The Hackney horse and pony has suffered a further decline, the latest Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) figures show, but there are signs of hope elsewhere.

The numbers of Hackneys were already “very low”, and the breed was already in the “priority” category but the 2026 RBST watch list, published this month, shows that its situation is now classed as critical.

Figures show that the number of dams producing registered offspring dropped from 34 in 2024 to 20, a 41% reduction. The breed’s effective population size, a measure of genetic diversity rather than the number of horses, has dropped from 52 to 27, well below the United Nations’ breed level of concern, 50.

RBST chief executive Christopher Price said: “The Hackney horse and pony has been operating at low numbers for some years, and further sharp declines in 2025 have put the breed in a critical situation.

“This characteristically tough and hardy breed has so much to offer – as well as its fantastic history, the Hackneys’ agility and flair make them great horses for showing, jumping and dressage as well as under harness. Halting this decline is an urgent priority for RBST and we will be working with RBST members and the breed society to intensify our conservation programmes for the breed.”

Unique chapter

Hackney Horse Society council member Sarah Hockings said the breed “represents a unique chapter of British history”, but also an opportunity for modern riders, owing to their temperament and versatility.

Her fellow council member Fred Vyse added: “Whether in the show ring or as a spirited companion, the Hackney remains a breed of unparalleled quality.

“We are proud to be working in close collaboration with the Rare Breeds Survival Trust to secure this future. By combining the society’s deep-rooted expertise with the RBST’s conservation work, we are taking proactive steps to turn the tide on declining numbers.

“Our joint efforts are focused on ensuring that the ‘celebrated Hackney’ is not just a memory of the past, but a thriving, vital part of the UK’s equine community for years to come.”

The 2026 RBST watch list, the charity’s annual report, shows that six native UK equine breeds are in the most urgent, priority, category, and six more are classed as at risk.

Cleveland Bays

This year’s report also highlights concerns for the Cleveland Bay. Despite major efforts made in recent years, the number of breeders registering foals and the number of dams producing registered offspring are the lowest recorded since data collecting started in 2002. In one year, the number of dams has dropped by 42.8%.

Cleveland Bay Horse Society chairman Matthew Stonehouse told H&H that after the Covid period there was a “welcome increase in breeding activity; a sign that interest in the Cleveland Bay remained strong”.

“That momentum has since eased, and we attribute this to a combination of factors,” he said.

“Challenging economic conditions for breeders, the wider cost-of-living squeeze on equestrian pursuits and what several of our members have noted was an unusually difficult breeding year in 2024 due to adverse weather. Cycling difficulties that year are thought to have suppressed foal numbers, not only in Cleveland Bays but across several breeds.”

Mr Stonehouse added that international registrations, which have “played a meaningful role in our numbers”, have also reduced in recent years, which the society is actively monitoring.

“The Cleveland Bay is Britain’s oldest established native horse breed, and its future is something we care about deeply,” he said. “We are moving forward with promotion of the breed; particularly to amateur riders and a younger audience who may not yet appreciate just how versatile and characterful these horses are.

“We believe the 2026 figures will provide a clearer picture, and we remain cautiously optimistic.”

Signs of hope in 2026 RBST watch list

The Suffolk horse’s effective population size increased in 2025 for the third consecutive year, and the number of dams producing registered offspring was the highest since 2010.

The Dales showed effective population size growth and the Eriskay pony was stable. There was an increase in new Exmoor breeder registrations.

Mr Price said 13 UK native equine breeds are classed as rare on the 2026 RBST watch list.

“These breeds are an irreplaceable part of our cultural heritage, and they also have important modern roles to play in riding and recreation, conservation grazing for nature restoration and genetic diversity,” he said.

“Owners of native breed horses and ponies around the UK can work with RBST and breed societies to register their animals, to showcase their versatility and take part in crucial breeding programmes. Please do contact RBST to find out more about how you can support a strong future for our rare native equines.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

Calls for riders to embrace the Hackney’s versatility as rare breed teeters on the brink

‘Sometimes, I could do with a pair of blinkers’: hackney strides to top 10 finish at dressage nationals

The Hackney: the history and endangered status of this dynamic British breed

Hackney stallion thought to be oldest of his breed in the country celebrates 34th birthday

“He’s still got it, love him, every now and then you see him trotting up the field and you think

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 overarching picture for Britain’s rare equine breeds is a mixed bag in 2025, as Hackneys face a worrying decline and others have a welcome boost in numbers.

The Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) watchlist is the annual report on the UK’s native equine and livestock breeds. It takes into account the number of breeding females registered and measures of genetic diversity.

Fells, Dartmoors, Cleveland Bays and Eriskays have all recorded increases. There is also “a more stable picture” for Welsh section Bs, which were added to the watchlist last year (news, 18 April 2024).

The RBST said the new watchlist “deepens concerns” for the Hackney horse and pony, which “remains in a very challenging situation”.

“The breed has now seen worryingly low numbers for over a decade and while female registrations were slightly higher in 2024 compared to 2023, the total number of dams producing registered progeny declined,” stated the RBST.

It added that the Hackneys’ “effective population size”, which indicates genetic diversity by accounting for total number of animals and relative numbers of sires and dams, has fallen “very close to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation’s level of concern” of 50.

Hackney Horse Society chairman Nicola Salter told H&H the news is “very worrying”.

“We are doing our best to try to get people to see the Hackney as more than just a driving animal,” she said, adding that they are “fantastic” for driving, but much more.

She gave examples of Hackneys’ success and influence in dressage competition and breeding, jumping, and a much-loved lead-rein pony enjoying a second career with the same family as a driving pony.

“For the breed to prosper, it has to be seen as a more versatile animal. We have to keep trying for the sake of the breed,” she said.

Welsh Pony and Cob Society chairman Ed Gummery told H&H that although the section B remains on the “at-risk” register, the society is pleased the data “indicates an improving and more stable picture”.

Mr Gummery also noted that the RBST data only reflects UK statistics and that there are “a good number of section B ponies bred and owned overseas”.

He said that there was “an immediate upward spike in interest” in the breed, following the 2024 announcement and subsequent publicity.

“This can only be seen to be doing what it was intended to do, rekindling interest in owning and breeding these unique ponies, assisting to promote their exceptional versatility and thus improving their survival prospects for the future,” he said.

“The society hopes that with no set requirements to hit specific numbers at shows, a more even playing field for medal awards and recognition within the society will exist, that will allow the section B Welsh pony to flourish once again alongside our other Welsh pony and cob sections.”

In terms of Fells, there was an increase of more than 50 dams recorded as producing registered progeny in 2024 – an rise of 23% on 2023 and the highest recorded figure since 2010.

H&H spoke to several breeders involved in drives to support and promote the Fell.

Stacy Longrigg, chair of the Fell Pony Society Next Generation Group, told H&H it is urgently trying to tap into and preserve the “invaluable” wealth of knowledge among older breeders. The group is looking at social media and digital methods to record and share wisdom with younger audiences.

Libby Robinson, chair of the Fell Pony Heritage Trust, told H&H about the variety of promotional and educational work the charity does. From taking a pony into schools, working with cultural film-makers and photographers, to tapping into the Lake District’s tourist market – current surveys show around 18 million people visit the area each year – by putting information in tourism offices, and much more.

A spokesperson for the Fell Pony Society told H&H it is “delighted” with the increase.

“This reflects the increasing popularity of this exceptionally versatile, low-maintenance all-round family pony,” she said.

“Fell ponies took the supreme championships at HOYS (Horse of the Year Show) and the London International Horse Show in 2024, which is further testament to the quality of this outstanding native breed.”

RBST chief executive Christopher Price said: “The watchlist shows welcome stability across many of the UK’s rare native equine breeds, which pays testament to the great dedication and commitment of owners and breed societies throughout the UK, day in and day out.

“However, the picture remains very concerning for some of our rarest equine breeds, particularly the Hackney horse and pony.

“We will continue to work closely with the breed societies to improve the outlook for all rare equine breeds through scientific research, application of the latest conservation tools and techniques, support for breeding networks and promotion of the great benefits that these breeds can bring people, communities and the environment today and for the future.”

• To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

You may also be interested in:

‘We’re delighted to bring loyal readers this benefit’: H&H magazine subscribers get free website access

The Hackney: the history and endangered status of this dynamic British breed

Shock as popular Welsh section B put on rare breeds ‘at risk’ register

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 hackney gelding with a love of cross-country is flying the flag for the rare British breed as he demonstrates just how versatile these horses can be.

East Yorkshire-based Emily Gautier’s 16-year-old Skelton Romeo has been awarded the Hackney Horse Society’s 2022 performance award. The award, which relaunched this year, aims to recognise the achievements of hackneys taking part in different sports, as the society aims to raise awareness of the breed’s suitability for a variety of disciplines and as good all-rounders. Previous award winners include hackneys who have excelled in dressage and showjumping.

