emivux.com
ANNUAL REPORT
AND ACCOUNTS 2025


## **Contents** 

SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY 

Patron 

HIS MAJESTY KING CHARLES III 

President H F Whitbread, Esq 

NOTICE OF ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING ANNUAL REPORT AND ACCOUNTS 2025 

## SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY 

Established in 1878 to promote the Old English Breed of Cart Horse 

Governing Document: Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association 

**3 Board Chairman’s Report 4 Chief Executive’s Report 4 Chair of Council’s Report 5 Notice of 2026 AGM 5 Minutes of 2025 AGM 10 Report of the Trustees 13 Council, Committees and Officials 15 Independent Examiner’s Report 17 Balance Sheet 19 Cash Flow Statement 20 Notes to the Financial Statements** 

**Election of Council Members** 

**30** 

**Shire Horse of the Year Qualifying Shows** 

**37** 

**Advert for the show** 

**39** 

Company Limited by Guarantee 

Registered in England – Certificate of Incorporation 12383 

Registered Charity No. 210619 

## Registered Office: 

The Old Dairy, Rockingham Castle & Park, Rockingham, Market Harborough, LE16 8TH 

Tel: 01536 771 611 

Email: info@shire-horse.org.uk 

Chief Executive: Victoria Clayton 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 

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## **Chair of  Board’s Report** 

A year comes around so quickly these days, and I welcome the opportunity to say a few words on what has been a fairly turbulent time. 

This time last year we were planning for our National Show at Stafford. All those there enjoyed the atmosphere, and it went off really well.  I was very pleased to see the entries over the three days and felt proud to be associated with the Shire Horse Society.  We had a great showing season at the affiliated shows culminating in HOYS being the grand finale for the breed. 

During the year we have co-opted two members to our Board, and I 

look forward to working with them during the coming year. Our plans for the next three years have been put together, and a lot of thought has been put into this. 

Our main focus remains on the breeding of the Shire horse and its preservation.  SPARKS continues to gather momentum and working with others we continue to look to find ways to enhance our knowledge on genetics which in turn will be able to guide us in the future. 

We are pleased to put on an additional National Show this year at Rockingham which will be during the summer showing season.  We feel it 

will be good for the breed to have this additional shopwindow which will attract more visitors, breeders and members.  Do come and be part of the day. 

I would like to thank Victoria and her team, our Committee Chairs and their teams for all the work they do for the Society which makes it all worthwhile; and I wish you all the best for 2026. 

_Helen Thomas, Chair of Board_ 

## **Chief  Executive’s Report** 

Welcome to 2026, the Year of the Horse!  When sitting down to write this, I sat back and took stock of the last decade, or so.  It is very hard to believe that 2026 marks the start of my tenth year with the Society.  Time flies when you are enjoying yourself! 

Looking at the last ten years, we have seen change and adaption, an office move, new initiatives like the Heavy Horse Camp, a global pandemic, different show venues, a governance restructure, the sad loss of a cumulative number of 135 members/breeders, the introduction of SPARKS, greater levels of support for breeders, fundraising challenges and greater engagement. Above all, I hope everyone in that time has had fun either with the breed or because of it. 

Granted; it has not all been just fun – and I do say a heartfelt thank you 

to the members and their families who support the breed in whichever way they can.  You all play your part in helping to keep the breed alive, prominent and relevant. 

January in the office marks “silly season” and no two days are the same. I am hopeful that I will see many of you at the regional open meetings that are scheduled during the first quarter of the year.  It is hoped that the meetings are seen as a positive move to meet more of our members regionally at least once a year. 

The new format of National Shows starts this year; we are on countdown for the National Spring Show at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre.  It reverts to a ‘breed show’ as what many of the members requested; please support the show with your horses and entries. Without the horses present, we have 

no show.  Increased appearance money is available for all, with stallions attracting £200 per horse and as they say, ‘you’ve got to be in it, to win it!’ 

The National Summer Show will feature a valuable £1,000 Turnout Championship, a new National Foal Championship and a Supreme Brood Mare Championship, worth £1,000 to the winner! 

Following the recent members survey and feedback, the Board have released a Code of Conduct for Council. It is closely aligned with the Board’s own Code of Conduct and whilst effective from January; newly elected/reelected members are asked to sign a copy on election. 

In association with this, within this document, as always you will see the CVs of dedicated and passionate 

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members who are standing for election/re-election to Council.  There are some exceptional candidates, seventeen in total for twelve spaces; and for the first time in a long time, new candidates outnumber those standing for re-election. 

Choosing up to twelve will not be easy and will cause some head scratching. 

Please read the CVs carefully and use your very valuable votes. 

As I always state, the office team of Angela, Sue, Carol, Laura and I are here to help and along with Council members to encourage newcomers and new members to strive to preserve, promote and protect the horse that put the ‘Great’ into Britain. 

On behalf of the Shire Horse Society, the Board and Council, a final thank you for your ongoing support and love of the breed. 

_Victoria Clayton, Chief Executive_ 

## **Chair of  Council’s Report** 

It is with great pleasure that I compile my first report as Chair of Council. When taking up the role I always knew it would be a challenging position, Council has some very strong personalities who have their opinions on the way forward for the Shire Horse Society.  The debate and discussion are passionate and enthusiastic and is the only way to ensure the best decisions are made. I promised that I would represent the Council at Board meetings and this I have ensured has happened. 

One question I am repeatedly asked is ‘why can’t the Society do more for the breeders?’ and I have responded by asking for ideas and suggestions. I rarely get any ideas back and I have to say that these suggestions should not be based purely on endless financial support alone.  Please do speak to me if you have ideas you wish for me to take forward, or indeed your local Council representative. 

The Council is the engine room of the Society, and the three Committees have continued to do some fantastic work in meeting our objectives. I would like to thank the Chairs and their committee members for their hard work and continued support. 

2026 sees a change to our annual 

show, we have a reduced programme for the Spring Show in March and a spectacular show in August, so all aspects of the original show is included. This decision was necessary because of the rising expenditure of keeping the show at Stafford each Spring which was unsustainable. I think that this new format which is supported by Council and the Show Committee will be a great success, I hope that members and exhibitors alike get behind these shows and fully support them. I know that Victoria and her staff are working tirelessly alongside the Show Committee towards positive outcomes. 

The Editing Committee are focusing on our breeding programme SPARKS and the continued longevity of the Shire horse, whilst the Training and Education Committee have recently put on two judges’ seminars which were on the whole received well. At this point I would also like to thank Yvonne Simmons for her work in organising the Heavy Horse Camp which goes from strength to strength. 

I will continue to work as a member of the Board and report honestly to Council, it is my opinion that the Board is totally supportive of Council and always receives suggestions made by the respective Chairs in a 

positive way. The current Board has a cross section of expertise including breeders, financial experts, charity experts, and legal expertise. This combination of people is, I believe doing great work in supporting our long-term plans for the Society to ensure the breed continues for many decades and hopefully centuries to come. 

I ask that during 2026 we all pull together so that through healthy debate and discussion we ensure the Society remains in the strong position that I feel we are currently in. 

I wish to express my support for Victoria and her staff in the Rockingham office who I have now had the opportunity to work closely with for some time and witnessed their dedication and hard work, whilst they may some days be stretched, their smiles and ‘can do’ attitude is much appreciated. 

Together this Society remains strong, and we must remain focused on the Shire horse. 

_Paul Bower Chair of Council_ 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 

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## **Notice of  AGM** 

Notice is hereby given that the **ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING** of the Members of the Shire Horse Society will be held on Friday 20th March 2026 at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre, Middlewich Road, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0SR at 4.30pm. 

AGENDA: 

**1. WELCOME ADDRESS.** 

**2. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE.** 

**3. MINUTES OF THE LAST ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON 7TH MARCH 2025.** 

**4. MATTERS ARISING FROM THE MINUTES.** 

**5. RECEIVE REPORT OF TRUSTEES & STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS.** 

**6. ELECTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS.** 

**7. ELECTION OF BOARD MEMBERS AND HONORARY TREASURER.** 

**8. INDEPENDENT EXAMINER.** 

**9. ANY OTHER BUSINESS.** 

_By Order of the Council Victoria Clayton, Chief Executive_ 

## **AGM Minutes** 

Minutes of the Shire Horse Society’s Annual General Meeting held on Friday 7th March 2025 in The Boden Room, Staffordshire County Showground, Stafford, at 4:30pm. 

## **PRESENT:** 

Mrs H Thomas (Chair of Board) Mr T J Yates (Chair of Council) Mr D Clarke (Honorary Treasurer) 

Mr S J Peacock (Chair of Show Committee) 

Mrs Y Simmons (Chair of Training & Education Committee) Mr D Baker CFW (Accountants LLP) 

## **MEMBERS ATTENDING:** 

Mrs L Allman, Miss E Archer, Mrs D Badger, Mr D Billingsley, Mr P Bower, Mr P R Boyes, Mrs R Boyes, Mrs H Brand, Mr R Brand, Mr R Brewster, Mr P Bundock, Miss R Burgess, Mr M Burks, Mr M Butterworth, Miss A Chetwood, Mr J Clarke, Mr R Clarke, Miss J-A Clubley, Mr C Dawson, Mrs C Fairbairn, Mr J Fairbairn, Mr L M Fountain, Mr J Fryer, Mrs V A Giles, Miss H Gray, Mr R Griffith, Mr I Heleine, Mr J Hick, Mr Chris Horler, Mr Colin Horler, Mrs L 

Horler, Mr M Horler, Mrs T Horler, Mr R Huxster, Mr D Iles, Mr C K Kettles, Mr M King, Mr D Lambert, Mr S Ledsham, Mr S Leedham, Mr G Livesey, Mr S Livesey, Mrs E Macey-Bracken, Mr C Malkin, Mrs J Malkin, Mr M J Martin, Mr J W McIntyre, Mrs B Moore, Mrs Jane Muntz Torres, Mr S F Neighbour, Mrs D E Nulty, Mr P Nulty, Mr C Paulsson, Mrs H Preece, Mr G J Rawlins,  Mr F M Richardson, Mr S Roper, Mr J Robinson, Mr H Roetgerink, Mr D Sherwood, 

Mr P Shipman, Mr P Simmons, Ms A Soroko, Mr J H Stephenson, Miss R Taylor, Miss C M Threlfall, Mr J Verhoeven, Mr C Vetter, Mrs K Vetter, Mrs M Ward, Mr A Wareing, Mr A J Wass, Mrs P L Wass, Mrs J R Wells, Mr A Whetton, Mr C Wilkins, Mr P Willis, Mr B A Winn, Mrs J Wordsworth, Mr D Worthington, Mrs M Worthington, Mr D J Yates, Mrs S Yates and Dr H Ziman. 

