The best friend and husband of the inspirational Claire Lomas are carrying on her fundraising work in her name and memory, aiming to push her lifetime total to the £1m mark.

Claire successfully evented up to four-star (now five-star) level until she was paralysed from the chest down in a fall in 2007. She went on to raise over £952,000 for charity before she died, aged 44, in an accident last summer.

“It was devastating to lose her but I vowed to carry on fundraising in her name,” her friend Stuart Hall told H&H. “I want to take it up to £1m as a true legacy for an amazing lady. It just seems just the right figure for Claire, really, something she was hoping to do and then go beyond.”

Stuart and Claire met at a sports awards ceremony in their home town Melton Mowbray some 15 years ago and had been friends ever since.

“We just became great friends and did all the charity stuff and challenges; we did everything together,” he said. “Her husband Dan and I did the London Marathon with her in 2021, when Claire went in a wheelchair, and we were the ‘good girls’, running in high heels, wigs and big boobs!

“She was just always so positive and full of fun, and nothing would daunt her; I used to call her a cuckoo, ‘You keep coming up with these ideas, you must be daft’, but she went through with every one. She inspired so many people.”

Stuart’s fundraising page is online now

Stuart also accompanied Claire to some of her inspirational speaking engagements, and saw the effect she had on people.

“It was uplifting, to see what a difference she could make to people’s lives,” he said. “And she didn’t really know why. She said ‘That’s just me’.”

Stuart has been organising fundraisers for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation, a charity close to Claire’s heart. These include auctions and a motorbike ride, and also a cross-country course-walk at Bramham International Horse Trials with Lucinda Green on 6 June.

He and Dan are also taking on their own version of the Three Peaks Challenge – the Three Spokes. They are aiming to complete the Great Manchester Run on Sunday (18 May), the Great North Run in September and the Great South Run in October, in wheelchairs in tribute to Claire.

“Dan, Claire and I did do the Great North and the Great South in wheelchairs a few years ago,” Stuart said. “So we have done it, but we practised no end for that!

“My wife and I were in Jordan last year when Claire passed away and that night, me, Dan and my wife sat at the bar, and we just said ‘Let’s do a challenge next year for Claire’, and the wheelchair one just seemed the most appropriate.

“If we can get to £1m, I’ll be really chuffed. And I just hope she’s looking down, watching.”

To book a place on the course-walk, or for more information, email claireschallenge@mail.com. To donate, visit the fundraising page or to give £5, text CUCKOO to 70085.

You may also be interested in:

Inspirational former eventer Claire Lomas dies aged 44

‘Don’t stop me now’: inspirational Claire Lomas raises £30k in nine-day marathon

The former eventer shaved more than a week off her previous marathon personal best and raised more than £30,000 for

‘I just kept marching’: Claire Lomas walks through the night to complete tough challenge

Claire battled through wind and rain, walking through the night to complete the 10-mile route in 24 hours and raise

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The inspirational former international event rider Claire Lomas MBE has died at the age of 44.

In a statement sent to the Melton Times, her devastated family said Claire died as a result of an accident in Jordan on 22 August.

Claire was a successful advanced eventer who suffered a spinal cord injury in a fall in 2007 and was paralysed from the chest down. She went on to fundraise over £900,000 and became a motivational speaker.

Claire was a chiropractor before her fall and had competed up to four-star (now five-star) level.

She made headlines all over the world in 2012 when she completed the London Marathon in 17 days in a robotic walking suit, raising £220,000 for charity. The next year, she completed a 400-mile hand-cycle through England, raising £85,000. She completed the Great North Run in five days, the Great South Run by walking through the night and the Greater Manchester Marathon. She was appointed MBE in 2017 for her fundraising efforts.

Claire wrote two books and spoke at events across the world; she also achieved her motorbike race licence and private pilot’s licence. She married Dan, whom she met a year after her fall, and had two daughters, Maisie and Chloe.

“We are absolutely devastated to lose Claire,” her family told the Melton Times.

“We would ask people to respect our privacy in the coming days to allow us to grieve in peace.”

Claire’s funeral will be held at St Mary’s Church, Melton Mowbray. The Melton Times was asked by her family to advise other media outlets not to contact them until further notice.

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news throughout the Paralympic Games, Burghley, Horse of the Year Show and more, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You might also be interested in:

Former event rider Claire Lomas to tackle second London Marathon

‘Don’t stop me now’: inspirational Claire Lomas raises £30k in nine-day marathon

The former eventer shaved more than a week off her previous marathon personal best and raised more than £30,000 for

‘I just kept marching’: Claire Lomas walks through the night to complete tough challenge

Claire battled through wind and rain, walking through the night to complete the 10-mile route in 24 hours and raise

Claire Lomas gets licence to race — motorbikes

The inspirational former eventer said she was “more nervous than cross-country morning at Burghley” and is already planning her next

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The Bigger Picture

Author: Claire Lomas

Published: 2022

Available as paperback (ISBN 978-0-9927990-3-8) and ebook (ISBN 978-0-9927990-4-5)

£1 from each book will be donated to Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation

View now at claireschallenge.co.uk

About The Bigger Picture by Claire Lomas

The Bigger Picture is former event rider turned inspirational speaker and fundraiser Claire Lomas’s second autobiography, following on from Finding My Feet, which was published in 2014. Never one to miss an opportunity, Claire took the shut down of almost everything caused by the coronavirus pandemic as the chance to once again put pen to paper and update her fans with the remarkable rollercoaster that is her life.

Self-published with a foreword written by her husband Dan, who as a sufferer of obsessive compulsive disorder (OCD) describes himself as “Claire’s challenge” – which is the banner under which all of Claire’s fundraising efforts take place, the book is an honest and open account of the highs and lows of Claire’s life as a wife, mother of two daughters, and so much more. The book touches lightly on the early days after her accident that lead to her paralysis, as these are covered extensively in Finding My Feet, before moving on to more recent events.

Claire is pictured on the cover sat in her wheelchair beside the tree at Osberton that lead to her paralysis in a fall in May 2007.

Review

Firstly, you do not need to have read Finding My Feet to enjoy – and benefit from – reading The Bigger Picture by Claire Lomas. Each of the 51 short chapters focuses on an event in Claire’s life in a loosely chronological order, with a little jumping back and forth as events overlap at times.

While Claire’s story is well known, the book gives genuine insight into both the day-to-day challenges she faces when undertaking seemingly simple tasks that most of us take for granted, such as dropping her two girls at school, through to how much is involved in setting up any of her fundraising challenges, and how she’s come to learn to ride a motorbike and fly a plane. She is also open about the difficulties she has faced in her marriage, the impact of Dan’s OCD on them both, and how they’ve managed to get through some very rocky periods.

Throughout the book, key sentences that offer important takeaways for the reader are highlighted. Some of these are Claire’s own thoughts – “There will be setbacks but we must rise back up and keep moving forwards” – while others are attributed to their authors – “Don’t limit your challenges, challenge your limits” Jerry Dunn. While they sit comfortably in the prose, they often made me stop and think, giving this book real value beyond simply being an enjoyable and inspirational read.

About the author

Claire Lomas is a former event rider who was left paralysed from the chest down following a collision with a tree while competing at Osberton Horse Trials in May 2007. Since her accident she has raised more than £825,000 for charity, is a renowned motivational speaker, rides motorbikes on track days, is a qualified pilot and mum to two girls.

You might also be interested in:

Leap of Faith: Frankie Dettori’s autobiography

£20

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade your subscription to access our online service that brings you breaking news and reports as well as other benefits. 

Former event rider Claire Lomas is calling on the equestrian community to support an online charity auction ahead of her second London Marathon.

Claire, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country fall at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007, will take on the London Marathon on 3 October pushing herself in her wheelchair while wearing full motorcycle leathers, boots and a helmet. In 2012 she completed the marathon over 16 days while wearing a bionic suit.

Claire is raising funds for disabled children’s charity Whizz-Kidz and aims to complete the 26.2 miles in one day. She had been due to take part last year but the event was cancelled owing to the pandemic.

“I was given a guaranteed place in the 2020 marathon through the London Marathon Spirit of London Award which gives 20 places to those with different stories to tell. I know how difficult it can be to get a place so I knew I couldn’t turn it down,” she told H&H.

“It’s going to be tough but I’ll definitely get there. I can get going reasonably well in training but then I put all the gear on and with the helmet it’s so heavy so I don’t know how many hours it’s going to take. I’ve been training up and down my drive which can be quite tedious going back and forth.”

As part of her fundraising for Whizz-Kids Claire will hold an online auction starting the week of the London Marathon until 4 October. Donated lots include a complete showjump with fillers, horse feed, a holiday in Austria, flying lessons, and a cross-country schooling day.

“Already the equestrian community has been so supportive, as it always is, but I’m hoping we can get some more donations. We have five weeks to drum up as many items as possible so we’re looking for some top riders to offer lessons, equestrian gear we can auction or tickets to an event,” said Claire.

“I’m raising money for this brilliant charity that helps children with disabilities and shows them they can live good lives and become confident adults. It also helps get them mobility equipment – lightweight wheelchairs can cost £4000-£5000 and these children deserve the best equipment that makes their life easier. Some children want an Xbox, but for these children they want a lightweight wheelchair.”

As well as Claire’s fundraising efforts, she holds motivational talks and two days before the London Marathon she will return to Osberton for the first time since her accident to speak at a business lunch.

“It’s going to be quite strange. I think it will make me think back to that day and how my life changed, but equally that day has led to a lot of new doors opening to me,” she said.

“I love doing the public speaking. I never would have imagined doing it before my accident, it would have been my worst nightmare. I’m also planning to visit schools to talk to disabled children about abilities; I found since my accident I have more abilities than before – I’m taking part in my second London Marathon, I‘m training to become a pilot and I ride my motorcycle on track days. I think it’s about focusing on what you can do. Hearing from the children and how they have benefited from the charity will be really nice to hear before I’m pushing round the marathon.“

If you are interested in donating a lot to the auction contact Claire on claireschallenge@mail.com

You might also be interested in:

‘Don’t stop me now’: inspirational Claire Lomas raises £30k in nine-day marathon

The former eventer shaved more than a week off her previous marathon personal best and raised more than £30,000 for

Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas completes London Marathon

A huge crowd turned out on The Mall in central London to cheer her over the finishing line. She has

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Former event rider Claire Lomas hopes to inspire those who have struggled through lockdown by hosting a motivational webinar as she looks back at her journey.

Claire, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country fall in 2007, will host the online event on 13 July at 8pm. The live 45-minute talk followed by a question and answer session costs £7.50 to view with proceeds going to the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation, and Whizz-Kidz, the charity Claire for which was raising money in what would have been her second London Marathon, before it was cancelled owing to the pandemic.

Claire, who has raised more than £660,000 for charity since her accident, told H&H she hopes the webinar will help those who have been struggling.

“Everyone is having quite a hard time at the moment and it’s so easy to get fed up. Even if this helps one or two people and gives them a bit of motivation, and raises some money for charity, it will be a good thing to do,” she said.

“I will take people through my journey and how I rebuilt my life. Hopefully it will give people some tips to take away, whether they’re dealing with a big change, or when things don’t go to plan – and with horses it doesn’t always.”

Claire started giving motivational talks after completing her first London Marathon, while wearing a bionic suit, in 2012. She has also completed the Great South Run in 2017, and the Manchester Marathon in 2018, wearing a robotic suit.

“I love doing talks,” she said. “Before my accident I would never have been a speaker, it would have been my worst nightmare to do something like this, but sometimes life changes and takes you in a different direction.

“I’m always nervous to begin with, it’s a bit like leaving the start box at an event, but then my nerves go. When you’ve had that adrenaline all your life through competing, I feel lucky I now have a career that gives me a similar buzz.”

Article continued below…

‘Don’t stop me now’: inspirational Claire Lomas raises £30k in nine-day marathon

The former eventer shaved more than a week off her previous marathon personal best and raised more than £30,000 for

Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas completes London Marathon

A huge crowd turned out on The Mall in central London to cheer her over the finishing line. She has

Subscribe to Horse & Hound magazine today – and enjoy unlimited website access all year round

Claire had been preparing to take part in this year’s London Marathon, originally scheduled to take place on 26 April, in her everyday, non-motorised wheelchair while wearing full motorcycle leathers. She is waiting to hear if the rescheduled event will take place in October.

