In a memorable ceremony with Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, The British Horse Society (BHS) has recognised all those who play a critical role in protecting and promoting the interests of all the horses in our lives.
The equine charity’s Annual Awards celebrates the individuals and organisations who have gone the extra mile to positively impact the equine community, contributing to the BHS’s charitable objectives.
Presented by BHS President Martin Clunes and BHS Ambassador Lizzie Greenwood-Hughes, dozens of individuals were awarded on the day with each one playing a key role in ensuring that the magic of horses can be enjoyed by future generations.
James Hick, CEO at The British Horse Society, adds: “We’re delighted to have been joined by our Vice Patron, Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal to recognise this year’s BHS Annual Award winners. It is always a great highlight for us, as we acknowledge the outstanding achievements of our dedicated volunteers, supporters, and partners.
Together, we continue to expand equestrian access, advance education, champion equine safety, welfare and horse care, and increase equine participation. We’re incredibly grateful for the invaluable contributions of everyone involved; the BHS simply wouldn’t be what it is today without their passion and commitment.”
A memorable moment in the ceremony was when The Princess Royal was invited to present Sister Mary-Joy Langdon with the President’s Award. Having run Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre for the last 35 years, Sister Mary-Joy has had an irreplaceable impact on the equestrian world. Her vision to help young people in London experience the joy of horses has transformed over 11,000 lives, and her compassion and dedication will be missed dearly in the community when she retires this year.
For the third year running, Changing Lives through Horses (CLtH) has featured strongly in this year’s role of honour. Daniel Eddies-Davies’s amazing commitment has been recognised with this year’s Changing Lives through Horses Coach Award. Daniel continues to create an inclusive and welcoming environment for every child taking part in the programme. He takes the time to understand each of their needs and helps them to excel on their journey.
The Approvals Award went to Cardiff Riding School, one of the few remaining local authority owned and operated riding schools in the UK. The centre’s continued efforts to inspire and uplift individuals from all backgrounds, and unwavering commitment to inclusivity, community engagement and personal development, makes this award long overdue.
Liam Skea was awarded the Young BHS Volunteer of the Year Award for his incredible commitment to horses and horse-lovers. Ever active in his role as an Accredited Professional Coach, Liam also volunteers to represent the BHS at horse shows across the country and as a welfare advisor.
After several long years inspiring and encouraging young people, Patrick the pony won The Equine Personality Award. Entering retirement, it would be remiss to not recognise the years of joy he has brought to countless lives. Ever loving, calm and playful, Patrick has helped many people achieve and develop their dreams of riding.
Special Constable Volunteer Stuart Mottershaw received one of four Safety Awards, alongside PC Emily Thomas, PC Sarah Harward and Lesley Broadhurst. All winners continue to show great dedication and support to equine road safety. Together, they have helped to spread the key BHS Dead Slow campaign messages to thousands of motorists and other road users.
The Lady Elizabeth Kirk Award was presented to Yorkshire Dales National Park Authority for their outstanding support of their local equestrian community. Working alongside the BHS, they have created a 2.5km stretch of bridleway, giving equestrians the opportunity to explore even more of the Yorkshire countryside.
Dedicated volunteers Celia Stockdale and Millie Crane were each awarded a Welfare Award for their impact and dedication to equestrian welfare. Celia has successfully improved the lives of several of the horses she has been out to see and her work has included four owners needing Friends at the End support. While vet Millie, through the BEVA trust, plays a vital part at the BHS’s Healthcare & Education Clinics.
Her Royal Highness praised the incredible work of all the award winners in a speech during the ceremony at Newbury Racecourse. This included Liz Eaton who was recently welcomed by the BHS as its newest Fellow.
The Princess Royal was also invited to watch the BHS’s Annual Charity Race Day, which saw 10 amateur jockeys raise £30,000 for the equine charity, and present all the riders with a bottle of Champagne plus a Magnum for the jockey and trainer of the winning horse.
A full list of all the 2024 award winners is available here: https://www.bhs.org.uk/about-us/annual-awards/award-winners-2024/
Read more information about the BHS Annual Awards and how you can nominate for the 2025 Awards by visiting: www.bhs.org.uk/awards
If you’d like to become a volunteer for The British Horse Society, visit www.bhs.org.uk/volunteer
