Meet the passionate hearts behind happy hooves: Our amazing team!
Lizzie
The soul of Shadowmere, Lizzie, transcends the titles of founder and owner. She's the cornerstone, the glue that binds our hearts and ensures every hoofbeat at Shadowmere echoes with love and care.
Lizzie's journey with horses began at 12, blossoming into a lifelong passion. 30 years of experience and qualifications in care, management, and even first aid & ailments equip her to understand and cater to every resident's needs. This passion was forged in fire - the loss of her beloved Irish only strengthened her resolve to create a haven for retired equines.
Living mere steps from the barn, Lizzie's presence is a constant comfort. Daily care is just the tip of the iceberg. She's the voice that reassures owners, crafting personalized updates that paint a picture beyond words. From monthly reports to open days, she fosters a connection, allowing owners to witness their companions flourish.
But Lizzie wears another beautiful hat – a "mum" figure to the staff. Her warmth extends beyond the stables, offering a cup of tea and a listening ear to everyone. Her genuine care and unwavering love for horses permeate every aspect of Shadowmere. This isn't just a retirement facility; it's a family, and Lizzie's the heart that keeps it beating. Witnessing her dedication, you understand why Shadowmere is such a welcoming and cherished place.
Chris
While horses weren't initially in Chris's wheelhouse (the girls, fortunately, are!), years of living amidst their neighs and whinnies have fostered a surprising understanding of these special creatures. His true passion, though, lies in nurturing the land itself.
With a degree in Agriculture and decades of experience coaxing the best out of crops, Chris ensures our paddocks are veritable oases of healthy grass thanks to his meticulous management. But his expertise extends beyond the soil. A self-proclaimed tech geek, he spearheaded the installation of our futuristic water monitoring, lighting, and CCTV systems, ensuring our horses' every need is not just met, but anticipated.
Chris wasn't just the mastermind behind Shadowmere's construction, either. He donned the "site manager" hat, overseeing contractors, deliveries, and transforming the vision into a reality. Even the barn's interior owes much to his handiwork, with skillful fitting and decoration adding a touch of personal charm.
Now, when he's not tending to the farm, Chris wears the mantle of "Head of Maintenance," ensuring everything runs smoothly at Shadowmere. He's the silent force keeping things tip-top, and of course, the other half of our dynamic duo – one that, horse knowledge or not, has built a haven for both steeds and humans alike.
Caroline
Miles away, but never truly distant, is Caroline, our eldest daughter and a vital member of the Shadowmere family. Though she's carved her own path, her heart remains deeply connected to our equine haven. Freshly minted as a Registered Equine Veterinary Nurse, Caroline's expertise proved invaluable in shaping Shadowmere to cater to our residents' specific needs.
While her days are filled with caring for patients at a local equine veterinary hospital, her spare moments are dedicated to Shadowmere. Whether she's lending a hand at the yard or tirelessly crafting our online presence through PR, advertising, and social media, her energy and dedication shine through.
Beyond Shadowmere, her life brims with the joy of her canine companions. Whether it's walks with her beloved Olive, playful afternoons with our resident duo, U and Ginny, or tackling a DIY project at home, Caroline's infectious enthusiasm fills every moment. And whenever she finds time, girl's nights out with her friends remind us that a well-rounded life is a fulfilling one. From afar, Caroline continues to be a pivotal force in Shadowmere's journey, her passion and dedication echoing in every whinny and contented snort.
Melissa
Melissa, a familiar face at Shadowmere, brings a unique blend of experience and sensitivity to her role. Though a riding accident kept her from the saddle, her passion for horses remains ignited. Her in-depth knowledge, earned through formal qualifications and years of experience, allows her to provide exceptional care for our retired residents.
When she's not at Shadowmere, Melissa enjoys exploring nature with her beloved dog by her side. Witnessing the grace of the local deer during these walks is a constant reminder of the beauty and peace our equine companions offer. Her gentle approach and heartfelt connection with animals make her an invaluable asset to our team.
Ellie
Meet Ellie! When not caring for our cherished retirees at Shadowmere, she’s likely tending to her own menagerie – horses, dogs, and the occasional (human) boy keep her life a whirlwind. A passionate rider and competitor, Ellie thrives on the challenge and connection of the equestrian world. But her dedication extends far beyond the arena. She brings her expertise and enthusiasm to Shadowmere, ensuring our horses enjoy their golden years with love and care. Ellie’s secret weapon? A boundless energy that tackles both furry friends and human companions alike.
Sophie
Meet Sophie, a multi-talented member of the Shadowmere team! A passionate equestrian from a young age, she juggles her roles at Shadowmere with caring for her own and others horses and offering her expert grooming and clipping services to clients. Sophie's knowledge extends beyond the stable; she's a skilled rider who embraces the thrill of competition. Whether it's ensuring our retirees receive top-notch care, helping clients with their beloved horses, or showcasing her own riding talent, Sophie brings dedication and enthusiasm to every aspect of her life. Fun fact: she's Ellie's sister, making Shadowmere a truly family affair!
Dom
Forget the controllers and online chats, Shadowmere’s newest team member, Dom, is trading virtual worlds for whinnying wonders! At 18, he might seem an unexpected addition, juggling his usual techy pursuits with mucking stalls and braving occasional “surprises” from our residents (they don’t always give you a heads-up!). But beneath the initial shock of his first stable encounter (yes, a horse decided to use the same space!), lies a heartwarming story of conquering fears and embracing new challenges. Dom is stepping out of his comfort zone, learning valuable life skills, and discovering a deeper connection with these incredible creatures. We’re thrilled to have him on board, witnessing his journey unfold as he transforms from a virtual whiz to a budding horse enthusiast, one hoofstep at a time.
Becca
Shadowmere wouldn't run smoothly without Becca, my multi-talented daughter. While not a horse enthusiast herself, her passion lies in making the place tick. Her logistics background from the army, combined with experience working for a ground worker and helping build Shadowmere, translates into a knack for maintenance. Whether it's fixing a fence or sprucing up the grounds, Becca tackles it with the same enthusiasm she brings to her off-duty pursuits. When not wielding a paintbrush, belting out tunes to her earbuds, or planning the next party, you might hear her humming away, tackling yet another construction project – her smile as bright as her future.
Security Squad & Sofa Spuds: U & Ginny
Shadowmere wouldn't be complete without its resident security team – U and Ginny, our inseparable Vizsla duo. U, the proud father, and Ginny, his energetic offspring, patrol the fields and paddocks with playful vigilance, their sleek forms a flash of rust against the green.
While their primary duty might involve napping on the tea room sofa or curling up at our feet in the office, they never miss a beat when it comes to new arrivals. Their barks announce every visitor, a friendly welcome for those they recognize and a cautious alert for those who don't belong.
U and Ginny are the epitome of canine companionship, their playful energy bringing smiles to everyone they meet. They hold a special bond with the horses, existing in peaceful harmony, never intrusive but always a comforting presence. Whether on patrol or curled up for a nap, U and Ginny are the furry guardians of Shadowmere, adding a touch of warmth and security to our welcoming haven.
