Avonmill Equestrian

It’s a long road ahead but I want to thank each and every person who has reached out to offer support or commented since we lost Kerry. I haven’t wanted to ride but today I did. She was my biggest cheerleader and support, and I know she would want me to do all the things she no longer can. I will always ride for Kerry.

We all need some happier news. Max and his new person Charlotte qualified for Badminton Grassroots 2027 last weekend. Charlotte said that she rode for Kerry and we couldn’t be more grateful or pleased for them.

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I still can’t believe I am writing this. Kerry’s funeral takes place on Thursday at 1.30pm in Lambhill Crematorium (also known as Glasgow Crematorium and Maryhill/Cadder Crematorium), Glasgow G23 5AA. All are welcome and afterwards to The Black Horse, 3 Gorstan Street, Glasgow G23 5QA.

Please wear whatever makes you happy or reminds you of Kerry - breeches welcome. The service will be live streamed and I will share details when I receive them. Feel free to share with anyone who you feel may want to join us on this most sad of days in person or in their thoughts.

Our hearts are broken forever. On Saturday at Penrith we lost Kerry in a freak accident. It was a day that changed my life and that of our adored friend Gillian who was also there. Changed forever.

I kept wonderful Max for Kerry to event last season and what a season they had. Then her beloved Roly arrived and she loved him in a way that transcended everything. He loved Kerry too, giving of his all, and is very subdued despite having been checked by the vet both at the event and since being home with us. I think he is grieving, and his neck is constantly wet where I cry.

What made Kerry unique was her delight in her horses and her utter commitment. No one rode in worse weather. No cared for her horse in more detail. No one cleaned their tack more often. As she said recently, her 13 year old self couldn't believe the life she was living.

Kerry was an Advanced Nurse Practitioner and dedicated her life to helping others not only in the health service but also other riders. She was the first to offer to help, the first to say good luck, the first to say well done. She was the very best of friends when I needed someone and quite simply I don't know what I will do without her.

Kerry leaves her young daughter, Cara, her son Josh and her soul mate, Matt. This time is for them indescribable. Their good friend has set up this page and if it is something you are able to and would like to do donations in her memory to help them can be made at the following link.

https://www.gofundme.com/f/donate-in-memory-of-kerry-donoghue?utm_id=97757_v0_s00_e0_tv2_a1dennhbn36aug&fbclid=IwY2xjawTMqnpleHRuA2FlbQIxMQBzcnRjBmFwcF9pZBAyMjIwMzkxNzg4MjAwODkyAAEe_bQGbq5tmRbRPAVz9SmxboGIVYHBa9NmESeVsYlc_W6UsHsUPhIIC99a--E_aem_bagb05fU59Dvlih6R9-qVA

Donate in memory of Kerry Donoghue, organized by David Smith Hi my name is David, Unfortunately on Saturday 18th July one of my best friends lost … David Smith needs your support for Donate in memory of Kerry Donoghue

Ben’s studies have come to an end and he has graduated with an MEng Civil and Structural Engineering after five years of study. Very proud of him combining his study, commuting a 100 mile round trip to university and riding so successfully. A big well done, Ben!

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Those of you who have followed us for a while will know that 6yo Steve, our beloved Cowboy’s Sligo Candy Boy nephew, has taken time to mature. We have been patient and let him take life slowly as we firmly believe that young horses shouldn’t be rushed. Last night he popped around the British Novice at Champfleurie looking green but incredibly scopey and we are very excited for his future now that he is ready to begin doing more.

We also took Jo’s new horse Florrie and she continued her run of three BS shows with us and three wins. She is such a kind, helpful and willing mare and hopefully she and her mum will make their competitive outing soon!

Thanks to Kerry for her help at the show and Ally for keeping the yard running at home.

Pics by Sinclair Photography

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Florrie and Ben clocking up another win at her second BS show with us. She is such a kind mare too, and we are very grateful to have found her.

📸 Sinclair Photography

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We have loved having Olivia, an equine studies student from SRUC, with us on work placement for the last fortnight. I coach Olivia in one of my Glasgow clinics and she will be a real asset to any employer. Enjoy Camp 🇺🇸 Olivia!

The very best of luck to everyone who begin their journey to the Badminton Horse Trials Grassroots Championships today. We have the most amazing memories of competing there and will be cheering everyone on from afar.

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Wonderful Max has a fabulous new u18 home down south and is continuing his winning ways. Jo has a new horse, Florrie, who she is working hard to get riding fit with. Ben borrowed her and took her to her first show with us recently and they won the British Novice. Clever Florrie!

It’s been a journey to find a saddle that fits both Jo and Florrie with her changing shape so much already. Huge thank you to Sheepham Saddles for all of their help and to Ryan Devoucoux Northern.

Florrie is our first grey…wish us luck keeping her sparkling!

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Pic Sinclair Photography