Surprise appointment for BHS presidency

TV presenter Noel Edmonds is to become the new president of the British Horse Society when Princess Anne steps down from the role in June this year. The Princess Royal has held the post for the past five years.

This will be the first official horse industry role for Devon-based Edmonds, whose daughters are successful young dressage riders. Charlotte has represented Britain on pony, junior and young rider teams; while Lorna has been on pony teams. Noel’s wife Helen rides at prix st georges level and the family runs Broomford Stud.

“I was stunned when the invitation came from the BHS. I looked up the current president and thought: ‘That’s a hard act to follow!’” he says.

“It’s a little daunting, and there may not be the same excitement when I open a bridleway or cut a ribbon, but there should be a slightly different role for me to fulfil too.

“Although it’s not the main job of the president, there may be a chance to get involved in publicity to do with animal welfare and riding schools, which I’m very interested in.”

• Read Horse & Hound’s in-depth report on the new appointments at the BHS in the current issue of Horse & Hound (29 April 04).

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