## **IN ATTENDANCE:** 

Miss V L Clayton (Chief Executive) 

Mrs S M Fox (Administration) 

Miss A Whiteway (Registrations) 

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## **1. WELCOME ADDRESS** 

In the absence of the President, Mr H Whitbread, the Chair of the Board, Mrs H Thomas welcomed members to the Annual General Meeting and confirmed the meeting was being recorded for the purpose of accurate minutes.  Those eligible to vote had been handed a voting paper and were asked to fill this in at the relevant point when advised by the Chair. 

The Chair was pleased to confirm that His Royal Highness King Charles III had agreed to become the Society’s Patron.  The Royal Family have been connected to the Shire Horse Society for many years, and the Society appreciates their commitment and involvement. 

The Chair explained that the Society’s vision is to be the leading global authority in the preservation, promotion, and welfare of Shire horses, fostering a vibrant community of enthusiasts dedicated to safeguarding this iconic breed for future generations. 

## The core values are. 

**Heritage:** respect for the rich history and heritage of the Shire horse breed. **Integrity:** commitment to honesty, transparency, and ethical practices. **Excellence:** pursuit of excellence in all aspects of breed preservation, promotion, and welfare. 

**Community:** fostering a supportive and inclusive community of Shire horse enthusiasts. 

**Innovation:** embrace innovation and adaptability to meet the evolving needs of the breed. 

The Strategic Goals of The Shire Horse Society are: 

**Breed Preservation and Promotion** – to enhance efforts to preserve the genetic diversity and improve the visibility of Shire horses. 

**Member Engagement and Retention** – to strengthen member engagement and retention strategies to cultivate a vibrant community of Shire horse enthusiasts. 

**Education and Outreach** – to expand educational initiatives to raise awareness about the history, characteristics, and care of Shire horses. 

**Welfare and Well-being** – to prioritise the welfare and well-being of Shire horses through advocacy, research, and support services. 

**Financial Sustainability** – to ensure the long-term sustainability and growth of the Shire Horse Society. 

The Society is now working on a threeyear plan so it can further the aims and the objectives of the Society in a planned, resourced way to ensure that we lay good, clear foundations for the future. 

## **2. APOLOGIES FOR ABSENCE** 

Apologies were received from Mr N Andrews, Mr H Bedford, Mr W Bedford, Mr Wm Bedford, Mr J Burks, Ms J Domhill, Miss C Eagle, Mr A Franklin, Mrs L Froggatt, Mr T Froggatt, Mr J Goodwin, Miss J Jones, Mrs E Lambert, Mr W J Medhurst, Mr A Peacock, Mr R Pritchett, Mr D Shardlow, Mrs W Toomer-Harlow, Mr T E Whittaker and Mr J Worthington. 

## **3. MINUTES OF THE LAST ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING HELD ON 8TH MARCH 2024.** 

The Minutes had been circulated to all members in the Annual Report and Accounts 2024. Mr D J Yates proposed the Minutes should be signed as a true and correct record.  Mr P Bower seconded the proposal.  Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form. 

## **4. MATTERS ARISING FROM** 

## **THE MINUTES** 

The Chair asked if there were any matters arising from the Minutes.  There were no matters arising from the Minutes. 

## **5. RECEIVE REPORT OF THE COUNCIL AND STATEMENT OF ACCOUNTS** 

The Honorary Treasurer, Mr D Clarke took members through the accounts for the year ending 30th September 2024 as set out in the Annual Report & Accounts. 

Mr Clarke talked members through the income and expenditure. 

Income:  Donations and legacies were reduced from £463,287 in 2023 to £279,081 in 2024.  Membership subscriptions remain consistent at £42,186.  The amount from the direct charitable surplus rose to £150,725 from £131,790. Other trading activities rose to £17,131 from £7,209 and the investment income rose to £49,817 from £28,636. 

Expenditure:  Raising funds increased to £80,881 from £67,064 

Charitable activities (Shire Horse Show) cost £103,767 and these have risen to £142,382.  The stud book fees and sales and service books have risen to £132,867 from £125,266. Membership subscriptions costs are from £36,135 to £38,945.  Support costs are £62,068 from £57,062.  The direct charitable purpose is £26,521 and this is lower than the previous year.  Heavy Horse Camp decreased from £13,555 to £10,641.  Total costs £494,305 (2023: £433,579). 

Net gains on investments of £955 (2023: £29,056) Total funds carried forward £1,466,613 (2023: £1,421,023) 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 

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## Balance Sheet 

Fixed Assets £708,147 (2023: £704,686) 

Current Assets £785,795 (2023: £738,006) 

Investments rose and noted that £780,000 was moved to CCLA Investments. 

Creditors (£27,329) (2023: (£21,669)) Total assets less current liabilities £1,466,613 (2023: £1,421,023). 

The Hon. Treasurer reported that the Society’s investment advisor Mary Foster was unable to attend the AGM but had sent in a description of how the investments were doing.  Mr Clarke read this out to the members. 

Ms Foster reported that during 2024 it was decided to appoint CCLA, a well-known and respected charity specialist fund manager, to manage the Shire Horse Society portfolio.  CCLA is the largest charity specialist fund manager in the UK and looks after funds for churches, charities, and local authorities.  It has approximately £14.5bn under its management. 

The Society’s investments at CCLA are split between two funds, one a deposit account (just over £500,000) which offers above market rates of interest and the COIF Fund (approximately £670,000) which invests primarily in equities and is intended to provide long term investment returns for the Society. 

Over the past twelve months, the COIF Fund has risen just over 5% (approximately 0.8% in the last quarter) while the Deposit Fund has returned a similar amount.  The deposit fund is now (as of 25th February 2025) paying 4.41% highly competitive rates offered by the banks. 

The Hon. Treasurer read out the 

## ‘Outlook from CCLA.’ 

“During December, several central banks dialled back their outlook for rate cuts for 2025.  That slowing pace of rate cuts disappointed many investors and weighed on share prices but what is more important: in 2024, central banks lowered inflation without causing a recession.  That ‘soft landing’ is a reason to look at shares constructively. 

The US economy, for example, grew 3.1% (annualised) in the third quarter of 2024, and it is set to benefit from Trump’s promised tax cuts in 2025. Even in case of a trade war, the closed US economy can continue to do well. And US companies’ earnings are already growing faster than those of their G7 peers. 

It is true that, as share prices have risen, so has volatility.  The principle risk, in our view, is that earnings momentum slows.  As the fourth quarter showed, it is even possible for companies to deliver earnings that investors were expecting but see their share prices decline.  For that reason, we do not invest ‘blindly’ across the board but continue to be selective.” 

The Chair of Board, Mrs H Thomas invited members to ask questions of which there were none.  Mr J Hick proposed that the Accounts for the year ending 2024 should be adopted and Dr H Ziman seconded the proposal.  Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form. 

At this point, Mr R Griffith highlighted an error in the accounts on page 21 relating to the Horserace Betting Levy Board’s grant in 2023.  Mr Griffith referred members back to the 2023 accounts where the figure was outlined as £35,000 and not £30,000 as shown in the current accounts.  The Hon. Treasurer replied 

that this is an error and apologised. 

Mr R Griffith also asked what had happened to the semen storage payment for 2024 (page 30) as this is not listed in the accounts. The Chief Executive confirmed the Society still held these in storage and payments are still being made. 

## **6. ELECTION OF COUNCIL MEMBERS** 

Mr D Baker from CFW Accountants LLP who act as the Scrutineers read the names out. 

The Candidates duly elected were: 

Mr C Horler (149) Mr R Griffith (147) Mr G Rawlins (145) Mr J Worthington (143) Mrs D Badger (142) Mrs S Flintham (135) Mr F M Richardson (133) Mr Wm Bedford  (129) Mr S Ledsham (124) Miss C Eagle (115) Mr J Burks (112) Mr M Martin (110) 

The Council members were duly elected and congratulated.  Grateful thanks were recorded to Mr D Baker and CFW Accountants LLP for their assistance. 

The Chair extended the Society’s sincere gratitude to Mr T J Yates who retires at the AGM from both the Council and Board.  A round of applause was made to thank Mr Yates for all his work. 

Mr Yates replied that he had enjoyed his time on the Council despite there being one or two hiccups along the way but overall, he had enjoyed his time.  At this point Mr Yates handed his Chair of Council badge to Mr Paul Bower and wished him all the best. 

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Mr P Bower thanked Mr Yates and said he had been his understudy for the past 18 months on the Board and he is looking forward to the challenges ahead. 

The Chair confirmed that Mr Bower, as Chair of Council now automatically has a seat on the Board of Trustees. 

## **7. ELECTION OF HON. TREASURER AND TRUSTEES** 

The Chair informed members that Mr Huw Murphy has resigned as a Trustee owing to other commitments and does not have the time and energy to devote to the work of the Board.  The Chair thanked Mr Murphy for his time on the Board and wished him every success in the future. 

Mr J Robinson has agreed to be ViceChair of the Board of Trustees. 

