AUGHERSKEA, an equestrian smallholding in Drumree, Co Meath with an interesting back story, has been presented for sale.

Described as being within easy reach of transport links, schools and Dublin city, the property is situated halfway between Dunshaughlin and Trim and extends to 11 acres, while the two-storey, three-bedroom, cut stone house was once an old coaching inn. It is located in a tranquil, country setting and is in need of some renovation.

The land is divided into four paddocks, featuring some stud railing and a water supply, while the outbuildings include two tack rooms, two haybarns and 10 stables. There is also a fully-fenced 60 x 30m arena, in need of repair, and some natural hedgerows and mature hedging.

Augherskea was the home of Liz Sandford, a successful showing and eventing rider, who ran a thriving business from the yard.

In 1968, Liz and her mother Jean bought and renovated Augherskea. They added stables, barns and an outdoor riding arena. She kept horses at livery, she made and broke young horses and ponies, and produced ponies for showing. She also bred her own horses, starting a line of successful showing horses with her mare Goldie.

Liz competed in everything from showing to carriage driving to three-day eventing. In 1968, riding a horse called White Plume, she was very much in the mix for selection for the Irish team for the Mexico Olympics. She was an expert at riding side-saddle, and won often in the RDS. She hunted with the Meath Harriers and it was after a day’s hunting in 1973 that she and a friend discussed the possibility of setting up a riding club. Thus the Meath Riding Club was formed, which is extremely active to this day.

In 1969, her mother Jean was part of the group that introduced Riding for the Disabled into Ireland, and years later, Liz was instrumental in setting up the Pelletstown Group. She was passionate about the organisation, and used her combination of kindness and skill to give the children their best experience.

In her later years, Liz developed an interest in buying young racehorses and bringing them on.

Liz taught generations of people to ride. She was a great sailor as well as a skilled horsewoman. She had a wide circle of loyal friends and she is greatly missed by her cousins and all who had the pleasure of knowing her.

The property may be eligible for a €70,000 Vacant Property Refurbishment Grant, subject to conditions, and viewing is recommended. For more information, contact John Bannon on 086 8320042.