IF ever a man was destined to found his own business it was Bill Holmes of Holmestead Saddlery. From humble beginnings – a 12x12ft stable in fact – Holmestead has grown today to be a leading supplier to thousands of customers in the equestrian industry. It also employs up to 30 staff with stores at Tyrella, Downpatrick Co Down, and Blackchurch near Kill, Co Kildare, off the N7.

Speaking to Bill recently, you just know the immense pleasure he gets from dealing with his customers and keeping them shopping with him year after year. His hobby he confesses is not golf but horses, and his other hobby is supplying horses, riders, jockeys and trainers with a wide range of tack, clothing and accessories, also available online. His business motto is ‘Give Great Value and Sell Lots’.