BSc (Hons) Equine Science alumnus Mary Lennon has been honoured for her tireless support of the British Horse Society (BHS) in the society’s latest annual awards.

Mary, who is Treasurer of the BHS Greater Manchester Committee, received the BHS Volunteer of the Year Award 2020 from BHS Chief Executive Officer James Hick in a presentation held at Reaseheath Equestrian Centre and attended by Cheshire and Manchester committee members.

The awards recognise the outstanding achievements of BHS volunteers, supporters and partners, with Mary being selected for her promotion of the BHS, her help in recruiting and supporting new members and in particular her efforts to protect safe riding routes through the official recording of Rights of Way. In this capacity she has helped horse riders to make bridleway claims to their local authority and has forged strong links with Trafford Ramblers, Trafford Council and within her local community.

She has also co-organised several fund raising rides and events in Greater Manchester, spending many hours marking the route on foot.

Paying tribute to all 36 award winners, BHS President Martin Clunes OBE, said: “Huge congratulations to our 2020 award winners, many of whom have contributed to the safety of our members and their horses.  I never cease to be amazed by all the fantastic people who make the society what it is – an awesome collective of people who not only love horses but are dedicating their lives to broader equestrian wellbeing.”

Mary left the world of banking after 30 years to follow her passion for horses and studied on our Foundation Degree in Equine Science, Complementary Therapy and Natural Horsemanship, followed by a one year BSc (Hons) Equine Science top-up.

She graduated in 2011 with a First Class BSc (Hons) Equine Science degree and has since set up a successful mobile equine faecal egg count business.

She said: “I was surprised and delighted to receive this award. I’ve been a BHS member for 15 years and have loved supporting its mission to raise levels of education and training and encouraging people and horses to enjoy life together.

“I also really enjoyed my time as an undergraduate at University Centre Reaseheath. My degree enabled me to launch my own business, which was hugely satisfying, and I now have a fulfilling and enjoyable career.”