“My leathers are so restrictive and hot,” she said. “I’d been going up and down my drive and hit the 13-mile mark in training, then it was cancelled so that was hard. Now there’s the ‘what if’ it still takes place so I’ve got to stay fit!”

Places for the webinar can be booked here.

We continue to publish Horse & Hound magazine weekly during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as keeping horseandhound.co.uk up to date with all the breaking news, features and more. Click here for info about magazine subscriptions (six issues for £6) and access to our premium H&H Plus content online.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has shaved more than a week off her marathon personal best and raised more than £30,000 for spinal research.

The inspirational former eventer walked the Manchester Marathon in a robotic rewalk suit, finishing in an emotional reception on Monday (16 April).

“I’m tired, but I’m great,” said Claire, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country accident in 2007, adding she is happy to back at home with her family.

“It was hard work, but you can’t come back and just rest when you have two little girls!”

Claire’s family was there to walk with and support her throughout.

Sporting stars and celebrities, including Clare Balding and Olympic gold medal-winning hockey player Kate Richardson-Walsh, walked with Claire for part of the marathon.

On the final day, the route took Claire past John Shaw Equestrian — a riding school, livery yard and competition centre — and staff brought out a pony for Claire’s eldest daughter Maisie, five, to ride alongside her mother.

Claire has completed numerous challenges to raise funds for the work done by the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation to help cure paralysis.

This was her second marathon — she completed her first, the 2012 London Marathon, in 17 days, and knocked more than eight days off that time to complete the Manchester Marathon in nine.

“That’s quite a lot less, so I’m really pleased, but my aim really was to raise money and awareness [for the work the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation does] and I’m really pleased with how that has gone,” added Claire.

“I had so much support out there and it keeps you going when you get tired — people’s generosity along the route and the messages I received were amazing.”

A pre-race auction, with lots including a demo and yard tour with Carl Hester, a day with Mary King, a spa day and entry to many of the UK’s top events, raised £6,947.

“That was a real boost,” added Claire.

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

Claire Lomas to walk marathon to help fund clinical trials

The inspirational former eventer will be walking the Manchester Marathon in a robotic walking suit in aid of the Nicholls

‘I just kept marching’: Claire Lomas walks through the night to complete tough challenge

Claire battled through wind and rain, walking through the night to complete the 10-mile route in 24 hours and raise

Claire Lomas gets licence to race — motorbikes

The inspirational former eventer said she was “more nervous than cross-country morning at Burghley” and is already planning her next

She was walking as part of BBC Radio 2 broadcaster Vassos Alexander’s #dontstopmenow team of 10 inspirational people taking part in the marathon.

BBC Radio 2 breakfast presenter Chris Evans and Vassos both said they were hoping to take part in the Melton Mowbray Road 2 Recovery race day on 10 June, which Claire organises.

Claire added she has another challenge planned, with more details to be revealed soon.

Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lotsofsmallsteps to donate to Claire’s fund.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

In this week’s magazine, out on Thursday 19 April 2018, don’t miss our special report from the British Dressage Winter Championships, plus full analysis from the Grand National — including expert comment, pictures and more. Read our report from the dressage and showjumping World Cup finals, and in this week’s ‘vet clinic’ we discuss the facts about fitness.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas is taking on her second marathon this spring.

The former eventer, who was paralysed from the chest down in a fall at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007, will be walking the Manchester Marathon on 8 April wearing a robotic ReWalk suit.

Broadcaster Vassos Alexander, who provides the sport news on Chris Evans’ BBC Radio 2 weekday breakfast show, has chosen Claire to join his #dontstopmenow team, which is made up of 10 inspirational people taking part in the marathon.

“I can’t believe I’m doing another marathon,” Claire told H&H.

“I have been wearing the suit a lot to do talks, but I haven’t been doing any long distances in it.

“I hand-cycle to keep myself fit, I have quite a strict exercise programme, so I do feel pretty fit.”

Claire made history in 2012 when she became the first person to walk the London Marathon route wearing a robotic walking suit.

Since then, she has taken part in numerous gruelling challenges to raise money for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation (NSIF).

These include walking the Vitality London 10000 route, the Great North Run and the Great South Run. She has also obtained a licence to race motorbikes and hand-cycled around the UK.

The mother of two has already raised a total of £620,000 for the NSIF through her challenges and inspiration talks, and hopes to raise a further £10,000 for the charity through the Manchester Marathon.

An online auction is set to be launched in March, with prizes including days at Mary King and Carl Hester’s yards, tickets to the UK’s major international horse trials, plus Hiho Silver jewellery and riding kit.

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas completes London Marathon

A huge crowd turned out on The Mall in central London to cheer her over the finishing line. She has

Claire Lomas completes 640km hand cycle challenge

Claire Lomas this week finished her latest fundraising challenge — a 640km hand cycle challenge

‘I just kept marching’: Claire Lomas walks through the night to complete tough challenge

Claire battled through wind and rain, walking through the night to complete the 10-mile route in 24 hours and raise

“People have been really generous,” added Claire. “I’m so grateful for the support I have.”

She added the support of the equestrian community helped pull her through the dark days after her accident and she finds it still helps her during tough parts of her challenges.

“NSIF has just started a clinical trial and that is what the money raised is helping fund,” said Claire.

“They had really amazing results in a clinical trial in Poland [in 2012] and have two more planned — if we see similar results, hopefully that will open up a lot of doors.”

To donate, visit: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/lotsofsmallsteps

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has raised more than £10,000 after battling through high winds and rain to walk 10 miles in 24 hours in a robotic suit.

The inspirational fundraiser, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country fall 10 years ago, took on the Great South Run route to raise money for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation (NSIF).

Her start was delayed by a day due to Storm Brian hitting Portsmouth, resulting in the cancellation of all the Great South Run’s Saturday events.

The longest distance Claire had previously walked in one day was six miles.

She set off with 20,000 other participants on Sunday (22 October) and walked through the night to finish at around 10am this morning (23 October).

“I did it!” said Claire.

“I had amazing support, all through the night people popped down with cups of tea.

“It was tough — I tried not to think of the distance and I got there in the end. It went quicker than I thought, I just kept marching forwards.”

She added the atmosphere at the start was “unbelievable”, thanking all those who cheered her on and those who came down especially to see her finish.

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas completes London Marathon

A huge crowd turned out on The Mall

Claire Lomas gets licence to race — motorbikes

The inspirational former eventer said she was “more

Former eventer Claire Lomas paints own disabled parking sign

Claire Lomas hopes her actions prompts councils to

The total on Claire’s JustGiving page has topped £4,600, with offline donations taking this to around £10,000.

Online donors have also been entered into a raffle, with prizes including tickets to Badminton, Olympia and Cheltenham. This will be drawn on Wednesday (25 October).

Claire has raised more than £575,000 to help cure paralysis through a number of mammoth challenges and inspirational talks.

She was awarded her motorcycle race licence in July and her most recent challenge before this weekend was walking the 2016 Great North Run, which she completed in the bionic suit while pregnant with her second child.

Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/clairelomasgsr to support Claire

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas is preparing for her toughest challenge yet as she takes on 10 miles in 24 hours at the Great South Run.

Claire, who was paralysed in a cross-country fall at Osberton in 2007, is aiming to walk the Portsmouth route in one go this weekend (21-22 October).

She will be wearing a robotic ReWalk suit and will be walking through the night to raise money for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation (NSIF).

The mother-of-two will start at 10am on Saturday and is hoping to complete at 10am on Sunday.

The longest distance Claire has previously walked in one day is six miles and she will also have to contend with strong winds and rain as Storm Brian is predicted to reach the south coast on Saturday.

“The storm has taken my mind off walking,” laughed Claire.

“Ten miles is a big challenge for me, even without the wind and rain.”

The former event rider has been training hard for the event and went for a walk in last night’s (19 October) miserable weather to prepare herself.

She told H&H it “wasn’t easy” but she is up for the challenge and wants to give it her all.

“Training has been going better than for the Great North Run because I’m not pregnant this time, but there’s no way I can train over the distance [I will be attempting at the weekend].”

Claire is running a raffle on her JustGiving page, into which all those who make donations will be entered into. Prizes include tickets to Olympia, Badminton and Cheltenham.

“My injuries are quite life-changing, but for others theirs are even more so,” said Claire.

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas completes London Marathon

A huge crowd turned out on The Mall

Claire Lomas gets licence to race — motorbikes

The inspirational former eventer said she was “more

Claire Lomas’ toughest challenge — and exciting news

Olympic legend Mo Farrah was among the many

She added thinking of these people and knowing the money she is raising will go towards trying to find a cure for paralysis will keep her going.

Claire first grabbed national headlines in 2012 when she walked the London Marathon route in a robotic suit.

Since then, she has undertaken numerous fundraising challenges and has raised more than £590,000 for spinal research.

Visit www.justgiving.com/fundraising/clairelomasgsr to support Claire

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Paralysed former event rider Claire Lomas has been given the green light to race — on a new form of horsepower.

Claire passed her motorcycle race licence at Donington Park on 27 July and is already planning her next challenges.

“I was more nervous than when it was cross-country morning at Burghley,” said Claire.

“I reached my fastest speed so far; 100mph. The freedom is incredible.

“I hadn’t ridden with other riders so race starts and on the track with more than 30 able-bodied men was daunting.”

Claire first sat on a motorcycle two years ago when she took part in a challenge with the Bike Experience, a charity that teaches paralysed bikers how to ride safely again.

After some time away — during which she has taken on a London 10k, the Great North Run, been awarded an MBE and had her second child — she was invited to ride again at Rockingham Motor Speedway.

The 37-year-old, who has been having help from motorbike racing star Maria Costello, is planning to take part in track days and hopes to ride on circuits across Europe.

“I want to get experience — it is a bit like horseracing, or eventing,” Claire told H&H.

“You have to focus on your line and what you are doing, I’m not used to riding upsides others in a race yet.”

Article continues below…

You might also be interested in:

Claire Lomas completes 10km challenge

The former eventer has raised more than £11,000

Claire Lomas’ toughest challenge — and exciting news

Olympic legend Mo Farrah was among the many

Knighthood and honours for Rio equestrian stars in New Year list

British Rio riders, an inspirational former eventer and

The mother-of-two is now planning her next big challenge in aid of the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation — the Great South Run (21-22 October).

Claire is aiming to complete the 10-mile route overnight in her robotic ReWalk suit in one attempt.

“I’m going from being really fast on the bike to putting on the suit and being the slowest person in the whole race,” she laughed.

“This is a lot further than I have ever done in one walk before. I wanted to do something that would really push me.”

Claire was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country accident at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007.

She made history in 2012 when she became the first paralysed person to walk the London Marathon, which she did wearing the ReWalk suit.

Since her accident, Claire has raised more than £590,000 for spinal research through numerous fundraising challenges and inspirational talks.

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has given birth to her second child — a baby girl.

The inspirational former event rider and her husband Dan welcomed Chloe, weighing 5lb 7oz, to the world a month early on Tuesday (24 January).

Claire shared her thanks to Queen’s Medical Centre (QMC) in Nottingham, the maternity ward and the NHS that night.

“Relieved and delighted Chloe has arrived — so grateful to the NHS and all the staff at QMC — and that vasa previa was diagnosed,” she said.

Vasa previa is a condition where one or more of the baby’s placental or umbilical blood vessels cross beneath the baby at the entrance to the birth canal. It can be fatal for the baby if undiagnosed and the correct medical help is not given before the birth.

Fortunately Claire’s condition was picked up on a scan and Chloe was safely delivered by cesarean section on Tuesday evening.

Her elder daughter Maisie, five, has been to visit and is “over the moon” with her new sister.

Claire was appointed MBE in the New Year’s Honours List and is due to visit Buckingham Palace on 28 February for the investiture.

The Dorchester has also pledged to give Claire and her family two complimentary rooms on her trip to London.

Article continues below…

Related articles:

• Knighthood and honours for equestrian stars in New Year list
• Claire Lomas completes 10km challenge
• Claire Lomas’ toughest challenge — and exciting news

About Claire

Claire was a chiropractor and an international event rider, competing frequently at three-star level with her top horses and had a string of young up-and-coming eventers.

