THE BRITISH Equestrian Federation presented David Hunter with the BEF Medal of Honour during the para-equestrian dressage prize-giving at the Festival of Dressage, Hartpury.

The BEF Medal of Honour is primarily an award designed to recognise activities connected with international endeavours in relation to equestrian sport. It is awarded for outstanding service to the British Equestrian Federation or one of its member bodies – in this case British Dressage.

The medal, which has been recognising the achievement of individuals in the equestrian community since 1949, can be in recognition of riding prowess or other support of the British international effort.

Amanda Bond, chief executive of British Dressage said: “The achievements of Team GBR under his direction have not only been a shining light for equestrian sport, but have also helped towards the increasing dominance of Great Britain in Paralympic sport”.

Beginning his career as a British Army cavalry officer he spent a year in Saumur at the Ecole National d’Equitation, before leaving in 1993 to become Director of Equine Welfare for the ILPH and then the Chief Executive and Clerk of the Course at Fakenham Racecourse in 1998.

He has been Performance Manager to the British Para-equestrian dressage squad since 2002, leading the Brits to team and individual success, with three European, two World and two Paralympic Team titles and 33 Gold, 16 Silver and 12 Bronze Individual medals.