Name: Hazel English

From: Cargycreevy, Lisburn

Job title: Yard manager

Who do you work for? Luke Campbell at Applemount Sport Horses.

Do you ride yourself?

Yes, I have competed up to 1.20m on my own horse. Luke has also giving me the opportunity to compete up to 1.30m, which I am extremely grateful for.

When did you start working in this profession?

I have been working as a groom for 11 years in various yards. I have previously worked in eventing and breaking yards. I’ve been working for Luke for six years.

What attracted you to this profession?

Growing up with horses on my family farm, working with them became second nature to me. My love for horses grew into a passion making the career choice of a groom very easy. I started working with horses as soon as I left school and I haven’t stopped.

What are the greatest challenges in this job?

The greatest challenges would be the early mornings, long hours and the cold, wet winter months which, living in Ireland, you soon get used to. Developing a connection with the horses and watching them progress through the levels to then be sold on, would be the hardest aspect of the job as every horse I treat as though it is my own and it’s always sad to see them leave.

What do you enjoy the most about your job?

I love getting to know the different personality of each horse. Everyday is different so you never get bored. There’s no greater feeling than seeing the horses that I have cared for going to shows and performing at their best. I am very fortunate that I also have the opportunity to compete at shows, it’s always an added bonus when I beat the boss. At Applemount Sport Horses we are one big family which makes it an incredibly supportive and fun environment to work in.

What advice would you give to someone going into this profession?

A true love of horses is definitely a must have quality. It’s also important to ask a lot of questions in order to build up your knowledge. This is definitely not a 9-5 job and is more of a lifestyle, which requires a lot of commitment. The days are long and the work is hard but it is definitely one of the most rewarding jobs.