Footballer John Terry’s wife buys Pidgley horses

England “WAG” Toni Terry has become the latest celebrity to take up dressage.

The wife of England and Chelsea football captain John Terry is currently training with former Olympic rider Vicki Thompson at Oldencraig Equestrian Centre in Surrey.

Mrs Terry used to ride before having children, but six months ago bought Friesian stallion, Delmonte, from Germany to ease her back into the discipline.

She has now added two more to her string — the five-year-old stallion Beltoni and grand prix schoolmaster Diamond Fritz. Both came from Sarah and Tony Pidgley, who last month sold all 42 of their horses (news, 22 January).

Ms Thompson teaches Mrs Terry dressage three to four times a week.

“She is very easy to work with and understands the discipline and focus required,” Ms Thompson told H&H. “She’s very lucky to have three beautiful horses. Delmonte especially, as he’s very sensible.”

Mrs Terry’s father, Alan Poole, is also a keen rider and trains at Oldencraig.

A spokesman for Mrs Terry said: “Toni gave up riding when she became pregnant with twins Georgie and Summer in 2005, but feels she can continue her love of dressage now that the children attend nursery.”

Oldencraig owner Ian Winfield said: “Toni is very dedicated. She’s super to teach and aims to work her way up the competition ladder — she’s already competed Delmonte at prelim level here at Oldencraig.”

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (19 February, ’09)

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