British vaulting star Joanne Eccles has taken the idea of involving your horse in your wedding to a new level.
Joanne married Fraser Littlejohn on 13 August, at Caputh Parish Church in Perthshire, which was followed by a traditional Scottish party.
The couple had planned to have some photos taken with Joanne’s multiple championship medal-winning horse WH Bentley the day after their wedding.
However she “couldn’t resist” jumping on and vaulting in canter.
Photos by Stephen Dougan
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
The couple further proved the versatility of their wedding attire by taking part in a spot of rope climbing.
Joanne is Britain’s most successful vaulter of all time and was appointed MBE for services to vaulting in the 2017 Queen’s Birthday Honours.
She has 11 senior championship medals to her name, including three gold medals from World Championships, two European golds and a host of silver and bronze medals.
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She won all her medals aboard the 17.2hh WH Bentley.
When broken down by species, almost a quarter of these chose their horse.
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Owners have found a number of creative ways to feature their equine friend in their nuptials — from acting as ring bearer to post-vow gallops.
H&H recommends wearing a protective riding hat at all times when mounted
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
