Riders

Gerald Walters – Commander in Chief

Founder member of the present day Uncle Tom Cobley and was instrumental in its construction in 1978. He is the only founder member still riding, he is the eldest member and always provides a commanding presence at the front of the horse.

Occupation – he is one of the old school of carpenters and served a traditional apprenticeship in the fifties, he is now the proprietor of a seasonal gift shop reverting to his trade in the winter.

Gerald followed his father (Leslie) who played a major part in the construction and organisation of a previous horse.

Darren Smallridge – Director of Sparks

The youngest member of the team who is responsible for the electrical works on the horse which consists of providing lighting and music during the procession.

Occupation – Darren served an apprenticeship as an electrician and is now a director of a security firm.

Darren followed his father who was also a founder member of the present.

Norman Sanders – Director of Organisation

First rode in 1988 after a last minute emergency call and has been there ever since. He spends a fair amount of time each year in preparing the horse for each carnival season and organising the riders with times and venues.

Occupation – Area Development Control Officer with the County Council.

Norman followed both his father and grandfather who held positions on previous horses.

John Webber – Director of Finance

Served a long time as a super sub stepping in for senior riders when they were unavailable. His main responsibility is looking after the Kitty and seeing that members are adequately replenished with refreshments throughout post procession celebrations and any other opportunities that may arise.

Occupation – British Telecom Engineer.

Kevin ‘Kenny’ Irwin – Chief Mechanic

Kenny’s first ride was back in 2008, since then he has become a regular face on The Old Grey Mare. This marks a major achievement in the Irwin family – since Kevin’s father had previously tried in vein to make the ranks! Kenny comes from a well known and respected Combe Martin family with roots back to the ownership of the old Lime Kiln Quary.

Occupation – Mechanic.

Jimmy Norman – Director of Logistics

The second longest serving rider after Gerald Walters, uses his invaluable skills in moving machinery, driving tractors and trailers. Jimmy also provides transport and equipment for gathering heather on the moor. His dry sense of humour is much appreciated by everyone. He is notorious for losing his hat when riding.

Occupation – Mason, served his apprenticeship after leaving school with a local builder.

Graham Rice – On Site Director

Graham follows a long tradition of tailmen, who ride on the back of the horse facing the opposite way to the rest of the riders. This is a very demanding position due to the width of the horse’s hind quarters. By pumping water from the belly of the horse into the woven tail, and flicking it, a fine mist is released onto the spectators. Graham joined the group the same time as Trevor.

Occupation – Qualified Precision Engineer.

Mark Sanders – On Line Communications Director

Mark joined the Uncle Tom ranks in 2000 since when his duties have included; walking alongside the horse, collecting money, and acting as ladderman to assist the riders on their descent. Away from the carnival spotlight, Mark has built and continues to maintain this very website!

Occupation – Bank Clerk.

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