The number of female farriers is rising sharply, according to the latest figures from the Farriery Registration Council. Between 2006 and 2013, there has been a 70% increase in female farrier registrations, set against an 8% increase inoverall UK farriers registering.
This has been reflected by record numbers of female farriers entering the Royal Bath & West Show (29-31 May). The show hosts the finals of the British Farrier and Blacksmith Association National Championships, and although no women will contest this, the Bath & West Shoeing Championships will field unprecedented numbers of female competitors.
Champion female farrier, Sarah-Mary Brown, has entered several classes at the Royal Bath & West.
“There are far more girls around now than there were when I started,” said Sarah-Mary. “They love their job, even though it is hard, and it’s great to see more female farriers entering competitions.”
Alan Lyons, show manager at the Bath & West said that the increase was particularly welcome on the 150th anniversary of the show — England’s biggest agricultural event.
“Nothing is more fitting than to celebrate this talented uptake with these exciting,fast-paced championships,” he said.
Training applications among women are also on the up. The National Farrier Training Association revealed female numbers rising by 27% since 2006.