Emily Gautiers bought 15.2hh Romeo four years ago as a general riding and hacking horse.

“I didn’t purposefully look for a hackney as I had no experience of the breed, and I’d always thought they were mostly used for showing,” she said.

“Romeo hadn’t done much when I got him home and to start with he couldn’t even walk over a pole, but he was very gentle and willing.”

Emily said taking Romeo cross-country schooling for the first time last year really “brought him out” and allowed him to shine.

“He loved cross-country from the start and he is really good at ditches and banks. It sounds cliche but he learned to trust me,” she said.

“Two months after our first schooling session I took him to our first British Eventing competition at Norton Disney – and last season we didn’t have any cross-country jumping penalties.”

This year Emily and Romeo have been competing at BE90 and under-18s classes, and they hope to step up to BE100 next year.

“It’s funny as I always mention on the commentary sheets that he’s a hackney and the commentators always sound surprised and like they’re having to re-check his breeding when they read it out,” said Emily.

In the 2022/23 Rare Breeds Survival Trust’s watchlist the hackney horse and pony features in the “priority” category and the trust issued a warning about the breed’s uncertain future, after only 31 registered foals were born this year.

Emily said she is keen to help promote the breed and show how versatile they are.

“I’m really proud that Romeo is a hackney, especially as I haven’t heard of many others eventing. He’s never lame or ill, and I’ve never had a horse like him. He absolutely loves his work,” she said.

You might also be interested in:

‘Sometimes, I could do with a pair of blinkers’: hackney strides to top 10 finish at dressage nationals

Warning over Hackneys’ future in latest rare-breeds watchlist

The Hackney: the history and endangered status of this dynamic British breed

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.

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

Hackney gelding Plains Timeless impressed the crowds and the judges to secure a top 10 placing in the Andrews Bowen advanced medium silver championship at the 2022 LeMieux National Dressage Championships.

Megan Turner, who co-runs Hurst Farm Livery with her family, and 15-year-old Plains Timeless (Toby) were making their nationals debut.

“We got him when he was six; he was my first horse and was intended to be an all-rounder,” said 22-year-old Megan. “The lady I bought him off had tried to put him to the cart, but he was too spooky about it, so she ended up riding him. When I bought him he could walk, trot, canter and pop a small fence.”

Megan and Toby, who stands at 15.1hh, have grown as a partnership over the past nine years.

“As I’ve got older and he’s shown more talent, we’ve been able to progress through the levels,” said Megan. “He can be tense; I think from the driving blood in him, but when he’s on form the judges appreciate his expression and movement. Though sometimes, I think I could do with a pair of blinkers. He has naturally good paces and we’ve developed them over the years. He’s absolutely out done himself as a dressage horse.”

Toby and Megan also appeared at the British Dressage Winter Championships in April after qualifying in the medium music final and securing wild cards in advanced medium and medium classes.

“At Somerford, he took the pressure so well; I was so proud of him,” said Megan, who trains with Nicky Barrett, Charlotte Lassetter and Natalie Hobday. “His lateral work and half passes are always a highlight, as well as his medium and extended trots, which have taken me a long time to manage. He’s got a very powerful back end and he brings the power into each movement. Sometimes in the warm-up I do think ‘how the hell am I going to sit to this!’”

You might also be interested in:

‘I come out with a smile on my face’: Michael Eilberg on his seven-year-old nationals winner

‘He needed another job’: former vaulting horse, who stands at 19hh, takes national novice gold glory

‘She’s known as nan’s horse’: rider spends ‘house deposit’ on mare who is now a national champion

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.

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 flashy Hackney horse is renowned for its spectacular high-stepping trot under harness. However, despite its impressive gaits, natural athleticism and straight action, the breed is classified at risk.

Although they are famous for their ability in harness, their agility, flair and activity make them an enjoyable riding horse, too, particularly when crossed with other sport horse breeds. However, probably due to the fact that they are endangered, pure-bred Hackneys are not a common sight under saddle.

In this article: History | Conformation | Movement | Royal approval

History

The Hackney was developed in England in the 18th century by crossing the Norfolk and Yorkshire Roadsters (trotting harness horses) with the thoroughbred. This produced a stylish carriage horse breed with a flashy trot for which the breed is renowned today. The Hackney Horse Society was formed in 1883 to promote Hackney breeding and is still in operation today, maintaining the studbook and holding two Hackney shows a year.

As the state of the roads improved in the 17th century, a faster type of carriage horse was in demand, leading to the introduction of thoroughbred bloodlines. These high-stepping horses became a status symbol, coupled with their ability to trot at high speed for long periods. They are still known to be characteristically tough, hardy and sound horses.

Quality thoroughbred stallions were influential on the breed, including their most significant foundation sire, Shales – also known as Original Shales and Old Shales. He was a grandson of the unbeaten Flying Childers.

Today the Hackney horse is classified as critical by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust. In 2022, the RBST declared there were just 12 stallions and 31 broodmares left in the UK. However, the Hackney has been exported to other countries, such as the US.

Conformation and looks

• The general impression should be of poise and muscular elegance, with an alert and active outlook
• They can be a range of solid colours, and can have white markings on their face and legs. Bay, followed by black, are the most common, with chestnut fairly rare.
• The Hackney is a medium-sized horse, typically standing at a maximum of 16hh
• Head and neck: while standing, the Hackney should have its head and neck raised. The head should have a straight or slightly convex profile with eyes set wide apart. Ears should be well-formed and active, while the throat should be fine
• Body: neck well-set on reasonably high withers over powerful, obliquely sloping shoulders. Well-sprung girth of adequate depth, while the back is of a reasonable length. The upper line of the croup from the loins to tail should form a convex curve with a well-carried tail
• Legs: clean, flat bone with clearly defined tendons. Excessive fineness is undesirable. Forelegs attached well forward, beneath the point of the shoulder. Pasterns should be long and sloping to provide the light and springy step that is the breed’s hallmark
• Hooves: well-rounded with the front feet more sloping than the back. The hooves should be open at the heels and have concave soles

The Hackney is one of very few breeds to have both horse and pony sizes, but a pony is expected to show distinct pony characteristics, such as small, neat ears and a small, fine muzzle. It should be more compact than a Hackney horse, but the general conformation is similar. Likewise their movement will be brisker but with the same impressive action. They may include Welsh or Fell pony bloodlines, and are especially popular in the US.

Movement

The breed is renowned for its high stepping action in trot, with remarkable flexion. Hackneys should show a well-rounded front action, with the hocks flexed and following through under the body in a piston-like action. Although their trot is very dynamic, excessive speed is undesirable; instead it should look well-balanced and elegant. They should move straight, with no dishing or crossing of the forelegs.

Hackneys are most famous for their spectacular brilliance in the driving arena, however, they can also be used as riding horses, for showing, jumping and dressage. They are a popular cross in various sport horse breeds, especially Gelderlanders and Holsteins.

Royal approval

HRH the Prince of Wales is the current patron of the Hackney Horse Society. Over the years, the society has had a number of royal presidents, including The Queen, the Duke of Edinburgh, The Princess Royal, Prince Michael of Kent, The Duchess of York and the Prince of Wales.

You may also enjoy reading…

The ‘golden horse’: the stamina, spirit and shimmering coat of the exotic Akhal-Teke

The Arabian horse: the history, hallmarks and heritage of this graceful breed

The Clydesdale horse: the pride of Scotland with both substance and style

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.

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 Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) is “renewing its warning” about the future of the Hackney horse and pony, after just 31 registered foals were born last year.

The 2022/23 RBST watchlist published this month features seven breeds in the “priority” category; Hackneys, Cleveland Bays, Dales, Dartmoors, Exmoors and Eriskays. Clydesdales, Fells, Highlands, New Forests and Shires have been classed as “at risk”. Shetlands and Welsh ponies and cobs appear in the “UK native breeds” category, and Connemaras and Irish Draughts are listed in the “Irish breeds in the UK” category. The categories are based on population size, taking into account numbers of males and females and the degree of inbreeding. All the breeds remain in the same category as the 2021/22 watchlist.

The RBST reported that while the numbers of Eriskays, Suffolks and Cleveland Bays remains low, the “stability in the breeds’ data in 2021 is positive”. But there are “extreme concerns” around Hackneys.

“The Hackney breed, which already had very low numbers, has seen further decline over the past year with just 31 females producing registered progeny from only 12 breeders. This compares with more than 300 breeding females registered in 2011,” said an RBST spokesman, adding that the organisation is urging more people to support the breed’s modern uses.

Mark Hardy, chairman of the Hackney Horse Society, told H&H the pandemic and increase in the cost of living had caused issues for breeders, and they are also limited in choices as there are so few of them.

“After the Second World War, there was a big revival of Hackneys and at the time there were lots of breeders and trainers. But as time has gone on, many have passed away or moved on to other things,” he said.

