Strathorn Clydesdales

Clydesdale Horses were used at Strathorn Farm until the early 50’s when tractors took over. Little did the Skinner Family who have farmed Strathorn for many years, think that some twenty years later, Heavy Horses would once again become a feature of the Farm.

The re-introduction began back in 1972 when George Skinner and other members of the local community council decided to revive Lourin Fair as an annual fund-raiser for the village of Old Rayne. The Fair, which dated back to about 1500, had become the focal point in the North East as a horse market.

To give it authenticity horses would form an essential part. The result was the re-introduction of Clydesdales to Strathorn Farm and the spin off, an opportunity to show the various classes of horses and encourage others to show theirs. The event has gone from strength to strength and today Lourin Fair plays a major role in the Clydesdale world of horses.

George and his wife Ruth’s interests have since continued to successfully expand. Today it is not unusual to see as many as 40 horses including some ten Clydesdales in the surrounding fields. Though they breed Clydesdales from their own stock, they also buy Geldings which they school and will school horses for other people. Fully trained Clydesdales are also offered for Sale.

Within the precincts of the Farm are a number of stables, which also house the ponies. Immediately adjacent is yet another building within which is a collection of restored and purpose built horse drawn vehicles used for Training, Galas, local events and also hired out as wedding carriages.

Ruth and George Skinner are also very active in training and helping people. One aspect is Driving for the Disabled. The vehicles for the disabled belong to the Group and are specially built horse drawn vehicles. And yet another is offering riding lessons to people of all ages and hosting a Riding for Disabled Group. Of late they have also been demonstrating how Clydesdales horses can be successfully ridden.

Education also plays a major role. Each year the Skinners hold a “Farm Open Day” In 2007 it will be on the 22nd April a Sunday, the proceeds of which will go to Charity.

All the Strathorn Farm breeding stock is registered with the Clydesdale Horse Society. http://www.clydesdalehorsesociety.com