History & Bio

Personal Profile

Hello I'm Claire, the yard manager, welcome to Ings Farm Stables. I thought I'd tell you a little about myself.

I was born in the late 1970's and my love affair with horses began when I was very young. After wishing on many stars, I finally started my riding career in 1986. This was quickly followed by the arrival of my first pony, Briar, a 13.2hh Welsh Sec B, chestnut gelding, who was a year older than me. We grew up together, becoming best friends. We regularly participated at local shows, Badsworth Pony Club, and Riding Clubs, at the two riding schools I attended. However, our favourite activity was the long weekend hacks with my mum (Lesley, the yard owner) on her horse Khan.

From a young age, I always knew I wanted to work with horses but was realistic in that it would never be a well paid career, unless I owned an equestrian facility or became successful in a particular discipline.

In the mid 90's, as I was about to start my A-Levels, it was decided as a family, to take a break from equestrianism for a while. That turned into a longer than expected break, as life and my career in retail, banking and social housing, never seemed to leave any opportunity to get back in the saddle. Although I kept up to date with advances in the equestrian world.

In 2013 my parents purchased Ings Farm and I saw my opportunity. Not only to get back in the saddle, but to fulfil my childhood dream and work with horses too. In 2014 I left my career in social housing, sold my car and house in Leeds, and moved to the farm.

I worked part time in the family business www.fivestarautomotive.co.uk and briefly for www.ridingsequinevets.co.uk, while I studied with www.horse-care.co.uk and other equestrian organisations.

Over the next eight years, after a lot of blood, sweat and tears, we changed a run down cattle farm into a purpose built equestrian property. All this, while looking after our 3 horses, Boudica, Constance and Twinkle.

In November 2021, I finished my studies and gained certificates in Horse Care and Management: Level 1 and 2, as well as gaining a distinction in the specialist course, Livery Yard Manager. I have also have certificates in feeding and worming.

In 2022 I attended a BHS Safeguarding course, hold a current DBS check and was finally granted permission from the local authority to open a livery yard.

I look forward to Continuing Professional Development and welcoming clients and their horses to the yard.