Hi,

My name is Hazel and I have started riding again since I gave up when I was much younger. I ride at a friend on a Saturday but do to the distance I'm there all day. I can trot, canter and have even tried a couple of jumps.

I try to have at least 2 private lessons a month but I have to watch the pennies. The horses I ride on a Saturday are a little spooky and so I don't feel I can push too much in case I end up on the floor

I would love to help someone out with exercising there horse on a week night and a Sunday but I don't know how to go about finding someone. I don't drive so it would need to be accessible by bus and as I mentioned before I need to watch my pennies. I live in Nottingham and would be more than happy to help out with yard work.

If anyone has any advice I would be very grateful. Thanks for reading

I was wondering how old you were? Are you reliant on parents for lifts, or can you get around independently as that would make a difference to what you can do. I have found that there are always lots of people who need help with their horses in return for help and/or a contribution to costs.

The main thing is to be totally honest with people as to your ability. You don't want to be over-horsed as that could be disastrous for everyone involved, but if you are friendly, kind and reliable you will always find people who need your help, and you will learn a lot.

Are there any Facebook Groups for horselovers in your area? They are always a good source of contacts.

Hi jennyb, I'm, 27 and my parents don't live in the same city as me unfortunately but I am used to using public transport and it is very good here in Nottingham.

I would be totally honest with the owner I don't want to be on a horse I don't feel safe on, I'm a bit of a wimp

I never thought about Facebook Groups, thanks for that idea. I shall have a look around. If anyone knows of any good site/magazines with horses for loan I would love recommendations.

Oops! sorry you sounded really young (lucky you!)
If you can find a horse to loan for a couple of days a week you should be able to build up a bond with it and learn its character which will give you more confidence when you are on board. Just make sure you select the right horse and owner - be really careful that they care about the horse and about you and you are not just cheap labour/cash provider.
Good luck with your search.