Q&A with John Whitaker

1. How many horses do you have?

We have about 60 horses, from foals through to aged brood mares.

2. Do any of the horses have quirky personalities?

We have a couple of young ones we have bred for jumping, but we have had Argento since he was three years old. We broke him in so he has been with us quite a while - hence he’s the favourite! He doesn't really have bad habits, he nips a bit, but popular as he's a winner, and very careful with a big heart.

3. How do you make sure the horses are healthy?

They have haylage three times a day and hard feed twice. We can tell if they are healthy by looking at them and the way they perform. Once the weather is good they go out some days in the paddocks.

4. Where do your horses live?

They live at our yard, and go to shows quite regularly. Some go for three weeks then are off for two weeks. Others two weeks and one week off, and some every other week - it varies on the horse and the show.