On 6 May 2007, she hit a tree while on the cross-country at Osberton Horse Trials and broke her neck, dislocated her back, punctured a lung and developed pneumonia. The accident left her paralysed from the chest down.

Since then, she has completed a number of gruelling challenges to raise money for spinal research.

Claire walked the London Marathon in 2012 wearing a bionic reWalk suit; in 2013 she completed a 400-mile hand cycle around the UK; and in 2016 she walked the Vitality London 10000 route and took part in the 13.1 mile Great North Run. She has also learnt to ski and ride a motorbike.

The mother-of-two has raised more than £575,000 for spinal research and is a patron of the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Five Paralympic and Olympic riders have been included in the 2017 New Year’s Honours list.

The dressage world has dominated the equestrian contingent, boasting four riders who will be recognised for services to equestrianism.

Topping the list with a knighthood is Lee Pearson, the most decorated para-equestrian of all time.

He has won 11 Paralympic gold medals, ridden at five Paralympic Games and also has 14 World and five European championship titles.

In 2011, he fell and broke his back during training and recovered to continue winning at the top of the sport, including individual gold and silver in Rio.

Reigning Olympic dressage champion Charlotte Dujardin, eight-time Paralympic gold medallist Sophie Christiansen and individual Olympic showjumping gold medallist Nick Skelton will all be awarded CBEs.

Multiple Paralympic, World and European medal-winning para-dressage rider Anne Dunham has been made an OBE and sports broadcaster Jonathan Agnew, who swapped cricked for commentating at the equestrian Olympic events in Rio, will receive an MBE.

All the riders have received honours before and this is also the second prestigious recognition in as many weeks for Nick and Sophie, who came third and fifth respectively in the BBC Sports Personality of the Year Awards on 18 December.

Inspirational former event rider Claire Lomas has also been made an MBE for charitable and voluntary services to spinal injury research. Claire, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country fall in 2007, has raised hundreds of thousands of pounds for charity by taking on challenges.

These have included hand-cycling around England and using a robotic suit to walk the London Marathon, Great North Run and Vitality London 10000 routes.

Members of the racing world who will receive honours include former jockey and retired general manager of Perth racecourse Sam Morshead, trainer and founder of the Borders MS [multiple sclerosis] Racing Club Rhona Elliot, Dr Robert Welby Henry, trainer John Gosden and Timothy Adams.

Related articles:

• Lee Pearson claims individual silver
• 11 emotional moments caught on camera in 2016
• Nick Skelton third and Sophie Christian fifth in SPOTY

Awards for sport make up 14% of the 1,197 honours being given out, while women make up just over half of the total and 8.5% of the people on the honours list consider themselves to have a disability.

Other members of Team GB who are receiving honours include Andy Murray and Mo Farah, both of whom will receive knighthoods, as well as Katherine Grainger and Jessica Ennis-Hill, who will receive damehoods.

Jason Kenny, Laura Kenny, Max Whitlock, Ellie Robinson, Helen Richardson Walsh and Kate Richardson Walsh are also among the British Rio Olympic and Paralympic sporting stars on the list.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has completed her toughest challenge yet — and revealed that her and her husband Dan are expecting a baby.

The former eventer, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country fall in 2007, was the first person across the finishing line of the Great North Run on Sunday (11 September).

She started walking in the bionic ReWalk suit on Wednesday and completed about three miles a day, finishing the final mile ahead of the rest of the field live on BBC television.

Claire told H&H the 13.1-mile route was “such hard work”.

“It has taken some effort as it was quite hilly and I was walking a long way each day,” said Claire. “It has been the toughest one yet.”

Claire, who is 16 weeks’ pregnant, struggled with morning sickness during her training and needed a trip to A&E on day three of the walk for treatment for pressure rubs on her back from the suit.

Olympic legend Mo Farrah was among those to share his support for the inspirational fundraiser.

“It was great — we stayed in the same hotel as quite a few of the sports stars, they are amazing at what they do,” said Claire.

She added the organisers of the Great North Run were “so welcoming” and that the buzz of finishing was “incredible”.

“It was hard because I was so tired — even the last mile felt difficult, it still seemed a long way,” she said.

People were stopping their cars to donate to Claire en route and she estimates the total will be around £20,000, for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation. The total on her JustGiving page has topped £13,000.

Mo described Claire as “amazing” after her finish.

“It’s pretty amazing for someone to have gone through everything she’s gone through, and yet still manage to finish the Great North Run,” he said.

Related articles:

• Claire Lomas raising more than £500,000 in mission to cure paralysis
• Claire Lomas paints own disabled parking sign
• Paralysed former eventer takes on motorbike challenge

“I just want to congratulate her and her team. This is what the Great North Run is about.

“Anyone can come out and have the motivation, and for someone like her to do that is pretty amazing.

“We just need to encourage other people to do it, and I just want to congratulate everyone who’s behind her and herself.

“For her to have the courage to complete is pretty amazing.”

Visit: justgiving.com/clairelomasGNR

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Inspirational fundraiser Claire Lomas has begun her latest challenge — the Great North Run.

The former eventer, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country fall at Osberton Horse Trialsin 2007, is walking the 13.1 mile route to raise money and awareness for the Nicolls Spinal Injury Foundation (NSIF).

Claire is wearing a bionic suit to walk the course, which runs between Newcastle and South Shields.

She began walking on Wednesday (7 September) and has been completing about three miles a day, visiting school en-route. So far, she has raised more than £10,400 on her JustGiving page.

“It will be a challenge, but I think that will bring the best out in me,” said Claire before the start.

“I have always wanted to do the Great North Run because it looks amazing, with a brilliant atmosphere.”

Those who have turned out to give their support to Claire include four-time Olympic gold medallist Mo Farah.

The mother-of-one was invited to take part in the event when race organisers at the Great Run Company heard that her entry to the Vitality London 10000 in May had been rejected. Vitality London did then offer Claire an unofficial entry to its race and Claire raised more than £12,000 for NSIF by completing the 10km route in one day.

The Great Run Company have given Claire an official entry with start number 2016. They have also devised a special route for her, starting parallel to the Great North start line and leading to the Tyne Bridge, where she joins the traditional route.

“Claire is an inspiration and we are absolutely delighted to welcome her,” said Great Run Company chief executive Mark Hollinshead. “Her enthusiasm, positivity and ‘can do’ attitude is both uplifting and infectious.”

Related articles:

• Claire Lomas raises more than £500,000 in mission to cure paralysis
• Claire Lomas completes 10km challenge
• Claire Lomas to take on the Great North Run

Her husband, Dan, and five-year-old daughter Maisie will also take part in the Mini Great North Run on Saturday (10 September).

Claire is set to complete the final mile of the race on Sunday (11 September) ahead of the 57,000 runners, live on BBC television.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has revealed she will be taking on the Great North Run in September – and she hopes well-wishers will join her en route.

Former eventer Claire, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country fall, will be walking the 13.1 mile route from Newcastle to South Shields in a robotic “ReWalk” suit.

Organisers — The Great Run Company — have given her an official entry and she will start walking on 7 September with the aim of completing the final mile in front of crowds on 11 September.

Claire is expecting to walk around three miles per day and will give assemblies to schools along the way, with the children joining her to walk parts of the course.

Claire said the organisers invited her to take part when the news broke that Vitality London 10000 had rejected her entry.

“The Great North Run is such a big one,” she told H&H. “The organisers have been amazing — it is very different to others I have done before.

“I would like people to come and join me walking if they can.”

Claire’s five-year-old daughter Maisie has also been given a place on the one-mile Mini Great North Run.

Mark Hollinshead, chief executive of The Great Run Company, said Claire will be “guaranteed the warmest of receptions”.

“Claire is an inspiration and we are absolutely delighted to welcome her,” he said. “Her enthusiasm, positivity and ‘can do’ attitude is both uplifting and infectious.”

The former four-star eventer was paralysed in an accident at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007.

Since then, she has made it her aim to help find a cure for paralysis and has so far raised more than £500,000 for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

In 2012, she made history as she became the first paralysed person to walk the London Marathon, which she completed in 17 days.

The mother-of-one has hand-cycled 400 miles around the UK, and learnt to ride a motorbike to take part in a charity race.

In May this year, she walked 10km in a day after Vitality London 10000 organisers reversed their decision to not let her take part and gave her an unofficial entry.

On Wednesday (20 July), Claire was also presented with an honorary degree alongside comedian Lenny Henry at Nottingham Trent University.

Related articles:

• Paralysed former eventer Claire Lomas takes on motorbike challenge
• Claire Lomas completes 10km challenge
• Claire Lomas raises more than £500,000 in mission to cure paralysis

“I had no choice with what happened to me,” said Claire.

“You have a bit of a choice in how you deal with it, but it wasn’t without dark days. Everyone thinks that the marathon was the biggest challenge, but just getting out of bed when you’ve got nothing to get up for was a lot harder.

“Rebuilding my life was the darkest time and the hardest time.

“Now I’m in a better place, I’ve got my little girl, so it’s very different. If I can go into the schools and help one person then it’s a brilliant feeling. I feel in a fortunate position to be able to do that.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Former eventer Claire Lomas has completed her challenge of walking a 10km charity race in one day.

Claire, who was paralysed from the chest down in a cross-country fall at Osberton in 2007, has raised more than £11,000 for charity by taking part in the Vitality London 10000.

The mother-of-one tweeted a video clip of her crossing the finishing line this afternoon with the caption “done it”.

Claire started walking at 5am today (30 May) and shared updates of her progress and supporters throughout the day.

She first planned to take part in the event in April, however, organisers rejected her entry on the grounds that her robotic walking suit contained a motor, which was against the rules of the event.

Claire told H&H at the time that she planned to take a map and walk the route anyway, even if the organisers would not let her in the starting area.

Last week they reversed their decision and gave her an “unofficial entry” to the event.

Her training had not gone quite to plan as her walking suit, named “Fred”, had been rubbing, meaning she could not do as much beforehand as she had hoped.

She was loaned a newer model of the ReWalk suit, which was smoother and had different straps that did not rub.

The money she has raised — over £10,000 more than her target — will go to the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

Related articles:

• Claire Lomas given entry to 10km race after organisers reverse decision
• Claire Lomas raises more than £500,000 in mission to cure paralysis
• Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas completes London Marathon

Since Claire started supporting the charity, she has raised more than £500,000.

“You know where every penny is going — exactly what it is being spent on,” she said.

“It is not just about walking, it is about getting your independence back.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas will be allowed to take part in a 10km charity race after organisers reversed their decision to reject her entry.

Former eventer Claire was paralysed from the chest down in a fall at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007.

She walked the London Marathon wearing a robotic walking suit in 2012, completing the 26.2-mile course in 17 days, and had entered the London Vitality 10000, on 30 May.

But organisers rejected her entry on the grounds that her robotic walking suit contained a motor.

“Unfortunately under the rules of the event, no form of motorised assistance is permitted,” event director Hugh Brasher said at the time.

However following discussions between Claire and Mr Brasher, she has now been given an “unofficial entry” to the event.

Claire said the news is “really great” and has raised almost 10 times her fundraising target of £1,000 for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation, with the total currently standing at £9,207.

“He [Mr Brasher] rang me yesterday and really made an effort,” Claire told H&H on Tuesday (24 May).

She will start at 5am and the finish area will be in place for her at the end of the route.

“He is even arranging someone to walk with me so they can let me know when I can go on the roads and when I need to be on the pavements,” she wrote on her Facebook page.

“I can’t believe this bit — he also said if I complete I will get a medal!!”

Related articles:

• Charity race organisers reject Claire Lomas’ 10km entry
• Claire Lomas raises more than £500,000 in mission to cure paralysis
• Paralysed former eventer Claire Lomas takes on motorbike challenge

She said that her training “has not gone quite to plan” as her walking suit (named “Fred”) had been rubbing.

Claire has now been loaned a newer model of the ReWalk suit.

“It is a little bit smoother, the big difference is the straps are totally different,” she said.

“It is going to be a long day. If I can make it to the finish, this will give me more of a chance of completing it.”

The mother-of-one has raised more than £500,000 for Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation through her fundraising efforts.

“You know where every penny is going — exactly what it is being spent on,” she said.

“It is not just about walking, it is about getting your independence back.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has had her entry to a 10km charity race rejected on the grounds that her robotic walking suit contains a motor.

