Equestrians recognised in 2014 New Year’s Honours list

A farrier for World Horse Welfare is one of 3 equestrians recognised in this year’s New Year’s Honours list.

Tom Burch, from Ashford, Kent, received an MBE for services to horse welfare in the UK and overseas.

Tom was a farrier for the Metropolitan Police from 1979-2009. Since 1998 he has been training farriers overseas with World Horse Welfare, in countries including Kenya, South Africa, Romania, Honduras, Nicaragua, El Salvador and Cambodia (pictured top).

“It’s about putting something back,” said Tom. “Ever since I left my apprenticeship I promised myself that I would do what I could to help other apprentices.

“I am especially grateful to the Metropolitan Police for allowing me the time to work internationally with World Horse Welfare, which has made me a better teacher and hopefully improved the welfare of those horses, and the people who rely on them for their livelihoods.”

Margaret Peverley, who is chairman of the Mid-Somerset Riding Club — riding club of the year in 2012 — received the British Empire Medal for voluntary services to equestrianism.

Margaret founded the club in 1968 and said she is “very proud” to receive the honour.

And Riding for the Disabled Association volunteer Rosemary Jordan from Craigavon, Armagh, was given an MBE for services to people with disabilities in Northern Ireland.

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