Chinese eventer Alex Hua Tian has become a patron for World Horse Welfare.
Alex — who competed at the 2008 Beijing Olympics aged just 18 — joins 7 other high profile figures in the equestrian world who already support the charity including presenter Emma Spencer and Betfair founder Andrew Black.
“The charity needs ambassadors like Alex who are recognised for achievement in their own field to give us a new platform and audience to talk to about the impact of our work helping horses in the UK and overseas,” said a spokesman from the charity.
Alex’s new role was announced at a party to celebrate the Chinese Year of the Horse held in the Jack Barclay Bentley showroom, London.
More 200 guests attended the event, including Paralympic gold medallist Natasha Baker, which was run in conjunction with Alex’s new sponsors Gieves and Hawkes.
£10,000 was raised for World Horse Welfare through an auction and donations from guests.
“The charity was honoured to be part of such a special celebration recognising the Chinese Year of the Horse, which brought together people from around the world with a common love of horses,” a spokesman added.