Moving to the elections, Mr David Clarke, Hon. Treasurer has been in the post for two years and during his time with the Society has improved financial reporting and procedures. Mr Clarke is an accountant with over twenty years’ experience working across a full spectrum of organisations.  Mr Clarke offers himself for re-election and Mrs H Thomas proposed that Mr D Clarke is re-elected as Hon. Treasurer and Trustee, and this was seconded by Miss E Archer.   Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form. 

The Chair stated that it is important that a charity has Trustees committed to their task and with skills, knowledge, and experience that the charity needs. Trustees play an essential role in the governance of charities.  They bring valuable professional experience to the charity and help ensure that charities are managed and through the appointment of executive staff. 

In recruiting new Trustees, existing Trustees must act in the best interest 

of the charity.  The composition of, and balance of skills on the Board has been considered and addressed and the perceived gaps identified were of a professional nature in areas which have been a concern and or cost to the Society in recent years. 

The Chair added to this end the Society has had the pleasure of working with both a Stockbroker and a Solicitor. 

The Chair outlined to members that Mary Foster was co-opted to the Board in 2024 and has spent her career in investment banking and now farms with her husband in Suffolk.  Mary works as Trustee for various charities, helping devise and manage investment portfolios to ensure and grow funds available. Ms Foster is also a Liveryman of the Worshipful Company of Farmers and also the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars, where she also chairs the Finance Committee. 

The Chair stated that she had enjoyed working with Ms Foster and proposed that she be elected as a Trustee of the Shire Horse Society.  Mr P Bower seconded this.  Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form. 

Mr R Griffith at this point asked why Mr D Clarke is up for re-election after two years as he thought it was a three-year term.  The Chair confirmed that the Hon. Treasurer is re-elected every year and the rest of the Board every three years.  Mr Griffith asked if Ms M Foster and Ms A Soroko were in attendance at the meeting. Confirmed that Ms Soroko was but Ms Foster was unable to attend. 

The Chair outlined to the members that Ms Anna Soroko was co-opted onto the Board in 2024.  Ms Soroko is a solicitor and has worked as an energy lawyer internationally for over forty years.  Ms Soroko has 

been an elected director of the East of England Energy Group for twelve years and a member of the advisory board of the University of East Anglia Business School for several years.  Ms Soroko has also had several articles and papers published and spoken at numerous conferences.  Ms Soroko has had a lifelong interest in and a love of horses, and has competed at dressage, showjumping, and eventing in both the US and UK and currently owns three eventers. 

The Chair proposed that Ms Anna Soroko is elected as a Trustee to the Shire Horse Society. This was seconded by Mr S Ledsham.  Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form. 

Ms A Soroko was invited to address the meeting and said it was a pleasure to be at the meeting and if elected she will do her best in assisting the Shire Horse Society in achieving its aims in the future and hopefully save the Society some legal fees and expenses.  Ms Soroko added that she looks forward to meeting members in the future. 

## **8. APPOINTMENT OF INDEPENDENT EXAMINER** 

Mr M Burks proposed that CFW Accountants LLP should be re-appointed as the Society’s Independent Examiners.  Mr P Bower seconded this.  Grateful thanks were recorded to CFW Accountants LLP for their work. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form. 

## **9. ELECTRONIC AGM MAILING FROM 2026** 

The Chair explained that the proposal to members at the AGM is to decide whether or not the Society, should reduce its costs of printing and postage by sending out the AGM notices and Annual Report and Accounts via email instead of by post. 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 

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Mr D Iles asked if a member did not have a computer/email address would they still receive a copy in the post.  The Chair confirmed that they would receive this in the post. Members were asked to place their vote on the proxy form. 

The proxy voting forms were collected by Mr D Baker from CFW Accountants LLP and Miss E Archer who both counted the votes. 

## **10. ANY OTHER BUSINESS** 

## Proxy Voting 

The results of the proxy votes were read out as follows. 

||For|Against|Abstain|
|---|---|---|---|
|Receive the AGM Minutes|118|2|5|
|Receive the Annual Report & Accounts|119|1|5|
|Re-appoint CFW Accountants|123|1|1|
|Mary Foster be elected|83|28|13|
|Anna Soroko be elected|81|28|15|
|David Clarke be re-elected||||
|as Hon. Treasurer and Trustee|118|6|1|
|From 1st January 2026 Annual Report &||||
|Accounts be sent electronically|77|37|4|



There were no further matters relating to the accounts and the Chair formally closed the Annual General Meeting at 4:55pm.  An Open Meeting followed the Annual General Meeting. 

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## **Report of  the Trustees and Unaudited Financial Statements** For the year ended 30 September 2025 **For Shire Horse Society** 

CFW Accountants LLP Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers 3 Weekley Wood Close Kettering Northamptonshire NN14 1UQ 

REGISTERED COMPANY NUMBER: 00012383 (England and Wales) REGISTERED CHARITY NUMBER: 210619 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## **Report of  the Trustees** 

The Board of Trustees present their report with the financial statements of the charity for the year ended 30 September 

2025. The trustees have adopted the provisions of the Statement of Recommended Practice (SORP) “Accounting and Reporting by Charities” (FRS 102) as applicable to charities in preparing the annual report and financial statements of the charity, in accordance with the applicable law and the United Kingdom Accounting Standards (United Kingdom Generally Accepted Accounting Practice - UK GAAP), including FRS 102; The Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland. 

## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES OBJECTIVES AND AIMS** 

The Society’s principal objective is the improvement and promotion of the English Cart Horse, more particularly, the Shire Horse, and to this end, maintaining a Stud Book in which are entered the names of all registered Shire Horses complying with the conditions for the time being applied by the Society. 

To meet the objective the Society has established an expert Judging Panel, introduced a comprehensive system of DNA testing for all Pedigree animals and devised a Stallion inspection scheme in order to ensure that male animals used for breeding meet strict conformation and health criteria and introduced training courses. 

The Society is generously assisted in its breeding policies by a grant from the Horserace Betting Levy Board which itself sets strict conditions for grant payment. The grant aided work is regularly reviewed by both parties in order to ensure its effectiveness. 

The Charity has due regard during the year to the guidance published by the Charities Commission on public benefit. 

## **NATIONAL SHIRE HORSE SHOW 2025** 

The National Show once again returned to Bingley Hall, Stafford. Numbers in the showing classes were down on 2024 but quality remained high. In 2026 the National Shows will see a change of format and will be split into a Spring and Summer event. The Spring will host the breeding classes at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre, Cheshire and the Summer will host a full range of classes including the ridden and turnout elements, as well as in hand and youth classes. 

## **EXPORTS** 

accurate export figures. 

## **MERCHANDISING AND MARKETING** 

The Society attended 30 events and shows, equalling 60 days promotions including the two foals shows and four demonstration events in 2025. There has been significant promotion where possible and use of the website for sales of merchandise. 

## **STALLION PREMIUM SCHEME** 

The Editing Committee have removed the premium scheme in its entirety. Other funding and grants will be given to breeders from 2023 onwards. 

## **SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY APPROVED CENTRES** 

The approved centres offer visitor experience and training facilities. The Trustees continue to consider the options available and develop a programme of activities that yield the maximum educational, training and promotional benefits for the Society and supporters. 

## **OBJECTIVES AND ACTIVITIES NATIONAL SHIRE HORSE TRUST FUND** 

The financial objective of the Society remains to increase the accumulated fund at a rate not less than inflation for the current year thus ensuring that the purchasing power of the fund is maintained. The financial attitude of the Society remains to pursue a break even position financially, without the historic dependence on donations or legacies. By doing so, any excess income can be utilised in a more beneficial way for the breed generally. 

The Trust Fund is used firstly and most importantly to further the Society’s charitable objectives including the promotion of the Shire Horse both at home and overseas and to also meet the Society’s operating costs. In addition, the Society is required to contribute to the Stallion Fund at a level of 20% of the funding received from the Horserace Betting Levy Board. The Society’s contribution is taken from the Trust Fund. 

Specific numbers are of horses exported are no longer recorded. Records from Stud Book entries and overseas attendance at the National Show indicate that the demand for quality horses abroad continues to be strong. Society members do not always notify the Society of exports therefore it is difficult to maintain 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 




## **FINANCIAL REVIEW** 

The financial statements show an overall increase in net funds of £28,699 (2024: increase £45,590) as shown on the Statement of Financial Activities. 

The Society received legacy income totalling £228,263 (2024: £182,017). This source of revenue remains important to the Society in improving the capital base and investment income. The Board of Trustees has agreed it is not appropriate to rely on legacy income. The Society’s investments at the balance sheet date were reporting unrealised losses of £28,870 (2024: gain of £955). 

The market value of the Society’s investments at the end of the year was £671,738 (2024: £688,811). 

## **STRUCTURE, GOVERNANCE AND MANAGEMENT SOCIETY GOVERNANCE** 

The charity is controlled by its governing document, a deed of trust and constitutes a limited company, limited by guarantee as defined by the Companies Act 2006. 

The Society’s governing document was reviewed and the adoption of new Articles of Association took place on 14th December 2021. The Charity is governed by Board of Trustees who meet at least four times a year. The Board with the support of the Council has established a committee structure to deal directly with specific aspects of the Society’s affairs. 

These Board and committees currently are: 

Investment returns saw a decrease in the year at £19,390 (2024: £27,954). Additionally interest received on the investments increased to £25,507 (2024: £21,863). 

## **FUTURE PROSPECTS** 

Prospects, as ever for 2025 remain increasingly challenging, but with net assets valued at £1,495,312 (2024: £1,466,613) the Society is well placed to continue to assist Shire Breeders and encourage new owners. 

## **RISK MANAGEMENT** 

The Board of Trustees will continue to review the systems that are in place to mitigate the Society’s exposure to major risks. 

## **RESERVES POLICY** 

The Society maintains a prudent level of reserves to generate income to help fund the activities that further the Society’s charitable aims and objectives. This income is intended to counter large fluctuations in irregular income such as legacies and help fund the National Show. 