“As an organisation, we are really trying to promote the breed and show how versatile it is and hopefully we will see more people using them in other disciplines and create more demand. People usually associate Hackneys with driving and showing, but they’re also very good all-rounders.”

According to the RBST, the number of Shire foals registered last year was 228, down from 250 in 2020. The number of overall New Forest breeders registering progeny has declined – as has the number of dams, which the RBST classifies as mares who have had at least one foal, but the breed still has the greatest number of dams of all the rare equine breeds. Though Dartmoors and Exmoors remain on the priority list for 2022/23, there has been an “important increase” in the number of dams, which is “crucial” for managing inbreeding in breeds with low numbers.

“The Exmoor data is the highest recorded since 2017, with the number of dams up 37% on 2020 and Dartmoors have also made significant progress with the number of breeders registering progeny at its highest since 2011, and the number of dams up 46% on 2020,” RBST senior conversation adviser Tom Blunt told H&H.

“Both breeds have also seen an improvement in effective population size which indicates successful management of inbreeding.”

You might also be interested in:

Breed societies find ‘proactive’ solutions to overcome Brexit challenges

15 rare horse breeds from Great Britain and around the world

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.

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

Seven native horse breeds have been classed at the highest level of concern in the latest Rare Breeds Survival Trust watchlist.

The 2021/22 watchlist, published this week (8 April), has been updated with new categories: priority, at risk, UK native breeds and Irish breeds in the UK. Previously the categories were critical, endangered, vulnerable, at risk and minority.

Cleveland Bays Dales, Dartmoors, Eriskays, Exmoors, Hackneys and Suffolk horses appear in the priority category. Clydesdales, Fell and Highland ponies, New Forests, and Shires have been classed as at risk. Shetland ponies and Welsh ponies and cobs appear under UK native breeds, and Connemaras and Irish draught horses are listed in the Irish breeds in the UK section.

An RBST spokesman said the way the watchlist is produced has been updated this year to give a more “holistic view” of each breed’s outlook. The new categories are based on population size, taking into account numbers of males and females, and the degree of inbreeding. The breeds of most concern are those that are rare with increase with increased inbreeding, and breeds of least concern are not rare, and any inbreeding is well managed.

“The outlook for many of the UK’s rare native breeds of horse and pony has remained broadly unchanged, thanks to continuing interest from new breeders, the commitment of dedicated breed societies, conservation programmes at the 25 RBST-accredited farm parks, and generous public support for our work,” said the spokesman.

Priority breeds represent those breeds of most concern, which are both rare and have increased inbreeding.

“Of particular concern is the Cleveland Bay, which has seen a decline in the number of dams. In 2020, 13 breeders registered progeny, falling from 22 in 2018,” said the spokesman.

“The most numerically scarce native breed remains the Eriskay pony, but in 2020, seven females were registered, an important increase from two in 2018. Six herds registered progeny in 2020, up from just two in 2018.”

The spokesman said indicators for Clydesdales, Shires and Suffolk horses have largely remained stable over the past two years.

“The Clydesdale and the Shires are categorised as at risk, while the Suffolk horse remains in the priority category with just 14 female registrations in 2020 but with a consistent effective population size and effective management of inbreeding,” he said.

“RBST continues the programme of work to support the survival of these three breeds which was enabled by the RBST’s Heavy Horse Appeal in 2018. At-risk breeds represent those breeds with lower numbers than ideal and also a concern with inbreeding.”

The spokesman added there have been “positive signs” for Dales ponies, as the breed’s numbers have increased for the second consecutive year, and Fell ponies had also increased in population size. The Hackney horse and pony data shows an improvement from 2019, with 21 breeders registering progeny in 2020, but the breed remains in the priority category.

RBST chief executive Christopher Price said there is “a lot to be positive about” in this year’s watchlist, with several equine breeds showing a “stable or improving” outlook.

Continued below…

Good news for some rare breeds as numbers stablise *H&H Plus*

Hackney stallion thought to be oldest of his breed in the country celebrates 34th birthday

“He’s still got it, love him, every now and then you see him trotting up the field and you think

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

“However many native equine breeds remain very vulnerable, particularly the Eriskay pony, the Suffolk horse, the Cleveland Bay and the Hackney horse and pony. We are working closely with breed Societies, RBST-accredited farm parks and other supporters of these wonderful breeds on vital conservation programmes to improve their outlook for survival long into the future,” he said.

“Despite all the challenges and disruption, the past year has seen brilliant work throughout the UK to help our native equine breeds survive, from scientific innovation to new conservation partnerships and international projects. There have been wonderful examples of our native breeds being put to great use for conservation grazing and land management, as hunters and in forestry.

Mr Price added that the watchlist reflects last year‘s births which were largely the result of pre-pandemic breeding programmes, so the trust will be keeping a “very close eye” on the impacts of last year’s restrictions.

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 to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

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 Hackney thought to be the oldest living registered stallion of his breed in the UK has celebrated his 34th birthday.

Highmoor Demonstrator, known as Blue, has been owned by Charlie Sparrowhawk since he was a yearling.

The bay stallion was bought by Charlie’s grandfather, also Charlie Sparrowhawk, as part of an entire stud bought from Arthur Spurling in 1988.

Blue was shown by Charlie in costers and light trade classes but is now living on the family farm, where he is turned out with his 29-year-old gelding companion Sunny.

“They are the naughtiest pair sometimes,” said Charlie’s partner Mari Wilson. “I also breed dressage horses and I have a Totilas colt who is turned out with a Shetland friend. I’ll bring those two in and they’re fine, but the two old pensioners will be dragging you down the field.

“I think they’ve probably reached the age where they’ve earned the right to misbehave a bit. He’s always had lovely manners but they have started to slide!”

Mari also used to hack Blue before he fully retired at the age of 28, and said that he is still sound despite his advanced years and the extravagant Hackney action.

“He’s quite a chunky Hackney but being tough and sound is a trait of the breed,” Mari said.

“He’s still got it, love him, every now and then you see him trotting up the field and you think ‘he can’t half shift’.”

Blue’s father, Ashingdon Ellen’s Boy, also reached the age of 34 before he died. Blue has not sired any offspring himself.

“He was turned out with mares for a few years but by that point he wasn’t interested!” Mari added.

Hackney horses and ponies are listed as “critical” on the Rare Breed Survival Trust’s watchlist, having a breeding population of less than 300. Out of the UK’s 14 native horse and pony breeds, 12 are considered rare and five of these are considered critical: joining the Hackney in this category are the Cleveland Bay, Dales, Eriskay and Suffolk.

Continued below… 

Equine breeding tech could save wild animals from extinction

“I feel incredibly honoured to be able to do this. I absolutely love it”

Breeding expert Tullis Matson on working with legendary stallions – and collecting semen from elephants

Stallion AI Services’ Tullis Matson on famous stallions and his fascinating work with rare breeds and species – including elephants

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

The breed has its origins in the Norfolk and Yorkshire roadsters and is considered a “blood” type, having been influenced by early thoroughbred stallions.

Improvements in the roads during the 16th and 17th centuries increased the demand for carriage horses and the high-stepping Hackney breed evolved. The Hackney Horse Society and stud book was formed in 1883.

Hackneys are still principally used for driving, having good stamina and soundness from their ancestry. They have also been used to influence continental breeds such as the Gelderlanders/Dutch Harness Horses.

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 to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

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

Despite five of the 12 equine breeds on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust 2020/21 watchlist being described as ‘critical’, H&H finds some positive news from those working for the breeds’ futures...

The latest figures on endangered equines “shine a light” on the efforts of those working to save at-risk breeds.

There are 12 equine breeds on the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) 2020/21 watchlist, with five of those in the “critical” category, meaning there are fewer than 300 breeding females.

There is some good news among some of the more worrying figures, with several of the most endangered breeds showing positive signs of stabilising and, in some cases, increasing their numbers.

“This year’s watchlist shines a light on the great efforts of rare-equine breeders working alongside RBST,” chief executive of the RBST Christopher Price told H&H.

“It is great to see that, three years into our heavy horse campaign, their numbers are stable with some breeds such as the Suffolk showing an increase.”

He added there is also positive news for the Cleveland Bay, which has an estimated 98 breeding females registered in total.

“In 2019, 18 [new] females were registered, whereas in 2016 just five were registered,” Mr Price said.

“This is a really important improvement but the breed remains in a critical position and so our efforts to safeguard their future continue, in close collaboration with the Cleveland Bay Horse Society.

“These increases are heartening, but they are in the context of generally declining numbers of rare-breed ponies and horses over the past decade.”

In 2011, H&H reported the number of hackney breeding mares had dropped from 500 to around 300, which has more than halved again during the past nine years.

“The five breeds in our critical category have very low numbers, with hackney horse numbers declining further to an estimated breeding number of 129 and the Eriskay breed only registering four female foals in 2019,” he added. “The two endangered breeds – Exmoor ponies and Dartmoor ponies – have both decreased in number.”

