So, I started looking around at my options. Now, I did think of taking the trailer test, so that I can pull a trailer. However, after seeing some horrific trailer accidents on the motorway, I wasn't 100% keen on this idea. So the alternative was to look at driving a 7.5 tonne horsebox. To do this, I found I would need to take my Large Goods Vehicle (LGV), C1 Test. This includes a medical, multiple choice theory, hazard perception and a practical test.
This enables me to drive a horsebox up to 7.5 tonne total weight including the weight of your horses, your kit and your lorries unladen weight, altogether cannot exceed 7.5 tonne. Luckily enough I have found a horsebox that is light enough that I can take three horses and my kit and still be within the legal weight limit, which is definitely something to watch out for as the fines for being over weight are massive.
So, I found a nice reasonably priced box that yes is rather old but well looked after and low mileage. I then sought about finding somewhere to teach me and sort my test. After a bit of looking I found EP Training who are in Bookham, Surrey. They were really really good, super efficient and got everything booked and sorted for me with minimum hassle. The cost is about 1500 GBP, which yes is a lot, but it does get you completely booked and sorted for everything including training manuals and lessons and providing a vehicle for you to test in. I think I got from my medical to passing the test in under 4 weeks. Was a really good, easy experience.
So, now I am live and ready to rock, exciting times !!!