Ross, Liveried Helper
Ross had never considered a career in the equine industry, but when he saw a Liveried Helper role advertised on the Royal Household website, he knew it was too good an opportunity to miss.
"I have always had horses at home and ridden all my life, but I'd never thought about working with horses full time before. I also wanted to be in London, so the chance to work with horses here was brilliant. "
Working in the Royal Mews, Ross cares for some of the most photographed horses in the world. However, as with any role working with horses, the average day comes with a very precise routine.
"My day starts at 5.30am or 6am. We have two horses to look after, and so I muck them out and get them tacked up, before their morning exercises at 6:50am and 9:30am. The rest of the day is normally spent cleaning kit, equipment and horses, and then preparing them for the night."
But, as Ross explains, other aspects of the role are far from average.
"There are lots of opportunities to do things I would not have been able to do elsewhere, such as riding out for official occasions. This includes collecting new ambassadors to present their credentials to The King, Trooping of the Colour, and State Visits. It's very rewarding getting the horses looking their best on the day, and seeing the results of all my hard work and preparation."
It's very rewarding getting the horses looking their best on the day, and seeing the results of all my hard work.
It's a new career path for Ross, but since starting he has been given all the support he needs, learning new skills along the way.
"I am enjoying learning how to drive horses, which I have never done before. I chose the job because I was keen to learn something new, and although I have been here for over a year, I still have lots to learn and work towards".
And finally, Ross was able to give a real insight into the sense of teamwork that is commonplace working for the Royal Household.
"There is a huge sense of community at the Royal Mews. There is a big team here, not just those working directly with the horses, but we all work towards the same goals. Working and living together means that we all get on, and there is a good social scene outside of work too."
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