Champion horse trainer and former World Horse Welfare Chairman recognised in New Year’s Honours List

Champion horse trainer Peter Walwyn and former World Horse Welfare Chairman, Christopher Hall, have both been recognised in the New Year’s Honours List.

Peter Walwyn, the twice British flat racing Champion Trainer, was appointed MBE by the Queen for his services to horse racing. The 78-year-old trainer from Berkshire trained the most winners in the country on six occasions and his horse, Grundy, won the Epsom Derby in 1975.

Christopher Hall, who recently retired from his position as World Horse Welfare Chairman, was awarded an OBE by the Queen, which recognised his work to help horses.

He commented on his honour by saying: "I feel extremely honoured to have received this award.  I have worked closely with horses in a number of different ways for many years. I have been lucky enough to meet many wonderful people along the way and have much appreciated the help of excellent Trustees.

"I have been very privileged in my time working with horses as I have visited so many interesting countries and met such a diverse range of people while doing what I love. I feel very grateful indeed for the opportunities that I have been given."

Christopher became World Horse Welfare Chairman in 2006 and retired from the post only last month. During his time with World Horse Welfare, he was instrumental in bringing about significant improvements to horse welfare both in the United Kingdom and internationally.

Christopher, a practicing solicitor in Tunbridge Wells where he became senior partner of Cripps Harries Hall in 1991, joined World Horse Welfare in 2005; he became Chairman in 2006, and retired from the post last month.  During Christopher's time with our charity he was instrumental in bringing about significant improvements to horse welfare both in the United Kingdom and internationally.

Christopher is succeeded as World Horse Welfare Chairman by Barry Johnson MRCVS, a 30-year vet and former President of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.

Photo: Marilyn Peddle