The Trustees continue to maintain a greater proportion of reserves in short term cash deposits to protect the Society from the volatile nature of equity and bond markets. 

The BOARD OF TRUSTEES dealing with financial matters and the day-to-day operation of the Society along with the CEO. 

The EDITING COMMITTEE are responsible for all matters relating to the Stud Book, breeding programme and pedigrees. 

The TRAINING AND EDUCATION COMMITTEE are responsible for the education of the public about the Shire horse, running training events and programmes for the membership and the appointment, training and maintenance of an expert and active panel of Judges. 

The SHOW COMMITTEE are responsible for all matters relating to the running of the National Show. 

The DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE deal with all matters concerning the conduct of Members. 

All Council and Committee members are volunteers who receive no payment for their services. The National Show in March, is also run, in part, by Stewards who give their time in a voluntary capacity. 

## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER** 

The Society is no longer required to undertake a full audit, CFW Accountants LLP have undertaken an independent examiner’s review and their report is enclosed. 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## **Council, Committees and Officials** 

## **RETIRE 2026** 

**W Bedford,** Yorkshire **M Bedford,** Yorkshire **Miss A Chetwood,** Cheshire **J Fairbairn,** Northumberland **L M Fountain,** Derbyshire **J Holder,** Gloucestershire **S J Peacock,** Essex **D Shardlow,** Cheshire **P Shipman,** Leicestershire **Mrs Y Simmons,** Shropshire **D Worthington,** Cheshire **D Yates,** Derbyshire 

## **RETIRE 2027** 

**P Bower,** Essex **M Burks,** Lincolnshire **R Clarke,** Northamptonshire **J C Etches,** Derbyshire **Mrs D E Nulty,** Cheshire **Mrs H Preece,** Cheshire **D Roberts,** Devon **Mrs W Toomer-Harlow,** Essex **T E Whittaker,** Cheshire **B A Winn,** Lincolnshire 

## **RETIRE 2028** 

**Mrs D Badger,** West Midlands **Wm Bedford,** North Yorkshire **J Burks,** Lincolnshire **Miss C Eagle,** Suffolk **Mrs S Flintham,** Nottinghamshire **R Griffith,** Gwynedd **C Horler,** Somerset **S Ledsham,** Shropshire **M Martin,** Cumbria **G Rawlins,** Staffordshire **F M Richardson,** Yorkshire 

## **BOARD OF TRUSTEES** 

Mrs H Thomas (Board Chair), Mrs M Foster, Ms A Soroko, Mr D Clarke, Mr Simon Livesey, Mr J Hick, Mr J E Robinson, Mr P Bower (Council Chair). 

C Eagle, Mr R Griffith, Mr M Richardson, Mr M Bingham (co-opt), Miss S Jones (co-opt). 

## **SHOW COMMITTEE** 

Mr S J Peacock (Chairman), Mr A Peacock (Chief Steward), Miss A Chetwood, Mr C Horler, Mr G Rawlins, Mrs S Flintham, Mr M Fountain, Mr M Martin, Mr T Brown (co-opt), Mr M Rendle (co-opt). 

## **DISCIPLINARY COMMITTEE** 

The President, two Past Presidents or past deputies, two past chairs, a solicitor. 

## **HONORARY TREASURER** 

Mr D Clarke. 

## **BANKERS** 

Barclays Bank plc, Church Street, Peterborough. 

## **ACCOUNTANTS AND INDEPENDENT EXAMINERS** 

CFW Accountants LLP, 3 Weekley Wood Close, Kettering, NN14 1UQ. 

## **CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER** 

Victoria Clayton MRICS FAAV. 

## **STUD BOOK AND REGISTRATIONS** 

Miss Angela Whiteway. 

## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS** 

Registered Company number: 00012383 (Eng and Wales) 

Registered Charity number: 210619 

Registered Office: The Old Dairy Rockingham Castle and Park Rockingham Market Harborough LE16 8TH 

## **EDITING COMMITTEE** 

Ms J Domhill (Chair) Mr B Ryder-Davies (Honorary Veterinary Surgeon), Mr W Bedford, Mr M Burks, Mr J Fairbairn, Mr J Holder, Mr D Roberts, Mr P Shipman, Mr C Malkin, Mr J Worthington. 

## **TRAINING AND EDUCATION COMMITTEE** 

Mrs Y Simmons (Chair), Mrs D Badger, Mr R Clarke, Miss 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 




## **TRUSTEES** 

**T J Yates** (resigned 7.3.25) **Mrs H Thomas S Livesey J Hick H Murphy** (resigned 7.3.25) **J Robinson** 

## **D Clarke** 

**Mrs M Foster** (appointed 7.3.25) **Ms A M F Soroko** (appointed 7.3.25) **P Bower** (appointed 7.3.25) 

## **COMPANY SECRETARY** 

## **Miss V Clayton** 

## **REFERENCE AND ADMINISTRATIVE DETAILS** 

**Independent Examiner** David Ian Baker FCCA, CFW Accountants LLP, Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers, 3 Weekley Wood Close, Kettering, Northamptonshire NN14 1UQ 

This report has been prepared in accordance with the special provisions of Part 15 of the Companies Act 2006 relating to small companies. 

Approved by order of the Board of Trustees and signed on its behalf by: 

_Victoria Clayton Secretary 20th January 2026_ 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## **Independent Examiner’s Report** 

## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REPORT TO THE TRUSTEES OF SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY (‘THE COMPANY’)** 

I report to the charity trustees on my examination of the accounts of the Company for the year ended 30 September 2025. 

## **RESPONSIBILITIES AND BASIS OF REPORT** 

As the charity’s trustees of the Company (and also its directors for the purposes of company law) you are responsible for the preparation of the accounts in accordance with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 (‘the 2006 Act’). 

Having satisfied myself that the accounts of the Company are not required to be audited under Part 16 of the 2006 Act and are eligible for independent examination, I report in respect of my examination of your charity’s accounts as carried out under Section 145 of the Charities Act 2011 (‘the 2011 Act’). In carrying out my examination I have followed the Directions given by the Charity Commission under Section 145(5) (b) of the 2011 Act. 

## **INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S STATEMENT** 

Since your charity’s gross income exceeded £250,000 your examiner must be a member of a listed body. I can confirm that I am qualified to undertake the examination because I am a member of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants, which is one of the listed bodies. 

I have completed my examination. I confirm that no matters have come to my attention in connection with the examination giving me cause to believe: 

1. accounting records were not kept in respect of the Company as required by Section 386 of the 2006 Act; or 

2. the accounts do not accord with those records; or 

3. the accounts do not comply with the accounting requirements of Section 396 of the 2006 Act other than any requirement that the accounts give a true and fair view which is not a matter considered as part of an independent examination; or 

4. the accounts have not been prepared in accordance with the methods and principles of the Statement of Recommended Practice for accounting and reporting by charities (applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102). 

I have no concerns and have come across no other matters in connection with the examination to which attention should be drawn in this report in order to enable a proper understanding of the accounts to be reached. 

David Ian Baker FCCA CFW Accountants LLP Chartered Accountants & Business Advisers 3 Weekley Wood Close Kettering Northamptonshire NN14 1UQ 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 




## **Statement of  Financial Activities** 

|Notes<br>**INCOME AND ENDOWMENTS FROM**<br>Donations and legacies<br>2<br>**Charitable activities**<br>5<br>Membership subscriptions<br>Direct charitable purpose<br>Other trading activities<br>3<br>Investment income<br>4<br>**Total**<br>**EXPENDITURE ON**<br>Raising funds<br>6<br>**Charitable activities**<br>7<br>Shire horse show<br>Stud book fees, sales and service books<br>Membership subscriptions<br>Support costs<br>Direct charitable purpose<br>Shire/Heavy horse camp<br>**Total**<br>Net gains on investments<br>**NET INCOME**<br>**RECONCILIATION OF FUNDS**<br>**Total funds brought forward**<br>**TOTAL FUNDS CARRIED FORWARD**|Unrestricted<br>fund<br>£<br>280,787<br>45,918<br>164,360<br>23,918<br>44,897<br>559,880<br>92,450<br>130,182<br>133,915<br>41,593<br>106,805<br>1,328<br>16,473<br>522,746<br>(28,870)<br>8,264<br>1,336,538<br>1,344,802|Restricted<br>funds<br>£<br>35,000<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>35,000<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>1,061<br>13,503<br>-<br>14,564<br>-<br>20,436<br>130,075<br>150,511|**2025**<br>Total funds<br>£<br> <br>315,787<br>45,918<br>164,360<br> <br>23,918<br> <br>44,897<br> <br>594,880<br> <br>92,450<br>130,182<br> <br>133,915<br> <br>41,593<br> <br>107,866<br> <br>14,831<br> <br>16,473<br> <br>537,310<br> <br>(28,870)<br> <br>28,700<br> <br>1,466,613<br> <br>1,495,313|**2024**<br>Total funds<br>£<br>279,081<br>42,186<br>150,725<br>17,131<br>49,817|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||538,940|
|||||80,881<br>142,382<br>132,867<br>38,945<br>62,068<br>26,521<br>10,641|
|||||494,305|
|||||955|
|||||45,590<br>1,421,023|
|||||1,466,613|



Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## **Balance Sheet** 

|Notes<br>**FIXED ASSETS**<br>Tangible assets<br>13<br>Investments<br>14<br>**CURRENT ASSETS**<br>Stocks<br>15<br>Debtors<br>16<br>Cash at bank and in hand<br>17<br>**CREDITORS**<br>Amounts falling due within one year<br>18<br>**NET CURRENT ASSETS**<br>**TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES**<br>**NET ASSETS**<br>**FUNDS**<br>20<br>Unrestricted funds<br>Restricted funds<br>**TOTAL FUNDS**|Unrestricted<br>fund<br>£<br>15,939<br>521,227<br>537,166<br>11,521<br>32,491<br>802,333<br>846,345<br>(38,709)<br>807,636<br>1,344,802<br>1,344,802|Restricted<br>funds<br>£<br>-<br>150,511<br>150,511<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>150,511<br>150,511|**2025**<br>Total funds<br>£<br> <br>15,939<br> <br>671,738<br> <br>687,677<br> <br>11,521<br> <br>32,491<br> <br>802,333<br> <br>846,345<br> <br>(38,709)<br> <br>807,636<br>1,495,313<br> <br>1,495,313<br>1,344,802<br>150,511<br>1,495,313|**2024**<br>Total funds<br>£<br>19,336<br>688,811|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||708,147<br>10,938<br>23,718<br>751,139|
|||||785,795<br>(27,329)|
|||||758,466|
|||||1,466,613|
|||||1,466,613|
|||||1,336,538<br>130,075|
|||||1,466,613|



www.shire-horse.org.uk 




The charitable company is entitled to exemption from audit under Section 477 of the Companies Act 2006 for the year ended 30 September 2025. 