The former event rider was paralysed from the chest down after a fall at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007.

She had planned to take part in the Vitality London 10000, wearing the suit in which she completed the London Marathon course in 2012, in 17 days, in aid of the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

Her aim was to complete the 10km race in one day.

However, the event organisers refused her entry on the grounds that “the rules” state “no form of motorised assistance is permitted”.

Their decision has led to widespread outcry and calls for them to reconsider.

But Claire, who has said she plans to walk the route regardless of the organisers’ decision, told H&H she never expected the “unbelievable” reaction.

She explained she decided that if she raised £1,000 for the charity, she would walk the route anyway. The total on her JustGiving page has already passed £2,490.

“I thought maybe I should do this — it is four years since the marathon,” she said.

“It is a bit like childbirth, you say ‘never again’.”

Her daughter Maisie and husband Dan will be among her supporters on the day.

“I do not quite know whether it is achievable or not, but I am training hard,” she said.

“It is so much harder in London — I am aware of that from experience.”

The mother-of-one described the training as “torture” and is building up her time in the suit.

“The reason I am doing this is for the charity and to raise awareness,” she said.

“When I am finding it hard, I remind myself why I am doing it.”

Speaking to Sam Walker on Radio 5 Live on Friday morning (22 April), she said she was disappointed when she received the rejection email.

“Then I thought about it for two seconds, and thought ‘I will do it anyway’,” she said.

“Even if I haven’t got an entry, I can still go there.

“They will not let me in the start area, but I can get a map.”

Event director Hugh Brasher said he has contacted Claire through the charity to invite her to discuss the situation.

“The Vitality London 10k is a race held under IAAF, UK Athletics and IPC rules which prohibit the use of motors,” he said.

Related articles:

• Claire Lomas raises more than £500,000 in mission to cure paralysis
• Former eventer Claire Lomas paints own disabled parking sign
• Claire Lomas takes on motorbike challenge

“The race is fully inclusive and the field includes a wide range of participants with disabilities including elite wheelchair athletes, participants in day chairs and visually impaired runners with guides.

“Unfortunately under the rules of the event, no form of motorised assistance is permitted.”

He added there are “many events” around the country which are not held under these rules, including the Vitality Westminster Mile on 29 May.

“We would be delighted to welcome Claire to participate in the Vitality Westminster Mile which also, like the 10k, starts on The Mall and finishes in front of Buckingham Palace,” he said.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Former eventer Claire Lomas has passed the half a million mark in her fundraising efforts.

Claire, who was paralysed from the chest down in a fall at Osberton in 2007, has now raised more than £500,000 for charity the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

“This landmark came earlier than I’d expected, thanks to everyone’s generosity at The Dressage Convention at the weekend (17-18 October),” Claire told H&H.

“Richard Davison [who organised the event with Carl Hester] asked me if I would like to fundraise there but I never thought I’d get over the £500,000 mark thanks to it.”

£5,035 was raised at the event from raffle prizes and donations.

“The whole event was brilliant and I’m so grateful to everyone involved. It’s really exciting,” she added.

Since her accident Claire has completed several challenges including walking the London Marathon in a special robot suit and a hand-cycle around England.

“I set a target for £10,000 for the marathon, and I managed to raise £50,000,” she added. “After that it was harder but I’m so thrilled to have got this far.

“At the start of the year I was on £400,000 so to have raised this much is amazing and I’m really pleased.”

Her next fundraiser is a “Boarding Bedlam” surfboarding challenge on 14 November in Leicester where hunts, eventers, showjumpers, vets and farriers will go up against each other.

The money raised goes to the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation helping to fund research into curing paralysis.

Claire’s also been keeping busy by riding a motorbike and aims to get her racing licence.

“I’ve been really lucky and am allowed to train at Mallory Park,” she said. “It’s nerve racking — a bit like eventing you don’t love it before you set off but then it’s amazing.

“I’d love to race though and that’s the ultimate aim.”

Claire began on a 125cc bike, before progressing to an 850cc one. She’s now on her husband Dan’s bike.

“It just needed hand controls and a bit of Velcro,” she said. “You wouldn’t even know I’m paralysed when I’m on the bike, but it’s a bit weird as I can only feel the handlebars.

“I had to have stabilisers to start with, as my balance wasn’t great, but I soon got the hang of it.

“I get on from the wheelchair and someone holds the bike to start me off and then helps me at the end.”

For more information visit: www.claireschallenge.co.uk

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Former event rider Claire Lomas has told H&H she hopes her actions of painting her own disabled parking sign will prompt councils into taking faster action in future.

Claire, from Melton Mowbray, was forced to paint her own parking bay outside her daughter’s school last week, after Leicestershire County Council took too long.

Claire was paralysed from the chest down in a fall in 2007. She was unable to park close enough to Great Dalby school to drop off four-year-old Maisie.

“When Maisie got her school place in April I contacted the council about a disabled parking bay,” Claire told H&H.

“The roads are chokka in the village and I knew I needed somewhere I could park so I could drop her off and pick her up safely.”

Claire applied for the disabled parking space, and it was approved. The school also contacted the council.

However, five months later, nothing had been done.

“The first couple of days at school were fine,” Claire said. “But on the third day I couldn’t get anywhere near so I had to drop her off at the top of the road and she was walked down by another mum, which isn’t ideal when she’s trying to settle in. The beginning of school is so important. ”

Claire decided to take action into her own hands, and paint the sign herself.

“I was fed up of waiting. Maisie chose a pink paint and a friend made a template, so I spray painted it,” said Claire.

“24 hours later, the council came and made it official. It made them get their act together.”

The act generated national media coverage.

“I hope it makes other councils take notice and work more quickly,” she added. “If you’re in a wheelchair you need somewhere easily accessible.”

Leicestershire County Council has since apologised to Claire.

“We would like to apologise for the delay in painting this disabled bay and the inconvenience this has caused Claire and Maisie during the first weeks of the school term,” said a spokesman for Leicestershire County Council.

Claire also hopes to hit the half a million mark in her fundraising this year.

Claire was injured in a fall at Osberton in 2007. Since then she has completed several challenges including walking the London Marathon in a special robot suit, and a hand-cycle around England.

Her next fundraiser is a “Boarding Bedlam” surfboaring challenge on 14 November in Leicester where hunts, eventers, showjumpers, vets and farriers will go up against each other.

The money raised goes to the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation, helping to fund research into curing paralysis.

She also has an online auction running this month, which closes on 27 September and features items including a Carl Hester yard visit and a lesson with Olympic eventer Nicola Wilson. Proceeds will go to the Nicholls Spinal Foundation and a charity to be chosen by eventer Ben Hobday, who is currently undergoing treatment for cancer.

For more information visit: www.claireschallenge.co.uk

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Former eventer Claire Lomas has been trying out a different type of horsepower recently — and has been learning to ride a motorbike.

“It was great fun,” Claire, who rode at Donnington last week, told H&H.

“I had to have stabilisers to start with, as my balance wasn’t great, but I soon got the hang of it. I began on a less powerful bike, as I had to learn how to control it and use the handlebars.

“I get on from the wheelchair and someone holds the bike to start me off and then helps me at the end.”

Claire began on a 125cc bike, before progressing to an 850cc one.

She became involved through Talan Skeels-Piggins — a paraplegic motorcyle rider.

Talan was paralysed from the chest down in a motorbike accident in 2003.

Claire’s preparing for a charity ride next month — although she’s being encouraged to join the bike team.

“I thought he was joking but he seemed quite keen,” said Claire. “But I’ll see. Talan rides in the team against able-bodied motorcylists — when you’re on the bike there’s no difference.”

Claire who loves skiing for its “rush and speed” is also enjoyed the adrenaline of the motorbike.

She will be riding at Silverstone today (Wednesday 6 May) on the anniversary of her accident, which left her paralysed from the chest down.

Claire was injured in a fall at Osberton in 2007. Since then she has completed several challenges including walking the London Marathon in a special robot suit, and a hand-cycle around England.

She will be doing a charity ride on 14 June in Leicestershire.

She added: “That is a more chilled out one, I’ll be on a Harley Davidson trike!”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

It’s not very often that I am totally stuck on where to start my blog. I just have so much to spill, and everything has been so exciting.

I can barely keep up with my life at the moment, and to think that it wasn’t long ago that I was twiddling my fingers and bored out of my mind.

It is probably due to this period of time where I couldn’t do anything that I have now taken it to the extreme and get ‘ants in my pants’ if I sit down!

The latest evening activity involves physio balls and Georgie (my housemate) and I becoming competitive about who can kneel on the ball for the longest. It has resulted in Georgie saying, and I quote, “I don’t even have spasms and my legs are going into spasm!”

It’s become reality

All I want to do is pinch myself to check I’m not dreaming and make sure my life has actually taken off in a crazy whirlwind — I am having trouble letting it sink in after such an endless battle.

Over the weekend I set off for my first Grade 2 para competition at Hartpury College. I was very excited as this is what I have been working towards since the first time I sat in my saddle in a physio session with Gemma months ago. Therefore, I was a little bit apprehensive.

I’m still trying to get used to the fact that you, a.) hardly have any tack to take for dressage and b.) you don’t need to factor in walking a cross-country course or getting your number. It’s all so quiet and chilled, I almost feel like I need some form of carnage unfolding or loud speakers going off — I’m still learning!

Amo was an absolute saint to get on and she stood like a rock as my legs spasmed into place.

My first test was unfortunately a little bit tense and Amo thought the judges were quite scary. I scored 61.44% and came 2nd.

My second test was much more relaxed on both our parts! We ended up winning and scored 63.4%. I was so chuffed with how she performed. Riding in the main Hartpury indoor arena was the most incredible feeling.

When I went to get off Amo after all the excitement, adrenaline and fatigue of both tests, my legs both went into spasm and I ended up being lifted to the lorry steps — lucky I’m not too heavy!

My already incredible day was rounded off perfectly when I helped put Amo to bed and I managed to spend some one to one time with her after a very special day. She didn’t mind me hopping around her to put her rug on, something I bizarrely saw as another achievement ticked off.

Can I confess to being a total emotional wreak on the way home? (All good emotions). I think I am just completely overwhelmed, so happy, and maybe slightly overtired. It means so much to me and I loved every minute!

I can’t thank the Team at Talland (especially Pammy and Emma) enough for making me the luckiest girl in the world and believing in me the whole way through.

Training

In my recent lessons at Talland with Pammy, I have seen an influx of eventers coming out the woodwork, getting ready for the season ahead. More recently I have seen Padraig McCarthy and Nicky Roncoroni, both looking in great form in their lessons with Pammy.

It’s been great to feel like I can ride alongside them again, although I am very jealous that they are about to head into the eventing season, something I will always miss.

In my lessons with Pammy we have been keeping a track of my spasms, timing and how long it takes for me to get going again after a major episode. In my notebook we are also logging areas that I need to improve on.

I have been perfecting my tests recently, and in the run up to the BD competition at Summerhouse (pictured above) I had a lesson with Abi Hutton (wife of Pammy’s son Charlie) who frequently rides Amo and knows her inside out. Abi used to compete her a lot, so she gave me lots of tips on how to ride her and helped me run through my tests.

Rehab — a range of exercises

My spasms are particularly bad at the moment, I think it’s a combination of the cold weather and doing a lot more on a daily basis.

At Oaksey, we have continued with the climbing and trampoline exercises as I mentioned last time. Cat has also been getting me to work on some more core exercises and log rolling myself across the room and keeping control of the spasms.

At Cadbury House Gym, Sam has been helping me work on any exercises I’m given at Oaksey and then he also adds in more core and upper body exercises. He had me kneeling on a BOSU Balance trainer ball on one leg which was quite hard work.

All the exercises that I do are also great for riding as I need to be strong — especially as I ride without stirrups the whole time!

Pogo Pandemonium

The pogo evening was such a fantastic night (pictured). It was held at Newbury Racecourse and was run and organised by the amazing Claire Lomas to raise funds for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation (NSIF), to continue to find a cure for paralysis, which is getting ever closer.

I helped with the raffle early on in the evening. Everyone was extremely generous and you could see that they were right behind Claire. They managed to raise over £7,000 that evening for NSIF.

In the end the winner of the pogo competition was National Hunt jockey and Channel 4 Racing presenter Sam Thomas. I am very surprised there were no injuries along the way as everyone seemed to be getting very competitive.

