Hook Norton Brewery, now one of only three breweries in the UK with working, delivering Shire Horses proved triumphant last weekend at West Oxfordshire District Riding Club.

The Breweries latest purchase, 4 year old gelding Balmoral headed off for his first ever show. Last weekend marked his first time leaving the Hooky stables, travelling on the horsebox and encountering so many other horses in such an exciting environment and the team are thrilled with how well he behaved.

Balmoral competed against nine other horses, in an indoor arena next to RAF Brize Norton to the sound of military jets landing and taking off and we’re delighted that he took 1^st place and was one of the best behaved horses there. The show marked an exceptional start to his showing career and his life here at Hook Norton Brewery.

A huge thanks must be extended to the voluntary team at WODRC who volunteer their spare time in organising and running these fantastic events.

Shire Horses remain at critical risk of extinction, with their numbers rapidly declining due to no longer having a use in agricultural work, despite this they do make fantastic riding horses and their popularity is slowly growing year by year. The Shire Horse Society aims to spread awareness and promote the breed, striving to ensure their survival for future years to come.
Hook Norton Brewery has recently achieved the accolade of ‘Shire Horse Society Approved Centre’ status, meeting a rigorous set criteria ensuring their stables confirm to the highest of standards and the knowledgeable team on site are working in unison with the society to support and raise awareness of these magnificent animals.

To keep up with the Breweries four resident Shire Horses, head to their Facebook page
‘Hook Norton Brewery Shire Horses’