THE sight of Vere Phillipps standing at an Irish collecting ring scouting for his next purchase is a welcome one for Irish sellers.

Renowned for his fair trade, the English dealer is highly regarded by his Irish contacts, with one remarking: “If Vere likes your horse, he offers you a fair price on the spot, cheque paid straightaway and the horse gone a few days later. No messing. He’s a gentleman, as good as his word and a great guy to do business with.”