The members have not required the company to obtain an audit of its financial statements for the year ended 30 September 2025 in accordance with Section 476 of the Companies Act 2006. 

## The trustees acknowledge their responsibilities for 

- a. ensuring that the charitable company keeps accounting records that comply with Sections 386 and 387 of the Companies Act 2006 and 

- b. preparing financial statements which give a true and fair view of the state of affairs of the charitable company as at the end of each financial year and of its surplus or deficit for each financial year in accordance with the requirements of Sections 394 and 395 and which otherwise comply with the requirements of the Companies Act 2006 relating to financial statements, so far as applicable to the charitable company. 

These financial statements have been prepared in accordance with the provisions applicable to charitable companies subject to the small companies regime. 

The financial statements were approved by the Board of Trustees and authorised for issue and were signed on its behalf by: 

H Thomas - Trustee 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## **Cash Flow Statement** 

|**CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES**<br>Cash generated from operations<br>22<br>Net cash (used in)/provided by operating activities<br>**CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES**<br>Purchase of tangible fxed assets<br>Purchase of fxed asset investments<br>Sale of fxed asset investments<br>Interest received<br>Dividends received<br>Net cash provided by investing activities<br>Change in cash and cash equivalents in the reporting period<br>Cash and cash equivalents at the beginning of the reporting period<br>Cash and cash equivalents at the end of the reporting period<br>Notes|**2025**<br>£<br>18,094<br>18,094<br>-<br>(11,797)<br>-<br>25,507<br>19,390<br>33,100<br>51,194<br>751,139<br>802,333|**2024**<br>£<br>(5,127)|
|---|---|---|
|||(5,127)|
|||(1,889)<br>(1,172,147)<br>1,179,785<br>21,863<br>27,954|
|||55,566|
|||50,439<br>700,700|
|||751,139|



www.shire-horse.org.uk 




## **Notes to the Financial Statements** 

## 1. ACCOUNTING POLICIES 

## **GENERAL INFORMATION AND BASIS OF PREPARATION** 

Shire Horse Society is a private company, limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales. In the event of the charity being wound up, the liability in respect of the guarantee is limited to £5 per member of the charity. The address of the registered office is given in the charity information on page 5 of these financial statements. 

The charity constitutes a public benefit entity as defined by FRS 102. The financial statements have been prepared in accordance with Accounting and Reporting by Charities: Statement of Recommended Practice applicable to charities preparing their accounts in accordance with the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the UK and Republic of Ireland issued in October 2019, the Financial Reporting Standard applicable in the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland (FRS 102), the Charities Act 2011, the Companies Act 2006 and UK Generally Accepted Accounting Practice. 

The financial statements are prepared on a going concern basis under the historical cost convention, modified to include certain items at fair value. The financial statements are presented in sterling which is the functional currency of the charity. 

The significant accounting policies applied in the preparation of these financial statements are set out below. These policies have been consistently applied to all years presented unless otherwise stated. 

## **INCOME** 

All income is recognised in the Statement of Financial Activities once the charity has entitlement to the funds, it is probable that the income will be received and the amount can be measured reliably. 

to pay in the open market for such facilities and services. A corresponding amount is recognised in expenditure. 

Activities for generated funds include proceeds from commercial trading activities. 

Investment income is earned through holding assets for investment purposes such as shares. Dividend income is recognised as the charity’s right to receive payment is established. 

Incoming resources from charitable activities include membership subscriptions, proceeds relating to the Shire Horse Show and income from the maintenance of a Shire Horse database. 

## **EXPENDITURE** 

Liabilities are recognised as expenditure as soon as there is a legal or constructive obligation committing the charity to that expenditure, it is probable that a transfer of economic benefits will be required in settlement and the amount of the obligation can be measured reliably. Expenditure is accounted for on an accruals basis and has been classified under headings that aggregate all cost related to the category. Where costs cannot be directly attributed to particular headings they have been allocated to activities on a basis consistent with the use of resources. 

## **TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS** 

Depreciation is provided at the following annual rates in order to write off each asset over its estimated useful life. 

Paintings 2% on cost less residual value Motor Vehicles 25% on reducing balance Office equipment 25% on reducing balance 

Income is shown within four main categories in the Statement of Financial Activities: Voluntary income Activities for generated funds Investment income Incoming resources from charitable activities 

Voluntary income includes bequests and donations, and are accounted for at the time of arising. 

Gifts in kind are accounted for by recognising as an incoming resource at a reasonable estimate of their fair value. Fair value is determined on the basis of the value of the gift to the charity. For example the amount the charity would be willing 

Tangible fixed assets are initially measured at cost and subsequently measured at cost or valuation, net of depreciation and any impairment losses. Cost includes costs directly attributable to making the asset capable of operating as intended. 

## **STOCKS** 

Stocks are valued at the lower of cost and net realisable value, after making due allowance for obsolete and slow moving items. 

## **TAXATION** 

The charity is exempt from corporation tax on its charitable activities. 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## **FUND ACCOUNTING** 

Unrestricted funds can be used in accordance with the charitable objectives at the discretion of the trustees. 

Restricted funds can only be used for particular restricted purposes within the objects of the charity. Restrictions arise when specified by the donor or when funds are raised for particular restricted purposes, and include the following: 

The Farriery Fund is established to promote farriery skills and improve animal welfare. 

The Stallion Fund is established to encourage stallion ownership, the purpose of which is appropriate genetic diversity. 

## **GOVERNMENT GRANTS** 

Government grants are recognised on an accrual basis and are classified as either ‘revenue-based’ grant or a ‘capital-based’ grant. 

The grants relating to revenue are recognised in income on a systematic basis over the periods in which the entity recognises the related costs for which the grant is intended to compensate. The grant which becomes receivable as compensation for expenses or losses already incurred or for the purpose of giving immediate financial support to the entity with no future related costs is recognised in income in the period that it become receivable. 

## **FOREIGN CURRENCIES** 

Assets and liabilities in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rates of exchange ruling at the balance sheet date. Transactions in foreign currencies are translated into sterling at the rate of exchange ruling at the date of transaction. Exchange differences are taken into account in arriving at the operating result. 

## **PENSION COSTS AND OTHER POSTRETIREMENT BENEFITS** 

The charitable company operates a defined contribution pension scheme. Contributions payable to the charitable company’s pension scheme are charged to the Statement of Financial Activities in the period to which they relate. 

## **DONATED SERVICES** 

No income or expense is recognised in the financial statements for volunteer time in line with the SORP 2019, however further detail is included in the Trustees’ Annual Report. 

## **DEBTORS AND CREDITORS** 

Debtors receivable / creditors payable within one year are measured at transaction price (less any impairment losses on debtors for bad and doubtful debts). Loans and other financial assets / liabilities are initially measured at transaction price and subsequently measured at amortised cost determined using the effective interest method (less any impairment losses on debtors) for bad and doubtful debts. 

## **INVESTMENTS** 

Investments are stated at their fair value. Unrealised gains on the revaluation of investments are included on the Statement of Financial Activities. 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 




## 2. DONATIONS AND LEGACIES 

|Legacies<br>Grants<br>Sponsorships and donations|228,263<br>-<br>52,524<br>280,787<br>Unrestricted<br>fund<br>£|-<br>35,000<br>-<br>35,000<br>Restricted<br>funds<br>£|<br>228,263<br> <br>35,000<br> <br>52,524<br> <br>315,787<br>**2025**<br>Total funds<br>£|182,017<br>35,000<br>62,064<br>**2024**<br>Total funds<br>£|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||279,081|



In 2025 the income from donations and legacies was £315,787 (2024: £279,081) of which £35,000 (2024 £35,000) was attributable to restricted income funds, with the balance of £280,787 (2024: £244,081) adding to unrestricted funds. 

Included in sponsorships and donations is Gift Aid of £738 (2024: £1,366). 

