Posted: 19th September 2014 | Back to news feed
AN increase in membership, a host of new initiatives, a busy 12 months for the President and a fascinating tour of The King’s Troop RHA in Woolwich, London were on the agenda at this year’s Society of Master Saddlers’ annual general meeting.
The day started with AGM matters including a report from President Helen Dart who described her ‘amazing’ year as full of variety with a trip to Scotland for the Saddlery Refresher Course and the brilliant entries at the National Competition being particular highlights.
With the aim of reaching new highs when it comes to awareness of the work carried out by the SMS, a busy calendar of events has been organised to benefit both members and horse owners over the last year.
Chief Executive Hazel Morley said: “The new Centaur Biomechanics course has proven very popular as have initiatives such as the CPD scheme.
“The bridle fitting course was once again full and our links with the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT) have developed further with a jointly run course now established.
“This year we have progressed a new system to improve communication with members by issuing regular E-newsletters which are proving popular and well-read.
“After many months of hard work the Society of Master Saddlers film is now nearing completion and we are very much looking forward to the launch.
“Over the last 12 months 21 new Qualified Saddle Fitters have successfully passed the examination process and are now on the road successfully developing their new careers.”
With AGM work in hand, members were very fortunate to watch a display by The King’s Troop who had performed at the Opening Ceremony of the Invictus Games the night before.
Watching the two teams of horses working together in the indoor arena followed by the opportunity to get ‘close-up’ to the horses was met with great approval from everyone attending.
A tour of the facilities rounded off the day, with everyone very impressed with the set-up, attention to detail and wonderful support provided.
The AGM saw the appointment of Peter Wilkes of Vale Brothers as new President of the SMS with Master Saddler Laura Dempsey stepping into the Vice President’s role.
To find out more information on The Society of Master Saddlers visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk
The Equestrian Index newsfeed is compiled from articles submitted by advertising members and expresses the opinions of those members. Watsons Directories Ltd shall not be held liable for any inaccuracies or mis-statements therein.