Judge struck off after he poses 'frivolously' for photographer

The judge, known for his fair approach, was surprised the picture caused issues

- ELEANOR JONES

A JUDGE has been struck off by a showing society after he struck a “frivolous pose” in a photo at the Royal International (RIHS) in July.

Russell Marks said he is “stuck for words” after the British Miniature Horse Society (BMHS) told him it was preparing its list of panel judges for 2025, and that he had “unfortunately not met the standards expected to be included on our list”.

Mr Marks judged the BMHS supreme miniature horse championship in the International Arena on 27 July, and was asked to strike his “usual pose” with the winner, Harriet Miller’s Model Farm UK Midnight Meadow.

“I’m renowned for it; I’ve been doing it for years,” he told H&H. “Showing can be a bit stuck in the mud and people forget it should be fun. I try to encourage people, and I’m known for my lightheartedness and zest for life.

“I’ve done that pose many times at many shows and the photographer asked if I’d do it in the main ring.”