it is produced. Providing a seasonal tour of a traditional farming year, passionate beef farmer Joe Stanley seeks to bridge this knowledge gap and inform the reader about the journey their food takes before it gets to the plate, revealing the realities of modern agricultural life for a British lowland farmer. Drawing on a lifetime of experience, he strips observations of the countryside and agricultural practices down to the core of his day-to-day, illustrating how our food is produced and why our farmed landscape looks the way it does. Along the way, he offers insight into his daily routine, such as how crops are planted, why livestock is brought in for winter, and what happens at harvest, while addressing the bigger issues surrounding food standards, sustainability, the environment, rural heritage, trade and the future of agricultural policy outside the EU. Often undermined as an antiquated pastime, agriculture is actually the core of a £122bn food and farming sector (the UK’s largest manufacturing industry), and Farm to Fork: The Challenge of Sustainable Farming in 21st Century Britain stands as a testament to British farming and the heart that goes into the food our farmers produce, the environmental stewardship they deliver and the landscape they maintain, whether through the assurance of food quality, animal welfare or environmental sustainability. This is a wonderfully-detailed and candid account of the life of a British farmer — of the highs and lows and lessons learned from a lifetime on the land.

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With Britain’s islands holding more than three-quarters of the Earth’s stock of heather moorland, it is an extraordinary fact that it stands as one of the world’s rarest habitats. A landscape beloved by millions, it’s renowned for the tranquillity and solace it provides – however, this tranquillity is an illusion. Britain’s moorlands have, in less than a decade, moved from a position of benign consensus to the epicentre of the bitterest conflict within UK conservation. This insightful book sets out to examine and expose the hidden issues surrounding UK moorland conservation, giving a voice to the many people who work and live there and who feel that what they have to say is often ignored, if it’s even heard at all. The fate of our uplands is in our hands, and it is important that an alternative narrative, from the perspective of the practitioners who have cared for these places for generations, are considered. It may be that those with power chose to ignore these facts and sweep them away, but at least now they cannot say they didn’t know.

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The 2nd edition of the must have book from BASC has been fully revised and updated and covers all current aspects of firearms law; it is essential reading and provides a point of reference for any gun owner in the UK. Firearms law serves two functions - prevention of the use of firearms in crime and preservation of public safety. In his guide to Law and Licensing, Bill Harriman explores current firearms legislation. His experience as a legal advisor and firearms forensic examiner provides useful insight into the conditions surrounding legal possession and use of firearms and shotguns. He examines common misconceptions and provides extensive practical guidance for compliance. Real case studies and examples from his own experience help to illuminate some of the more obscure aspects of legal firearms ownership in Great Britain.

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Mike Tucker was born into a life of farming and horses. His passion and hard work enabled him to progress from international groom to successful international event rider, top level Eventing official and television commentator. The pinnacle of Mike's career as a commentator was covering Nick Skelton's Gold Medal at the Rio Olympics in 2016 for the BBC. In `The Man Behind the Mike' we learn about Mike's family history and the connection with the Badminton Estate where his grandfather farmed; The Beaufort Pony Club, a huge influence in his life with many top level riders being members; a visit to Australia, staying with the Roycroft family, which proved to be a pivotal moment in his efforts to become a successful event rider; and about Mike's second place at Badminton, which laid the foundations of his credibility as a rider and commentator. The `voice behind the microphone' had the experience and knowledge to commentate with authority and to command respect from the listening public at venues of not just horse trials but also show jumping, dressage, and shows in general. The wealth of experience and lifetime involvement in the world of equestrian sport has enabled him to travel all over the world meeting many different people and sharing his expertise. We are told many funny, revealing, fascinating and sometimes sad anecdotes of his experiences of the successes and failures along the way and we are given a true insight into the real stories behind the headlines, and `The Man Behind the Mike'.

