Kim had fallen in love with her "funny little cob" but didn't know what to do.  Should she send him away for training or sell him to some one more experienced?  Only one thing was certain.  She was terrified of riding him.

She sent me an email, asking for advice.  "Don't sell him" I said.  "Don't send him to a trainer".  I told her that it would take some time, but the problem could be solved.  Still not quite sure how this could be true, but willing to try anything, Kim embarked on what would turn out to be one of the best decisions of her life!

We had setbacks as well as triumphs as Topper was gently coaxed back to full mental health.  Recently, Topper was put through the ultimate test and he passed it with flying colours.

She rode him out for the first time in company, with a completely scatty mare.  Here's what she said:

"We had the best ride ever!  Topper didn't put a foot wrong for the whole two hours and stayed with me completely.  It was absolutely fantastic.  I finally felt we were riding in complete harmony.  

It didn't matter what the other mare did.  I came first.  She spooked at everything ... Topper just kept walking.  She bucked, but that didn't bother him either.  We even rode all the way home on our own for the very first time - and that was even better!"

And this was the horse that Kim had once been terrified of riding!