Grants received, included in the above, are as follows: 

|Grants received, included in the above, are as follows:|||
|---|---|---|
||**2025**|**2024**|
||£|£|
|Horserace Betting Levy Board Grant|35,000|35,000|



## 3. OTHER TRADING ACTIVITIES 

||Unrestricted|Restricted|**2025**|**2024**|
|---|---|---|---|---|
||fund|funds|Total funds|Total funds|
||£|£|£|£|
|Sale of goods|23,918|-|23,918|17,131|
|4. INVESTMENT INCOME|||||
||Unrestricted|Restricted|**2025**|**2024**|
||fund|funds|Total funds|Total funds|
||£|£|£|£|
|Listed investments|19,390|-|19,390|27,954|
|Bank interest received|25,507|-|25,507|21,863|
||44,897|-|44,897|49,817|



Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## 5. INCOME FROM CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES 

|Shire horse show<br>Stud book fees, sales and service books<br>Sundry sales and other income<br>Stallion fund<br>Membership subscriptions<br>Life membership subscriptions<br>Shire/Heavy horse camp|Membership<br>subscriptions<br>£<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>36,398<br>9,520<br>-<br>45,918|Direct<br>charitable<br>purpose<br>£<br>92,467<br>40,520<br>9,733<br>2,000<br>-<br>-<br>19,640<br>164,360|**2025**<br>Total<br>activities<br>£<br> <br>92,467<br> <br>40,520<br> <br>9,733<br> <br>2,000<br> <br>36,398<br> <br>9,520<br> <br>19,640<br> <br>210,278|**2024**<br>Total<br>activities<br>£<br>82,453<br>46,097<br>7,117<br>2,000<br>36,751<br>5,435<br>13,058|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||192,911|



## 6. RAISING FUNDS 

|**Raising donations and legacies**<br>Marketing and merchandise costs<br>Attendance at shows and events<br>Support costs|19,914<br>27,324<br>45,212<br>92,450<br>Unrestricted<br>fund<br>£|-<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>Restricted<br>funds<br>£|<br>19,914<br> <br>27,324<br> <br>45,212<br> <br>92,450<br>**2025**<br>Total funds<br>£|14,711<br>22,207<br>43,963<br>**2024**<br>Total funds<br>£|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||80,881|



## 7. CHARITABLE ACTIVITIES COSTS 

|Shire horse show<br>Stud book fees, sales and service books<br>Membership subscriptions<br>Support costs<br>Direct charitable purpose<br>Shire/Heavy horse camp|Direct<br>Costs<br>£<br>130,182<br>11,578<br>7,019<br>40,814<br>14,831<br>16,300<br>220,724|Support<br>costs (see<br>note 8)<br>£<br> <br>-<br> <br>122,337<br> <br>34,574<br> <br>67,052<br> <br>-<br> <br>173<br> <br>224,136|Totals<br>£<br>130,182<br>133,915<br>41,593<br>107,866<br>14,831<br>16,473|
|---|---|---|---|
||||444,860|



In 2025 the expenditure on charitable activities was £444,860 (2024: £413,424) of which £14,564 (2024: £26,521) was expenditure from restricted funds and £430,296 (2024: £386,903) was from unrestricted funds. 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 




## 8. SUPPORT COSTS 

|9. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)<br>Administration<br>charge<br>£<br>Raising donations and legacies<br>41,398<br>Stud book fees, sales and service books<br>112,017<br>Membership subscriptions<br>31,657<br>Support costs<br>61,667<br>Shire/Heavy horse camp<br>173<br>246,912<br>Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):<br>Depreciation - owned assets|9. NET INCOME/(EXPENDITURE)<br>Administration<br>charge<br>£<br>Raising donations and legacies<br>41,398<br>Stud book fees, sales and service books<br>112,017<br>Membership subscriptions<br>31,657<br>Support costs<br>61,667<br>Shire/Heavy horse camp<br>173<br>246,912<br>Net income/(expenditure) is stated after charging/(crediting):<br>Depreciation - owned assets|Professional<br>Shire horse<br>fess<br>of the year<br>championship<br>£<br>£<br>2,304<br>1,510<br>6,235<br>4,085<br>1,762<br>1,155<br>3,254<br>2,131<br>-<br>-<br>13,555<br>8,881|Professional<br>Shire horse<br>fess<br>of the year<br>championship<br>£<br>£<br>2,304<br>1,510<br>6,235<br>4,085<br>1,762<br>1,155<br>3,254<br>2,131<br>-<br>-<br>13,555<br>8,881|Totals<br>£<br>45,212<br>122,337<br>34,574<br>67,052<br>173|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||269,348|
||||||
||||**2025**<br>£<br>3,397|**2024**<br>£<br>4,536|



Depreciation - owned assets 

## 10. TRUSTEES’ REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS 

There were no trustees’ remuneration or other benefits for the year ended 30 September 2025 nor for the year ended 30 September 2024. 

## **Trustees’ expenses** 

There were no trustees’ expenses paid for the year ended 30 September 2025 nor for the year ended 30 September 2024. 

## 11. STAFF COSTS 

|11. STAFF COSTS|||
|---|---|---|
|Wages and salaries<br>Social security costs<br>Other pension costs<br>The average monthly number of employees during the year was as follows:<br>Administrative staff<br>No employees received emoluments in excess of £60,000.|**2025**<br>£<br>131,082<br>6,135<br>2,971<br>140,188<br>**2025**<br>5|**2024**<br>£<br>119,284<br>4,532<br>2,446|
|||126,262|
|||**2024**<br>5|
||||



Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## 12. INDEPENDENT EXAMINER’S REMUNERATION 

Included in the accounts is a charge of £3,980 (2024: £3,890) in respect of the Independent Examiner’s remuneration. 

## 13. TANGIBLE FIXED ASSETS 

|**COST**<br>At 1 October 2024 and 30 September 2025<br>**DEPRECIATION**<br>At 1 October 2024<br>Charge for year<br>At 30 September 2025<br>**NET BOOK VALUE**<br>At 30 September 2025<br>At 30 September 2024|Paintings<br>£<br>5,765<br>-<br>-<br>-<br>5,765<br>5,765|Motor<br>Vehicles<br>£<br>48,311<br>38,643<br>2,420<br>41,063<br>7,248<br>9,668|Offce<br>equipment<br>£<br> <br>19,528<br> <br>15,625<br> <br>977<br> <br>16,602<br> <br>2,926<br> <br>3,903|Totals<br>£<br>73,604|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||54,268<br>3,397|
|||||57,665|
|||||15,939|
|||||19,336|



## 14. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS 

|14. FIXED ASSET INVESTMENTS||
|---|---|
||Listed investments|
||£|
|**MARKET VALUE**||
|At 1 October 2024|688,811|
|Additions|11,797|
|Revaluations|(28,870)|
|At 30 September 2025|671,738|
|**NET BOOK VALUE**||
|At 30 September 2025|671,738|
|At 30 September 2024|688,811|



All investments are held within the UK and primarily for an investment return. 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 




## 15. STOCKS 

|15. STOCKS|||
|---|---|---|
||**2025**|**2024**|
||£|£|
|Goods held for resale|11,521|10,938|



## 16. DEBTORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 

|Trade debtors<br>Prepayments and accrued income|**2025**<br>£<br>13,044<br>19,447<br>32,491|**2024**<br>£<br>4,770<br>18,948|
|---|---|---|
|||23,718|



## 17. CASH AT BANK AND IN HAND 

|Cash at bank and in hand<br>Short term deposits|**2025**<br>£<br>74,941<br>727,392<br>802,333|**2024**<br>£<br>252,765<br>498,375|
|---|---|---|
|||751,139|



## 18. CREDITORS: AMOUNTS FALLING DUE WITHIN ONE YEAR 

||**2025**|**2024**|
|---|---|---|
||£|£|
|Trade creditors|20,217|6,421|
|Social security and other taxes|728|2,612|
|VAT|2,437|609|
|Other creditors|1,734|3,205|
|Accruals and deferred income|13,593|14,482|
||38,709|27,329|



Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




## 19. LEASING AGREEMENTS 

Minimum lease payments under non-cancellable operating leases fall due as follows: 

|Within one year<br>Between one and fve years|**2025**<br>£<br>17,000<br>69,375<br>86,375|**2024**<br>£<br>9,375<br>-|
|---|---|---|
|||9,375|



## 20. MOVEMENT IN FUNDS 

|**Unrestricted funds**<br>National Shire Horse Trust Fund<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Farriery Fund<br>Stallion Fund<br>**TOTAL FUNDS**|At<br>1.10.24<br>£<br>1,336,538<br>3,389<br>126,686<br>130,075<br>1,466,613|Net<br>movement<br>in funds<br>£<br> <br>8,264<br> <br>-<br> <br>20,436<br> <br>20,436<br> <br>28,700|At<br>30.9.25<br>£<br>1,344,802<br>3,389<br>147,122|
|---|---|---|---|
||||150,511|
||||1,495,313|



Net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: 

|**Unrestricted funds**<br>National Shire Horse Trust Fund<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Stallion Fund<br>**TOTAL FUNDS**|Incoming<br>resources<br>£<br>559,880<br>35,000<br>594,880|Resources<br>expended<br>£<br>(522,746)<br>(14,564)<br>(537,310)|Gains and<br>losses<br>£<br> <br>(28,870)<br> <br>-<br> <br>(28,870)|Movement<br>in funds<br>£<br>8,264<br>20,436|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||28,700|



www.shire-horse.org.uk 




## **Comparatives for movement in funds** 

|**Unrestricted funds**<br>National Shire Horse Trust Fund<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Farriery Fund<br>Stallion Fund<br>**TOTAL FUNDS**|At<br>1.10.23<br>£<br>1,299,427<br>3,389<br>118,207<br>121,596<br>1,421,023|Net<br>movement<br>in funds<br>£<br> <br>37,111<br> <br>-<br>8,479<br> <br>8,479<br> <br>45,590|At<br>30.9.24<br>£<br>1,336,538<br>3,389<br>126,686|
|---|---|---|---|
||||130,075|
||||1,466,613|



Comparative net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows 

|**Unrestricted funds**<br>National Shire Horse Trust Fund<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Stallion Fund<br>**TOTAL FUNDS**|Incoming<br>resources<br>£<br>503,940<br>35,000<br>538,940|Resources<br>expended<br>£<br>(467,784)<br>(26,521)<br>(494,305)|Gains and<br>losses<br>£<br> <br>955<br> <br>-<br> <br>955|Movement<br>in funds<br>£<br>37,111<br>8,479|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||45,590|



A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined position is as follows: 

|**Unrestricted funds**<br>National Shire Horse Trust Fund<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Farriery Fund<br>Stallion Fund<br>**TOTAL FUNDS**|At<br>1.10.23<br>£<br>1,299,427<br>3,389<br>118,207<br>121,596<br>1,421,023|Net<br>movement<br>in funds<br>£<br> <br>45,375<br> <br>-<br> <br>28,915<br> <br>28,915<br> <br>74,290|At<br>30.9.25<br>£<br>1,344,802<br>3,389<br>147,122|
|---|---|---|---|
||||150,511|
||||1,495,313|



Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 




A current year 12 months and prior year 12 months combined net movement in funds, included in the above are as follows: 

|**Unrestricted funds**<br>National Shire Horse Trust Fund<br>**Restricted funds**<br>Stallion Fund<br>**TOTAL FUNDS**|Incoming<br>resources<br>£<br>1,063,820<br>70,000<br>1,133,820|Resources<br>expended<br>£<br>(990,530)<br>(41,085)<br>(1,031,615)|Gains and<br>losses<br>£<br> <br>(27,915)<br> <br>-<br> <br>(27,915)|Movement<br>in funds<br>£<br>45,375<br>28,915|
|---|---|---|---|---|
|||||74,290|



## 21. RELATED PARTY DISCLOSURES 

There were no related party transactions for the year ended 30 September 2025. 

