A FARRIER OF RENOWN.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXV, Issue 20058, 22 September 1928, Page 18

A FARRIER OF RENOWN.

"BOB" WOOD'S MARRIAGE, POPULAR RACECOURSE FIGURE. MAN WHO REFUSED BRIBES. ".Bob" Wood, 'the village blacksmith,' " as he modestly describes himself, in reality the champion farrier of the racecourse, was married recently at a register office in London. The bride was Mrs. Esther Jacobson, daughter of the proprietor of one of the oldest shops in tho Strand, and a relation by hor first marriage of the Marquis of Reading. The wedding was witnessed by a small circle of friends. A wedding breakfast and reception were held at the Savoy Hotel, to which invitations were accepted by Lord and Lady George Dundas, Major V. Beatty, brother of Earl Beatty and the famous trainer, Major " Rattlo Barrett, the famous international polo player, Colonel Dansey, Colonel Johnson, tho trainer, and many other people wellknown in racing circles. Lord Lonsdale, who was unable to bo present, wired " Best wishes to Old Bob. Lord Derby sent a telegram wishing " All the best." Lord and Lady Stanley also telegraphed their regrets at not being able to be present. Colonel Sofer Whitburn, Mr. " Atty" Persse, Major Fetherstonhaugh, manager of the King's stud, Lord arid ° Lady Astor, and many other racing celebrities sent congratulations and good wishes. Telegrams were received from all parts of tho world—so many that it was impossible to read them. Tho wedding presents included two silver cigar cabinets, one from Earl Derby and one from Colonel Sofer Whitburn, a magnificent diamond and turquoise scaifpin from another famous owner whose name was not divulged, and a great many other gifts from racing people all over the world. Ono famous French owner sent a hundred bottles each of white and red wine. Silver horseshoes adorned the menu cards. Mr. Wood, in his speech to the guests, said he had many times been offered heavy bribes to " dope" famous horses for great races, including tho Derby, but that he had always endeavoured to serve his patrons in a straightforward manner. He had decided to retire when he married, but ho had received so many invitations to remain at his work that he had given up that resolve.