The BSPS were very sad to learn that Ann Overton-Ablitt sadly passed away recently at home, after a short illness. Ann was a woman of many talents, very successful in business, a former MFH, BHS instructor, judge, breeder, supporter of charities and generous sponsor of the sport she loved. With her husband Alan, who was always by her side, they were the most charming, flamboyant, and fun couple who had time for everyone.

Ann was a highly respected and sought after judge, she was a judge on the BSPS Heritage Mountain and Moorland panel and for many other societies.

She judged all the major shows in this country, including the Horse of the Year Show, Mountain and Moorland final and the Supreme Championships. Ann also judged abroad on numerous occasions. Ann judged at the BSPS Championships on many occasions and the Mountain and Moorland Supreme Championship at London Olympia. The BSPS are immensely grateful for her support, expertise and contribution to the society over many decades. Although, seen as a mountain and moorland and Welsh pony judge, Ann judged many different showing classes with equal skill and expertise.

Her Colne Stud of Welsh Mountain ponies, established in 1972, with her late mother Elizabeth Devonish and then with her husband Alan, bred Welsh Mountain ponies, that had wonderful temperaments for children and was extremely successful. Many of her ponies were no strangers to competing and winning at the Horse of the Year Show, the Royal Welsh and other major shows. Others were sold around the world leaving their mark on the Welsh Stud Book. She was a winner of the highest accolade afforded to a member of the WPCS, the Brodrick Trophy.

It was however, the small section B mare Colne Heiress, who having won the plaited lead rein class and mini championship at the Horse of the Year Show, then took the Supreme accolade in 1998 that provided her with one her most memorable moments.

With her husband Alan, they sponsored the Colne Mountain and Moorland Lead Rein class and mini championship at the Horse of the Year Show, celebrating 25 years of continuous sponsorship in 2022, the longest sponsorship in the show’s history.

Our condolences, prayers and love to go her husband Alan and her family at this very sad time.