Welcome to Hailsham & Wealden Equestrian Club! Established in 1977 by Valerie Knott and Ted Smith, our club serves the vibrant equestrian community from Eastbourne to Brighton, and as far as Burgess Hill and Battle. We are a small but mighty club where friendships are forged through a shared love of riding, competing, and working together.

Our members support each other through the ups and downs of horsey life, creating a magical experience that we are proud to be part of. At the heart of our club lies a commitment to transparency, kindness, and inclusivity, ensuring that happy horses are the cornerstone of all we do, whatever your ambitions.

Join us at Hailsham & Wealden Equestrian Club, where every ride brings joy and every member is a valued part of our family. We open our arms and hearts to everybody, nobody need doubt their capabilities to come on this journey with us. You don’t even need a horse to partake in some activities and to help and support at training days and competitions. There truly is something for everyone.

Valerie Knott - President & Founder

Val is our president of the riding club: a dynamic force, balancing the thrill of competition with the warmth of camaraderie. Always on the go, still training hard and actively competing, bringing home triumphs that ignite the club's spirit. She unites members with a tireless dedication, orchestrating social events crafted with a touch of her unique, bubbly charisma.

Gritty and determined, our president embodies resilience. Val faces challenges head-on and she never backs down, inspiring everyone around her. Her passion for horse sport and the club is palpable, radiating through her enthusiastic support for each member’s journey. She celebrates every small victory and milestone with a genuine pride in all the club has achieved.

In social settings, Val is the life of the party, always making a statement with her vibrant personality (and outfit!). She is in the thick of everything, ensuring that no member feels left out. Val’s support extends way beyond the stables, fostering a strong, united community that thrives on both competition and friendship. In her hands, the club is more than just a group—it's a family.