## 22. RECONCILIATION OF NET INCOME TO NET CASH FLOW FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES 

|**Net income for the reporting period (as per the Statement of Financial Activities)**<br>**Adjustments for:**<br>Depreciation charges<br>Losses/(gain) on investments<br>Proft on disposal of fxed assets<br>Interest received<br>Dividends received<br>Increase in stocks<br>(Increase)/decrease in debtors<br>Increase in creditors<br>**Net cash provided by operations**|**2025**<br>£<br>28,700<br>3,397<br>28,870<br>-<br>(25,507)<br>(19,390)<br>(583)<br>(8,773)<br>11,380<br>18,094|**2024**<br>£<br>45,590<br>4,537<br>(955)<br>(12,792)<br>(21,863)<br>(27,954)<br>(2,526)<br>5,176<br>5,660|
|---|---|---|
|||(5,127)|



## **Net cash provided by operations** 

## 23. ANALYSIS OF CHANGES IN NET FUNDS 

|**Net cash**<br>Cash at bank and in hand<br>**TOTAL**|At<br>1.10.24<br>£<br>751,139<br>751,139<br>751,139|Cash<br>fow<br>£<br> <br>51,194<br> <br>51,194<br> <br>51,194|At<br>30.9.25<br>£<br>802,333|
|---|---|---|---|
||||802,333|
||||802,333|



**29** 




## **Election of Trustees and Honorar Treasurer y** 

## **ALAN BARLOW** 

After a wide ranging 25-year career in business (partner at PwC, Director of a FTSE 100 company, CEO of a multinational chemical engineering group), I decided I wanted a radical change.  This resulted in my taking up various trustee positions in the Not for Profit sector (business school 

advisory board, energy sector trade association, mediation services, and poverty alleviation in developing countries). I’m now looking forward to a fresh challenge. Drawing on my business and charity sector experience, this is contributing to the continuing success of the Society and 


help it in realising its ambition of being the leading global authority in the preservation, promotion and welfare of Shire horses. 

## **JAMES HICK** 

I am the Chief Executive Officer of the British Horse Society, where our purpose is very clear; we are here for all horses, for all people and for life.  It is with this experience and knowledge I put myself forward for re-election as a Trustee to continue to support the Shire Horse Society in becoming even 

more sustainable and successful in the future. 

Shire Horses have always run through our family, and today I am fortunate enough to have four of my own horses, which I show in hand and ride. I am passionate about securing the future of the Shire horse breed 


and promoting participation in all forms. 

It would continue to be a privilege to serve as a Trustee of the Shire Horse Society. 

## **SIMON LIVESEY** 

My brother and myself set up the family business in 1986 after both leaving college. 

The business, which grows, packs and distributes Woodland Mushrooms, has become one of the largest in Europe, employing 65 staff.  We now supply major retailers across the UK including Morrisons, ASDA, Waitrose, and Sainsbury’s, as well as wholesalers across the country. 

We also run a pedigree herd of prizewinning Hereford cattle at our farm in Leicestershire. 

I am the Chair of the Derbyshire Shire Horse Association and have been for eight years. 

I keep and breed Shire Horses. This is fast becoming a full-time hobby which I am very proud of. Not only am I impressed with this magnificent animal,  but also by the 


many committed and interesting characters I keep meeting along the way! 

I would be very privileged to put myself forward for election to the Society’s Board of Trustees and look forward to the challenges that may lie ahead. 

## **CHRISTOPHER MALKIN** 

Chris is a retired businessman who has run two successful mobile home parks, a residential park in Telford and holiday park in south Shropshire and is therefore very used to dealing with the public. He started showing and breeding 

Shire horses in the early 1990’s. He has served on the Shire Horse Society Council for over ten years, during which time he has done three full terms on the Editing Committee and has also been on the Stallion Inspection Panel several times. 

He is on both the Shire Horse Society and Clydesdale Horse Society judging panels and the pinnacle of his judging career was in 2023 when 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 

30 




he had the honour of judging the Shire Horse of the Year Show final. He has also served on the judging assessment panel several times and 

is keen to encourage new people to breed Shires. 

He runs a successful Shire horse stud and stands several Shire horse 

stallions each year and is well known for AI work and semen collection. 

## **DAVID CLARKE – HONORARY TREASURER** 

companies.  I currently work in a manufacturing business overseeing all elements of the business, reporting and risk.  I am delighted to have acted as honorary treasurer for the last three years and would value your support in being re-elected to the post. 

An accountant, with over 21 years’ experience working in both practice and in-house.  I have experience of audit and accounting for a wide range of clients including farmers, landowners, local charities, and trading companies. I have worked across the full spectrum of organisations, from charities, public sector, listed companies and private 

I have had connections with horses from a very early age, both in my family farming business and from friends 


and colleagues. My fascination with Shire horses started when visiting a Shire breeder as a child. Volunteering my 

time to support this charity enables me to ensure the breed continues to fascinate many more generations to come. 

## **Election of  Council Members** 

Council members who retire in 2026 and have confirmed their intention to stand for reelection this year: 

**Mr M Bedford,** Yorkshire **Miss A Chetwood,** Cheshire **Mr J Fairbairn,** Northumberland **Mr L M Fountain,** Derbyshire **Mr S J Peacock,** Essex **Mr P Shipman,** Leicestershire **Mrs Y Simmons,** Staffordshire **Mr D Yates,** Derbyshire 

**New members standing for elections: Mr H Bardsley,** Greater Manchester **Mr D Beardmore,** Lancashire **Mrs L Brookes,** Lancashire **Mr O Chaffey,** Lincolnshire **Mrs S Ford,** Cheshire **Mr A Franklin,** Cheshire **Mrs E Green,** Lancashire **Mr J Kitching,** Cheshire **Mrs J Malkin,** Shropshire 

There are 12 spaces within the Council available. 

Please find below a brief introduction of existing and new members putting themselves forward for the 2026 Shire Horse Society Council Elections. 

Please vote for your preferred candidates on the voting papers enclosed and return to the address shown in advance of the deadline. 

For the avoidance of doubt, members can vote for up to twelve candidates. Members do not have to use all twelve votes.  A member may only vote for one candidate once. 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 31 




## EXISTING COUNCIL MEMBERS STANDING FOR RE-ELECTION 


Mr M Bedford 


Miss A Chetwood 


Mr J Fairbairn 


Mr L M Fountain 


Mr S J Peacock 


Mr P Shipman 


Mrs Y Simmons 


Mr D Yates 

## **MR M BEDFORD** 

## **Meetings attended 6 of 9 (3 apologies received)** 

It has never been more important to have strong   people on Council who are ready to address the tough questions ahead. The priority for all Council members must always be our breeders — without them, we are left with only a museum piece. Accountability, transparency, and trust within the Society are essential to ensure members have a clear understanding of its direction. I remain committed to listening, engaging, and representing the interests of members.   Our Society was built on passion, dedication, and integrity — values I will continue to uphold. 

## **MISS A CHETWOOD** 

## **Meetings attended 9 of 9** 

I have been a member of the SHS since 1983 during which time I bred, shown inhand and competed in harness classes. In 1997 I was appointed onto the full judges panel and have judged many shows; I have had the honour to judge the National Show on three separate occasions. In 2004 I was elected as Secretary of Northwest and Wales Shire Foal Society. During the last six years I have been on the Shire Horse Society Council and for five years on the Show Committee. I fully support the Society in its endeavors to encourage younger members and to promote and preserve the Shire horse. If re-elected to Council, I will always help and do what I can for any member. 

## **MR J FAIRBAIRN** 

## **Meetings attended 7 of 9 (2 apologies received)** 

I’ve been on the Council for the last three years and wish to stand for re-election.  For over 30 years I’ve been a member of the Society along with breeding and showing Shires mainly in turnout classes all over the country, as well as judging both in hand and turnouts. During my time on the Council, I was an active member on the Strategy and Development Committee which supported the Youth Council of which I’m a very strong supporter. More recently I was elected on to the Editing Committee and will continue to serve should I be re-elected. 

I remain committed to upholding the values of the Society and ensuring the Shire horse continues to thrive for generations to come. 

## **MR L M FOUNTAIN** 

## **Meetings attended 9 of 9** 

Being a fourth-generation breeder and exhibitor, I count myself very lucky to have such a rich history in our breed.  I would like to think I am a proactive team player on the Show Committee, and I have served on this for the last twelve months 

and before that the Editing Committee. I have always been a positive forwardthinking guy so when challenges occur, I believe they are just a test to overcome and deal with.  There seems to be lots of challenges in one form or another the Society has to deal with but the biggest one for me is getting more foals registered so we custodians of the breed 

of the present have a breed to pass on to the next generation. 