He added the RBST has vital conservation programmes under way to save breeds most at risk and thanked all those who support this “crucial work”.

Barbara Stockton, of the Hackney Horse Society, has been exhibiting and breeding hackneys since the 1970s, judging for the past 30 years, and spent five years as the society’s chairman.

“Obviously the decline is incredibly sad,” she told H&H. “The picture we see as a breed society is possibly slightly different to the RBST – we are actually seeing [overall] registrations increasing slowly, but surely.”

She added there was one very low year in the past five years with about 25 new registrations, but the 2019 totals are around 62.

Gene pool mapping work is being done by the RBST and Mrs Stockton added one of the pluses of the breed is owners tend to keep the stallions entire, unless there is a reason for them to be cut.

“I have been a fan of the horses for so many years and I cannot understand why a horse with so many great attributes isn’t taken on by more people,” she said. “They are incredibly athletic, their stamina is amazing and are a naturally elegant, beautiful breed.”

You may also be interested in…

Outstanding Cleveland Bay mare honoured with H&H award

The mare has had a significant impact on the breed, in the UK and abroad

Rare breed foal lifts spirits during ‘dark days’

Coppermantle Big Stig was born on 8 March

Rare Suffolk mare in foal thanks to innovative ‘sexed semen’ technology

‘Hopefully this may be a way to stop these breeds from disappearing’

Hackneys under threat of extinction says Rare Breeds Survival Trust

The future of the hackney horse hangs in the balance with less than 300 breeding mares now registered

Trainer’s horseboarding adventure with rare ponies and a sausage dog

Footage from Emma Massingale's exciting trip will be aired on the BBC’s The One Show later this year

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 Prince of Wales has taken on the role of president of the Hackney Horse Society (HHS) as it bids to revive the breed, which is facing extinction.

Prince Charles, patron of the Rare Breed Survival Trust (RBST), has a keen interest in Britain’s rare breeds. HHS chairman Roger Bass said that it was “an honour that [the Prince] has recognised within that list the plight of the Hackney, both horse and pony, now critically endangered”.

The RBST considers a breed to be critical when the number of adult breeding females falls below 300. Figures from the RBST last year showed that there were fewer than 150 Hackney broodmares.

“His Royal Highness is a keen advocate for rare British breeds and well aware of their special qualities, diversity and history, all of which we are in danger of losing,” said Roger.

“The HHS feels privileged and extremely fortunate to have the support of His Royal Highness to promote the breeding of our wonderful Hackney horse and pony.

“Despite being now small in number, the pure-bred Hackney is still dominant in the show ring and the society is determined to reverse the decline in their fortunes and get the breed back on a firmer footing.”

The Prince has accepted the role for 2013-14.

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

Cynthia Haydon, the outstanding hackney driver of the 20th century, died on Sunday, 16 September at her home at Adlestrop, Glos. She was 94.

With her late husband Frank, Cynthia produced generations of hackney horses and ponies for both sides of the Atlantic.

She regularly won championships at Wembley, White City, county shows and in Canada and the US.

Daughter of the hackney trainer Robert Black, Cynthia married Frank in 1939.

They set up the Hurstwood hackney stud in Sussex, moving in 1958 to Shovelstrode, East Grinstead, in 1973 to Lower Slaughter, Glos, and in 1980 to Adlestrop before retiring in 1995.

Mrs Haydon’s funeral takes place at Adlestrop on Tuesday, 2 October.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (27 September 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

Driving stalwart and hackney enthusiast Elspeth Gill has died.

Ms Gill was born in 1936 and grew up in Scotland. Her father was a film director and she too went into the industry.

After training at RADA and becoming an actress, she later provided horses and carriages for films.

She was passionate about hackneys and had much success at shows, including winning the concours d’elegance at HOYS in 1982 with Finesse.

In 2006, she won the hackney performance horse of the year award with Sunbeam Fantasia (Billy).

She was tending to Billy in early June when she had a fall. She was taken to hospital but died peacefully in her sleep. Her funeral took place on 26 June in Shrewsbury.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (5 July 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

The hackney horse is in danger of extinction, according to new figures from the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST).

The breed joins the Cleveland Bay, Eriskay and Suffolk as breeds with fewer than 300 breeding mares – classifying them as “critical”.

It is the only horse breed to move up a category from “endangered” to “critical” on the 2012 watchlist. The RBST says its dwindling numbers are “of grave concern“.

“There are fewer than 150 registered adult breeding females,” said Claire Barber from the RBST.

“We are working with the Hackney Horse Society [HHS] to promote the breed, but with the financial climate as it is people are stopping breeding.”

Once one of England’s most prolific breeds, the introduction of Arab blood in the 1700s made them popular as carriage horses with a distinctive high-stepping action.

When horse-drawn transport faded in the 20th century, the hackney moved into the showring.

Barbara Stockton produces hackneys in Staffordshire.

“We need to breed more animals, but we have to look at economic realities,” she said.

“The breed has all the attributes you could want, but also unfortunately a reputation for being difficult. In reality, properly handled, they are no different to any other horse.”

The Hackney Horse Society, alongside the RBST, is hosting a show for all 12 equine breeds on the rare breed watchlist from 22-23 September at Bury Farm, Bucks, as a showcase – the first of its kind.

The RBST has semen from two hackneys in the gene bank, but is hoping to add a third with help from the HHS.

Do you use a hackney as a leisure horse? Let us know at hhletters@ipcmedia.com.

This news story was first published in the current issue of H&H (23 February 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

A “historic” hackney dispersal sale is being held in Middlesex next week.

Maria and Chaise Vyse are selling the majority of their stock due to the loss of a large part of their grazing and the costs of running their breeding facility.

There will be more than 40 lots, including stock from the Sunbeam and Noddyvyse bloodlines, as well as progeny from the Heartland Hackney Stud in America.

Lots include Noddyvyse Prestige, the junior champion pony stallion and supreme at Ardingly this, year and Impress My Daddy, the Supreme Champion at Ardingly.

The sale will take place on 9 July at The Stables, Strayfield Road, Enfield, Middlesex. Harness and carriages will also go under the hammer.

For more information tel: 0208 2455611

This story first appeared in H&H on 30 June 2011

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 future of the hackney horse and pony could be at risk, according to figures in the newly released 2011 Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) watch list.

The hackney is now hovering near the “critical” list of breeds.

The breed is still classed as “endangered”, but Claire Barber, RBST conservation officer, warned that in three years numbers had fallen from 500 breeding mares to around 300.

In the late 19th and early 20th centuries there were thousands of hackneys in work as carriage horses and it was also one of the country’s most prolific export breeds to Europe and the US.

But Ms Barber blamed the crisis partly on the economic situation, which had destroyed sales of youngstock, and “an unfortunate perception that hackneys are only suitable as driving ponies”.

The RBST is keen to promote the breed and to inspire potential new owners to find out about it and consider a hackney as a useful riding animal.

Barbara Stockton, who runs Halloughton Hackneys in Breward, Staffs, breeds two or three foals a year.

She was gloomy about the latest figures, but not surprised.

She said: “If a breeder is to break even you have to sell a four-year-old hackney for £4,000 to £5,000. That was the price prior to the credit crunch.

“If you can find a buyer today, the price is more likely to be around the £2,000 to £3,000 mark depending on the animal.”

She has also been trying to remove the perception that hackneys are “half-crazed”, adding: “If they are well handled, they are no different from any other horse.”

The RBST is anxious to hear from any licensed breeder willing to allow a semen collection from a registered stallion for inclusion in the national gene bank.

Two samples already exist and were taken in 2002 and 2004. Owners should first register their interest with the RSBT.

This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (24 February, 2011)

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

HACKNEY HORSE & PONY OF THE YEAR CHAMPIONSHIPS Unex Towerlands, Essex, 29-30 September

open Hackney horse of the year (M Neachell, S Reade, B Stockton) 1 & res sup, B & G Turner’s Brookeborough Flash Jack (G Turner); 2, Mr & Mrs Wenham Jnr’s Forewood Braveheart; 3, C Moran’s Drewsherne Corrall. open Hackney pony of the year 1 & sup, G Van Nispen’s Sunbeam Victory (A Huckeriede); 2, D Boyd’s Potpourri Farm Comin Thru (N Vyse); 3, Mr & Mrs Bailey’s Aghaderg Supreme Demonstrator (T Bailey). Dennis Midgley Memorial novice horse of the year 1, R Turner’s Runwells Magic Girl (N Turner); 2, R Hutchinson’s Atlowsprings Ratafia (S Barraclough); 3, F Wadhams’s Baldwins Artillery. Dennis Midgley Memorial novice pony of the year 1, D Vyse’s Seamair Simply Marvelous; 2, B & G Turner’s Heartland Jerilynn (G Turner); 3, L Taylor’s Brookfield Coquette. international horses 1, F Vyse’s Stapleford Lady Sophia (P Vyse); 2, D Breaker’s Plains Vagabond (R Breaker); 3, F Wadhams’s Baldwins Look at Me. international ponies 1, Seamair Simply Marvelous; 2, L Huckeriede’s Spirit Vant Hoefke; 3, B & G Turner & R Bass’s Heartland in Touch (R Bass). private driving 1, J Clayden’s Glenshane Prince; 2, A Hamilton-Rhodes & J Hollister’s Brookeborough Duke; 3 & best opp section, Smith Bros’s Royal Sunshine (L Smith). jnr whip 1, L Smith; 2, C Vyse; 3, C Brown.

