The farm is currently farmed by Ian Thompson and his son Michael, both of which work full time and trade under the name TT Thompson & Son. The farm-steading is located in the dunes between Blyth and Seaton Sluice on the A193. Ian’s grandfather took over the tenancy of Gloucester Lodge in 1947 on Lord Hastings estate around Delaval Hall. The farm houses approximately 80 head of beef cattle, 23 hors
es and arable land of approximately 140 hectares. Barley, haylage and straw grown on the farm is used to feed and bed the cattle throughout the year with very little if any outside produce bought in, however if done so it is sought locally. Ian has ridden since a very early age and horse liveries have been an integral part of farm life all the time he has lived there. As a junior he attended Morpeth Hunt Pony Club and competed at County and National showing level on ponies until he went to agricultural college in the 1960’s. He later came back into riding with an ex steeple chaser called Cabby. Ian and Anne now share McIntosh Patrick, who is a 16.2 ISH gelding and compete at British Eventing Events, Dressage and shows. Ian and Anne have BHS qualifications in Equitation and Welfare and have a wealth of experience in horse and stable management
In 2002 after FMD the farm was awarded a DEFRA diversification grant to build a cross country course around the fields. The course was originally constructed by BE registered Steve Tock of EFS Services who designed and built Intro and Pre Novice courses. Later he added a smaller 2ft triers course was added to encourage younger / novice horses and riders. The course is regularly maintained and new jumps added. We hope to attract more riders to use the course as a training aid in preparation for the BE season
Also available is the Gloucester Lodge Horse Ambulance, Defra approved for collection or delivery of horses to and from vets or yards.