We then decided it would be a good idea to take on the only night club in Newbury. This was very entertaining, and ended up with me being carried to the taxi, as every time I laughed my legs went into spasm and I either stopped or fell over. There does seem to be a common with these nights (Barbury, Tiggy’s 30th and Newbury) the common theme being Jade Lazenby!

I’m an Auntie

Sophie did a very good job of being on time for me to see her little man. Very conveniently she gave birth to Jack the night I drove home for a hospital appointment the next day.

Not only that, but my appointment was opposite the maternity building. Well done, Soph! He is so gorgeous and just perfect, I am looking forward to seeing him next weekend when I go home — I’m sure he will have changed a great deal!

My hospital appointment went well. It was an orthotics appointment to have a new splint made up to help my foot placement. My physio from Cornwall, Gemma (from Peninsula Community Health) came to the appointment with me to discuss with them what kind of splint would be best. This is plan A, there are a few more options left, so fingers crossed!

Out and About

A couple of weekends ago I spent a long weekend in Dorset with my great friend Annabel Yarrow and a few other friends.

It was a jam-packed weekend: following the Portman Hunt, two dinner parties and most importantly Annabel helping me to become more domesticated — I prepped a lot of vegetables for the dinner parties and also for Annabel’s catering business on the Sunday.

I even mastered standing on a gate (those climbing sessions at Oaksey came in handy!) so I could see the hunt a bit more clearly. However, it’s got to be said that my dismount was slightly less graceful — more of a plummet to the ground!

To Follow

I have seemingly already ticked off two of my ‘what will 2015 bring phases’ including becoming an Auntie and getting out competing.

Not very long ago I doubted whether my life would ever change, how wrong I was…

‘You’ve only got three choices in life: give up, give in or give it all you’ve got.’

Suz

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Living in the shadow of Salisbury Plain means I am incredibly lucky when it comes to getting the horses fit, and with the eventing season in sight, I’ve started to step up the horses’ work.

I am hoping to run at either Oasby or Tweseldown in the middle of March, which is about six weeks away, so the older horses are now alternating between a long slow canter and shorter quicker canters once a week.

As well as their weekly canters, we use the hills to build up their strength, trotting up and down the natural grass terrain which is perfect for developing muscle and balance.

Before the season begins I always makes sure the horses have an MOT where they have their teeth done, their backs looked at and the saddler will visit too.

Before they start doing too much work where they are going to build muscle, I believe it is very important that skeletally they are straight and correct so that they don’t build uneven muscle that may cause weaknesses.

They’ve all been working very well on the flat, and I am pleased with myself too as this year, for once, I’ve kept up my promise to go to the gym regularly, although I can’t wait to get my mountain bike out on the hills again, now that the nights are drawing out.

I’ll have six or seven horses to event this year, and I’m hopeful I may be offered some new rides. We have such amazing facilities, and with the experience I have gained over the years, from producing our homebred horses from scratch to preparing for a four-star competition, I feel confident about growing the business now.

The teaching side is progressing really well and there is nothing I enjoy more than helping other riders and their horses reach their full potential while giving them the confidence to believe in themselves too.

I often think the psychological side of riding is as important at as the practical bits; hence I am a big advocate of gaining help in these areas, for me especially when a big competition approaches.

I’ve had a lot of help from Charlie Unwin and its lovely being able to pass bits of what he has taught me onto my clients.

I also have a few horses in to school at the moment, which is another rewarding part of the job. They’ve come for a few weeks, which helps set them up for the season ahead with their owners.

Pogo fun

While the horses are all going beautifully at home, the same can’t be said for my first attempts to ride a pogo stick, which is definitely not my forte.

Claire Lomas, who was paralysed following a riding accident in 2007 organised another brilliant fundraising evening, Pogo Pandemonium, at Newbury Racecourse last Saturday and I was part of the event riders team.

I said I would help Claire in any way I could having been to many of her great evenings before. It’s incredible what she is doing to raise funds for spinal research.

This event was held in aid of the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation and involved jockeys and event riders racing each other on pogo sticks.

Among the jockeys were Sam Thomas, Mick Fitzgerald and Choc Thornton while the event riders included Lucy Jackson, Craig Barr, Mark Ford and Holly Woodhead.

It was one of the hardest things I’ve ever done! For a start, it was really difficult to get on, and then the pogo sticks wanted to go everywhere but forwards. We only had to go about 15 metres, but it seemed much further at the time, and in the final (which I didn’t make) they had to jump over hurdles as well.

I’m sure Sam Thomas, the eventual winner, must have been practicing, as he was very good at it — unless he’s just a completely natural pogo stick rider.

At least I didn’t disgrace myself on the space hoppers coming back and everyone was fairly awful on the pogo sticks.

Coral

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

I was thinking how I could best sum up my last few weeks at Oaksey House, so, I thought I’d use a few words that truly describe it to start us off — no limits, breakthroughs and an utterly incredible feeling.

I have had an extremely full-on three weeks at Oaksey House, and even though I am starting to become quite shattered, I get excited about the start of every day and what’s next on the list to achieve or what the physio’s have in store for me in terms of different ideas and goals to reach in the future.

Since I had my accident in July 2012, I have either been in hospital or living with my parents in Cornwall, so my time up at Oaksey recently has been my longest spell away from them. I am very grateful for everything they have done for me through some horrendous times, but I am so proud to be coming out the other side and gaining my independence and life back.

The only thing that is slightly debatable has got to be my skills in the kitchen! I’m a liability and shouldn’t be allowed in there — end of. On my first night back at Oaksey I went to cook my speciality ‘pesto pasta’ but yet again the hob caused me grief. The next day I had a kind but very smug Rob Treviss fix it for me, and needless to say my ‘Hobby’ nickname still stands.

When my good friend Beth came for supper, I have to say the majority of the ingredients I used were out of date (apart from the chicken). Thankfully there were no ill effects. Needless to say, news of my cooking obviously soon spread throughout the Reading area and by the time another

friend Katie came for supper, she opted for going out for a meal. Good choice.

On the Sunday before I started at Oaksey again, I was involved with helping my brother (Jamie Hext) run a ‘Tall Ships viewing car park’ from St Mawes, overlooking where the Tall Ships race started. It had a spectacular view and it was a stunning day. I was helping out with directing and parking cars for the day (pictured above right). I had some seriously good signalling skills going on with my crutches which caused a lot of comments and smiles all-round.

More major milestones smashed

I am in complete shock at the amount that I have managed to achieve in such a relatively short period of time at Oaksey House. They really do make you feel like anything is possible, and I believe them. I don’t think I was so convinced at the beginning, but having seen my progress I think if you want some thing badly enough you can strive to achieve some pretty exceptional goals.

At the forefront of my achievements would definitely have to be swimming for the first time since my accident (pictured below left). It was such an incredible feeling, and it opens so many doors in terms of helping me therapeutically plus it’s great for my overall fitness.

I found it extremely difficult to trust that the rest of my body could just swim, no matter what my left leg was doing to start with. Once I had broken down this barrier in my head, I was away. I had a ‘woggle float’ around me, and Nadia (a neurological physio) behind me for a while. I then realised

she had let go of me half-way across the pool without me noticing. I looked back and she just said ‘keep swimming’. This was just the start, by the end I had no float around me and I was doing lengths of the pool!

My birthday was last week and the best present I could ask for was the staggering improvements I am making. Granted, a lot of what I do looks slightly unconventional at the moment, but my God have I come a long way. It felt great to enjoy my birthday out of hospital and off the opiates. Just to clarify to everyone, I have decided I’m only 24-years-old (I am in fact 26) as the last two years don’t count! I had an incredible evening and was spoilt rotten by my friends Beth Robertson and Becky Brookes. Cake, fajitas, party hats, balloons and enjoying the feeling of being so well.

I had hydro-therapy on my birthday, and we continued with improving my swimming and controlling my spasms. Front crawl is the best stroke for me, and back-stroke has to be the worst as it sends my spasms into a complete turmoil. I had Nadia holding me up and two floats and it was still very ‘interesting’. I even managed to do a birthday somersault in the pool, and before you ask, it was totally intentional.

I felt like I was in a proper swimming session with Andy (another of the physios) when we did pyramid training sets. I was very surprised how well my body coped with it and I loved it. We also did walking in the pool, with me holding Andy’s hands and going from side to side. My next aim is to get my tumble turns sorted and then I’ll be away.

Making headway with my walking

My interesting style of walking has come on leaps and bounds (that’s probably not the best pun to use). My foot placement is still a huge issue, as the foot ends up on its side the majority of the time. This is due to the spasms and the fact that I can’t lift the front of my foot to place it.

The last few weeks have been full of trying out new pieces of equipment to aid with my foot placement and general walking pattern. I have even been on the treadmill, not only walking forwards, but backwards as well. I do find this a bit un-nerving but I can now actually walk backwards better than forwards. The idea is to get a bit of a rhythm up and focus on the placement. I sometimes need some help from the physios with initiating that foot placement.

The incredible bionic leg has been back in use again. This time I have been using it to try and learn to walk in it. I managed to get some fantastic steps and some great foot placement. The latest gadget that we are using to help my foot placement is FES (Functional Electrical Stimulation). This is extremely exciting for the future as it will be a tool I can use to help me walk most of the time. The FES has a foot switch in the right shoe and that initiates the left foot to pick up and stop me dragging my foot on its side. So, not only does Rob electrocute me daily, I now have Nadia electrocuting me when I am walking. I suppose it is one way to fire it all into action!

I really feel like my body is beginning to get a lot stronger physically. This is from the combination of physio, gym work, strength and conditioning with Mike Peacock and FES Bike and massage with Rob. I am certainly beginning to get used to the FES Bike and the feeling of being electrocuted. I find this extremely beneficial and I am making some slow improvements.

Is it goodbye to getting on from the lift?

I’m hoping I may have mastered a way of getting on a horse without needing the lift. I have been practicing on the Equicizer, and I can balance through my left leg — it just need a helping hand getting it into the stirrup and then I can get on. I am hoping this all goes according to plan on an actual horse. I can also get on the wrong side, if all else fails.

I can’t wait to put this into practice when I get back to Lakefield with Mark and Becky. I am desperate to be back in the saddle again.

Weekends out and social

My weekends have been great fun and I was very lucky to be able to stay at Lucy Dickenson and Jordon Riley’s again for both weekends. The highlight of my first weekend had to be

spending the day at a Pony Club Show at Rectory Farm watching Saffi Aiuto competing. She certainly had a successful day and came home with a heap of rosettes. We all had a massive picnic, and it felt like old times (pictured right). Lots of laughing and possibly too much at times, so my leg spasms joined in and kicked someone in the leg!

My second weekend was filled with a trip to Blenheim International Horse Trials. It was such a fantastic day and I managed to catch up with a lot of friends. The pinnacle of my day was finally meeting Claire Lomas face to face (pictured below left). She’s been my inspiration the whole way through my accident, she just never gives up and the work she is doing for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation is phenomenal. I am going to help out with the Pogo night on 24 January, and I’m already looking forward to it.

I nearly didn’t make it back to the shuttle bus which took you back to the car park, as my legs were so tired. I was getting some very strange looks. I think people thought I was drunk on my crutches looking at the different directions my legs were going in!

I’d just like to say a massive ‘thank-you’ to everyone that has helped me get this far. Whether it’s been supporting me emotionally, physically or financially, you know who you are. I couldn’t have got here without all of you.

Moving Forward

I am definitely going to miss not being an in-patient at Oaksey House. It’s such a fantastic atmosphere and a great group of people to be around. I will be heading back to Oaksey at the beginning of October but as an out-patient, and I will fit it in around being back working at B&W Equine Vets.

Suze

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

As part of Horse & Hound's 130th birthday celebrations, we will be supporting and promoting good causes via regular online round-ups of events being run by the equestrian community

Top racing names support IJF golf day

More than £17,000 was raised for the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) at the 24th annual Jim Old racing golf day last month (11 August).

Top names including Richard Hughes, Mick Fitzgerald and Carl Llewellyn braved the rain to play at Marlborough Golf Club in Wiltshire.

Over the past 24 years, the golf day organised by former racehorse trainer Jim Old has raised more than £45,000 for charity.

