The most exciting week of the year for any Hackney enthusiasts must be the Hackney Horse Society’s National Breed Show held at the South of England Showground, Ardingly, Sussex, during the first week of June.

Anyone who is interested in learning more about the breed would do well to visit this show for here is seen the best of the breed from all over the United Kingdom competing both in hand and in harness.

The first two days are largely devoted to in-hand classes, where the horses and ponies are judged on conformation, type and action. Do not expect a calm and sober parade. During these classes the animals are “run” by handlers whose art is to assist and encourage their charges to demonstrate the brilliance and purity of their action to its best effect. The animals respond to the enthusiastic applause of supporters and spectators so the atmosphere both in and around the ring becomes more and more electric as the classes progress through the age groups, culminating with the senior stallions. A ringful of mature hackney stallions whether horses or ponies is a rare and exhilarating sight. Don’t miss it – then stay on for the harness classes on the remainder of the week, bearing in mind the Tuesday afternoon also has harness classes. Hackneys of all sorts from Novices to Champions, are driven to show Wagons, or to Gigs singly or in pairs or tandems. Where else could you see such a spectacular sight, the finest carriage horses and ponies in the world being shown in harness “stepping for their lives” to the applause of the supporters and spectators alike.

There is no finer place for anyone wishing to see Hackneys in action to visit. The Hackney Horse Society tent is sited on the edge of the ring and visitors will be warmly welcomed and provided with information about the Society, the breed, and its activities. As well as being able to purchase excellent mementoes

If you would like more information on the show please use the following email address : enquiries@hackney-horse.org.uk.