South Wales Saddle fitter

[MoonlitArcher]

Preferably one who knows Bates saddles. I have a GP and a dressage saddle, both Bates that I would like checked on my horse.
So many around now, lots of new names I haven’t heard of. Who are people recommending?

Based in Newport

 

[DirectorFury]

Huw Thomas? I’m sure he goes over that way.
Helen Reader does Wintec which iirc is basically synthetic Bates but I’m not sure she’d go that far East without there being multiple horses.

 

[Ranyhyn]

That far east I think I'd be opting for Kevin Mccardle or Helen Reader on a zone day. I dont think my preferred saddler, Jonathon Hopkins travels that far but those are the two I'd go for if I didnt use him.

 

[JackFrost]

Have had bad experience with Jonathan Hopkins - still owes me for a saddle

 

[Ranyhyn]

Have had bad experience with Jonathan Hopkins - still owes me for a saddle

Sorry to hear that. I've been nothing but happy and he's done all 5 of my horses over 10 years.

 

[Annagain]

Graham Butt at Llwynon does Bates but I don't think he's taking on new clients as he's semi retired now. Worth a try though.

ETA - I've heard good things about the saddlers in Chepstow too. The name escapes me at the moment and I've no idea whether they specialise in anything but I think they're the only ones there so you should be able to find them.

ETA 2 - Ride and Stride - it's just come to me.

 

[JackFrost]

Sorry to hear that. I've been nothing but happy and he's done all 5 of my horses over 10 years.

Do you happen to know where he trades now? After it happened (over 10 years ago) I tried to trace him but could not track him down. His previous business went bust (?) and suddenly vacated the premises, leaving no contact details, then he seemed to disappear. It was an expensive saddle, and he had my details to get in touch with me - the proper legal course if he had genuine problems. So you will understand why I cannot recommend him.

 

[Merry neddy man]

Do you happen to know where he trades now? After it happened (over 10 years ago) I tried to trace him but could not track him down. His previous business went bust (?) and suddenly vacated the premises, leaving no contact details, then he seemed to disappear. It was an expensive saddle, and he had my details to get in touch with me - the proper legal course if he had genuine problems. So you will understand why I cannot recommend him.

Google his name + saddler it shows a f/bk page +another company connection ( may or maynot be the same one you are referring to)