British Dressage’s (BD) vice-president Desi Dillingham has received a Torch Trophy Trust award for her contribution to equestrian sport and recreation, following a successful nomination from the British Equestrian Federation (BEF).

 

The Torch Trophy Trust awards were founded in 1962 and are designed to recognise volunteers who have made a significant difference within the sporting arena. Each year a range of sports is included in the honours list.

 

Desi’s input into equestrian sport has been phenomenal. She was the chairman of the British Dressage Supporters Club (BDSC) from 1990-96 and took membership from 250 to 3,000, making it one of the largest equestrian support groups in the world.

 

In 1997, Desi was asked to take over as an executive to help restructure dressage and when the sport left the British Horse Society and became British Dressage in January 1997, Desi became its first chairman. She retired in 2007 after doubling membership to 12,000.

 

Desi is currently president of the British Horse Society as well as a director of the BEF and the British Horse Foundation. She has also been a major fundraiser for the British Olympic effort since the mid-1980s.

 

BEF chief executive Andrew Finding said: “I am delighted the Torch Trophy Trust has recognised Desi in this way. She is someone who makes things happen and never forgets those less able than others. She has bought dynamism, faith and commitment to the equestrian world.”