Litchfield Equestrian, based in Reading, is owned and managed by Gemma Cleary (nee Litchfield) since the year 2000. Gemma has an extensive background in horse riding, having started at the young age of 3 and owning her own pony at 6. Her family has been involved in various equestrian disciplines since the early 80s, and Gemma herself was a member of the pony club where she gained various PC tests. She has also successfully completed all her British Horse Society (BHS) Stage exams, including her A.
I Instructor level.
After completing her A-levels, Gemma went on to achieve a BSc Hons in Equine and Sports Science from university. Her experiences in the industry include stud work, competition yards, riding schools, livery, and business management. She has competed for the riding club over the years, achieving numerous wins and places at county level showjumping. She has even been placed at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show in Scurry Driving.
Gemma is also actively involved in the local horse show committee, where she oversees the show jumping category.
Litchfield Equestrian is a friendly, professional, family-run yard that specialises in full and part livery services. They pride themselves on providing high standards of care for the horses entrusted to them. Additionally, the company specialises in the sale of quality young horses and offers breaking and retraining services tailored to meet individual needs. Litchfield Equestrian also offers individual riding and driving lessons.
Conveniently located in Arborfield, just off the A327 near Reading, Litchfield Equestrian enjoys easy access to the M4 and M3, making it an easily accessible location for clients. The company is proud to have the support of sponsors such as The Back Room Chiropractic, a small, and friendly McTimoney Chiropractic clinic located in Twyford, Reading, and BasePoint Traffic Data Limited, a small independent data collection company.
The company also offers career opportunities for grooms, who can receive training towards NVQ and/or BHS qualifications if desired. Litchfield Equestrian has previously trained grooms to BHSAI and NVQ III level. Grooms may also have the opportunity to compete, particularly in dressage and showjumping, potentially even at affiliated level depending on their ability. Past grooms of Litchfield Equestrian have gone on to various equestrian positions, including trainers and yard managers at international show jumper/event yards.
They have also been actively involved in a range of activities at Litchfield Equestrian, such as producing youngsters, backing horses, and organising competitions.