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How much would you pay for a top showing judge to be at your beck and call for a day?
Nigel Hollings, former chairman of the British Show Horse Association (BSHA) was the top lot at an auction at the society’s ball on 16 November — fetching a hefty £1,200 to “own” him for a day.
“I was sitting there minding my own business when Philip [Judge, who was auctioneer] said there was a ‘surprise lot’,” said Nigel.
“I thought I’d be lucky to make £100, so when it went to £1,200 I was rather pleased — more money for the BSHA and certainly a boost for one’s ego!”
Nigel’s former pupil Michaela Wood was the winning bidder.
“I don’t know if this is payback,” added Nigel. “I’m not sure what I’ll be doing yet, but I’ve been told it definitely includes mucking out and cooking her breakfast!”
Nigel had that night retired as BSHA chairman after his five-year term. Ian Darcy now takes the helm.
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A graduate of Exeter University, Amy joined our news team from Redpin Publishing in 2008 as news writer. She was promoted to deputy news editor in May 2013 and became news editor in April 2015. She left Horse & Hound in March 2016 to take up an editorial position in Dubai.