Invasion of travelers with caravans and horses descending upon our peaceful hamlet for the LARGEST equine migration in the UK
The recent Tracy Cooper's New Forest Drive, which took place on August 10, 2025, has sparked a wave of controversy and raised concerns within the community. The event, now in its 20th year, sees hundreds of riders travel from Totton, near Southampton, through the national park.
This year's drive, organised by Tracey Cooper, a local burger van owner and regular participant in local events and horse shows, has been met with a mix of excitement and apprehension. Visitors can buy, sell, and trade horses, harnesses, and dogs at the event, while travellers bring along their prized horses and two-wheeled carts.
However, the event has not been without controversy. Last year, a pony broke its leg at an Ashurst cattle grid, leading to an investigation by the police. Despite claims that the incident did not occur during the drive itself, concerns about the welfare of the horses involved persist.
These concerns have been echoed by some residents, with one resident recalling last year's event as horrendous, causing access issues in the community. Another resident believes the event should not be allowed to take place. Sharp objects were even found scattered at a popular picnic area near Brockenhurst, possibly in an attempt to sabotage the event.
Authorities, however, are working together to ensure the safety of both the participants and the community. A Hampshire police spokesperson stated that they are working closely with partners and event organisers to ensure safety. Forestry England is also working closely with other authorities to minimise the impact of the event.
The Ashurst and Colbury Parish Council has issued a statement regarding the event, but specific details about local issues raised, the planned or actual route taken during the drive, or mention of affiliated charity fundraising efforts for this event remain undocumented in the referenced materials.
Despite the controversy, the event has a charitable component. The travellers gather to raise money for charity before returning to Totton for an evening of fun. The exact charities involved and the amount raised have not been disclosed.
The Hampshire's Police and Crime Commissioner, Donna Jones, has vowed to fully investigate concerns surrounding the event. As the investigation continues, the community awaits further information and assurances about the safety and welfare of the horses and the impact of the event on the local community.
For those seeking more information about community reactions, exact roads used, or how charity components may be integrated with Tracy Cooper's New Forest Drive in 2025, checking local news outlets, official event pages, or social media channels closer to the event date may be necessary.
- Some residents have expressed concerns about the welfare of the horses involved in Tracy Cooper's New Forest Drive, a horse-racing event that takes place annually, noting events such as last year's incident where a pony broke its leg.
- While Tracy Cooper's New Forest Drive has a charitable component and includes racing events, such as horse-racing and dog trading, it has also been the subject of controversy, prompting calls from some residents for the event to be cancelled or its route altered to minimize disruptions.