Claire Lomas hosts online charity auction

Paralysed former eventer Claire Lomas is also running an online fundraising auction throughout September with prizes including tickets to major equestrian events such as Olympia and the 2015 European Eventing Championships at Blair Castle.

There are also sporting days, a Gucci watch and lessons from top riders open to bids.

The money raised will support the research by the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation (NSIF).

NSIF patron Claire Lomas has raised £47,000 to help the foundation’s research this year from school talks, her book, and fundraising events.

For more details visit: www.claireschallenge.co.uk

Charity ride in aid of Macmillan

A record 320 riders took part in the annual Newmarket Heath sponsored ride on 31 August.

The event is the only time leisure riders can ride on the famous racehorse training grounds.

“Huge thanks go to the National Stud and The Jockey Club or their continued support in allowing us to use the heath, along with all the volunteers who helped,” said Char Collins, ride secretary.

The ride has raised £20,000 with more sponsorship money still coming in.

For more details visit www.newmarketride.org.uk

Sponsored ride over parkland

The Candover Valley sponsored ride takes place on Sunday 26 October to raise funds for the Countryside Alliance and the Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund.

The ride is over eight miles of parkland, woodland and meadows at The Grange, Northington near Alresford in Hampshire.

There are over 30 optional jumps ranging from 2ft rails to 3ft6in hedges.

The ride costs £20 to enter, plus a minimum sponsorship of £20.

Entries will be taken on the day with all riders given time slots.

For more details visit www.candoverride.co.uk

Paralysed former jockey rides for IJF

Former jockey Sarah Gaisford, who was paraylsed in a fall in 2007, is making an emotional return to Exeter racecourse for the Injured Jockeys’ Fund (IJF).

Sarah, 45, broke her back at the Devon racecourse when a horse galloped over her.

Next month (9 October) she will ride the full two-mile circuit of the racecourse accompanied by IJF president John Francome, former jockey Richard Pitman and H&H racing blogger Nick Scholfield to raise funds for the IJF.

“It’s been a very long journey since that day seven years ago, but throughout my rehabilliation the IJF has supported me. To actually ride on the racecourse at Exeter again will be incredible for me,” said Sarah.

Exeter is offering free tickets to everyone who joins Sarah’s sponsored walk providing they donate at least £15 to the IJF.

She is over half way off meeting her fundraising target of £20,000 after completing a 10-mile ride across Dartmoor last Sunday.

A horse Harvey has been lent for the rides by former jockey Jenny Carr who also had an injury.

The walk starts at 12.15pm; to reserve a place visit http://libertytrails.co.uk

World Horse Welfare is Blenheim’s official charity

World Horse Welfare is the official charity for this weekend’s Blenheim Horse Trials (11-14 September).

Chief executive Roly Owers said the charity was “very grateful” to have been chosen by Blenheim.

“We hope that those who attend this year’s event will be interested in hearing about our work in caring for thousands of horses across the world,” he said.

Blenheim has set up an online auction to help raise funds for the charity’s needy horses.

Lots include a hunting with the Heythrop and tickets to Olympia in a private box.

A £1 will also be donated from the sale of all official clothing at Blenheim.

The proceeds from the fun high jump and masters gate jumping classes and demonstrations will also be donated to World Horse Welfare.

The charity will be sharing its 87 years of horse care in Blenheim’s learning zone.

There is also a display of rehomed horses in the attractions arena.

For more information visit www.blenheimhorse.co.uk

Charity horse show for Cancer Research

A horse show at Norton Heath Equestrian Centre in Essex last Saturday (6 September) raised over £1,500 for Cancer Research UK.

The organisers Kate Scorey and Wayne Bailey said the support received from all involved in the Think Pink charity show “was incredible.”

“We introduced qualifiers this year and look forward to building on the show,” said Mr Bailey.

The date for next year’s show is 5 September 2015.

More details will be out early next year.

For more information visit www.thinkpinkshow.co.uk

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

As part of Horse & Hound's 130th birthday celebrations, we will be supporting and promoting good causes via regular online round-ups of events being run by the equestrian community

Dodson & Horrell provides food for horses on war horse ride

Feed manufacturers Dodson & Horrell provided all the food for the 26 horses on the War Horse Ride.

The five-day, 100-mile ride was a tribute from the successor soldiers to the cavalrymen who took part in the Retreat from Mons 100 years ago.

The 26 riders set out from Maroilles, south of Mons, on 27 August wearing 1914 field service dress.

Dodson & Horrell is providing all the haylage and hard feed for the horses.

“We are honoured to provide feed for the 26 horses taking part on their journey past some of the most significant fields of battle on which the British Cavalry fought 100 years ago,” said Sam Horrell, the feed company’s marketing director.

The ride is raising money for the Not Forgotten Association, a charity supporting wounded or sick members of the forces and ex-servicemen with disabilities.

For more information visit: www.dodsonandhorrell.com

Horse Trust opens exhibition

A new “Horses and the War” exhibition is on permanent display at The Horse Trust’s home in Speen, Buckinghamshire.

The exhibition details the role of horses through the war from the outbreak to the armistice.

It explains the British army’s need to collect over 100,000 horses in 12 days in 1914 and shows what happened to the 800,000 horses in army ownership after the ceasefire.

“As the oldest horse charity in the world we have a unique knowledge and insight into the impact the events 1914-1918 had on Britain’s horse population,” said the Horse Trust’s Jeanette Allen.

The exhibition is part of the Trust’s museum of the history of Britain’s working horses.

For more information visit The Horse Trust website.

Opera Singer rides through Wales to raise funds for cancer

Welsh opera singer Shan Cothi led a fund-raising through the Carmarthen countryside on 17 August.

There were 93 riders on the fun ride helping raise funds for the charity amserjustintime, which raises money for pancreatic cancer.

Shan Cothi set up the charity after her husband Justin Smith died of the disease aged 42.

They have already raised over £150,000.

For more information visit: www.amserjustintime.org

Royal Windsor supports Coppafeel

Jockeys and trainers

raced aboard pink space hoppers at Royal Windsor on 23 August to raise funds for CoppaFeel!, the breast cancer charity.

The Queen of the bounce in the inaugural running of the CoppaFeel! Boobhooper stakes was Susie Wolfe, one of the charity’s volunteers.

She was well ahead of jockeys Keiran O’Neill and Charlotte Jenner, Attheraces presenter Matt Chapman and trainer John Best.

The last race at the ladies’ night evening fixture was the more conventional CoppaFeel! Handicap, won by Richard Hughes on Storm Rider.

The charity was founded by Kris Hallenga in 2009 who was 23 when diagnosed with breast cancer.

To donate visit: coppafeel.org

Signed champagne bottle to be auctioned

Former eventer Claire Lomas — who walked the London Marathon in a special robotic suit — is further fundraising for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

A methuselah of champagne has been donated by Pol Roger, and signed by all the Badminton Horse Trial 2014 competitors, is being auctioned on 11 September at Bonhams in London. All the money will go to NSIF, and help the research progress.

“With school talks, my book, bucking fun at Newbury in February and a few other fundraising things I am at £47,000 for this year and I hope this figure keeps going up,” said Claire. “I do not think it will be too long before there will be a cure for paralysis.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A team of jockeys went head-to-head against a team of eventers on Saturday (1 February) night to find out who had the best stickability.

The riders tested out their rodeo skills to see who could stay on the longest on a mechanical bucking horse.

The evening was organised by Claire Lomas — who was paralysed in an eventing fall in 2007 — in aid of the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation.

Some of the riders made it seem more difficult than others. William Fox-Pitt’s long legs were not enough to save him and he only lasted a disappointing 20sec on the horse.

Tina Cook, Bruce Haskell and AP McCoy didn’t fare much better in the stickability stakes.

In the end jockey Sam Thomas and eventer Laura Collett proved to have the greatest balance and grip.

In the final round to decide the winner, Laura managed to stay on for more than 6 minutes and was eventually allowed to dismount from the horse.

The evening raised more than £10,000 for the Nicholls Spinal Injury Foundation who fund medical research to try and find a cure for spinal cord injury.

To make a donation please visit Claire’s website

Videos courtesy of MDR Photo via The Eventing Stig

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Who has more stickability, jockeys or event riders?

Claire Lomas — who was paralysed in an eventing fall in 2007 — has set herself another challenge to raise money for the Nicholls Spinal Injuries Foundation.

She is hosting a “Bucking Fun” night on 1 February 2014 at Newbury racecourse, pitting a team of jockeys — including AP McCoy, Dom Elsworth and Choc Thornton — against eventers including Paul Tapner, Tina Cook and Laura Collett to see who can stay longest on a mechanical bull.

“Hopefully, it will be a laugh and we’ll raise lots of money,” said Claire.

For more information visit: www.claireschallenge.co.uk

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Former eventer Claire Lomas this week finished her latest fundraising challenge — a 640km hand cycle ride.

Twenty-two days after Claire set off on her cycle from Nottingham Trent University, she arrived in London. Along her route she visited 161 towns in 13 counties, visiting schools doing talks. The special bike is powered by using her arms.

She finished her challenge on Monday (13 May) at the London Eye, and was greeted by more than 300 supporters.

During the final stages of her journey she was joined by celebrities including Spice Girl Melanie C and TV presenter Dan Lobb.

Claire was paralysed from the chest down in an eventing accident at Osberton horse trials in 2007. She is aiming to raise around £100,000, which will go to Spinal Research and the Nicholls Foundation, to be used for stem cell research

Last year she completed the London Marathon, walking in a specially designed “robot suit”, raising more than £250,000 for Spinal Research.

“This has been the toughest mental and physical challenge of my life, a lot harder than last year’s London Marathon,” said Claire.

“I’m relieved to have finished, but so grateful to everyone that has donated along the way, it’s what kept me going through the really hard days. My cycle may be over, but the search for a cure for paralysis isn’t, so after a few days of rest, I’ll start planning my next fundraising challenge.”

To support Claire’s Cycle, text LEGS60 £X (the amount you want to donate) to 70070

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas set off on her 400-mile hand cycle challenge this morning (Monday 22 April).

Claire was paralysed in a fall at Osberton Horse Trials six years ago, and is undertaking the ride around England for charity.

She aims to raise £100,000. The money raised will go to Spinal Research and The Nicholls Foundation, to be used for stemcell research.

Claire set off from Nottingham Trent University and is due to finish in London on Monday 13 May.

Last year Claire walked the London Marathon in a special robot suit raising more than £200,000 for Spinal Research. The feat took her 17 days, but last week she told H&H that she expects the hand cycle to be even more challenging.

“I think this will be more knackering than the marathon, looking at what I have to do!” she said.

“It’s hard work getting my body weight and that of the bike up a hill with my arms, as they’re not as strong as your legs.”

To join Claire on part of her fundraising journey, visit www.claireschallenge.co.uk

To donate via Vodafone’s free JustTextGiving service text LEGS60 £XX to 70070 replacing the XX with the amount in pounds you wish to donate.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas is counting down to the start of her hand cycle ride round England, which starts a week today (Monday 22 April).

The former event rider, who was paralysed in a fall at Osberton Horse Trials six years ago, will set off on the 644km charity ride from Nottingham Trent University.

With a fundraising target of £100,000, the money raised will go to Spinal Research and The Nicholls Foundation, to be used for stem cell research.

She is due to finish in London on Monday 13 May, after three weeks of town and school visits en route.

Last year Claire completed the London Marathon, after walking for 16 days in a special “robot suit”. She raised thousands of pounds for Spinal Research.

“I’ve done a lot of school visits since the London Marathon,” said Claire. “I go in and talk to the kids about how I got through the accident and rebuilt my life.”

Claire will wear her robotic suit for the talks and an appearance at Salisbury racecourse on Sunday 5 May.

“I think this will be more knackering than the marathon, looking at what I have to do!” she said.

“It’s hard work getting my body weight and that of the bike up a hill with my arms, as they’re not as strong as your legs.”

Claire, who has been training since September “in snow and all sorts”, told H&H that she hadn’t realised quite how much organisation would be required.

“It has been a massive undertaking – with the marathon, you get given the route and that’s that,” she said.

“I’m really excited though and luckily I’ve got a great team.”

Claire has so far raised around £25,000 towards her target.

“It’s a good start,” she said. “I’m always pleased with whatever I raise – it all helps.”

