the team

Nick Gauntlett

I am 32 years old (when did that happen!) & have been riding since I was 11. I progressed through lessons at local riding schools, to 'borrowing' ponies in exchange for mucking out. I then had a horse on loan & finally bought my first horse Harvey, a 14.3 palomino when I was 14. I used to do 3 paper rounds before school (to help pay) & went straight to the horses after. I was in the Beaufort Pony club, did their team events and progressed into BE a bit later on. I started to do quite well, managed to get a few rides and small sponsors, we built more stables and the rest as they say is history!

Lewis Gudgeon

Lewis is our Yard Manager, having been Head Lad for South West show jumper, Justin Tuff. Only 23, he’s mature, fair and firm. He rules the yard with a tight rein and finds it easier to organise than Nick. The team know that Nick can win a few battles, but Lewis will win the war!

Annabelle James

Annabelle is our new Assistant Yard Manager, she's very organised and keeps Lewis & Nick in line! She joined us from Lordships Stud, where she was Assistant Stud Manager for the past three years. She holds a Bsc Hons in Equine Studies, which she gained at Writtle college. Annabelle is in charge of the NVQ training & looks after the yard when Lewis is jetsetting!

Freddie & Joseph Nutt

Nick's two youngest apprentice's. Already showing great potential and aptitude to follow in their Uncle Nick's footsteps!

Frankie Nutt

Frankie is the wonderful, organised PA that Nick would crumble without..... I also look after the website, so can write what I like!!!

Campbell Baxter

Cam is our 22 Year old Australian apprentice rider, mainly tasked with bringing on the youngsters having ridden to 2* level himself. This is Cam's third season in the UK, and he joined us from Harry Meade's yard early this year.

Hania Otffinowska

Hania is Polish, fluent in English, and studying French and Russian at Bristol University. (so clever!) She joined us having previously worked with Paul Tapner and Harry Meade. She works full time on the yard during the summer, then part-time when Uni starts up again. She has her own horse Croovkah (meaning Mr Cow!), who she declares is the love of her life! She currently competes him at Novice level, and is hoping to progress further.

Polly Bickersteth

Polly is our newest member of the team, joining us from Devon. She has her own horse, Summerhouse Wish. Currently competing at Novice level, but hopes to move up to Intermediate soon. Polly represented her pony club in the team eventing, dressage & tetrathlon championships. A good all-rounder, just what we need for the yard!

Bernie Davis

Bernie has just left us for a wonderful new opportunity with Andrew Hoy as his Head Lad. Well done Bernie and good luck!

Associates

Greig Elliott

Farrier to our equine stars, Greig is loved by all. His style of shoeing is modern and effective, and he applies the greatest of care and professionalism. He’s determined to make a difference and does so. Our team simply wouldn't be as successful without his support and skill.

Bourton Vale Equine Clinic

Mark Lucey and Tom Campbell are our regular vets and they are fantastic. The horses’ care is always paramount. The vets and staff continue to support us through our trials and tribulations and we’re very grateful for their excellence.

Leigh Miller

Leigh is a professional equine chiropractor with extensive experience. She works with a number of owner and travels to competitions to treat problems. She makes a palpable difference and we are delighted with her involvement in the health of our horses.