There is a special place in Hell waiting for me.
I did something you should never do.
In fairness, I had no choice.
I cut some of Silver’s mane off. Ok, it was actually a large chunk.
But in my defence, Silver had a big “witches’ knot” and I couldn’t unravel it no matter how hard I tried so in the end I took the scissors to it telling myself it is only hair that will grow back. And then I cut it off.
Witches’ knots are surrounded by folklore:-
A witches’ knot (also called a fairy knot or elf lock) in a horse’s mane is a tight, stubborn tangle that forms overnight:-
- Midnight Rides: Old European legend says that witches, fairies, or elves ride horses through the night and braid or knot the hair to use as stirrups and reins (all I can say is good luck with that!)
- Bad Luck: Folklore warns that untangling these knots brings bad luck or angers the spirits who chose the horse (I didn’t untangle, I cut it out so I am probably double-doomed then).
- Compliment: Some believe a knotted mane means your horse is a favorite of magical creatures (I doubt very much that Silver is a favourite of any magical creature!)
Actually witches’ knots are caused by the unceasing Shetland wind and are a real bore to get out.
I don’t think Silver was very impressed with me – he’s already lost his forelock to a greasy mat that I did manage to tease out.
Anyway, it’s not like anyone is going into the show ring very soon but I hope the others don’t point and laugh.
