Marion Stewart, from Moffat in Dumfries & Galloway, recently received the BHS Scotland Anne Balfour Kinnear Award for the young riding instructor of the year for 2003. The award, which consists of a £300 bursary and certificate, is given annually to a young instructor judged to be one who inspires others, strives to succeed in the equine industry and places emphasis on good horsemanship.

Twenty-one year old Marion was delighted to receive the award and said, "I hope this will encourage young people into the industry, especially in my area of Dumfries & Galloway as there are not enough to meet demand. They may not want to become instructors but they are needed in a variety of ways across the range of opportunities connected with horses."

Marion plans to spend the bursary, which is for furthering careers, on helping her attain her BHS Stage 4 examination and complete her training as a BHS Riding & Road Safety Trainer. She is currently working as a freelance riding instructor.

Miss Anne Balfour Kinnear was a founding member of BHS Scotland and her life was dedicated to helping others get the most from horses, riding and their careers. She extended her own training to become a British Horse Society Instructor (BHSI) and was awarded the BHS Medal of Honour in 1972.

On her death she left a legacy from which an annual bursary is paid to further the training of young Scottish instructors who are committed to helping others. The purpose of the fund is to offer instructional facilities to young instructors between the ages of 18 and 23, and who reside in Scotland. Candidates are expected to show a commitment to equestrian training and an involvement in teaching others, gaining qualifications and helping riding or pony club members. One award is made annually.

Applications for the 2004 Anne Balfour Kinnear Award are invited. Send a SAE to: BHS Scotland, Woodburn, Crieff, Perthshire PH7 3RG. Anyone wishing to contact Marion for instruction should call her on (tel: 07729 334029).

.