NORTHERN HACKNEY HORSE CLUB SHOW Bakewell, Derbyshire, 4-5 August

in-hand pony (A James) 1 & res, C Ambrose’s Westbourne Piccolo. horse 1 & ch, C Ambrose’s Prince Westbourne; 2, Bamford Bros’s Ingfield Starbuck; 3, J Howard’s Brickell Prosperity. ridden 1, A Smith’s Baldwins Lucky; 2, R Clayton’s Lady Luck; 3, R Clayton’s Gaytons Shining Star (C Ambrose) amateur pony 1 & ch, D Vyse’s Sunbeam Touch of Class (M Vyse); 2, T Bailey’s Aghaderg Supreme Demonstrator; 3, Mr & Mrs McIntosh’s Neon Rocket (L McIntosh). amateur horse 1& res, R Hutchinson’s Atlowsprings Ratafia; 2, D Vyse’s Plains Elegance (K Richards); 3, R Turner’s Runwell High Hacknee. amateur ladies’ pony 1, Mr & Mrs McIntosh’s Heartland Powerstroke (L McIntosh); 2 & res, G Haffenden’s Sunbeam Vulcan (P Haffenden); 3, D Vyse’s Heartland Unexpected. amateur ladies’ horse 1 & ch, Plains Elegance; 2, Bamford Bros’s Ingfield Murdoch; 3, A Smith’s Marylind Elite. showmans 1, Mr & Mrs Clough’s Halloughton Hallmark & Camorland Just Right (J Clough); 2, J Stevens’s Borthwood Top Man. nov pony (R Connelly) 1 & ch, Mr & Mrs Turner’s Heartland Jerilynn (G Turner); 2, D Vyse’s Semair Simply Marvelous; 3, Mr & Mrs Turner & R Bass’s Heartland in Touch (R Bass). nov horse 1 & res, F Fitzpatrick’s Baldwins Artillery (F Wadhams); 2 R Turner’s Runwell Magic Girl; 3, Atlowsprings Ratafia. open pony challenge 1 & ch, P Trimble’s Aghaderg Supreme Demonstrator (G Turner); 2 & res, B Bass’s Stapleford Black Jack (R Bass); 3, Neon Rocket. open horse challenge 1, ch & sup, Mr & Mrs Turner’s Brookeborough Flash Jack (G Turner); 2 & res sup, B Bass’s Plains Black Satin (R Bass); 3, Plains Elegance. jnr whip 1, C Vyse; 2, K Barnes. non-Hackney private drive (M Atkinson) 1, Mr & Mrs Mills’s Galtres Raffles (E Mills). light trade 1, J Thomas’s Sunbeam the Guvnor; 2, H Mills’s Purfleet High Society; 3, M Clough’s Abe Van de Strubhenhof. Hackney-type private drive 1, Halloughton Hallmark & Camorland Just Right; 3, G MacDonald’s Gillcrest Sir James; 3, H McNiece’s Glenshane Debonair.

HACKNEY BREED SHOW South of England sgd, W Sussex, 4-8 June

in-hand ponies (A Grant, N Grayshon, A James) y’ling colts 1 & ch, A & B Ward’s Aghaderg Mourinho; 2, S Prescott’s Vanagh Be Dazzled; 3, D Vyse’s Sunbeam Little Prince. y’ling fillies 1 & res, D Vyse’s Sunbeam Show Maker; 2, J Cresswell’s Wildcourt Lady Jane. 2-year-old stallions n exc 13.2hh 1 & res, A & B Ward’s Westbourne Hallmark; 2, J Wenham’s Brookfield Showbizz; 3, J Cresswell’s Wildcourt Rockafella. 3-year-old stallions n exc 13.3hh 1 & ch, E Ward’s Wesbourne Hi Tech; 2, M Ongley’s Costead Cosmic; 3, W & V Gill’s Gillcrest Legacy. 2-year-old mares n exc 13.2hh 1 & res, J Sayers’s Perrybridge Scarlett; 2, Smith Brothers’ Garston Tia Maria. 3-year-old mares n exc 13.2hh 1 & ch, D Vyse’s Sunbeam What a Star; 2, J Sayers’s Perrybridge Summer Rain. 4yrs and over mares not in foal 1, sup & res sup, E Vyse’s Sunbeam Touch of Class; 2, Mr and Mrs Barass’s Sunbeam Pop Star; 3, J Stevens’s Gillcrest Cinderella. 4yrs and over mares (foaled in or before 2003 n exc 14hh in foal or with foal at foot 1 & res sup, Mr & Mrs Vyse’s Sunbeam Legacy. 4yrs and over stallion n exc 14hh 1, sup, sup & sup, L Pittaway & R Carter’s Hurstwood Comet; 2, M Ongley’s Cowstead Meteor; 3, Mrs & Mrs Vyse’s Sunbeam Star Step. best Hackney pony bred by exhibitor and best conformation 1, Sunbeam Touch of Class. in-hand horses (A Grant, N Grayshon, A James) y’ling colts 1 & ch, F Wadhams’s Baldwins King of Kings; 2 & res, Mr & Mrs Walsh’s Marylind Question Mark; 3, Mr & Mrs Stockton’s Halloughton Hotspur. y’ling fillies 1, A & J Sparrowhawk’s Grandshore Starlight; 2, Smith Brothers’ Garston Sylvada. 2-year-old stallions exc 13.2.hh 1 & res, Bamford Brothers’ Ingfield Starbucks; 2, M Deness’s Borthwood Hulluvafella; 3, Mr & Mrs Stockton’s Halloughton Horatio. 3-year-old stallions exc 13.2hh 1, ch, res sup & res sup, E Ward’s Wentworth Artistic; 2, P Stacey’s Hamewith Dunedin. 2-year-old mares exc 13.2hh 1, W Murrell’s Nutfields Warrior Princess. 3-year-old mares exc 13.3hh 1, ch & sup, A Ward’s Luddington Margareta; 2 & res, S Prescott’s Perrybridge Jordan; 3, E Sayers’s Hurstwood Annies Valentine. 4yrs & over mares not in foal 1, Mr & Mrs Walsh’s Marylind Pretty Woman. 4yrs & over mares (foaled in or before 2003 n exc 14hh in foal or with foal at foot) 1 & res sup, A & J Sparrowhawk’s Highmoor Serena; 2, F Wadhams’s Baldwins Mistress. 4yrs and over stallions exc 14hh 1, sup, sup & res sup, J & A Sparrowhawk’s Highmoor Little Jon; 2, Mr & Mrs Allen’s Borthwood Rise Above; 3, W Murrell’s Wentworth Sky Apache. best horse bred by exhibitor and best conformation 1, Wentwork Artistic. harness ponies (J Chicken, A Grant, P Gray) nov n exc 12.2hh 1 & res, L Taylor’s Brookfield Coquette; 2, M Deness’s Heartland Top of the Class; 3, J Cresswell’s Perrybridge Yo-Yo. 12.2-14hh 1 & ch, F Fitzpatrick’s Stapleford Bobby; 2, Mr & Mrs Turner’s Heartland Jerilynn (G Turner); 3, Mr & Mrs Turner and Mr & Mrs Bass’s Heartland in Touch (R Bass). best conformation 1, Brookfield Cocquette. open n exc 12.2hh 1, G van Nispen’s Sunbeam Victory (L Huckreide); 2, P Trimble’s Aghaderg Spot the Difference (G Turner); 3, J Sayers’s Perrybridge Challenger. open 12.2-14hh 1, B Bass’s Stapleford Black Jack; 2, T Jenkins’s Sunbeam Venture (V Purver); 3, Mr & Mrs McIntosh’s Neon Rocket. national ch harness pony (P Gray, N Grayshon, A Grant) 1, Sunbeam Victory; 2, Sunbeam Venture; 3, Stapleford Black Jack. harness horses nov 14-15hh 1 & res, F Wadhams’s Baldwins Artillery; 2, J Wenham snr’s Brookfield Royal Choice; 3, W Creasey’s Lightning Flash. nov over 15hh 1 & ch, D Vyse’s Atlowsprings Rosalie; 2, Mr & Mrs Clough’s Camorland Just Right (J Clough); 3, W Gill’s Perrybridge Ace of Diamonds. best conformation 1, Atlowsprings Rosalie. open 14-15hh1, L Huckreide Forewood Sir John; 2, J Sayers’s Heldon Jack of Diamonds; 3, D Breaker’s Plains Vagabond. open over 15hh 1, Mr & Mrs Turner’s Brookeborough Flash Jack; 2, C Moran’s Drewsherne Corrall; 3, R Bas’s Plains Black Satin. national ch harness horse (P Gray, J Chicken, A Grant) 1, Brookeborough Flash Jack; 2, Drewsherne Corrall; 3, Forewood Sir John. international pony1, G McIntosh’s Heartland Powerstroke; 2, D Vyse’s Seamair Simply Marvelous; 3, D Breaker’s Prince. international horse1, Forewood Sir John; 2, P Hoogerwaard’s Jordie; 3, S Wormald’s Atlowsprings Rhapsody. gig n exc 14hh (C Ambrose, M Neachell, J Wenham jnr) 1 & ch, Smith Brothers’s Royal Sunshine (L Smith); 2, G MacDonald’s Gillcrest Sir James; 3, J Dudley-Apicella’s Pams Little Star. exc 14hh 1 & res, Smith Bros’s Drewsherne High Noon (E Smith); 2, M Kelly’s Stapleford Enchantment; 3, Mr & Mrs P Clough’s Halloughton Hallmark (J Clough). am classes (C Ambrose, M Neachell, J Wenham, jnr) n exc 12.2hh 1, Mr & Mrs Turner’s Aghaderg Supreme Demonstrator. 12.2-14hh 1 & best opposite section, E Walsh jnr’s Stapleford Kings Delight; 2, Mr & Mrs Turner and Mr & Mrs Bass’s Heartland in Touch. 14-15hh 1, M Hardy’s Borthwood Special Edition. exc 15hh 1, R Hutchinson’s Atlowsprings Ratafia; 2 & ch, Vyse’s Plains Elegance; 3, Mr & Mrs Walsh’s Marylind Dancing Queen. double harness 1, Mr & Mrs Clough’s Halloughton Hallmark & Camorland Just Right; 2, W Ginns’s Sunbeam Killytevin Star & Hamewith John; 3, Mr & Mrs Stockton & W Ginns’s Halloughton Hero & Glenshane Valentino. ridden Hackney or part bred 1, J Sparrowhawk’s Prestwood Perfect; 2, J Tuccio’s Perrybridge Sapphire; 3, J R & S D Bamford’s Ingfield Murdoch. jnr whip 1eq, L Smith & C Brown. pony driven by am lady whip 1 & res, Brookfield Coquette; 2, Heartland Top of the Class; 3, Royal Sunshine. horse driven by am lady whip 1 & ch, Highmoor Little Jon; 2, Mr & Mrs Walsh’s Marylind Dancing Queen; 3, J Clayden’s Glenshane Prince. part-bred Hackney 1, Mr & Mrs Allen’s Private Dancer; 2, W Murrell’s Sir Trinidy

