Laura bags top award at equine ceremony

An inspirational 25-year-old Carluke trainee has won the Equine category at the annual Land-based and Aquaculture Learner of the Year Awards.

Laura Manby clinched the award at a recent ceremony in Dunblane, hosted by Lantra Scotland – an organisation that helps young people access the training, qualifications, skills and knowledge they need to succeed in the land-based, aquaculture and environmental sector.

They can help young people find out more about careers in agriculture, agriskills, aquaculture, environmental conservation, equine, farriery, fencing, fisheries management, floristry, horticulture, landscaping and sports turf, land-based engineering, production horticulture and trees and timber.

Laura has been studying the Equido Level 3 Instructor course while working for Ross Dhu Equestrian Ltd.

Since starting the programme last year, she has developed and diversified her skill base to include everything from horse care, anatomy and physiology, to psychology and emergency veterinarian treatment.

She has also competed in a number of dressage events. Her Equido Level 3 will expand her knowledge to include supervisory skills and junior staff handling.

Laura, who received her award from Dougie Vipond, said:“I am so happy to win the Equine award, what a great honour! I’d like to thank my wonderful employers at Ross Dhu Equestrian Ltd, who took me on despite the fact I had no formal qualifications. They have supported me every step of the way and inspired me to keep going when times were tough.

“It goes to show what you can achieve with hard work, determination and good people around you.”