ENTERPRISING riding instructor Rachel Woodford- Allton has introduced a new concept to her riding school.

She believes the more empathy her students have with horses the better the relationship they will have with them.

She has adopted a holistic approach at her centre, Apples Equestrian at Leigh Sinton, near Malvern. She uses the join-up method of horse language, made famous by well-known horse whisperer, Monty Roberts, and said: “I think that people should give horses trust and respect – not transmit feelings of fear and dominance.

“The join-up method is a way of speaking to horses in their own language, encouraging friendship and respect. Horses would rather do anything than be on their own and rely very much on their survival instincts. I think we should all try and understand horses and ponies – how they like to live, recognise their needs and how they view the world instead of trying to dominate them.

“This is what I teach at my school where classes are kept small and the emphasis is on care and understanding.”

Mrs Woodford-Allton, who has two small children of her own, is keen that her pupils learn what horse reactions mean and why they behave in certain ways. And ultimately be able to speak to them in their own language.

She hopes her hard work has paid off after her first successful open day at the yard. More than 50 people turned up to watch dressage displays, enjoy pony rides and a barbecue. Mrs Woodford-Allton is offering a range of pony days throughout the school holidays where youngsters can either bring their own pony or borrow one from the riding school.

For more information, telephone 01886 833735.