HACKNEY HORSE & PONY OF THE YEAR Unex Towerlands, Essex, 30 September

(C Ambrose, N Grayshon, E Ward) Dennis Midgley Memorial Novice Pony Championship 1, P Trimble’s Aghaderg Spot The Difference (G Turner); 2, G McIntosh’s Heartland Powerstroke (D Vyse); 3, B & G Turner and B Bass’s Heartland in Touch (R Bass). Dennis Midgley Memorial Novice Horse Championship 1, Mr & Mrs Wenham jnr’s Forewood Braveheart; 2, Mr & Mrs Bailey’s Atlowsprings Rosalie. international ponies 1, E Vyse’s Sunbeam Touch of Class; 2, L Huckriede’s Rahker (A Huckreide); 3, M Denness’s Heartland Top of the Class. jnternational horses 1, D Vyse’s Sunbeam Fancy Ribbons (E Emming); 2, L Huckriede’s Forewood Sir John (A Huckreide); 3, D Vyse’s Plains Elegance (M Vyse). Hackney Pony of the Year 1, Sunbeam Touch of Class; 2, J Barrass’s Aghaderg Supreme Demonstrator; 3, D Boyd’s Potpourri Farm Comin Thru (D Vyse). Hackney Horse of the Year 1, B & G Turner’s Brookeborough Flash Jack; 2, C Moran’s Drewsherne Corrall 3, D Breaker’s Black Jack. private driving championship 1, J Clayden’s Glenshane Prince; 2, G MacDonald’s Woodside Ringleader, 3, A Hamilton-Rhodes & J Hollister’s Brookeborough Duke (A Hamilton-Rhodes). light trade 1, T Thomas’s Sunbeam The Guvnor; 2, W Murrell’s Sir Trinidy; 3, S Bone’s Brookfield Budwseiser. jnr whip 1, J Taylor; 2, K Barnes; 3, C Vyse.

WELSH HACKNEY AND HARNESS HORSE SOCIETY SHOWTIME FINALE David Broome Event Centre, Monmouthshire, 23-24 September

(J Dobson, J Cowdery, P Barnes) Ronnie Allen Open Hackney In Hand 1, R Walker’s Mascots Little Boy. open non-Hackney in-hand 1, S Glossop’s Deucwm Morning Glory; 2, J Winton’s Willow Court Samuel; 3, M Barry’s Rici The Merc. En-Con Civil Engineering Rag, Tag & Bobtails 1, E Garside’s Mitcheltroy Stroller; 2, P Miles’s Mallards Wood Spice; 3, C Gregory’s Ropewalk Welsh Prince. Luke Burder Shetland Ponies 1, C Garside’s Goytre Rody; 2, A Owen’s Brynmor; 3, K Griffiths & P Mander’s Arran, Candyfluffs Remus & Threadwood Madrigal. Skylark Stores Exercise Vehicles Over 13.2hh 1, C Brazier’s Vany; 2, R Pugh’s Prince; P Evans’s Black Jack. open nov private drive 1, E Lewis’s Swchyrhafod Samson; 2, V Hunter Thompson’s Abercippyn Showman; 3, K Evans’s Rosestep Rosella. Young Boatyard Concours D’Elegance 1, E Ham’s Welsh Rhapsody; 2, A Honeywell’s Delgarth Yywysog; 3, S Jarman’s Impulse & Mischief (L Jarman). Pleasure Prints Exercise Vehicles 13.2hh & Under 1, S Bone’s Brookfield Budweiser; 2, C Partis’s Polly & Petra; 3, G Veness’s Friars Bobi. Liz Morris Show Turnout 1, M Clarke’s Thorneyside The Foreman (G Docking); 2, J Hollister & T & E Morris’s Thorneyside Reflection (A Hamilton Rhodes); 3, J Osborne’s Hamewith Lochnagar. homemade exercise vehicles 1, K Crabb’s Grommit; 2, R Pugh’s Prince; 3, T Stockdale’s Oakmeadow Cerys. Tony & Liz Morris Guards Horn Blowing 1, C Pawson; 2, P Alder; 3, M Horner. George Rawlings Memorial Coaching Marathon 1, D Kendall; 2, J Brown; 3, A Leijerstam’s Humour, Henri, Gaspard & Jackaroo. WHHS members drive 1, Vany; 2, Polly & Petra; 3, M Tapp’s Layton. BDS Fenix Red Rover 1, S Kesans’s Brencis & Squires; 2, Hamewith Lochnagar; 3, Brookfield Budweiser. Colin Partis Ride & Drive 1, Swchyrhafod Samson; 2, J Sparrowhawk’s Cotchford Ozzy; 3, J Goodland’s Blueberry Bacardi Breezer. open pleasure driving 13.2hh & under 1, Oakmeadow Cerys; 2, Polly & Petra; 3, Goytre Rody. Allen Family Hackney Pony To A Show Wagon 1, R Walker’s Mascot’s Little Boy; 2, E Walsh’s Stapleford Kings Delight; 3, V Gill’s Gilcrest Son Of Emperor. open non-Hackney in a show wagon 1, B Jones’s Cefi Gelli Bouncer; 2, T Buckland’s Gold Flake; 3, J Attrell’s LLertta Chanel. under 13.2hh 1, L Giles’s Leyeswick The Hustler; 2, T Veness’s Veness Action Man; 3, J Dignum’s Wakefield Daniel. Davies Bros Welsh sec A, B & C 1, M & E Edmonds’s Synod Gurd (E Edmonds); 2, Swchyrhafod Samson; 3, Welsh Rhapsody. Hold Actrive Engineering Open Pleasure Horse over 13.2hh 1, Mitcheltroy Stroller; 2, J Randall’s Tom; 3, C Gregory’s Ropewalk Welsh Prince; 1, Leighton Edwards. Open Private Drivinh 13.2hh & Under 1, Synod Guard; 2, S Burrows’s Buttons & Smarties; 3, Welsh Rhapsody. Neil Burder Open Private Driving Over 13.2hh 1, Hamewith Lochnagar; 2, Thorneyside The Foreman; 3, Abercippyn Showman. lady whip 1, V Hunter Thomspon; 2, E Ham; 3, M Reid. gentleman whip 1, G Docking; 2, M Tapp. Cilgerran Carriages Pairs, Multiples, Tandems & Road Coaches 1, G Clough’s Glantraeth Peter The Great & Gwynfaes Sion; 2, M Kesans’s Talis & Poike; 3, Buttons & Smarties. Anthony Killoran Memorial Hackney/Hackney-Type Private Driving 1 & res sup, W Isaac & M Lewis’s Stapleford Harry (E Lewis); 2, Smith Bros’ Garstons Lord George (E Smith); 3, M Wright’s Runwell Anticipation. Neville Gregory Memorial Single Welsh Sec D Private Driving 1, Thorneyside The Foreman; 2, Abercippyn Showman; 3, Delgarth Tywysog. Dyffryn Tywi Equine Vets Light Trade & Coachmen 1, Impulse & Mischief; 2, G Cordery’s Bryn Meillion Defiance; 3, Talis & Poike. Vanessa Hunter Thompson Jnr Whip 15-18yrs 1 & res, S Bone; 2, L Cook; 3, D Thomas. Terry Stockdale Jnr Whip 10-14yrs 1 & ch, E Ham; 2, A Jones; 3, E Reddock. Vanessa Hunter Thomspon Jnr Whip To A Show Wagon 1, A Brown. Victoria Foods Coachman’s Class & Drive 1, J Brown; 2, A Leijerstam; 3, D Kendall. hayley McNiece Hackney Horse To A Show Wagon 1, R Allen’s Private Dancer; 2, W Sutcliffe Gill’s Perrybridge Ace Of Diamonds; 3, A Brown’s Bally Holly. The Angels Veteran Drivers 1, J Todd’s Navestock Owen; 2, P Baker’s Baldwin’s Danny Boy; 3, P Brown’s Woodyard Prince & Yartleton Comet. country vehicles 1 & sup, K Rudge’s Mr Paddy; 2, M Wright’s Runwell Anticipation; 3, A Mann’s Jasmine Of Rowanger & Threapwood Vanguard. Dix Family Open Showman 1, Welsh Rhapsody; 2, M Howell’s Cefn Shades. Victoria Food Company Championship 1, Thorneyside The Foreman; 2, Stapleford Harry; 3, Talis & Poike. Welsh Hackney and Harness Society Championship 1, Stapleford Harry; 2, Hamewith Lochnagar; 3, Glantraeth Peter The Great & Gwynfaes Sion. disabled driver championship 1, A Thomas’s The General (A Gardner, Kareem, Pete).

