North Yorkshire-based Magnus is a leading producer of show horses. Prior to this he was an international event rider and also competed successfully in showjumping and as an amateur National Hunt, polo and point-to-point jockey. As a showman he has won titles at all major shows including Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) and the Royal International.
I was very lucky to be taught to ride by Chris Bartle. Chris was definitely my hero. He is a brilliant, analytical horseman and I really looked up to him. Horses aren’t as complicated as you think they are and so I try to keep things simple. People can get too carried away with the need to have the latest gadget or newest bit, but I’ve never been one for all that.
I always try to use the best. No matter what it is I will always try to make sure it’s the best quality I can afford, whether that’s the farrier, vet, tack or feed. It saves money in the long run. My tailcoat was made in 1929 and my current show boots were given to me as a 21st birthday present; I’m not going to say how long ago that was but I’m just grateful I haven’t put on too much weight since they were gifted.
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Freelance equestrian journalist
Born and raised in the Lake District, Alex has grown up on the showing scene. She has qualified and competed ponies at the Royal International, Horse of the Year Show and Olympia and has first-hand knowledge of the current issues in the showing world as well as the horses, ponies and riders who compete in the sport. Alex joined H&H in January 2018 as showing editor, cementing its place as the leading equestrian publication for both showing reports and current showing news in the UK. She moved on in October 2024 to pursue other opportunities, but continues to write for us on a freelance basis.
