Bliss of London enjoyed a successful evening at The Society of Master Saddlers Awards, kindly hosted at Saddlers Hall by the Worshipful Company of Saddlers.
Trainee saddle maker at Bliss of London, Dan Haycock, was the overall winner in the Trainee Saddle (Trade) class and received a premium for his leather dressage saddle. In the Open Saddle class, Nico Edwards was awarded a premium and third place for his saddle, judged on stylish and innovative design and quality of craftsmanship.
Bliss of London were also recognised with a Premium and second place in the Trade/Company Saddle category. The awards were precented by Worshipful Company of Saddlers Prime Warden, Ben Laurie.
“I am so proud of our team, and the beautiful saddles they produce!”, said a delighted Nikki Newcombe, Managing Director of Bliss of London, after the awards ceremony. “We pride ourselves in the craftsmanship and attention to detail that goes into the making of every Bliss of London Saddle. It is wonderful to have the work of our saddlers recognised by the judges”.
The Society of Master Saddlers, with the patronage of the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, holds the National Saddlery Competition every year at the beautiful Saddlers Hall in London. Attended by the great and good from the equine world and fellow Livery Companies, the Competition is open to all SMS members. It brings together craftspeople from the UK and beyond to showcase the very best work from Apprentice level to Master. A panel of judges meticulously evaluates each entry, assigning ranks within their respective classes.
“The Gala Awards Evening Reception is the highlight of the event, and as well as the excitement of the award announcements it is a lovely opportunity to network and reconnect with others in the industry”, said Nikki.
This year, a Saddlers Showcase Day was held on Monday, 3rd February, giving invited guests from the equestrian world the opportunity to view the craftsmanship on display.