Award winners 2025

This award is given to individuals, groups or organisations that have gone above and beyond to contribute to their local equestrian community. This year's winners:

• Amy Baker, Lancing Equestrian Centre - Amy runs her riding school with professionalism, warmth and integrity. She prioritises respect, safety and inclusivity, creating a supportive environment where people feel valued and empowered. She is a mentor and advocate who speaks out against unfairness and contributes to the wider community. Amy is a wonderful role model and a pillar of equestrian leadership.

• Ceffyl Du RDA Group - For forty years, Ceffyl Du RDA Carriage Driving Group has provided a life-changing experience for disabled individuals. Founded in 1985 by the remarkable Hilary Lipscombe and her friend Penny Suff, the group has become a beacon of community spirit, inclusion and perseverance. Over the decades, Hilary has filled nearly every role in the organisation, from organiser and treasurer to coach, chair, and pony caretaker. 
  

• Rosemary Bennett - Over 40 years, Rose has taught more than 2,000 people to ride and built a thriving business, caring for 26 horses while maintaining a five-star licence rating. She mentors young professionals, coaches riders at events and provides equine support to police and emergency services. She has guided over 30 individuals into equine-related careers and helps grieving families through equine therapy.

Given to the horse or pony that does the most for people. This year's winner:

• Treacle, Ride High Equestrian Centre - The adorable 27-year-old Treacle has spent her life as a riding school pony. She has the most loving nature and has given confidence to hundreds of children learning to ride, including some of the centre's current instructors! Although no longer ridden, she’s taken on a new role with alacrity, becoming a beloved pony for sensory, groundwork and SEN sessions.  

Award to a volunteer who has made a positive impact on their fellow volunteer and/or a significant achievement for the Society. This year's winner:

• Caroline Bradley - Caroline has devoted over 15 years to volunteering with BHS, transforming equestrian access across North West Yorkshire. As CABO, she has tenaciously championed bridleway protection and expansion, navigating challenging legal and bureaucratic processes. Caroline’s efforts have created safer, scenic and sustainable riding routes while protecting vital rural heritage, including the successful campaign to upgrade a historic footpath to a bridleway. 

This award recognises a young person aged 16–25 years who commits time, effort, and a significant contribution through volunteering with the BHS. This year's winner:

• Olivia Swinbourne - Olivia has been a Horse Care and Welfare Adviser for over two years, handling welfare cases with professionalism and compassion. She actively supports Horse Health Days, including weighing over 70 horses at the BRC championships, and contributes to education and healthcare clinics. Despite being one of the youngest volunteers, she mentors new advisers, providing guidance and support.

Awarded to someone under 25 years old who shows outstanding potential and achievement. This year's winner:

• Samantha Barton - Samantha is a remarkable young woman who turned hardship into purpose. After a challenging start in life, everything changed at Redberth Croft CIC when she began as a shy volunteer and is now Farm Manager. Samantha cares for rescue animals, mentors vulnerable people and inspires others through her resilience. Now pursuing equine therapy qualifications, Samantha is determined to help others rebuild confidence and discover their own potential.  

This award is given to a participant in the CLTH programme who has shown exceptional commitment to their personal development. This year's winner:

• Brooke Fairhill - When Brooke joined the CLTH programme, she was a deeply withdrawn, anxious child. Gradually, she began to rediscover herself, and develop trust and a sense of belonging. Her true personality and potential started to shine and she became engaged in all aspects of riding and horse care, and she was selected to represent Clwyd Special Riding Club in several high-profile media interviews including ITV Wales and Channel 4 News. 
• Kaden Wilson - When Kaden first arrived at Country Treks, even simple interactions were overwhelming. He was slowly introduced to the basics of horse care and Kaden began to form a bond with Della, a kind and patient Clydesdale cross. Then when Kaden began attending five days a week, he started communicating more freely, engaging with his peers and has now grown into a confident, polite, resilient and determined young man. 

