My approach to saddle fitting combines technical precision, practical experience in the saddle and specialist training in saddle design and fitting. As a Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddle fitter, I understand the importance of selecting a saddle that accommodates the individual horse's conformation while providing the rider with the balance, stability and comfort needed to perform at their best.

Every horse is different, and finding the right saddle involves much more than simply selecting a seat size or tree width. It requires a careful assessment of the horse's shape, the curves of its back, its movement and the interaction between saddle and rider. My aim is to identify the most appropriate solution for each horse and rider, with comfort, fit and freedom of movement at the heart of the process.

Before becoming a saddle fitter, I worked as an engineer, a background that has proved particularly valuable in my approach to saddle fitting. Engineering requires accuracy, attention to detail and an understanding of measurements, shapes and curves. These skills translate naturally into assessing equine conformation and understanding how different saddle tree designs relate to the shape of an individual horse's back.

This technical perspective, combined with practical riding experience and specialist saddle-fitting training, helps me assess saddle suitability carefully and make informed recommendations. The objective is always to find a solution that works for both horse and rider, rather than expecting the horse to fit the saddle.

Having ridden from an early age, I developed my experience through show jumping, benefiting from expert junior training with American Olympic showjumper Warren Wofford.

I subsequently rode horses for Fred Hartill of the renowned Pennwood stable, famously associated with the top horse Pennwood Forgemill. I then progressed to working as a stable rider for Geoff Glazzard, a leading national and international showjumper based in Brewood, Staffordshire.

During this period, I competed at Area International Trial and county show level. These experiences gave me a practical understanding of the demands placed on horses and riders in competition, as well as the importance of suitable equipment, balance and freedom of movement.

Having experienced riding and training from the rider's perspective, I appreciate how the right saddle can contribute to a secure, balanced position while allowing the horse to work comfortably and express its natural movement.

My professional saddle-fitting training began with Lawrence Pearman, Master Saddler of Cirencester Saddlers. This training led to examination at the saddlery training centre, where I gained the Society of Master Saddlers qualification in flocking and flocking adjustment.

I subsequently undertook further training with Master Saddler David Johnson of The Saddle Company Ltd, based in Walsall. This led to my appointment as an approved saddle fitter for the company, including approval to carry out saddle adjustments using its approved adjustment machine.

These experiences strengthened my understanding of saddle construction, flocking, adjustment and the importance of achieving an appropriate fit for each horse.

I then received further training from Peter Menet of Switzerland, the internationally renowned saddle designer associated with Amerigo saddles. This opened up opportunities to become an approved representative for the Amerigo and Equipe saddle ranges, covering dressage, eventing and show jumping saddles.

Working with these specialist saddle brands, with further support from Zebra Products, the UK distributor, broadened my experience of saddle design and fitting for serious amateur, semi-professional and professional riders. This work also provided access to supporting services, including saddle repairs and aftercare.

In addition to saddle fitting, I am a Lantra-qualified bridle and bit-fitting specialist, having completed the approved training course through the Neue Schule Academy.

This training focused on equine physiology and the correct fitting of bridles and bits, with particular attention to comfort, pressure, tension and friction. Poorly fitting equipment can cause discomfort and interfere with the horse's willingness to work, so careful assessment is essential.

My aim is to help riders select and fit suitable bridles and bits that accommodate the individual horse, reduce unnecessary pressure and irritation, and support comfortable movement and performance. These considerations are especially important for competition horses working at a high level, where comfort and freedom of movement are integral to their work.

Whatever your chosen discipline, the horse's comfort under saddle must remain a priority. A suitable saddle should accommodate the horse's individual shape and allow appropriate freedom of movement, while also enabling the rider to sit in a balanced and effective position.

However, saddle fitting should never focus on the horse alone. The rider must also be accommodated correctly, with a saddle that supports their balance, position and individual requirements. When both horse and rider are considered together, they are better placed to work in harmony and perform to their full potential.

Whether you need advice on saddle selection, an assessment of your existing saddle, or specialist guidance on bridle and bit fitting, I take an individual approach to understanding your requirements and identifying the most suitable solution.

• Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddle fitter, with a qualification in flocking and flocking adjustment.
• Approved saddle fitter for The Saddle Company Ltd, with training in saddle adjustment.
• Approved representative experience with Amerigo and Equipe saddles across dressage, eventing and show jumping.
• Lantra-qualified bridle and bit-fitting specialist, trained through the Neue Schule Academy.
• UK Sports Coaching certified in Safeguarding and Protecting Children.

My commitment is simple: to combine technical knowledge, practical experience and professional fitting skills to help every horse and rider achieve the most suitable fit, greater comfort and the best possible partnership.