We expect to hear that many riders, producers, horses and even stewards have busy schedules at the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS), but perhaps we don’t expect that some of the judges do, too. One such judge is Margaret Hopkins, who will officiate in four sections. She will assess the ride element in the amateur maxi cobs, the hacks and the working show horses, and will be judging the conformation phase in the intermediate working hunter pony.
Margaret Hopkins’ background in horses
“I’m not from a particularly horsey family,” says Margaret. “But I was brought up in Gloucestershire in a very horsey area.
“I’m the eldest of three sisters, and we bullied our parents into getting us a pony. We were very lucky that we had people around us who encouraged us to have a go at everything.”
As a result of this encouragement, the sisters attended Pony Club and from there, showjumped, evented, and rode in point-to-points among other things.
“And I was lucky enough to have hunted with many packs all over the country from an early age.
“I was competitive, but now I prefer the training and producing of young horses to make them become the best horses they can be in whatever field they are in.”
Margaret’s job – stable manager on the Badminton Estate – has her engage in a host of equestrian activities.
“Anything horsey that happens on the estate is in my remit,” explains Margaret.
Consequently, there’s never a dull moment in this varied role, from preparing the family’s hunters in winter, to the Badminton Horse Trials, a host of Pony Club and other events and rallies.
She also keeps her own band of broodmares, aiming to breed quality all rounders.
“I enjoy being able to ride others’ horses – it’s a privilege – and it’s a pleasure going to shows and looking at some lovely horses and seeing what’s out there.”
When it comes to judging highlights, Margaret says that she’s always enjoyed officiating at the Great Yorkshire Show.
“It attracts some of the best producers and horses, and the rings are amazing,” explains Margaret, “and you’re taken care of with some good Yorkshire hospitality.”
Harrison Taylor and Lostock Up Till Dark took the supreme ridden coloured title on the first day of the Agria Royal International Horse Show 2025.
Credit: Elli Birch/Bootsandhoove
Bethan joined Horse & Hound as showing editor in January 2025, after spending two years as Editor for Showing World. Having adored ponies since childhood, she started showing as a teenager and has enjoyed wins at major shows up and down the country, including Royal Highland, New Forest, and the Royal Welsh, as well as HOYS, RIHS and London. She is particularly passionate about Welsh breeds and is also a Welsh language commentator.
