In Memoriam: Jane Kidd

It is with profound sadness that British Dressage announces the passing of Jane Kidd on 21 August 2025 at the age of 82. Jane embodied the spirit of our sport - an advocate, educator and visionary whose legacy will continue to shape British dressage for generations to come. 

Jane’s life was intertwined with horses from her earliest years, and she carried her love of the sport into every avenue of her career. After twice representing Britain in show jumping at the European Junior Championships, a serious back injury altered her path and posture, but with characteristic resilience she turned to dressage. What might have been an ending instead became the beginning of an extraordinary journey of contribution and service to our sport. 

She gave her time generously to others, especially to young riders. Jane was never happier than when guiding enthusiastic young people, encouraging their talent and watching them flourish. From coaching Pony Club teams to leading the Under 21 programme, she was a mentor who believed in nurturing not only skill, but also confidence and love for the horse. Many of today’s most successful riders began their journeys with Jane’s encouragement and wisdom, including top eventer Tom McEwen.  

Her impact extended far beyond the arena. As a prolific author, Jane wrote some of the most enduring works in dressage literature, offering insight and inspiration to riders at every level. She went on to serve as Editor of the BD magazine for 15 years, shaping its direction and bringing education to the forefront. It was under her stewardship that the Scales of Training were introduced to British Dressage, a legacy that continues to guide us today. 

Jane also played a vital role in officiating and governance, serving as an FEI and List 1 judge, as the first Chair of the BD Test Committee, and later as a Senior Selector. Her thoughtful leadership and deep understanding of the sport helped shape the success of British teams on the international stage. Her immense knowledge was always shared with fairness and integrity, qualities that made her so widely respected. 

It could also be said that Jane was ahead of her time; in 1974, she turned her attention to technology and recommended that breeding, progeny and performance should be fed into computers to help future breeders produce the best young stock. Jane’s idea was supported by Sir Harry Llewellyn, then president of the British Equestrian Federation, who helped her make progress with breeders, owners and technology.  

In recognition of her service, Jane was awarded the Linda Whetstone Memorial Trophy in 2024, one of the highest honours bestowed by British Dressage. She received it with her characteristic modesty, though for all of us it was a fitting acknowledgement of a lifetime of dedication. 

Before her long illness struck, Jane enjoyed her garden, cooking and walking with her friends, dogs and god-child Laura. She saw out her later years living with her brother Johnny Kidd in Fairford, Gloucestershire, and will be greatly missed by her family and friends.  

Jane Kidd gave so much to British dressage, and her legacy will live on in the riders she inspired, the principles she championed and the countless lives she touched along the way. She will be remembered not only for her extraordinary achievements, but also for her warmth, her humour and her generosity of spirit. 

British Dressage will miss Jane deeply, but her contribution will never be forgotten. 

Desi Dillingham MBE, founding Chair of British Dressage (1998 – 2008), gave a heartfelt reflection on Jane: “A great era is now passing – an era where we were last in the world and we never gave up – not hoping we would become good but knowing we would! 

 “Jane was a lateral thinker – first to find the venue – she found Goodwood and started dressage there with Sue, the Duchess of Richmond. Goodwood was voted the best venue in the world and that gave us a wonderful kudos. Now to the breeding – she worked with Richard Meade to set up the British Horse Foundation, the beginning of the British Horse Database and the fore runner of British Breeding. Then to set up the Young Horse Classes and I ended up being the sponsor for many years. Jane had vision and the most amazing ability to bring people into her vision and encourage us all to move forward – and that we did. Thank you,  Jane – you will be greatly missed by all who knew you!” 

Jill Day, British Dressage Chairman, shared her fond memories of Jane: “Jane, with her eloquence, insight, and unwavering commitment to equestrian journalism and education. It was always an honour to see her sitting at C and know you would be getting some useful tips on your judging sheet. Her contributions were very professional and touched the lives of countless riders, officials, and supporters. I personally share my condolences with Jane’s family and friends, and honour her memory with gratitude and admiration.” 

Maggie Jackman, colleague and friend of Jane’s, commented: “Jane was already editor of the magazine when I first met her, she was a source of great encouragement early on in my career with BD and truly gave me the wings to fly. She was the sort of lady to give opportunities to everyone, and she instilled in you this amazing inspiration to not let her down. She was quite simply an inspiring leader, touching so many corners of the sport.” 

Helen Triggs, equestrian journalist, commented: “Jane Kidd was responsible for my move into equestrian journalism. I wrote for her when she was judging at Frys (then in Kent). She asked me what I did for a living which at the time was public relations and I lived in London. She immediately commissioned me to write an article for the now defunct Dressage magazine (unrelated to BD’s magazine) which I did for a couple of years, including my own byline monthly feature. From there I started my freelance side hustle with Horse & Hound and the BD magazine which has been a great source of fun over the years.  

"She was a gracious and inspiring lady who has been very influential over the years and I’m sure will be much missed. Condolences to her family.” 

Celebration of Life 

There will be a Celebration of the Life of Jane Kidd taking place on Monday 22 September at 2.30pm, held at St Mary's Church, Fairford, Gloucestershire GL7 4AF.  Those wishing to pay tribute and remember Jane are encouraged to attend.