Stanstead Spring Hall Hobby Horse Competitions initiative captures equestrian experience for children

Hobby horse fever has arrived in Suffolk, as a family-run farm strives to bring the joy of equestrian events to those who cannot afford to ride a real horse.

Spring Hall Farm in Stanstead, near Long Melford, has hailed the success of its summer Hobby Horse Competitions, building upon the growing popularity of the activity nationwide.

The family-owned farm hosted its inaugural event in July, featuring show jumping, Chase Me Charlie and Grand National courses, with a follow-up earlier this month adding cross county and gymkhana classes.

Hobby horsing – sometimes known as stick horsing – is an equestrian sport that uses toy horses, which built its reputation in mainland Europe and has since spread to the UK.

Laura Edwards, who runs the events at Spring Hall Farms with her family, said they were inspired by her daughter Rosie, a keen pony and hobby horse rider.

“We started because our daughter Rosie loves riding her ponies and her hobby horses,” she said.

“She turned nine earlier this year and we had a hobby horse party. Everyone loved it and had a great time, so she asked if we could go to some events.

“We went to a show in the Midlands and she had a brilliant time. When we got home, she wanted to go to more, but they are all quite far away. That’s when my mother-in-law sowed the seed of, why not put one on at the farm?

“We had our first show in July and Ivy & Bond did the catering. It was really wholesome fun. The kids were competitive, but in a nice way, and there was a lot of camaraderie.

“It’s kind of rolled on from there. We welcome everyone and there’s a very positive attitude. It seems to be taking off and we’ve had really good feedback.

“Kids love action play and it opens up the world of horses to people who don’t own them, or can’t afford riding lessons. They get to experience it, without the expense of real horses.”

The next hobby horsing day at Spring Hall Farm will take place on September 15, starting at 9am, and will introduce a dressage component.

Each class costs £10 to enter for participants, with every third class half price, while spectators can watch for free.

To find out more, search for ‘Spring Hall Hobby Horse Competitions’ on Facebook.