A mum and a super groom

The BGA caught five minutes at Badminton with BGA member Marcelle Tattersall, super groom and Mum to Gemma, who was a fantastic third at the 2016 event.

Do you come across any difficulties being super groom as well as super mum?

No, the horses were my job pre children, I'm a BHSII so I'm qualified in my own right and I had a very horsey career pre children.

Gemma followed me around when I worked at the riding school, she used to want to come and get on all of the horses.

Growing up she always had the ponies from the riding school to compete on as we couldn't afford any more, we used to take her to BSJA shows and she had to make do with what was available.

Because of that I've always been hands on and it's not difficult because she respects my knowledge.

Was the transition to Gemma's move to Chris Stone's yard difficult?

No, I was very supportive, it was an opportunity that she couldn't say no to. I stepped back from the general yard running but still took her to events.

As a parent how do you find the XC phase?!

I get pretty nervous on XC day but I try not to let Gemma know that so I always give out positive vibes.

Is this your first Badminton as a groom?

It's my first Badminton as her no.1 groom, I've always been before but just to help. I did the Europeans last year as well.

Why is Badminton so special?

It's just the most amazing place. I bought Gemma to Badminton when she was 6 weeks old with her strapped to my chest, I remember watching Mary King and I never thought all these years later Gemma would return to be jumping these fences!

What is Arctic Soul like ?

'Spike' is quite a shark! He tries to eat me at all times and is quite high maintenance because he is so tense. We have done lots of walking around to try and keep him calm. 

What advice would you give to parents whose child is thinking of becoming a groom?

I can understand their concerns but I think it's teaches people a great work ethic, stamina and being responsible. Looking after the horse 24/7 develops many skills.

Parents must make sure that there is a contract, talk to their employers and between them all make an agreement at the beginning.

Thank you for your support of the BGA and for being so proactive..

I will support anything which supports grooms. I've been on all sides of the fence and want to do what I can to help.

The Groom Clean is very good. A lot of people need to sit and do it. It's knowledge and something we should all know.