A groundbreaking new event designed specifically for livery yard owners and equestrian business managers has been hailed as an overwhelming success. YardWise, launched on 19th November in Royal Leamington Spa, brought together professionals from across the sector for a full day of expert-led learning, open discussion, and invaluable networking.
Developed by Cheryl Johns (LiveryList), Amanda Watson (The Equestrian Index), and Helen Stock (AnimalWeb), YardWise is the first event of its kind—created by equestrians for equestrians—to address the real challenges faced by those running yards and equestrian establishments. The aim was simple: to provide reliable, practical, and accessible support to help yard owners build safe, sustainable, compliant and financially secure businesses.
What made YardWise truly unique was the exceptional calibre of experts available throughout the day. Attendees enjoyed direct access to leading authorities including welfare advocate Amanda Stoddart-West, renowned scientist Dr David Marlin, Nic de Brauwere MRCVS of Redwings Horse Sanctuary, employment specialist Lucy Katan MBE of the Equestrian Employers Association, equine lawyer Rebecca Stojak of Geldards LLP, and many others across finance, sustainability, parasite control, client management, marketing, insurance, and biosecurity.
Through keynote talks, round-table sessions, and informal conversations in the exhibit area, delegates were able to raise their concerns, ask honest questions, and receive practical guidance tailored to the realities of yard life. The atmosphere throughout the day was incredibly positive, with yard owners openly sharing experiences and supporting one another—something that many said they had never had the opportunity to do before.
Feedback from both attendees and experts was exceptional. Many described the event as long overdue, and a vital source of clarity in an industry where guidance is often fragmented or hard to access. The day highlighted not only the growing demand for professional development and support, but also the genuine appetite among yard owners to raise standards, improve welfare, and future-proof their businesses.
A delicious lunch—supported by hospitality hosts Bedmax—kept conversations flowing, and the networking opportunities continued throughout the afternoon.
Helen Whitelegg, representing Redwings and Strangles Awareness Week, commented: “Nic and I had some really valuable conversations, and it’s a concept that definitely benefits everyone who attends.”
Co-founder Cheryl Johns reflected on the success of the day: “It was fantastic to see these yard owners brought together, and to see the realisation that support and guidance does exist. Having all of this expertise in one room was a unique opportunity for many. We understand the pressures and demands on yard owners, and we’re committed to developing more events going forward, and we can do this on our own terms.”
One of the greatest strengths of YardWise is that it is run entirely as an independent collaboration, free from the constraints or agendas of any governing body, commercial partner, or membership organisation. This independence allows the team to design events and support that genuinely reflect the needs of yard owners. It means YardWise can bring together a diverse range of experts, tackle sensitive industry issues openly, and provide unbiased, honest guidance without limitation. Being independent also gives the organisers complete flexibility to adapt, innovate and expand the event each year, ensuring YardWise evolves directly in response to what the equestrian community wants and needs, rather than being bound by formal frameworks or restrictive partnerships. This freedom is at the heart of what makes YardWise such a trusted, practical and genuinely supportive resource for yard owners across the UK.
The event was further strengthened by the support of individuals and organisations across the equestrian sector, who had supported the concept of YardWise since the inception, and whose shared commitment to raising standards across the industry was evident throughout the day.
With such strong demand and overwhelmingly positive feedback, the organisers have confirmed that YardWise 2026 is already in the planning stages. Further details will be announced soon, with next year’s event set to expand even further to support more yard owners and equestrian professionals across the UK.
One thing is clear: YardWise has filled a long-standing gap in the industry—and this is only the beginning.
You can find out more about forthcoming events on the YardWise website, or by following YardWise on Facebook