Saddlery firm proves a far from easy ride

The business was founded in 1984 by Wendy’s late husband, Chris Hoggard, an ex-jockey who spotted a gap in the market supplying local trainers, jockeys and stable staff with their clothing and equipment.

Wendy joined Chris in 1987, having completed her saddlery apprenticeship and has been central to the company’s success ever since.

Chris sadly died aged 52 in 2009 and, six years on, the White Rose Saddlery business that he created poignantly sponsored a race in his memory at Sheriff Hutton.

Wendy said of her business: “We’ve experienced the highs and lows of running a business, survived three recessions, two monumental floods in the town and many other factors outside our control.

“But throughout all the ups and downs we’ve been loyally supported by our fantastic customers, many who have become good personal friends.”

A qualified Master Saddler for 30 years and a Society of Master Saddlers Saddle Fitter for 19 years, her skills as a saddler are well respected throughout her industry so it is fitting that this year she will be a judge at the National Saddlery Competition at Saddlers Hall in London.

Hoggard’s White Rose Saddlery is located within the historic ‘Wold House’ stables situated on the outskirts of Malton and supports the thriving local racing community from converted stables which is home to a showroom, large saddlery workshop with customer car parking.

The business has an enviable reputation within the British horse racing industry as a manufacturer and supplier of high-quality racing wear and equipment.

In addition to the premises in Malton there is a satellite shop at Beverley racecourse on race days and a mobile unit which attends all the Yorkshire-Point to-Point meetings and some further afield in Northumberland.

As well as bespoke products made to order and repair services, the shop stocks a range of racing equipment from leading manufacturers and is also able to provide a full design and embroidery service for the supply of racing silks and paddock clothing along with corporate branded clothing for other non-racing interests such as schools and colleges.

Hoggard added: “We manufacture many products ourselves so our customers know they’re buying a quality item that will last many years.”

The business is also an enthusiastic supporter of horse racing from amateur riders and yard staff to professional jockeys. They currently sponsor top Northern National Hunt jockey James Reveley, young apprentice flat jockey Jack Garritty and Chris Dawson – a leading Point to Point jockey.

The business also sponsors the Yorkshire Ladies Point-to-Point Championship and the Go Racing in Yorkshire Future Stars Apprentice Series.

n White Rose Saddlery is open six days a week, Monday to Saturday and online at www.whiterosesaddlery.co.uk