My career with horses began when I was 16, although I had been mad about them ever since I could remember. I gained my BHS exams in 1981 and subsequently worked for two great horsemen - Robin Leyland and Noel Pegge - training young horses to be point-to-pointers, show jimpers and hunters.

Following my relocation to France in 2003 with my family I have built up a livery business aimed at helping people who are experiencing problems with their horses.

A few years ago I also became interested in Natural Horsemanship and have spent time in America training with Anna Twinney and working at the Colorado Horse Sanctuary. I am now European Instructor for Anna's organisation, 'Reach Out to Horses'.

It was at the Sanctuary that I came to realise that for abused horses to be rehomed successfully, and to be able to enjoy the life that they deserve, it is necerssary to give them a good foundation training.

I began to understand that the only stumbling block between a horse and rider who want to act as one, is that of communication. A horse and rider who can communicate sucessfully with each other can accomplish anything.