Sarah Hartley-Edwards, daughter of the late equestrian journalist and author Elwyn, presented the inaugural British Horse Society (BHS) award in her father’s name last week.
“My father was very modest, but he would have been thrilled to know there is an award in his name,” said Sarah, as she presented the award to Melanie Scott, equestrian editor of the Scottish Farmer, for being “particularly supportive of the BHS and its campaigns”.
Also honoured at the Saddler’s Hall in London on Wednesday, 20 November, were volunteers who have provided “excellent and outstanding service” to the BHS.
Jane Hemingway, Frank Armstrong and Bryan Freemantle were named for their work to improve equine welfare, Sarah Bassett BHSI, Mike Kidd and Chris Pollett for supporting young riders and Sarah Bucks and Sue Montilla were recognised for improving equestrian access.
Cambridgeshire County Council and East Anglia Forestry Commission were honoured for championing equestrian access, as was the safety work of RAF Leuchars in Scotland.
The BHS Scotland committee received commendation and so did the service to British Riding Clubs provided by Tony Parker and Vera Harrison.
Alice Jaggard of BHS Scotland won the Youth Award, and Alison Harris and Grainne Sugars received awards of merit.
Sue Quarendon, Cherry Elvin, Jane Kerswell and Juliet Worsley received long-service awards.
At the end of the ceremony, BHS president Desi Dillingham received a certificate following her own nomination for the Queen’s Award in May this year.
This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (27 November, ’08)