NORTHERN HACKNEY SHOW Bakewell, Derbyshire, 5-6 August

in-hand pony (R Connolly) 1, J Thomas’s Sunbeam Explosive. in-hand horses (R Connolly) 1 & res, – 1, A James’s Candwr Lord Luck; 2 & ch, Bamford Bros’s Ingfield Murdoch; 3, J Stacey’s Hamewith Dunedin. ridden 1, L Sayers’s Carolus; 2, A Smith’s Baldwins Lucky; 3, J Clayton’s Gaytons Lady Luck. am pony 1 & ch, D Vyse’s Sunbeam Touch of Class (M Vyse); 2, G & B Turner’s Aghaderg Supreme Demonstrator (J Barrass); 3, J Apicella-Dudley’s Pam’s Little Star. am horse 1 & res, D Vyse’s Plains Elegance; 2, R Turner’s Runwell Magic’s Girl; 3, H Mills’s Baldwins Master. am ladies pony 1 & ch, Aghaderg Supreme Demonstrator; 2, J Sayers’s Perrybridge Challenger; 3, G MacDonald’s Gillcrest Sir James. am ladies horse 1 & res, J & A Sparrowhawk’s Highmoor Little Jon; 2, Plains Elegance; 3, Baldwins Lucky. showman’s 1, J & P Clough’s Halloughton Hallmark & Camorland Just Right (J Clough); 2, A Hamilton-Rhodes & J Hollister’s Brookeborough Duke (A Hamilton Rhodes); 3, F Fitzpatrick’s Baldwins Artillery (F Wadham). nov pony (A Grant) 1, P Trimble’s Aghaderg Spot the Difference (G Turner); 2, Mr & Mrs McIntosh’s Heartland Powerstroke; 3, R Walker’s Mascots Little Boy. nov horse 1 & ch, Baldwins Artillery; 2 & res, J Wenham’s Forewood Braveheart; 3, R Hutchinson’s Atlowsprings Ratafie. open pony 1 & sup, J Chicken’s Stapleford Little Bonfire (G Turner); 2, 2 & res, D Boyd’s Potpourri Farm Comin Thru (D Vyse); 3, M Jenkins’s Sunbeam Venture. open horse 1 & sup, B & G Turner’s Brookeborough Flash Jack (G Turner); 2 & res sup, Highmoor Little Jon; 3, J Sayers’s Jack of Diamonds. jnr whip 1, K Barnes; 2, C Vyse. non-Hackney private drive (M Salter) 1, T Morris’s Ceristan Barnfield Boy (A Thomas). light trade 1, J McNiece’s Furfleet Flash Jack; 2, M Clough’s Abe Van de Strubhenhof; 3, J Thomas’s Sunbeam the Guvnor. Hackney type private drive 1, Brookeborough Duke; 2, Halloughton Hallmark & Camorland Just Right; 3, G MacDonald’s Woodside Ringleader.

HACKNEY CHAMPIONSHIPS Docklands Equestrian Centre, London, 8 October

Dennis Midgley Memorial Novice Horse Championship (M Neachell) 1, F Fitzpatrick’s Sheepcotes Flying Sparks (F Wadham); 2, G Dudley’s Forewood Sensation; 3, Smith Bros’ Drewsherne High Noon (E Smith). Dennis Midgley Memorial Novice Pony Championship 1, P Trimble’s Aghaderg Supreme Demonstrator (G Turner); 2, J Dudley-Apicella’s Pams Little Star; 3, T Burrows’s Stevens Lucky Lad. international horses (H Eastwood) 1, G & B Turner’s Brookeborough Flash Jack (G Turner); 2, D Vyse’s Plains Elegance; 3, Smith Bros’ Tenderfield Al-Capone (E Smith). international ponies 1, J Chicken’s Stapleford Little Bonfire (G Turner); 2, D Vyse’s Potpourri Farm Comin Thru; 3, B Bass’s Stapleford Black Jack (R Bass). Hackney horse of the year (G Stringer) 1, C Moran’s Drewsherne Corrall; 2, Mr & Mrs Walsh’s Marylind Executive; 3, Plains Elegance. Hackney pony of the year 1, Potpourri Farm Comin Thru; 2, Stapleford Little Bonfire; 3, J Sayers’s Perrybridge Challenger. private driving ch (J Moor) 1, J Clayden’s Glenshane Prince; 2, A Hamilton-Rhodes & J Hollister’s Brookeborough Duke ( Hamilton-Rhodes); 3, Drewsherne High Noon. jnr whip 1, E Lee; 2, L Smith; 3, J Taylor.

The British Hackney horse (Mother Stud Book) has been recognised by the Rare Breeds Survival Trust (RBST) as endangered, bringing the total number of horse and pony breeds on the trust’s list to 13.

“We are extremely pleased to have this recognition,” says the chairman of the Hackney Horse Society, Roger Bass. “Hopefully, we will now benefit from the initiatives afforded to rare breeds, helping to raise the profile of the British Hackney. It is a historic breed: the stud book dates back to 1884.”

The number of foals registered by Britain’s Hackney Stud Book has declined over recent years, and the economics of breeding has also meant a marked reduction in the number of breeders.

The society hopes that the new endangered status combined with passport legislation will lead to owners using a horse or pony’s registered name in show catalogues, thereby giving the breed and breeder more recognition.

The endangered status only applies to the mother Stud Book and not the daughter Stud Book, which embraces Dutch Hackneys.

The Hackney pony has not been included on the list, despite its numbers being thought to be similar to the Hackney horse.

The Hackney joins the Fell and the Exmoor in the “endangered” category two, which indicates that there are fewer than 500 registered adult females of the breed. The only breeds considered more at risk — “critical” — are the Cleveland Bay, the Eriskay and the Suffolk Punch. Other breeds on the list are the Dales, Dartmoor, Highland, feral Welsh section A, Clydesdale, imported Irish Draught and Shire.

“The RBST welcomes this opportunity to help conserve the Hackney horse,” says Dr Saffron Townsend, the trust’s technical advisor, “although it is a shame that such a well-known British breed should now need to be classed as rare. With only 28 filly foals registered during the last year, the population will require close monitoring over the next few years.”

For more details, visit: www.hackney-horse.org.uk (tel: 01985 840717) and www.rbst.org.uk (tel: 02476 696551).

