TRIBUTES have been paid to an inspirational and well-respected South Cumbria horsewoman who was a leading light and stalwart of an equine charity and agricultural show. 

Jean Rogers, of Cartmel, who was the British Horse Society North of England chairwoman, died on March 12. 

Mrs Rogers, 78, dedicated decades to the charity as a renowned BHS instructor, examiner, welfare officer and chairwoman in Cumbria and the north. 

She won the prestigious Bodynfoel Award for excellent service with her husband David in 2013. 

The award was presented by actor and BHS president, Martin Clunes. 

For some 50 years Mrs Rogers was an integral part of Cartmel Agricultural Show, as a committee member, chief horse steward and this year’s president. 

On behalf of the family, Mrs Rogers’ niece, Sarah Richardson, paid tribute saying: “Jean was a remarkable horsewoman with a huge amount of knowledge, but to us she was a loving wife to uncle David, sister to John, Ann, Michael and Terry, aunt and great aunt. 

“Jean was a loyal friend to many and if she was asked to help someone, she would oblige willingly. 

“Jean will sadly leave a huge gap in our lives, but her legacy will continue through the generations of riders she taught to ride, who I’m confident will never forget her. 

“The number of internet messages, letters, cards and emails uncle David and our family have received has been overwhelming, and we would like to thank everyone who has taken time to share their memories of Jean with us. 

"It is a great comfort that she was so well thought of by so many people. Thank you.” 

On behalf of the BHS, north regional manager, Wendy Suddes, said: “Many in the horse world will remember Jean with the greatest admiration. 

“Her knowledge and expertise, borne of an inquisitive and open mind, were qualities integral to her beloved roles as a teacher, judge, chief examiner and equine welfare officer. 

“Jean’s unshakeable, lifelong, love of horses and commitment to their care and welfare, influenced every part of her existence and her equestrian interests were uniquely broad. 

“She was always an innately passionate advocate of The British Horse Society and all that it represents, working as a dedicated and valued volunteer for decades with devoted husband David never far from her side. 

“Jean successfully trained innumerable examination candidates, grass roots riders and competitors across all of the major disciplines. 

“Her energy was unrelenting and Jean enjoyed an enviable reputation for seeing challenges rather than problems for both herself and those around her. 

“Jean was innately tenacious and her determination to make good things happen – or indeed stop bad things happening – was remarkable. 

“We are stunned by this dreadful, untimely loss of such a widely respected horsewoman and cherished member of the BHS community. Our thoughts are with David at this very difficult time.” 

Cartmel Agricultural Show’s secretary, Sarah Dickinson, sent condolences to the family and said: “We are shocked and saddened, Jean will be very sadly missed. 

“Jean was our 2016 president, she was elected in February and she was humbled and honoured. 

"She has done so much for the show, she was instrumental. 

“She was extremely knowledgeable, and her enthusiasm and commitment was amazing.” 

Mrs Rogers’ funeral is on Wednesday at 11.30am at St Peter's Church, Field Broughton.