A tiny pony who went to the top of showing, and was a member of the family, has died aged 26. Barkway Blackjack (Stan) won at multiple county shows, and at the Royal International Horse Show, and stood supreme lead-rein at Ponies UK three years in a row. He spent his last 10 years with Lyndsay Russell and her three daughters; Lyndsay told H&H: “Stan was and will always be a true legend who was ‘often copied but never equalled’. He has left a huge hole in our family. We were lucky to have him in his later years, and he had a good home and a good life.”
The incredible story of Olympic champion Nick Skelton has had its world premiere. Equestrian stars gathered on 9 May for the first viewing of Big Star: The Nick Skelton Story, which will be in UK cinemas from 6 June. The documentary film covers his sporting career from the start, including early footage of Nick with his first pony, interviews with those who know him best and the story of his comeback from a broken neck to win individual gold with Big Star at the Rio Olympics aged 58.
Mars Badminton Horse Trials 2025 may be over but we’ve been enjoying keeping up with its equine stars. Champion Lordships Graffalo has been tucking into his grass while lying down in the field, Yasmin Ingham’s ride Rehy DJ, who was withdrawn after his fabulous cross-country clear owing to a skin infection, has also been enjoying his turnout, as has Lauren Innes’ ride Global Fision M.
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Eleanor is an experienced journalist who spent over eight years working for local and national newspapers before joining H&H as news editor in March 2016. Passionate about equine welfare and exposing the truth, Eleanor has reported on all aspects of the industry, from Brexit to anti-bullying campaigns, and from dressage rules to mules. Her sport of choice is showjumping, in which she competes her own horses, and she also enjoys reporting at local jumping shows through to international championships.