Get up to 19issues FREE

UK’s No1 weekly for Horses for Sale

Latest results and reports

TO SUBSCRIBE CLICK HERE

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

HACKNEY HORSE SOCIETY NATIONAL SHOW Ardingly, 3-7 June

pony y’ling colt 1 & res, J Wenham Snr’s Forewood Fancy That; 2, D Vyse’s Sunbeam Showcase; 3, A Ward’s Sunbeam Stardust. filly 1 ch, ch & sup, sup & sup, A Ward’s Sunbeam Minuet; 2, B Harrington’s Belchers Lucilla; 3, J Chicken’s Stapleford Siany Girl. 2-y-o colt 1 ch & res sup, P Holcombe’s Wainsbrook Little Chicco; 2, E Sayers’s Perrybridge Little Tramp; 3, D Vyse’s Sunbeam Gold And Silver. 3-y-o stallion 1 & res, J Syaers Hurstwood Prince Consort; 2, A Ward’s Sunbeam Star Quality; 3, G Haffenden’s Roscourt Poldark. 2-y-o filly 1 & res, J Peter’s Brookfield Miss Tilly; 2, S K Prescott’s Vanagn Moon Dance. 4-y-o & over mare in foal/foal at foot 1 & res sup, E Vyse’s Sunbeam Super Lady; 2, J Peters Hurstwood Coquette; 3 & first best foal, N Dent’s Semley Showoff. 4-y-o & over stallion 1 sup & res sup, L Pittaway’s Hurstwood Comet; 2, E & D Vyse’s Sunbeam Star Step; 3, M Holcombe’s Semley Sauvignon. horse y’ling colt 1 & ch, Wentworth Minstrel; 2, J Clayton Gaytons Just Jack; 3, Mr & Mrs Wenham Jnr’s Forewood Braveheart. filly 1 & res, Brookfield Royal Mist; 2, A Ward’s Luddinton Appolo; 3, J Cresswell’s Wildcourt Jessica. 2-y-o colt 1 & ch, J Chapman’s Rpmley All Gold; 2, J Wenham’s Forwood Royal Prince. 3-y-o stallion 1 & res, J Wenham’s Forewood Sir John; 2, J Cresswell’s Wildcourt Crusador. 2-y-o filly 1 & res, A Allison’s Hamewith Megan; 2, J Sayer’s Finchurst Fair Maiden; 3, Mr & Mrs Walsh’s Maryland Dancing Queen. 3-y-o mare 1 ch & res sup, F Vyse’s Stapleford Lady Sophia; 2, G Haffenden’s Roscourt Sweet Dreams; 3, J Wenham’s Downtown Princess. 4-y-o & over mare in foal/foal at foot 1 res sup & sup, J Peters’s Brookfield Elegant Lady; 2 & first best foal, Z Wagstaff’s Finchurst Skylight; 3 & second best foal, B Baker’s Redwing Romance. 4-y-o & over stallion 1 sup, ch sup & res sup, RHaffenden’s Roscourt Reality; 2 res sup & res, Sparrowhawk Family’s Highmoor Little John; 3, R Hutchinson’s Neneside Independence. champion showman ch, R Connelly; res, B A Ward’s. harness pony nov not exc 12.2hh 1 & ch, J Sayers’s Perrybridge Challenger; 2, F Wadhams’s Rudi Van De Hoender; 3, J Bromley’s Tyefields Discovery. 12.2-14hh 1 & res, J Peter’s Brookfield Classic Lady; 2, F Wadhams’s Hurstwood Firecracker; 3, J Cresswell’s Semley Sultan. open not exc 12.2hh 1, J Chicken’s Stapleford Little Bonfire; 2, Sunbeam Star Step; 3, Gillcrest Sir James. 12.2-14hh 1, J Wenham’s Semley Sparrow; 2, E Vyse’s Sunbeam Legend; 3, B Bass’s Stapleford Black Jack. national champion harness pony 1, Stapleford Little Bonfire; 3, Sunbeam Star Step; 3, Semley Sparrow. horse nov 14-15hh 1 & res, P Gray & A James’s Thorneyside Viscount; 2, G Baker’s Stherton Charles; 3, J Sayers’s Heldon Jack Of Diamonds. exc 15hh 1 & ch, J Peters’s Brookfield Mark Of Success; 2, Mr & Mrs Arrowsmith’s Heldon Hot Rod; 3, F Wadhams’s Baldwins Aldanti. open 14-15hh 1, J Peters’s Brookfield Sheza Lady; 2, J Smale’s Elams Natalie; 3, R A Hutchinson’s Neneside Independence. exc 15hh 1, R Bass’s Hurstwood Kytra; 2, C Moran’s Drewsherne Corrall; 3, J Wenham’s Forewood Sky High. national champion harness horse 1, Hurstwood Kytra; 2, Drewsherne Corrall; 3, Elams Natalie. driven by amateur pony not exc 12.2hh 1, B Harrington’s Forewood Little Titch; 2, E Vyse’s Sunbeam Touch Of Class; 3, L Willetts’s Plaistow Pippit. best lady whip 1, Miss Frankir Brown’s Forwood Little Fitch. best amateur whip 1, Sunbeam Touch Of Class. best turned out 1, Plaistow Pippit. 12.2-14 1, Sunbeam Legend; 2, Stapleford Black Jack; 3, M Cumming’s Woodside Ringleader. best lady whip 1, G MacDonald’s Woodside Ringleader. best amateur whip 1, Sunbeam Legend. best turned out 1, Woodside Ringleader.horse 14-15hh 1, Neneside Independence; 2, L Taylor’s Forewood Princess; 3, J Peters’s Brookfield Nashville Lad. best amateur whip 1, R Hutchinson. exc 15hh 1, R Arrowsmith’s Heldon Hot Rod; 2, K Toombs’s Hurstwood Solario; 3, MKelly’s Staple Enchantment. best amateur whip 1, R Arrowsmith. national amateur champion 1, Sunbeam Legend; 2, Neneside Independence. best opposite pony/horse to champion 1, Neneside Independence. best amateur whip 1, Sunbeam Legend. horse/pony in double harness 1, G Dudley’s Wentworth Kestrel & Thorneyside The Deemster. best horse pair/tandem 1, Wentworth Kestrel & Thorneyside The Deemster. best exhibit driven by amateur 1, G Dudley. shown to a gig not exc 14hh 1, M Vyse’s Brookfield Dainty Lady. exc 14hh 1 & ch, B Bass’s Tenderfield Black Shadow; 2 & res, Bronzebeech Maggie May; 3, J Rowe’s Brookfield Unique. best turned out exhibit 1, Tenderfield Black Shadow. horse/pony driven by jnr whip 1, E Vyse’s Sunbeam Lancier; 2, Woodside Ringleader; 3, Vyse Family’s Glenshane Playboy. ridden Hackney or part-bred 1, L Bamford’s Inglefield Duke; 2, J Clayton’s Gaytons Lady Luck; 3, P Thompson’s Thinford Flashman.

HACKNEY HORSE SOCIETY CHAMPS Stoneleigh, Warks, 3 Nov

Hackney pony of the year 1, Mrs EE & D Vyse’s Sunbeam Star Step; 2, JH Chicken’s Stapleford Little Bonfire; 3, J Peters’s Gillcrest Sir James; 4, EE Vyse’s Sunbeam Legend. Hackney horse of the year 1, J Peters’s Brookfield Sheeza Lady; 2, C Moran’s Drewsherne Corrall; 3, R Bass’s Hurstwood Kytra; 4, J Smale’s Elam Natalie. HHS performance award 1, J Clayden’s Glenshane Prince; 2, P Thompson’s Thinford Flashman; 3,S Jordan’s Semley Supreme.

The launch of a new Hackney club in Wales was paradoxically marred by the death of one of the UK’s most famous hackney horses, Ashingdons Ellens Boy at the age of 34 years.

Believed to bethe oldest registered hackney stallion in the world, Ellen’s Boy had spent his retirement at Hirwaun Hackney Stud, Maesteg, South Wales, where he enjoyed the tender loving care of Alan Hill.

Just days after Hackney horse enthusiasts in Wales joined together to form the new hackney club earlier this month, they had news of Ellen’s Boy’s death. “According to the hackney horse stud book he was the oldest Hackney in the world,” said Alan James, secretary of the new club. “He outlived his owner Arthur Spurling, who retired to Carmarthen 15 years ago.”

The Welsh Hackney Club under the chairmanship of Tom Young of Swansea, will carry on the work of the former Wales and West Hackney Club which was run by Kevin Toombs of Gloucester who is now acouncil member of the Hackney Horse Society.

The new club is planning an inaugural drive on August 12 at the home of David Broome at Mount Ballan Manor, Crick. It is open to all carriage drivers and will commemorate former Olympic show jumper David Broome’s late father Fred, who was a keen carriage driver.

There are also plans afoot to hold a Hackney Championship Show at Mount Ballan in 2002.

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

• For full report see Horse & Hound magazine issue dated 7 June 2001

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