Leah Redsell has been driving the 19-year-old Nutfields The Condender (Harley) since she was 10 years old, and she is now 16. In that time, she has been to countless shows and displays showcasing the abilities of the Hackney breed

Before Leah took up the reins, Harley was driven by Sophie, her stepsister. He was shown by Sophie in wagon classes and he taught her how to drive a Hackney. They won many junior whip classes too, and they also took part in ridden classes. Sophie would say that his canter was like being in an armchair and Harley loved doing the ridden classes, and was the ridden Hackney champion for six consecutive years at the Hackney Horse Society Championships.

Leah has grown up with Harley and she learnt how to drive with him. Their successful relationship is testament to the amazing bond between them. Leah could harness up and put to from an early age and if you wanted to find her, she would often be in the field with Harley, practicing their show moves.

Harley has taught her so much over the years and there is a trust between them, so that Leah knows that he will look after her. He has made all the difference to Leah and given her the confidence to drive and extend herself. He has the patience of a saint when Leah decides to make tik-toks with him as the main character!

For us, it’s simple, this Hackney is the best! He gives his heart and soul, he is never sick or sorry, he knows his job and is the most understanding horse I know. He truly looks after you in more ways than one.

Having worked with horses for many years, I’ve seldom meet a horse with such a massive character. He is the first one in the morning to greet you over the stable door and he has a cheeky sense of humour. He has brought so much joy to his human family and whatever show or event we’re at, everybody knows him. He has done a bit of everything from wagons to exercise to private drive, as well as the ridden classes.

Harley has excelled in all his activities and also loves a drive out to the local school to pick up his next junior driving student, Sonny Murrell.  It is a great testament to Harley that he has taught all the children to drive. He has exemplary manners at every event including the London Harness Parade, even though he is a full stallion.

The magic moment in his long career was to qualify for HOYS at the BDS Show at Smith’s Lawn with Leah in 2025, a moment that will never be forgotten and yes, there were tears!

Harley’s Achievements –

2025

Attended 15+ shows with Leah

Reserve Show Champion at Woodbridge Show

Reserve Show Champion at Warfield Show

Show Champion at Surrey BDS Show

Show Champion at Bucks Spectacular

Qualified for HOYS at Smiths Lawn

HHS Junior Driver Champion

Bucks Spectacular Supreme Driving Champion

2024

Attended 17+ shows and displays with Leah

Show Champion at Warfield Show

Reserve Show Champion at Woodbridge Show

BDS Show Junior Driver Champion

Amateur Champion at Hackney Championship

International Champion at Hackney Championship

Reserve Champion at Equifest

Reserve Open Champion at Hackney Championship

2023- 2019

Attended countless shows with Leah and Sophie

HHS Ridden Champion (which he won for six consecutive years)

BDS Spring Show Junior Driver Champion

HHS Private Drive Champion

HHS Junior Driver Champion

BDS Show Smith’s Lawn, Reserve Junior Champion

2020/2022 Carriage Driving Awards – British Rare Breed Horse/Pony of the Year