This is awarded to an individual or organisation who has shown exceptional dedication to equestrianism and volunteering within the BHS South Region. This year's winner:

• Richard Halson-Best - Richard has been a dedicated volunteer at Checkendon Equestrian Centre for many, many years. Now in his eighties, he still comes twice a month to steward dressage competitions and often drops by to complete odd jobs. A committed BHS member, he reports access issues and supports their work. Whatever the task or weather, Richard remains cheerful and reliable. 

This is awarded for excellent service by a volunteer (team) or Equestrian Access Group in furtherance of enhanced equestrian access. This year's winner:

• Sharni Longley - Volunteer Sharni has made a remarkable impact on her riding community as founder of NPT Riders, a BHS-affiliated EAG. She inspires and organises riders locally and beyond, promoting and protecting equestrian public rights of way and permissive routes. Collaborating with local authorities and Natural Resource Wales, she has opened new routes, improved surfaces and secured funding for a much-needed resting place. 

This is awarded for excellent service by an organisation in furtherance of enhanced equestrian access. This year's winner:

• Keith Marsh, Transient Designs - For over a decade, Keith has collaborated with BHS to improve equestrian access and road safety, designing safer crossings, reconnecting severed bridleways and enhancing peripheral lighting for horse visibility. Through Transient Designs, he is helping establish ‘horse-friendly’ infrastructure as an emerging national best practice in road development. 

For excellent service by an individual, volunteer (team) or group in the cause of road safety in the equine community. This year's winners:

• EnduranceWithDarcey, Katie Smart and Victoria Privett - Katie and Victoria experienced traumatic horse-related incidents involving dogs, leading to serious injuries and the loss of Katie’s horse, Sir George. Rather than retreating, they turned their experiences into advocacy. Victoria used social media to educate riders and dog walkers, building a 250,000-strong following. Together, they launched a petition for legislation requiring dogs to be leashed near horses, gaining over 20,000 signatures and engaging MPs and DEFRA. Katie raised awareness at events and supported horse owners in meetings, while Victoria continues public outreach. Though no laws have changed yet, their efforts have likely prevented further injuries. 

This trophy recognises excellent service by an organisation, business or business associate in the cause of equestrian safety. This year's winner is:

• Josie Jordan, Project EDWARD - In October 2024, the death of racehorse Knockalla spurred a major equestrian road safety initiative. Alan Hiscox of BHS, with Project EDWARD’s James Luckhurst and Josie Jordan, organised a high-profile awareness ride from the accident site to the Royal Windsor Horse Show. Josie invested immense effort to amplify the BHS Dead Slow campaign and 2022 Highway Code changes, reaching over 20 million people via TV, radio, social media and equestrian outlets.

Given for excellent service by an individual, volunteer (team) or group in the cause of equine welfare. This year's winners:

• Debbie Payne - Debbie became a volunteer Welfare Adviser in 2023. Since when, she has attended numerous welfare concerns and always deals with them in an empathetic but professional manner. She has faced some unfriendly horse owners with resilience and always follows the correct procedures. She regularly attends training sessions, enabling her to give the most relevant and up-to-date advice to horse owners. 

This award recognises excellent service by an organisation, business or professional person in the cause of equine welfare. This year's winners:

• Dr Kelly Yarnell, Nottingham Trent University - Kelly is deeply committed to improving horse health and welfare and serves as a lecturer at Nottingham Trent University. She spearheaded a pioneering BHS-focused work placement module, allowing students to contribute to equine welfare while raising awareness of BHS. The first two cohorts covered equine asthma and allergies. Kelly’s leadership ensures students’ creative insights benefit BHS, with the next cohort focusing on equine housing. 

Awarded to a coach who has made the greatest difference to their students and the field of equestrian training within an Approved Centre. This year's winner:

• Bradley Pearce, Smugglers Equestrian - Bradley stands out because of his exceptional teaching abilities, his commitment to his students and the positive influence he has on the local equine community. He makes learning to ride a rewarding and enjoyable experience, adapting to the needs of his students while encouraging progress for all, regardless of the barriers. Parents and fellow instructors alike speak incredibly highly of his contributions.