To join Claire on part of her fundraising journey, go to www.clairescycle.co.uk

To donate via Vodafone’s free JustTextGiving service text LEGS60 £3 to 70070.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Hiho Silverdonate £10 from every purchase of its new bracelet to Spinal Research.

The idea around the “Snaffle Wrap Bracelet” was inspired by director, Emma Warren’s, admiration for injured former eventer Claire Lomas.

The bracelet costs £85 and £10 from each purchase will go directly to Spinal Research. The bracelet combines a sterling silver snaffle with a fuschia and turquoise leather strap.

Emma Warren from Hiho said: “Spinal Research is an amazing charity that helps the lives of so many people.

“We’ve had great success with our Help for Heroes range, so we thought, why don’t we do the same for Spinal Research?”

Spinal Research raises money to fund research to help transform the lives of those who are paralysed.

Rachel Brady, director of fundraising at Spinal Research said: “Hiho has created a wonderful bracelet that will help to raise funds for our vital research into spinal cord repair.”

For more information on the bracelet head to www.hihosilver.co.uk or call 01460 221006.

Claire Lomas last night (Thursday 8 November) received the Helen Rollason award for inspiration at the Sunday Times Sportswomen of the Year awards for her London Marathon achievement.

Claire, who was paralysed in a fall eventing five years ago, completed the marathon in 16 days, wearing a special robotic suit.

“It was all very exciting and a brilliant night,” Claire told H&H.

“It was amazing to get an award in front of all the Olympians and Paralympians. And it was unbelievable to get a standing ovation from such superstars.

“Plus it was nice to see Nicola [Wilson] and Tina [Cook] and I even got to touch their silver medals!”

Claire is now preparing for her next challenge — a bike ride around the UK.

Originally Claire was planning on going from London to Paris on a specially designed bike, but French laws meant she couldn’t collect money over there.

“It’s worked out for the best really,” she added. “I will go around as many schools as possible here and give talks. But it’s further than it was — it’s now about 400miles and should take around three weeks.”

Claire sets off in mid April. To donate visit: http://www.justgiving.com/Claire-Lomas

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has been named “inspirational fundraiser” at this year’s Inspiration Awards for Women.

Claire, who was paralysed from the chest down in an eventing accident at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007, completed the London Marathon this year.

She wore a special “robot suit” and finished in 16 days, raising more than £200,000 for Spinal Research. Claire now plans to cycle from London to Paris using a bike powered by her legs and arms.

The awards were held last night in London (Wednesday 3 October), in support of Breakthrough Breast Cancer, celebrating the achievements of inspriational women in the UK.

“It was amazing,” Claire told H&H. “We had such a great time, and thank you so much to everyone who voted. And I even met Brendan Cole and Matt Cardle!”

The awards were determined 25% by public vote and 75% by a judging panel.

“It was really nerve-wracking going up to London and I had no idea beforehand that I’d won,” she added. “I’m so grateful for the support of everyone – especially in the horse world and that it gives me a chance to raise awareness of my bike challenge.

“It was a real boost too – sometimes it’s tough getting on the bike and training but this has really motivated me.”

For more information visit: www.inspirationawards.com

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has been nominated as an “inspirational fundraiser” at this year’s Inspiration Awards for Women.

Claire was paralysed from the chest down in an eventing accident at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007.

This summer she completed the , raising more than £200,000 for Spinal Research

And Claire now plans to cycle from London to Paris using a bike powered by her legs and arms.

“Bike training is hard work, I’m just waiting for an outdoor bike and then I’ll see how my legs cope with the hills,” she told H&H.

“I’d really appreciate any votes, it would be a real boost if I could win this award and kick start the bike challenge.”

The awards will be held on Wednesday 3 October in London.

To vote and for more information visit: www.inspirationawards.com

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas last week lit the celebration cauldron for the Paralympic Games, which start this Thursday (30 August).

Former eventer Claire was paralysed from the chest down in an accident in 2007 at Osberton Horse Trials.

She lit the cauldron in Trafalgar Square at 8.10am on Friday 24 August.

It was lit with the English National Flame, which was created at Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, by Scouts striking a ferrocerium rod against a rough steel surface to create sparks.

“Wow, what an amazing day,” Claire tweeted after the event. “I feel honoured and proud to have lit the cauldron. Still in shock I was asked to do it. A special moment to treasure.”

Claire famously completed the London Marathon earlier this year, wearing a special “robot suit” allowing her to walk. It took her 16 days and she raised more than £200,000 for Spinal Research.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “We showed the world what we’re made of by hosting a tremendous Olympic Games and finishing with the highest ranking in the medals table for more than 100 years. Now we will do it all again when the Paralympic Games come home to the UK.

“The lighting of the cauldron marks the beginning of what I am sure will be a fantastic showcase for the UK and I hope the Games inspire many other youngpeople – disabled and non-disabled alike – to choose sport and aim to be the very best that they can be.”

To follow all the news from the Paralympic dressage keep checking www.horseandhound.co.uk.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas is to light a celebration cauldron in Trafalgar Square at 8am tomorrow morning (Friday 24 August) for the Paralympic Games.

Former eventer Claire was paralysed from the chest down in an accident in 2007 at Osberton Horse Trials.

Claire hit headlines earlier this year when she completed the London Marathon in a “robot suit”. It took her 16 days and she raised more than £200,000 for Spinal Research.

The cauldron will be lit using the English National Flame which was created at Scafell Pike, England’s highest peak, by Scouts striking a ferrocerium rod against a rough steel surface to create sparks.

Prime Minister David Cameron said: “Only two weeks ago we showed the world what we’re made of by hosting a tremendous Olympic Games and finishing with the highest ranking in the medals table for more than 100 years. Next week we will do it all again when the Paralympic Games come home to the UK.

“The lighting of the cauldron tomorrow marks the beginning of what I am sure will be a fantastic showcase for the UK and I hope the Games inspire many other young people – disabled and non-disabled alike – to choose sport and aim to be the very best that they can be.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas is the guest speaker for a lunch at the Fidelity Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials (6-9 September) on Thursday, 6 September.

Claire is paralysed after suffering a fall from her event horse in 2007, breaking her back. After fears of never using her legs again, Claire recently completed the London Marathon in her bionic suit. Claire aims to go on to cycle from London to Paris on a specially designed bicycle.

“Claire’s enthusiasm for eventing and living life to the full is contagious, her motivation infectious and her determination a stimulus to us all to ‘go for it’,” said event director Mandy Hervieu.

“The general public, but in particular many people in the sport of eventing who understand the risks involved in riding horses, have been inspired by Claire. Our lunch will be an opportunity to show your support and hear her inspirational approach to attaining targets and discover how she attacks her challenges.”

Blenheim Horse Trials will help Claire launch her cycling challenge and raise funds for Spinal Research, for which she is an ambassador.

Claire said: “I am very grateful to Blenheim for inviting me as a guest and helping raise money towards my bike challenge in aid of Spinal Research. Blenheim is one of the most beautiful events, and a fantastic day out for anyone. I am very much looking forward to it.”

This year the horse trials is introducing an option to pre-book a two-course sit-down lunch on any of the four days of the event in their smart new members restaurant, at £30 per person (excluding event admission tickets). For “Lunch with Lomas” on Thursday, 6 September, the two-course lunch package will be further upgraded to the corporate hospitality suite for the same price, with a £5 donation from each ticket going to Spinal Research.

For more details or to book tickets go to www.blenheim-horse.co.uk/lunch-lomas . Places are limited and are available on a first-come, first-served basis and bookings close on 30 August.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas has raised more than four times her initial fundraising target for running the London Marathon in a robotic suit.

Claire – who is paralysed from the waist down following an accident at Osberton in 2007 – revealed today that she has raised almost £203,000 for Spinal Research.

“Wow – thank you everyone who donated or supported in any way,” she tweeted.

Claire completed the marathon on 8 May, 16 days after she set off.

The mother of one now plans to cycle from London to Paris using a bike powered by her legs and arms next spring.

To donate to Claire’s campaign, go to www.justgiving.co.uk/claire-lomas or or text LEGS60 ï¿¡(the amount) to 70070.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas – who completed the London Marathon in a robotic suit earlier this month – has set her sights on a new challenge for next spring.

The 32-year-old was left paralysed after a fall at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007, but now plans to cycle from London to Paris using a bike powered by her legs and arms.

“After the marathon Dan (my husband) and I asked ‘what shall we do next?'” Claire told H&H. “We are still in the very early stages of planning, trying to find all the right equipment.”

Claire already trains on a static version of the bike she hopes to use for the trip.

The FES bike (which stands for Functional Electrical Stimulation) delivers an electrical current to the muscles in her legs, making them contract in a pattern that controls the bike.

“Not doing the horses anymore means I really miss being outside,” she added. “I’m looking forward to getting some fresh air on the bike.”

Claire has raised nearly £200,000 for Spinal Research by completing the marathon and hopes to continue supporting the charity with her next challenge.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Sixteen days after she set off on her London Marathon challenge, Claire Lomas has crossed the finish line in The Mall – in front of thousands of supporters, TV cameras and a host of celebrity well-wishers.

Claire, 32, completed the 26.2 miles in a pair of special robotic legs, to raise money for Spinal Research.

She was a promising event rider when she was paralysed in a fall at Osberton Horse Trials five years ago.

“It’s amazing to actually want to sit down, after hating my chair for five years,” Claire told H&H after crossing the finish line.

Claire, supported by husband Dan (pictured), wept with the emotion of completing her challenge.

“I don’t know how I’ve lasted this long [without crying],” she told H&H.

Her husband, mother Joyce and one-year-old daughter, Maisie have accompanied her along the route, averaging about two miles each day.

“I wasn’t expecting all this,” she added, looking round at the bank of photographers and TV and radio reporters queuing up to interview her. Three members of the Household Cavalry acted as outriders, following Claire up The Mall.

“When I saw all the people and taxis at Westminster this morning [where she started her final day’s walk], I thought, ‘it’s a busy day in London’.

“Then I thought – ‘they can’t all be for me?’

“It’s lucky I didn’t know how many people would be here, or I wouldn’t have got any sleep last night,” she added.

As Claire stepped over the finishing line, runners stepped forward to hang their official Virgin London Marathon medals around her neck.

Medals are only awarded to people who complete the marathon within 24 hours. But Virgin has said it will award Claire a special trophy, in recognition of her bravery.

Olympic rower Matthew Pinsent – who has led the calls for Claire to receive official recognition – arrived with a box of “twelve to thirteen medals, all donated by runners.”

He told H&H it wasn’t fair to “bash” the organisers of the marathon.

“No marathon in the world would give her an official medal,” he said.

“But clearly people who’ve run the marathon feel differently.”

Many of the celebrities who have joined Claire during her walk were there to cheer her on, including adventurer Ben Fogle and TV presenter Dan Lobb.

Presenter Clare Balding described Claire’s marathon as “amazing”. She tweeted: “Not a dry eye on The Mall.”

Also there were six-times Badminton winner, Lucinda Green and fellow eventers Francis Whittington, Aoife Clark, Polly Stockton and Kate Lukas.

Claire will now hand back her robotic suit, but is due to take delivery of her own in September, thanks to the fundraising efforts of other riders and the Matt Hampson Foundation.

To donate to Claire’s campaign, go to www.justgiving.co.uk/claire-lomas or or text LEGS60 £(the amount) to 70070.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Virgin boss Sir Richard Branson has bowed to public pressure and announced that Claire Lomas will receive a special trophy for completing the London Marathon.

Claire, 32, is due to complete her “crazy challenge” – completing the London Marathon in a special robotic suit – on Tuesday, 8 May.

She is walking in aid of Spinal Research, and passed her target of raising £50,000 earlier this week. Her Just Giving page currently stands at just over £74,000.

But because Claire will have missed the 24-hour cut-off for finishing the marathon, she will not receive an official medal.

Supporters – including Olympic rower, Sir Matthew Pinsent – have called for an exception to be made.

Sir Matthew, who walked with Claire last week tweeted: “I would really like to think that someone who ran this year’s VLM would feel happy to give their medal to Claire Lomas.”

Dozens of runners plan to meet Claire at the finish line next week, to give her their medals.

Earlier today, Sir Richard Branson announced that he would present Claire with the Virgin Trophy for 2012.

