I grew up in Surrey and was pony‑mad from an early age. My first “own” pony arrived as an eleventh birthday present, and from there my equestrian life took off.  I went on to represent both my pony club and riding club in inter‑branch teams, her enthusiasm for horses developing rapidly. I competed in Affiliated Showjumping for many years and, more recently, Concours d’Elegance (riding side-saddle in period costume).

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For many years, I ran a yard of ten horses and spent every weekend showjumping. My involvement in the equestrian world spanned fifty‑four years, during which time I  coached, commentated, bred horses, broke youngsters in, designed courses, and organized shows for local clubs and charities. I also served as a regular equestrian correspondent for two newspaper groups and a glossy colour magazine.

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After countless hours towing trailers and driving horseboxes, I eventually took her advanced motoring exam—partly, because it was the only set of letters I was ever likely to have after my name.

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Writing poetry was a hobby very much in the shadows, until 1989, while planning my wedding, I discovered that my intended, Roger, also a keen horseman, had no intention of making a speech. So, I set about creating one myself: a long, rhyming, fully memorized piece complete with a musical chorus and a sing‑along section for the guests. Its reception was so enthusiastic that it sparked a desire to bring more of my writing to life.

 

Ill health eventually caught up with Roger, and after thirty‑one happy years together, I lost him.  Still based in Surrey but now a widow, I have turned my spare time and creative energy toward Gift Acre.