In the beginning ...
Randy begins to take shape; the first stage in making the Master Sculpture. Moulds will be taken from the Master and used to produce the sections that will be re-sculpted to form the component parts of the horse.
In the beginning ...
Randy begins to take shape; the first stage in making the Master Sculpture. Moulds will be taken from the Master and used to produce the sections that will be re-sculpted to form the component parts of the horse.
The Finished master
The original sculpture was of a sixteen and a half hands racehorse and proved to be too big for a training mannequin; the beast was scaled-down slightly at the intermediate mould stage so the finished product is now just a little over fifteen hands.
The Prototype
The first working prototype; seen here outside our Leighton Workshop.
Randys first outing
Still as a prototype, Randy made his first public showing at the Large Animal Rescue Training Conference held in Lyndhurst, Hampshire.
Demonstration of the Mk.1
This is one of our first horses, a Mk.1, being demonstrated by members of the Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service.
Galvanised steel skeleton
Note the steel 'leg' components necessary to convert the Mk.1 into the free-standing Mk.2 version.
Randy at the NEC
Randy on his demonstration stand. This is the Mk.2 with lockable legs but in order to demonstrate the full range of his leg articulation he is supported on a stand that keeps his hooves off the ground.
Ready for work
A Mk.2 secured to an early version of the floor stand. Horses are now supplies with wheeled floor stands to enable easier handling.
Randy in Turkey
Jim and Josh from Hampshire F&RS training in Turkey using a translator.
Horse in a hole!
In setting-up this rescue situation, the training crew take advantage of Randy's free-standing ability.
Randy in Norfolk, seen here on his wheeled stand.
Slinging Procedures
Using a 'cow down' sling as a safe method for lifting a horse.
Public Safety
Removing the rider/owner from the danger area prior to rescuing the horse.
Ermintrude in the rough
The first stage in creating a mannequin rescue training cow.
Skinning and fettling
A student apprentice fettles the plaster skin prior to painting.
Ready for inspection
Ermintrude is now ready for inspection. This is the point where final decisions can be taken regarding size and shape and modifications made where necessary. The positions of leg joints will be established prior to taking sectional moulds.
A 'Lucky' repair
April seen here repairing and strengthening a damaged 'Lucky'. After welding the abdominal 'wound' will be closed using a two part polyurethane rubber.
Wheeled floor stand
Almost the latest version. Originally, the stands were supplied without wheels. As an aid to handling, wheels were added, two fixed at the front and two steerable at the rear - as in this photograph. To further improve mobility, we now fit castor wheels all round.
