Scottish campaigner Ann Fraser has been awarded an MBE in the 2014 Queen’s Birthday Honours List.
Ms Fraser — who is British Horse Society (BHS) chairman of equestrian access in Scotland — was honoured for her services to the horse and Scottish Borders.
Ann has been involved in access and the BHS for 30 years. She founded the Borders Festival of the Horse and assisted the progress of Part 1 of the Land Reform Act (Scotland) 2003 Act through the Scottish Parliament. This ensures riders received the same rights as walkers, cyclists and the disabled.
“Ann’s dedication to the horse as an economic driver in the Borders and her lifelong fight for safe off-road access for equines, makes her a worthy recipient of the honour,” said Helene Mauchlen, BHS director of Scotland.
“She continues to work tirelessly and is highly respected.”
Samuel Sheppard from Suffolk received a CBE for services to the horse breeding industry and rural economy.
Mr Sheppard is the former chief executive of the European Breeders’ Fund, which he helped set up and has made a contribution of more than €100million in sponsorship to European racing since its creation in 1983. He retired in 2012.
Laurence Smith was named MBE for services to dog welfare and working horses.
Mark Romain received an MBE for services to the saddlery industry and saddlery training in the UK and overseas.
Course designer Jon Doney was awarded MBE for services to British Showjumping.
Aussie honours
Britain-based driver Boyd Exell was honoured in the Australian equivalent of The Queen’s Birthday 2014 Honours List — which are announced a week before the British honours. He was been awarded the Order of Australia Medal for service to equestrian sport, particularly four-in-hand carriage driving.
“I’m surprised and delighted,” Boyd told H&H. “You don’t expect to receive an honour for equestrianism, especially in carriage driving, so I’m pleased for the sport.
“I only wish it was a team honour, as a lot of people are involved in the success I’ve had.”
