Eventer Jeanette Brakewell is recovering at home after a fall from a young horse meant four nights in hospital. The multiple medal-winning rider told H&H the six-year-old was fresh after the frozen week and although he was lunged before she rode him, he bronced and spun, unseating Jeanette. She was taken to hospital, where it was found she had broken ribs, but is now back home. “I’m ever the optimist, but I won’t take risks or be silly,” she said.
The rescuers of a foal who was reported as having metal wrapped round his leg were staggered to find the colt had two tin cans stuck on his foot. World Horse Welfare field officer Becky Bedson found the foal with its dam, and other horses, in a field full of rubbish in Essex in December. Once he was caught, the cans were cut off, and charity staff were then tasked with finding suitable names for the colt and his dam. “Toucan was one suggestion but we went for Tintin for the foal and Snowy, as there was snow on the ground and it was just before Christmas,” said Becky.
Carl Hester returned to competition for the first time in almost a year on 29 January, winning a grand prix class at Hartpury on 76%. He was riding Fame, the 17-year-old Bordeaux stallion previously competed at international grand prix by Fiona Bigwood. Fame has now been based with Carl for around eight weeks. “We haven’t made any firm plans as we are just seeing how it goes, but I love riding Fame – he loves his job and is a real overachiever,” said Carl. “He is just divine to ride.”
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
Horse & Hound Newsletter
Never miss out on the latest happenings in the equestrian world
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.
