Debbie Pickford - Treasurer
Hi! I am Debbie and this is my horse Bandit. I have been riding on and off since I was small but gave up in about 2003 following a bad accident. In 2013 I went to visit an old friend and rode one of her horses, they rest, as they say, is history! I had another bad accident in 2018, fracturing my spine in 2 places but with a change of horse and the support of my friends and the riding club I am back and loving every minute. I enjoy all aspects of riding, hacking, fun rides, riding club activities and low-level competition, we have a go at most things and have great fun at team events with the riding club. I joined East Mendip riding club in 2016 and became treasurer in 2019.
Sandi Leach - Secretary and Membership Secretary
Hi I’m Sandi and I have joined the committee after being a member of EMRC for nearly 8 years.
I got back into riding after a 20 year break and as I am not interested in competing anymore, the riding club gives me and my horse Shady the opportunity to get out and do lots of other things, learn and progress but mostly have fun.
Outside of horses I am involved with a greyhound rescue charity and have fostered many greyhounds and lurchers over the years. As a result of this, I also share my home with 2 greyhounds, a saluki and a whippet … oh and my husband!
Click on this text to edit it.
Karen Gowlett - Chairperson
I was late getting into horses and got my first one for a significant birthday! Pippin is a gypsy cob and we have such fun in the time I’ve had her! I joined EMRC to gain more confidence and meet new friends, and have enjoyed fun rides, camp, Cross County and Show Jumping. More recently I have taken part in team events which is fabulous fun (and often a delicious picnic after we’ve ridden!). When I’m not riding, I enjoy gardening, walking our dog, and relaxing with friends (plus wine and gin!), plus also squeezing in working full time!
Julie Dawson – Committee Member
HI! I am Julie and I grew up in the cooler climates of the North in Lancashire. I have recently relocated to Somerset and work in a vet’s practise. Outside of work I am kept busy with my own and the family’s horses. I really enjoy helping at EMRC - everyone is so friendly, and the emphasis is always on fun.
Kerry Haines
I’ve always loved horses and ponies and although I learnt to ride as a young girl I had a long break between teenage years and adulthood. In 2006 I bought my pony, Bracken, and we’ve had an amazing time together.
I joined EMRC last year and I’m very lucky to be able to ride Sunny, owned by Sally, both of whom will be well known to the club.
Anna Morris
My name is Anna, and I’ve had horses all my life. I’ve been a member of East Mendip Riding Club since it first began and enjoy taking part in a variety of disciplines. I have a lovely Irish Sports Horse called Archie and a Dartmoor hill pony called Dylan. Outside of riding, I work full time as a primary school teacher.
Kim George
Hello all - I’m Kim - I’ve always loved horses and have had many over the years. Last year I bought myself a lovely 4 year old dun cob called Dennis who is adorable - he’s such a nice person - we are both enjoying getting out and about hacking, attending clinics, learning and building our bond together.