About Us

On The Bit Equestrian Services was established in 2005, but it all started when I started riding my first pony ‘Sparky’ at the age of 4 years old. I progressed onto a pony called ‘Dinky’, followed by ‘Frankie’, whom I still have to this day. He taught me the art of sitting and staying seated during huge bucks as he is a bit of a character !!

I started competing as a child at the age of 10 years old, mainly on the show jumping circuit.

In 1997 – 1999 I completed my HND in Equine Science and Management, which I studied at Myerscough College in Preston, Lancashire.

In 2000 I moved to Northern Spain to work as Yard Manager for the International Showjumper Luis Jesus Escobar Jimenez. Here I backed and trained young horses to enable them to go on and compete at international level. During my time with Luis I also experienced being part of the team at the Nations Cup and supported him during the Sunshine Tours.

In 2001 I returned to the North West of England where I groomed and rode for international riders gaining experience in showing, working hunter and show jumping.

In 2005 using the experiences I had gained over nearly 20 years of riding, I decided to focus on what I loved most and established On The Bit Equestrian Services.

My main aptitude is for breaking and backing young horses. I get great pleasure from working closely with youngsters in their early years, ensuring that they have received the best start in schooling and are becoming competent in competition. Each horse has a different personality and this can present a massive challenge, but the results are very rewarding. Once these youngsters have reached competition level I sell them on as competition prospects.

I also re-school difficult horses that have developed behavioural problems. It is great to see these horses’ attitudes change, for them to begin enjoying their work again so they can compete more successfully or simply be a safer, more enjoyable ride.

To assist me in professionally producing young ponies I have support and help from my close friend Jackie Smith who competes the youngsters at shows to extend their talents to county show standards.

And not forgetting my most important team member, my Dad, who is responsible for the start of my love for horses and who works tirelessly for me every day (thanks dad!).

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