I'd never heard of The Horse Trust before I saw the advertisement for this job. I'd started in the commercial sector, had my own company and sold it then went into the charity sector. I ended up as CEO of the MedicAlert Foundation, but the problem was I'd always cared more about animals. I was desperate to get into an animal welfare charity but it's not the easiest thing to do then I randomly saw the ad.
I arrived at The Horse Trust for the interview and knew at once I really wanted this job, and it's still the same; every time I drive through the gates, it takes my breath away. There's something magical about this place. In 2010, I moved in and I've lived and worked here ever since.
The charity was a bit unsure of itself when I started. It had its grand history [as providing sanctuary for service horses since 1886], but it was during a recession, there was no active fundraising, and although the website said "working horses", only 30 of 100 really had that background.
So I asked the trustees: "What are we doing, and what do you want us to be doing?" I spoke to services that have horses and asked if there was a need for us, for the modern working horse. They said, "Yes, there really is."
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the {{IssueName}} edition of {{MagazineName}}.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
'Sorry, but I wasn't feeling it'
Fresh from the opening meet, Tessa Waugh hasn't quite yet been bitten by the hunting bug. Without the crisp autumnal air and cheek-pinching cold she hoped for, it's a sluggish start
New pair pull off a win
A former European Championships pony is on form with his new rider, while elsewhere former showjumpers and eventers take ribbons
Lording it over the rest
Horses who have returned from injury, a second generation homebred and a long format specialist score on the final weekend of the British season
Smith hits flying form
A \"her way or no way\" mare helps Zoe Smith to an impressive ribbon haul and a rider beats his own boss to the top spot
Jankorado hits the jackpot
Paul Sims is triumphant despite his interrupted jump-off preparation and a borrowed horse comes up trumps
Peanut
From \"dangerous, scary\" to hedge-hopping brilliance, hunting has been the making of this unstable but very lovable equine character
She's a corker
Communication, says long-standing and highly respected Belvoir master Lady Sarah McCorquodale, is the key to all, as Catherine Austen discovers
Access all areas Cavalier Centre
The Cavalier Centre is a fully accessible, state-of-the-art equestrian centre designed to improve lives through horse-based activities. Ellie May Forrester pays a visit
'Use it or lose it'
Not everyone wants to reach for the pipe and slippers at a certain age. Becky Murray speaks to some veteran horse-and-rider combos for their secrets of human and equine longevity
A new way forward
Worm control in horses is vital, but established methods will not remain effective for much longer. Tim Mair FRCVS explains why and how we need to change