Given to a freelance coach who has made the greatest difference to their students and the field of equestrian training. This year's winner:

• Sue Chadwick - Sue is a highly respected and dedicated coach whose impact on equestrian sport spans over three decades and covers riders of all levels and abilities. Her influence is evident in the success of her students, most notably Oliver Townend, a distinguished event rider and winner of many prestigious competitions. Beyond her coaching, Sue is a passionate advocate and volunteer for equestrian access and community engagement.

Awarded to a coach in the CLTH programme who has shown exceptional dedication to their participant’s personal growth and development. This year's winner:

• Sue Lynch - Sue is a wheelchair user and does not let this put any boundaries in her way. Her love, passion and knowledge of horses is immense, and she champions the ethos of BHS and the impact that its training delivers. She brings empathy, kindness, determination and total understanding to each individual, giving them all the confidence they need to move forward in life, and also building impressive CLTH provision. 

This award is given to the centre that has made the greatest difference to their community. Recipients of this award are committed to promoting the BHS values.

• Braeside Equestrian Centre provides a welcoming community where riders of all ages and abilities thrive. Jane’s deep knowledge of all equestrian disciplines, her endless patience and her genuine care for horses and people make her an outstanding trainer, mentor and friend. Jane has inspired hundreds, if not thousands, of riders over the years, creating a haven where people come to learn, grow and find joy with horses.

This award goes to an approved CLTH centre who has shown exceptional inspiration, engagement, innovation, and commitment. This year's winner:

• Wirral Riding Centre - It’s rare to win an award two years ‘on the trot’, but the team at Wirral Riding Centre received an unprecedented level of support. Led by Stacey McDowell, they are enhancing the lives of so many young people and constantly driving to grow their programme. Many of the students have physical and mental health concerns, some severe, but everyone is welcome and everyone’s needs are accommodated to facilitate them becoming the best version of themselves.  

This award celebrates individuals, businesses or organisations who have voluntarily dedicated a bridleway. This year's winner:

• Howard and Deirdre Coates - Equestrians, the Dorset Local Access Forum and Morcombelake Parish Council had all highlighted safety issues with horses crossing the busy A35, a key coastal route and where riders face heavy traffic. Generous local landowners Howard and Deirdre have now dedicated a kilometre-long public bridleway behind a hedge, providing a safe route for horse riders, cyclists and walkers to access countryside routes. 
• David and Sarah Hardwick - David and Sarah have generously dedicated nearly one kilometre of bridleway on their land to correct a mapping anomaly, connecting to a restricted byway in Shropshire. Understanding the challenges horse riders face, the Hardwicks’ contribution enhances the county’s limited equestrian-accessible public rights of way. Funding came from the BHS Ride Out UK fund alongside various local sources. 

This award recognises exceptional work by a BHS Committee, British Riding Club or Equestrian Access Group. This year's winner:

• The BHS Grampian committee is a highly active, motivated and self-sufficient committee that delivers a diverse range of excellent events including career days, clinics, fun shows, rides and talks to engage all audiences. The volunteers work exceptionally well together, requiring minimal input from national or regional managers. The committee is passionate, hardworking and committed to improving opportunities for horses and riders in the area.

This award is given to a writer, broadcaster or publication whose work has been particularly beneficial to promoting the enjoyment of equestrianism and raising awareness of BHS campaigns and wider issues within the equine industry. This year's winner:

• Katy Mellow - Young equestrian Katy has created 47 safe, circular routes for horse riders, cyclists and walkers across the Shropshire Hills as part of The Pathfinder Project. The programme maps routes with detailed information such as distance, riding time, difficulty, gates, terrain, parking and videos. Katy worked for eight months to provide safe off-road alternatives and collaborated with BHS to add the routes to OS Maps.

