If you have followed us, you might be familiar with what might be one of the unofficial mottos of Park Lane Stables, namely ‘being the voice of the horse’. It follows, that when Natalie was invited to speak at the Worshipful Company of Farriers about how we do things at Park Lane Stables, she jumped at the chance.

Natalie walking in to the hall with a big smile on her face. She has a fringe and is wearing a blazer and knee length skirt — Entering the banquet hall

Founded in 1356, and receiving the Royal Charter in 1674, the Companies’ aims are to further the welfare of the horse by upholding high standards of farriery.

‘It was a very special moment’ Natalie said about walking in to Drapers’ Hall accompanied by Master Heather Clabon to address the members post luncheon. After honouring the work our farrier Charlie Hammond does to keep our horses standing on healthy hooves, Natalie spoke about the ‘horse first’ approach at Park Lane.

This means providing ample turn-out time, usually three days at the yard and four days in the field. It means refraining from asking them to work when temperatures are excessively high and consistently monitoring their well-being throughout the day. Additionally, it entails respecting a horse's signals when they communicate that something may be amiss, something farriers of course are very attuned to.

Natalie's speech served as a bridge between the time-honoured traditions of the Company, and the approach of Park Lane Stables. It underscored the shared commitment to promoting the welfare of horses no matter if you’re a small yard tucked away in south west London, or a centuries old esteemed Worshipful Company.

Master Heather Clabon says: “Natalie and the story of Park Lane Stables illuminates the path of community, compassion, and the enduring bond between humans and horses. It was a pleasure to have her as our luncheon guest.”

Thank you to the Worshipful Company for inviting us to speak at this very special luncheon.

All proceeds from speaking engagements go directly to Park Lane Stables, helping to fund our work. If you’re interested in booking Natalie to speak at an event, do get in touch with us to find out more. Email theteam@parklanestables.co.uk

Speaking at the Worshipful Company of Farriers

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