He said: “We treasure amazing acts of bravery, especially ones that raise money for charity – and Claire’s marathon is certainly that.

“We launched the trophy to recognise men and women who go that extra mile, who challenge themselves beyond normal human limitations.

“We would be honoured to present Claire with the Virgin Trophy for 2012,” he added.

The past two recipients of the trophy are John Isner, the player who won the longest tennis match in the history of Wimbledon, and The Seagulls, an all-women crew who rowed unaided around Britain.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Claire Lomas has hit her £50,000 fundraising target after 10 days of walking the London marathon course.

The eventer, who is paralysed from the waist down following an accident at Osberton in 2007, has walked around 15 miles of the 26-mile route in a robotic suit.

She passed the half-way mark – Tower Bridge – yesterday.

She will be passing through London’s Docklands today, with visits from ITV Daybreak presenter Dan Lobb and Lucinda Green.

And future celebrity visitors include Dave Vitty of the Radio 1 Breakfast Show, BBC newsreaders Sophie Rayworth and Susannah Reid, Ben Fogle and Channel 4 racing commentator Alice Plunkett.

Claire hopes to cross the finishing post in the Mall next Tuesday (8 May) and so far sponsors have pledged more than £52,000 to Spinal Research through her fundraising efforts.

However when she finishes the marathon Claire will not be getting a medal and that’s annoyed many H&H readers, who flooded the Virgin London Marathon twitter account with requests for an exception to made.

The rules of the marathon were changed this year to read that anyone who takes more than 24 hours to compete the Marathon is not recognised.

Former GB rower Sir Matt Pinsent, who walked with Claire last week tweeted: “I would really like to think that someone who ran this years VLM would feel happy to give their medal to Claire Lomas.”

And Andy Fountain tweeted: “Can’t believe that @LondonMarathon won’t give @claire80lomas a finishers medal. If they don’t relent I will happily give her mine!!”

• To sponsor her, go to www.justgiving.com/Claire-Lomas or text legs60 £(the amount you want to sponsor Claire), to 70070.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Horse trials are being abandoned all over the country this weekend as the wet weather does its worst.

But it’s an ill wind that blows nobody any good, as they say, and eventers’ bad luck may prove of assistance to paralysed eventer Claire Lomas, who has been walking the 26-mile London Marathon course since Sunday in a robotic suit.

Riders, including Francis Whittington, Lucinda Green and Laura Collett, are urging their friends to donate their unused start fees from this weekend’s cancelled competitions to Claire’s appeal.

And others will use the unexpected free time to walk a couple of miles with Claire.

Claire hopes to raise more than £50,000 for Spinal Research with her walk and so far has reached £34,671.90.

• To sponsor Claire go to www. justgiving.com/Claire-Lomas or text LEGS60 £(the amount) to 70070.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

It was wet, very, very wet – but Claire Lomas (pictured right of pic) was still smiling and continued to do so all day, despite obviously being extremely weary.

H&H newswriter Amy Mathieson and I joined the paralysed eventer yesterday, on day four of her efforts to walk the London Marathon in a robotic suit.

It was probably the wettest day London has seen for five years.

And as we made our way to the reconditioned Cutty Sark in Greenwich, south east London the rain was coming down in buckets.

Earlier in the day Claire had rung to tell us she understood if we’d prefer to come on a drier day – how could we!

So we joined Claire in Nandos, where she was sheltering from the worst of the weather and waiting for BBC presenter Clare Balding, BBC World Service radio and a local BBC TV crew to join her for the next leg of her journey.

Claire is one of just two people in the UK to use the Re-Walk suit – a powered exoskeleton that allows the wearer to walk with crutches.

The Re-Walk is designed by Israeli company Argo Medical Technologies and distributed in the UK and Ireland by Yorkshire-based Cyclone Technologies.

The Cyclone team has supported Claire on her marathon effort – literally, as one of a three-strong team – today Matt – has walked behind Claire, holding onto her hips the whole way.

Also walking with Claire yesterday was eventer Gemma Tattersall (left of top pic).

Gemma told H&H: “I didn’t know Claire personally before, but last year Ruth Mathieson, who was leasing a horse from me, had a fall and seriously injured her spine.

“It brought it home to me how easily it can happen and when I heard Claire was doing this I wanted to support her.”

After four days of walking Claire passed the seven-mile mark in a walk that will take her and her support team of friends, family and staff from the Spinal Research charity more than two weeks to complete.

“It’s really difficult but my technique is improving,” said Claire, “and I hope to walk over the finish line completely unaided.

“I have been amazed by the support I have received so far – it’s been absolutely unbelievable, with people like Clare [Balding] coming along today, Tim Henman, Matt Pinsent and loads more people signed up to come out.”

Clare walked nearly a mile with Claire and declared her “amazing”.

“She never stops smiling,” she said. “Really inspirational!”

Claire Lomas intends to raise at least £50,000 for Spinal Research. Today her fundraising reached the £30,000 mark.

To sponsor Claire, go to www.justgiving.com/Claire-Lomas or text legs60 £(amount), to 70070.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

The run up to Badminton Horse Trials is always an exciting – and busy – time at Horse & Hound. This year it seems to have crept up on us (well me) and I’ve only just started the huge job of preparing all the photos and biographies that we need to bring our popular H&H Live service to eventing enthusiasts around the world. That’s going to keep me out of trouble for the next few days!

As usual we will be joined on both dressage days by the entertaining Anna Ross Davies, who will be sharing her irrepressible thoughts on topics including rhythm, accuracy and sartorial elegance. A big thank you goes to Baileys Horse Feeds, whose support enables us to provide this service. We hope that you will come and join in the fun.

I’m praying to the weather gods to take pity on horses, riders, grooms (and members of the press!) and bring the torrential rain we have been experiencing to an end before the action begins. It’s always great to be at Badminton, but wet and windy weather does take the edge off the enjoyment for spectators and competitors alike.

Geek offs and games

Following the success of last year’s ‘eventing geek off‘ at Badminton between H&H’s eventing editor Pippa Roome and former British Eventing sports manager Paul Graham, this year I have found myself taking part in a team quiz between Team GBR, Horse & Hound, Equestrian Journalists and Radio Badminton. Horse & Hound has the advantage of having last year’s top eventing geek on our team, but I have heard that some serious swotting is taking place among our rivals, so we had better watch out!

Badminton final scores

The natural competitiveness of the H&H office was also brought to the fore with the launch of our first online game last week. The NAF Superflex Raise The Bar Jumping Challenge is based on a six-bar jumping competition. When I emailed the link round the office at 20mins to home time, I didn’t expect much of a reaction, but within moments everyone had downed tools and an office-wide competition to head the leader board ensued. If you haven’t checked it out yet, have a go. It is good fun, easy to play and ideal to fill a few minutes during a coffee break.

Truly inspirational

And I can’t finish without mentioning the incredible challenge that paralysed former event rider Claire Lomas is currently undertaking, walking the London Marathon route in her Re-Walk suit. Two members of our news team, Amy Mathieson and Charlotte White, sneaked out of the office this afternoon to walk some of the way with her. So far Claire has walked seven miles in four days and raised over £25,000 towards her £50,000 goal for Spinal Research.

To help Claire reach her goal, go to www.justgiving.com/Claire-Lomas or text legs60 £(the amount you want to donate), to 70070.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

As most of the runners who took part in yesterday’s London Marathon take a well-earned rest from their labours, plucky former eventer Claire Lomas is back out on the streets.

Claire, who was paralysed in a cross-country accident at Osberton in 2007, is walking the marathon in a robotic suit.

She completed 2.25miles of the 26-mile course yesterday, and at 10am today was due to pick up from where she left off.

She is likely to be walking for more than two weeks.

This morning she tweeted: “Day 2. Not too sore. Weather looks bad though… still can’t believe yesterday – surreal. Nearly cry every time think about it!”

She was joined for the last stint of the day by Olympic rower Sir Matthew Pinsent – which she said spurred her on.

“What an end to the first day,” she said.

Claire aims to raise £50,000 for Spinal Research. As this story went online her total was at £17,882.20.

To sponsor her, go to www.justgiving.com/Claire-Lomas or text legs60 £(the amount you want to sponsor Claire), to 70070.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Paralysed eventer Claire Lomas has had a boost to her fundraising efforts with a push on the H&H forum.

Claire has been confined to a wheelchair since being injured in a fall at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007.

But on Sunday she will line up with thousands of sportsmen and women and fundraisers to tackle the London Marathon in aid of Spinal Research.

Claire is one of just two people in the UK being trained to use the Re-Walk suit – a powered exoskeleton that allows the wearer to walk with crutches.

She has been training for the past 12 weeks (see picture) and has progressed to being able to walk two-thirds of a mile in 67 minutes.

So she expects to be on the Marathon course for around three weeks.

But Claire has signed up some celebrity guests to walk with her – including BBC presenter Clare Balding, tennis star Tim Henman, Olympic rower Sir Matthew Pinsett and the Radio 1 Breakfast Show’s “Comedy Dave”.

“I am very grateful to everyone who has signed up to sponsor or walk with me,” said Claire.

“It’s along way but I shall keep on going, with a few breaks as it’s quite hard on my wrists.”

Claire hopes to raise £50,000 for Spinal Research and as this story went on the web had reached £12,409.

To sponsor her, go to www.justgiving.com/Claire-Lomas or text legs60 £(the amount you want to sponsor Claire), to 70070.

Picture courtesy of John Giles/PA Wire

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Paralysed event rider Claire Lomas is to be joined by celebrities including Clare Balding and Tim Henman on her London Marathon mission, starting on 22 April.

The former event rider – who was injured in an accident at Osberton horse trials in 2007 – aims to walk the 26 miles in a robotic suit.

She will also be joined by Lucinda Green, ITV Daybreak presenters Dan Lobb and Helen Fospero and former England rugby player Matt Hampson, now paralysed himself, who will each accompany her for a mile.

“Training is going really well so far,” Claire told H&H.

“I walked a mile last week – it felt like 10 miles – and took me 2hr 40min. It’s hard work, much harder than I’d expected. It’s uncomfortable and challenging – especially on my wrists and arms.”

Claire thinks the marathon will take her two to three weeks.

“I’m really excited,” she added. “I’ll see how much I can do in a day, but I’m not sure whether it’ll get harder as the days go on as I’ll be sore, or easier as it becomes more familiar.”

Claire aims to raise £50,000 for Spinal Research.

For how to donate to Claire and other runners visit: www.get-claire-walking.co.uk and www.horseandhound.co.uk/marathon2012.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (12 April 2012)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Tackling a marathon is a real undertaking.

But imagine if you have just 12 weeks preparation and also have to re-learn how to walk.

That’s what paralysed former four-star event rider Claire Lomas has in store between now and 22 April, when she will walk the London Marathon in a special robotic suit.

“The training is physically very tiring but mentally exhausting.

“I thought nothing could be as challenging as riding round Burghley five years ago, but this is much harder,” said Claire.

Claire is one of just two people in the UK being trained to use the Re-Walk suit – a powered exoskeleton that allows the wearer to walk with crutches.

And now she’s in a race with her year-old daughter Maisie to see who will be walking first.

“I’m going all out to beat her,” joked Claire. “I’ve had four sessions and managed to put 27 steps together in the last one. I don’t know how many lots of 27 steps there are a marathon…”

Claire thinks it will take her around two weeks to complete the 26-mile course.

She has been confined to a wheelchair since being injured in a fall at Osberton Horse Trials in 2007.

But she is determined to walk again, and although she will undertake the marathon in the training suit, fundraisers have helped her raise the £35,000 to buy the world’s first personal suit – due to be delivered this summer.

The Re-Walk is designed by Israeli company Argo Medical Technologies and distributed in the UK and Ireland by Yorkshire-based Cyclone Technology.

Dave Hawking of Cyclone Technology told H&H: “It’s going to be a huge challenge for Claire.

“I’d rather she had decided to do a 5K, but is anyone is going to complete the marathon in this suit it will be Claire. Her mental attitude is amazing.”

Claire has set herself a target of raising at least £50,000, for Spinal Research with the challenge.

Robin Plowman of the charity said: “It is an incredibly physical challenge for someone with a spinal injury – Claire is a real inspiration.”

To sponsor Claire, go to www.justgiving.com/Claire-Lomas or contact her at clairesfund@hotmail.co.uk.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now