## **MR S J PEACOCK** 

## **Meetings attended 8 of 9** 

## **(1 apology received)** 

I have been professionally involved with Shire horses all my working life.  As well as  having served on the SHS Council for forty-one years,  I have been an active member of all of the sub-committees, including stallion inspections.  For a number of years, I Chaired the Judges Seminars and Judges assessments. As Chairman of the Show Committee, I would ask for your support and your vote to allow me to continue with this work or any other that would benefit the Society and its members. 

## **MR P SHIPMAN** 

## **Meetings attended 9 of 9** 

An active Council member for three terms I currently serve on the Editing Committee and the Breeding Programme Working Party.  I also steward at the Spring Show. At home we breed, work and show our Shires which are a continuous line back to 1885.  We live in challenging times and the SHS is no exception keeping our offering to members as attractive as possible and supporting the breed is vital. If re-elected I will do my best to help achieve these goals. 

## **MRS Y SIMMONS** 

## **Meetings attended 9 of 9** 

Having been an elected Council member since 2020 it has always been my opinion that the membership of this Society 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 

32 




should be a priority for every Council member, whether you own one Shire or one hundred.  Your opinions and wishes should be heard and always taken into consideration. Everyone counts or nobody counts.  This has been and will continue to be one of my many mantras going forward. I am currently serving as Chair for the Training and Education Committee, a role which with an excellent hardworking committee has been my honour to conduct.  I have personally worked as hard as I can to try and make the Society’s training fair, transparent and 

relevant and above all enjoyable and of value to the members. 

My passion for the pure-bred Shire horse is unwavering, but I can only continue to support the Society and serve as the members voice if you afford me the privilege of your vote. 

## **MR D YATES** 

## **Meetings attended 6 of 9 (3 apologies received)** 

As a fourth-generation breeder of Shire horses, I bring a lifelong passion and deep understanding of the breed’s heritage 

and future. Alongside my family’s commitment to preserving and promoting Shires, I have developed extensive business and leadership skills through my career, currently acting as chair of Bako Group.  This combination of Shire horse experience and proven commercial expertise allows me to balance tradition with innovation. I believe I can contribute effectively to the Council, supporting breeders, strengthening the Society’s profile, and ensuring the continued growth and sustainability of the Shire horse both in the UK and internationally. 

## NEW CANDIDATES STANDING FOR ELECTION 







**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Mr H Bardsley Mr D Beardmore Mrs L Brookes Mr O Chaffey Mrs S Ford<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>







**----- Start of picture text -----**<br>
Mr A Franklin Mrs E Green Mr J Kitching Mrs J Malkin<br>**----- End of picture text -----**<br>


## **MR H BARDSLEY** 

I am passionate about preserving and promoting the Shire horse, by combining experience, dedication, and vision to support the Society’s goals. Having achieved success in the show ring myself, I understand the hard work, knowledge, and commitment required to showcase our breed at its best be it in-hand, ridden or driven. 

I will be dedicated to ensuring the Society remains progressive while honouring its 

proud traditions and values that have been at its core for many years. I will focus on strengthening education within the wider community, youth involvement, and breed promotion to secure a sustainable future for the Shire horse. As a Council member, I will listen, represent members fairly, and help guide the Society with integrity, enthusiasm, and genuine care. 

## **MR D BEARDMORE** 

I’ve been around Shire horses all of my 

life through my father and over 30 years experience as a farrier. We are now actively breeding and showing regularly throughout the year as a family. If I was fortunate enough to be elected to council, I would like to keep the Shire’s traditions going but also keep looking for new ideas to help the breed move forward from strength to strength. Try and help with encouragement of breeding as I believe that is where the future lies to help keep from numbers dwindling even more. Help 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 33 




encourage new people to the Society and help keep their interest strong. 

## **MRS L BROOKES** 

Although relatively new to our showing community, the combination of attending camp and my passion for the breed has allowed me to successfully contribute to the Society through demonstrations, learning events and shows. The Shire Horse Society has given me friendships, knowledge and opportunity. I want to support the Society to ensure this accessibility continues, where old and new members are encouraged to showcase the breed under fair rules. With a keen interest in driven and agricultural turnout, I would like to increase attendance and reintroduce classes before the implements and vehicles are forever lost.  We must grow our audience and ensure the Shire horse still has a place in modern times. 

## **MR O CHAFFEY** 

I was welcomed into the Shire Horse community 15 years ago as a young handler and have been lucky enough to experience lots of opportunities over that time. Now as an exhibitor and a Vet my focus is on the preservation and welfare of the breed. With a keen interest in AI and poor fertility I would like to encourage education around breeding to ensure we continue to breed quality healthy foals and allow this breed to thrive. I hope to be a fresh face amongst Council to put ideas forward and carry it on to the next generation. 

## **MRS S FORD** 

I’m originally from a family of renowned Shire breeders in Hainton, Lincolnshire, 

now continuing my father Ernie Cosgrove’s legacy in Cheshire under the prefix Hainton Eardswick.   I show in-hand alongside my daughters and have had the privilege of judging across the UK and internationally – Germany, Sweden and Australia. 

As a life member, I am particularly passionate about encouraging young people and newcomers to gain confidence with showing. I am committed to supporting breeders and contributing my decades of experience and enthusiasm for the breed to both the public and the Shire Horse Society’s Council for the benefit of all members. 

## **MR A FRANKLIN** 

Hi my name is Anson Franklin, I’m a fourthgeneration breeder and exhibitor of Bosley Minns Shires established in 1936 by my great grandfather, I have decided to stand for election to the Shire Horse Society Council to try and help to preserve the Shire horse for future generations, breeders, exhibitors and our members. I would appreciate your vote and confidence in myself to help protect and preserve our fantastic Shire horse and all of its attributes. 

## **MRS E GREEN** 

My time is given willingly to promote the future of the breed and as a Council member I would continue to do so in order to represent the membership as a whole. I do not have a three-generation Shire Horse Breeding ancestry, but what I do have is 40 years’ experience in horses that has given me the knowledge and skills to sit on five other societies’ judging and training panels.  I uphold our traditions and values but see there is need to adapt in 

order to survive so offer the membership consideration and transparency to make fair and consistent judgements. 

## **MR J KITCHING** 

My family kept and worked Shire horses, always breeding a few foals each year and showed our best ones under the “Moores Gay” prefix. 

I developed a great passion for showing and breeding this magnificent breed using all the knowledge and experience that has been passed down to me from my family. I started to breed and show my own Shires under the “Rosemoore” prefix. I have been on the Society’s judging panel since 2017 and I breed several foals each year. I have a family with two children who also share my passion for the breed. My daughter often competes in the young handlers. 

Going forward I wish to be elected to the Council to keep these many traditions I have learned within my years alive for the future generations to come. 

## **MRS J MALKIN** 

I have been involved with horses all my life and a member of the Shire Horse Society for the last 25 years during which time I have, alongside my husband, established a shire stud at Lockley Wood in Shropshire. I am passionate about the breed and want to see it continue into the future. I like to think that I have a sensible approach to most things and will always listen to other people’s opinions.  If I am fortunate to receive your vote, I will work hard to maintain our Shire horse traditions in this ever-changing world. 

Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 

34 






www.shire-horse.org.uk 

35 





Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 

36 




## **Shire Horse of  the Year Qualifying Shows 2026** 


Knutsford Monte-Carlo owned and bred by Messrs J O & W H Whittaker. 

## _**2026 HOYS QUALIFIERS**_ 

_National Spring Show (Stallion) National Spring Show (Mare) Royal Bath & West Show Rutland County Show Royal Three Counties Show Royal Cheshire County Show Lincolnshire Show Royal Norfolk Show South Wales Shire Horse Society Annual Show Great Eccleston Show Newport Show Nantwich Show Ashbourne Show National Summer Show SESHA Penistone Agricultural Show_ 

Photo credit: 1st Class Images 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 37 




## **Notes** 

38 Shire Horse Society 

Annual Report and Accounts 2025 





**Patron : His Majesty King Charles III** 

## 

## 

The largest gathering of pedigree Shire horses in the world has a new format for 2026! Join us in showcasing the best of the breed! 



**National Spring Show In-hand “Best of Breed” Showcase Saturday 21st March** 

**Indoors at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre, Middlewich Road, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0SR** 

## Includes 

- In-hand classes for stallions, mares and geldings. 

- National Championships. 

- Grand Parade 

- Access to stables 





**National Summer Show Summer Shire Spectacular Thursday 27th August** 

**Outdoors at Rockingham Castle Estate, Market Harborough, Leicestershire, LE16 7TH** 

## Includes 

- In-hand classes for stallions, mares and geldings. 

- Trade, ridden and agricultural classes  National Championships. 

- Grand Parade 



**Shire Horse Society members gain free entry by scanning their 2026 membership badge.** Guided stable tours and VIP hospitality available at an extra cost. Gates open 8am to 6pm. Well behaved dogs on leads welcome. For more information and to buy tickets visit www.shire-horse.org.uk/national-shire-horse-show 

**The Shire Horse Society is the only charity dedicated to the preservation, protection and promotion of Reg Charity No : 210619 the Shire Horse** Photo Credit: Real Time Imaging 

Tel: 01536 771 611 


/SAVEOURSHIRES 


E: info@shire-horse.org.uk 

W: www.shire-horse.org.uk /SHIRE_HORSE_SOCIETY 


/THESHIREHORSESOCIETY 

www.shire-horse.org.uk 39 




## **SHIRE HORSE SOCIETY** 

**(Established in 1878 to promote the Old English Breed of Cart Horse)** 

Governing Document: **Memorandum of Association and Articles of Association** 

**Company Limited by Guarantee** 

**Registered in England – Certificate of Incorporation 12383** 

## **Registered Charity No. 210619** 

Registered Office: **The Old Dairy, Rockingham Castle and Park, Market Harborough, Leicestershire LE16 8TH** 

Tel: **01536 771611** 

Email: **info@shire-horse.org.uk** 

Web: **www.shire-horse.org.uk** Facebook: **/theshirehorsesociety** 

X: **@saveourshires** 

Chief Executive: **Victoria Clayton**