A leading figure in the equestrian industry and former chief executive of The Pony Club has been presented with a fellowship from the college she has supported for more than 40 years.
Judy Edwards, who led The Pony Club for 10 years, has been named a fellow of Warwickshire College and University Centre (WCUC).
The award is in recognition of her significant contribution to the equestrian provision at Moreton Morrell College, which is part of WCUC, and the leading role she played in the development of the wider equestrian industry.
The fellowship was awarded in a ceremony at St Mary’s Church in Warwick, which also saw students graduating from Moreton Morrell College.
WCUC is the Higher Education arm of college group WCG (formerly Warwickshire College Group), which includes Royal Leamington Spa College, Warwick Trident College, Moreton Morrell College, Rugby College, Pershore College and Evesham College.
Judy Edwards has a long-association with the institution and has been a keen supporter of the equine faculty at Moreton Morrell College.
She has judged the horse trials at the college since their inception and was the first individual to represent the equestrian interests of the college on the Board of Governors – a position she held for six years.
In recognition of her contribution to equestrian sport, Judy was presented with the British Equestrian Writers Association Award.
Judy Edwards said: “I am extremely surprised, proud, and honoured to have been made a fellow. The campus is delightful and it is such a great institution. In fact, two of my sons studied here and have gone on to develop very successful careers.
“Over the years I have enjoyed my involvement with the college, be that on the board of governors, or as show jumping judge – a role I have held for in excess of 40 years.
“The role education plays in driving more young people to work in the equine sector is greatly important. Moreton Morrell College was the first to introduce courses in the equine area and those courses have now developed into degree courses.
“I have been proud to support the development of the work placement scheme at the college, and annually offered work placements during my time at The Pony Club.
“The scheme gives students opportunities to experience the industry and what areas of it would best suit them, and subsequently many students were offered full-time employment within the Club or other branches of the British Equestrian Federation.
“The scheme gives students opportunities to experience the industry and to decide which areas would best suit them, and subsequently many students were offered full time employment within the Pony Club or within other Member Bodies of The British Equestrian Federation.
“Being a fellow will give me opportunities to continue my involvement with the college and support the development of more skilled individuals for the equine sector.”
Angela Joyce, CEO of WCUC, said: “The title of fellow is the highest accolade we can award as a college group and university centre. Fellowships are presented after great consideration and we were delighted to recognise Judy Edwards this year.
“Judy has given the College and the industry are huge amount so we are delighted she has become a college fellow.
“As with all industries, equestrianism is changing and with the support of key industry figures, past and present, we will continue to develop students with the necessary skills for successful careers”
Photo caption: Angela Joyce and Judy Edwards at St Mary’s Church in Warwick.