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The World of Cognac is a carefully researched study about the history and culture of Cognac - the most revered spirit in the world. Ranging from historical brandy anecdotes dating back to the 7th century all the way up to our modern-day cocktail culture, this is cognac's story. The author explains where cognac originates from, how it's made, the people involved, as well as the classification and age, the art of tasting and most importantly of all, choosing and storing one's cognac. A comprehensive list of cognac houses are featured, providing an informative overview of many of the brands and a selection of their current products. 'Cognac is not a fashion product. It will not be popular today, then forgotten tomorrow. It's an integral part of the lives of people in many countries, in many social environments.' Jean-Paul Camus, House of Camus

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Some time late in the last century, Giles Catchpole and Bryn Parry began to catalogue the varied characters to be found in the shooting field and the results of their researches have been published monthly in The Shooting Gazette. Now, they have loaded up another game bag's worth of sharply written and wittily observed Shooting Types and unleashed them onto an expectant readership through The Second Barrel. Here is an extended line of assorted Guns, good and not so good. Some shoot like gods, quite a lot don't. Some own dogs that retrieve what they have shot and some have dogs who chase what they haven't. There is a supporting cast of spouses, partners and significant others — some being supportive and others less so. And then there are the keepers, beaters, pickers-up, hosts and hostesses without whom the whole undertaking would be utterly impossible and therefore no fun at all. If you shoot or go shooting you will recognise many of the characters in this book. You may remember them with a sigh of pleasure or a gasp of horror, or something in between. Who knows, you might even see aspects of yourself here, or if you can't, the person who gave this book to you probably does.

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This innovative workbook is designed to make revision entertaining yet effective. It allows you to test your knowledge against the requirements of the Stage 1 assessment and contains a wealth of typical questions - with, of course, many model answers.

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This fascinating and comprehensive book explores the bee's place in human society from prehistoric cave paintings and inscribed clay tablets through to our contemporary world.

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New updated edition of the bestselling My Special Pony Record Book is a colourful diary-type notebook in which children can keep details about their pony and what makes them so special. There are fun-filled questions with boxes to tick and pages on which to stick photographs and/or keepsakes - or even to draw something themselves.

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In 1949, the 10th Duke of Beaufort started Badminton Horse Trials with the idea of better preparing British riders for the Olympic Games after a disastrous showing on home ground the year before. His legacy is the world's oldest and most prestigious horse trials, which has captured the imagination of riders worldwide and in 2024 celebrates its seventy-fifth anniversary.Badminton is still an Olympic proving ground as well as a captivating place where dreams can be made or shattered, and the one all riders want to win. The centrepiece remains the cross-country course, a spectacle that draws thousands of spectators and is an imposing challenge for riders, no matter how experienced they are, in an egalitarian sport in which men and women compete on equal terms and the amateur can take on the Olympic gold medallist.This superbly illustrated book celebrates those riders and their horses, from Sheila Willcox's hattrick in the 1950s to New Zealander Mark Todd who came out of retirement to win

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Breaking Clays is a comprehensive and practical book that presents in-depth advice and instruction for shooters of all disciplines. Beginning with the basics and advancing to proven tournament techniques, the book is packed with invaluable tips on how to break more clays in your chosen game. Chris Batha has worked with some of the top competitors and shooting coaches in the world today. While every top shot has his own approach to shooting and teaching, Chris recognises that what works for one person will not necessarily work for another. This clear and concise book offers a distillation of the best tips and techniques that really work to improve your scores and give you the knowledge to develop to your full shooting potential.

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In the Garden with the Totterings is a fabulous collection of Annie Tempest’s ‘Tottering-by-Gently’ cartoons around the theme of gardening, which encompasses inter-generational tensions, the differing perspectives of men and women and more. Tottering-by-Gently is a village in the fictional county of North Pimmshire, where Lord and Lady Tottering reside in the fading grandeur of their ancestral home, Tottering Hall. Annie Tempest’s cartoons are based on Lord and Lady Tottering (Dicky and Daffy) and their extended family. Her now international following proves that she touches a note of universal truth in her exquisitely detailed and beautifully executed cartoons as she gently laughs with us at the stuff of life.

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A fun colouring and activity book guaranteed to keep pony mad children entertained, including helpful and interesting tips, perfect for those taking part in the British Horse Society's Pony Stars programme, or just those who love horses and to draw. Pony Stars is the BHS's Junior Challenge Awards scheme helping children to discover, develop and nurture their love for ponies and the outdoors. With over 100 topics for children to explore, Pony Stars will ignite a passion for ponies, build knowledge and cement friendships that will last a lifetime.

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