This award is given for a notable triumph against the odds, showing determination, courage and sportsmanship. 

• Jenna Whitaker - Jenna is a dedicated member of Howden Equestrian Centre, ensuring lessons run smoothly, staff are supported, and horse welfare is kept to the highest standard. Her passion for equine care is evident through her BHS training and enthusiasm for sharing knowledge. Despite significant personal challenges, Jenna continues to work tirelessly and she recently achieved her Stage 5 Stable Manager qualification on her first attempt.   

This award is given in recognition of exceptional service to the Society over a period of years. This year's winner:

• Adrian Bigg - Adrian has been an outstanding access volunteer for over 20 years, serving as both Cornwall’s CABO and Regional Access and Bridleways Officer for the South West since 2003. He has supported his team tirelessly, offering guidance on complex access issues and building a strong network of volunteers. Adrian is highly respected for his ability to navigate political challenges, particularly around shared cycleway use, and for championing equestrian rights. His advocacy includes media appearances such as on BBC Spotlight South West.

Awarded for consistently excellent service to the Society over a period of years. This year's winners:

• Anne Everall - Anne, 78, is the founder and co-owner of Acrecliffe Equestrian Centre, established in 1964. She still rides and coaches daily, inspiring students with her passion and dedication. Over 60 years, she has transformed the centre from a small riding school into a top-class BHS Assessment Centre. A successful side-saddle competitor, Anne holds numerous qualifications, has won many competitions, and serves on multiple equestrian committees.

• Hazel Armstrong - Hazel, chair of the East Riding Local Access Forum, BHS CABO for East Yorkshire and North Lincolnshire, and a BHS volunteer for 50 years, has played a key role in creating a new seven-kilometre bridleway in East Yorkshire. After nearly a decade of planning, consultation and construction, the bridleway now runs along a flood defence embankment.

• Tim Brier - Tim has been a central figure in the work of BHS for many decades. He currently serves as Vice Chair for the BHS North West Kent Committee and, remarkably, even as he celebrates his 80th birthday this year, he continues to work tirelessly with passion, energy and commitment. A kind and empathetic BHS coach, he also excels in promoting safety, welfare and education. 

This award recognises excellent service in promoting the work of the Society. This year's winner:

• Nick Gauntlett FBHS - Nick is a passionate coach and accomplished rider, having represented Great Britain on Young Rider Teams and Senior Nations Cups, earning an Armada dish for five clear rounds at Badminton. Since 2023, he has championed BHS Coaching qualifications, leading to 18 elite riders, including Olympic medallists, achieving the BHSI. His efforts have elevated the value of BHS coaches for all riders.

This year's winner:

• Mary Bates - Mary has devoted countless hours to supporting club activities and competitions, over many years, showing exceptional leadership, organisation and knowledge of equestrian sport. She goes above and beyond to promote inclusivity, supports fellow members and volunteers, and upholds the highest standards of equestrianism. Her dedication, humility and passion, alongside her unwavering positive influence, totally reflect the values of the Leo Harris Award. 

This year's winner:

• Ingatestone & Blackmore Riding Club - In 2024/25, this club achieved remarkable growth and success through teamwork and commitment. Activities were expanded across all disciplines, including camps, clinics and a coach trip to Burghley. Juniors excelled, winning championships and boosting participation. The club embraced inclusivity, community fundraising and volunteer recognition, ensuring all members - regardless of ability or background - feel supported, valued and part of a welcoming, thriving equestrian community.

This year's winner:

• Carole Meade - Carole has been a dedicated member of Weaver Riding Club since it was founded 10 years ago, serving as membership and competition secretary. In addition, she is treasurer for Area 20, an official steward, and area representative. Carole is kind, caring, and deeply committed to the club and its members, ensuring inclusivity and support for all riders. She meticulously organises competitions, keeping everyone informed of rules and schedules. Always present, proactive and selfless, Carole’s dedication and reliability make her the heart of the club and the true epitome of community spirit.