The mountain and moorland specialist on pursuing her dreams, her laid-back personality and what motivates her to get out of bed in the morning. 
													
																																		
													Without proper lateral work, natives can become rigid and strong in their neck; if you can’t create proper flexion you can’t do a lot with them. I am a big fan of shoulder-fore work, especially with those breeds who struggle with the higher-level movements, such as Highlands, who can fall on to the forehand, and the Welshes, who can get set in the front end.
These days, I put a lot more groundwork into the youngsters at the beginning and don’t rush the mouthing process. Getting a good mouth on a pony is the best start you can possibly give them.
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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.