In May I was phoned by Thomas March, Piggy French's long term partner, who asked me if I was free to photograph a party which was being held to celebrate Piggy's win at Badminton Horse Trials a couple of weeks previously. I said I was and the date was duly secured.
Nearer the time, Tom rang again and asked me to arrive a couple of hours before the guests. There were a few things he needed to brief me about, and things to show me.
I don’t know why but I already had my suspicions, so it was not a complete surprise for me when, on arrival, Tom explained that they were not only going to celebrate the Badminton victory, they were also going to get married!
After the guests had arrived and drinks were distributed Piggy made a speech which included stories of her first experiences of top level events as a spectator, and her obsession with Mary King. She talked about the Badminton experience and thanked all her owners and staff for their loyalty and support. Amy Phillips was presented with a framed picture to commemorate the Badminton victory.
Moving on, Piggy spoke about Thomas, how they got together and what a rock he is to her. At this point she announced that it seemed like a good time to get married! There was a moment of silence and then wild celebration from all present. Luckily I was ready for this because some of the reactions were priceless.
We were all packed off into a pair of London buses which came up the drive and took use to the church in the village. Here it became clear that bridesmaids and ushers were in on the secret as guests were shown to their seats and given orders of service. A beautiful service followed.
After the service the buses took us back to the yard from outside the local primary school where pupils and teachers were fascinated with the goings on, London Buses and all!
The full set of images are password protected at this time but may be available at a later date.
