After many very busy and fascinating years as a microbiologist a change was needed and being a lifetime horse addict (Arabs, racing, all sorts of riding....) a second career playing with rocking horses seemed the obvious thing to do.
So in 1995 I started collecting old and antique rocking horses and began to learn how to restore them.
As well as working in my own workshop I took on day release courses spread over 3 years to gain professional
qualifications and
I became a fully qualified carpenter/joiner in 2000 and a fully
qualified bridle, saddle and harness maker in 2004.
I've now restored many old rocking horses, have quite a collection and enjoy
trading them.
I like to buy old horses in need of help and restore them so they are fit to ride again using traditional craft methods, love and great care. Then I have to find them a good home. An antique rocking horse can be ridden or just admired and they usually increase in value over several the years unlike many modern toys.
The years spent working as a scientist ( BSc, PhD ) responsible for research and quality assurance in the food, medical and veterinary industries have certainly been an excellent training for the accurate work needed in this job. My opinions are based on facts and a thorough study of the subject, not guesswork. Of course there is so much more to be learned about old rocking horses so the research continues and I welcome discussion with other enthusiasts to find out more about rocking horse history.The rocking horses are an overwhelming hobby as well as a small business and I have for sale restored, unrestored and original finish antique rocking horses for collectors. I'm always interested in buying old ( pre 1950 ) horses.
email for further information
Some favourite horses:-
Zim, he can count to about 5
Jester
Eastern Kaliph, the fastest Arab I had and so kind
Crumble the Shetland, lent by my cousins. I should have had my hat on.
Harry joined the family in 2010.
