Horses, and competing. He has competed as a professional flat race jockey, as an Amateur National Hunt jockey for the Army, in 1 and 2 day eventing, show jumping (grade C), and as a lead driver for The British Army's Kings Troop Royal Horse Artillery display team.
Brian's skills have been further enhanced through his military training, which is equivalent to the British Horse Society Instructor qualification. He has also obtained an adult teaching qualification (NVQ4 PTLLS) and qualified as an advanced teaching assistant (NVQ3) in 2014.
Marquis Equine has been licenced as a riding establishment by the local authority, North Norfolk District Council, since July 2014. The establishment has achieved a 5-star rating in both 2019 and during its re-inspection in 2022, indicating its commitment to delivering exceptional horse riding experiences.
The welfare of the horses at Marquis Equine is a top priority. They work closely with Westover Veterinary Centre to ensure that the horses, Mollie, Jess, and Maggie, remain in good health. The horses receive annual vaccinations against equine flu and tetanus, along with regular dental checks and farrier appointments by Greig Harvey, DipWCF, to maintain their foot health.
Marquis Equine is dedicated to supporting the local community and businesses. They purchase food and bedding locally, employ local tradespeople for maintenance and grounds work, and source their hay from within a 5-mile radius. The manure produced by the horses is collected and used by a local farmer, and the establishment actively supports the Hickling community garden. Marquis Equine is proud to be a member of the Stalham Area Business Forum and regularly donates to select schools for their fundraising efforts.
They also supported Hickling's Battle's Over World War 1 commemoration in 2018.
In addition to catering to adults, Marquis Equine offers a welcoming and confidence-building experience for children. Easdon Jess, a 12. 2 hand Dartmoor cross Spot pony, is incredibly patient and friendly. She welcomes riders as young as 5 who are new to riding, as well as those with more experience.
Several of Jess's riders have ADHD or autism spectrum disorder, and she is always excited to receive an apple or carrot as a treat at the end of a lesson.
For children with more experience, there is Woody Maggie, a 13. 2 hand First Cross New Forest Pony. Maggie is known for her eagerness to please and helps children progress their skills in cantering and jumping. She has also developed her own unique style of stretching, lovingly referred to as “Poga” or pony yoga.
Marquis Equine offers a range of opportunities for adults, whether they are new to riding, experienced riders, or those looking to return to the sport. Brian and Crummy Moonlight, affectionately known as Mollie, are available to help riders develop their skills and confidence. Mollie, a gentle 16-hand Irish Sports Horse mare, originally hails from Ireland where she participated in hunting, jumping, and showing. Since joining Marquis Equine in 2022, Mollie has become a beloved member of the team, known for her gentle nature and forgiving temperament.
The maximum rider weight for Mollie is 83 kg (13 stone).
Marquis Equine invites horse enthusiasts to follow them on Facebook, where they share photos and reviews of their experiences. The establishment is dedicated to providing a 5-star, confidence-building horse riding experience in beautiful Norfolk.