Gillian’s love affair with carriage driving all started from the back step, supporting Jane Stuart competing her driving ponies. But what everyone loved Gillian for was her continuous support. Happy to roll up her sleeves and help with pretty much anything, she later took on the health and safety role with SDHC (as it was back then) and contributed to the efficient running of many events.

Then, having also spent many years running around behind Gemma, her daughter, at pony club, Gillian said, ‘It’s time to have a go at driving’. A few lessons later and Gillian was ready to find a pony to drive and with perfect timing Steve and Di Lucas said, ‘we have a pony sitting in the field at home doing nothing’ and as they say, the rest is history.

Cover picture: Gillian driving Candy with Rhiannon at the members show on Hayling Island where they placed 4th.

Why Safeguarding is important

Having worked with young vulnerable children for many years and been on many safeguarding training days Gillian knows how important it is to protect the young and vulnerable.

And whilst the SCDC junior membership isn’t vast, safeguarding extends beyond our members to all family, volunteers, spectators and visitors coming to our events across Hampshire, Wiltshire and West Sussex.

Here to help

Having been on the committee a few years ago Gillian fully appreciates the hard work that goes into running the club. And since we had a vacancy for our Safeguarding Officer, it was only natural for SCDC to approach her to fill this vital position.

We are super grateful for Gillian for accepting and she says ‘I look forward to seeing you all out and about this year’.

If you have any concerns relating to Safeguarding, you can email Gillian on scdc.gillian.stoneman@gmail.com or simply approach her at our events.