A PROFOUNDLY deaf horse riding instructor has triumphed over adversity to win a national competition for his ‘exceptional and inspiring coaching’.

Jamie Douglas, 32, was presented with the KBIS equestrian insurance instructor of the year award, after being nominated by local rider Janis Milford.

Jamie is based at The Brook near Bittaford, home of the Erme Valley Riding for the Disabled group, and is the son of the centre’s founder and managing director Peggy Douglas.

Initially winning through to the top ten nationally, Jamie’s teaching was assessed by guest judge and top instructor David Sheerin. Picking Jamie as overall winner, David said that he ‘ticks all the boxes of a good instructor’ and shows ‘real commitment’ to his clients.

A talented rider himself, those close to Jamie believe that his disability gives him a unique ‘feel’ for both horse and rider.

His mum Peggy said she was ‘very proud’ that Jamie’s communication difficulties had not stopped him reaching the top of his chosen career. She added: ‘In many ways his disability makes him the coach he is, he is very aware and never misses anything, is always thinking of new ideas, and is particularly good with nervous riders or those lacking in confidence.

‘Over the years he has competed in dressage, pony club teams, showing and show jumping. Earlier this year he spent six months working in a racing yard so he has a great depth to his knowledge.

‘Although Jamie works from The Brook, his clients are able-bodied riders. But he is always on hand to help if I get any hearing impaired riders.’

Erme Valley RDA volunteer Eleanor Halton said everyone at the centre was ‘extremely proud’. She said: ‘Jamie has been producing horses and coaches for several years. He is a talented rider and his disability has enabled him to develop an exceptional feel and ability for assessing both horse and rider - his coaching has been described as truly inspirational.

‘Jamie has always had good coaches throughout his riding career and so has always had exceptional role models to follow.

‘We are all extremely proud of Jamie’s achievement, and we would like to thank not only KBIS equestrian insurance for running the competition but also Janis Milford for nominating him.’

Jamie won a 12-month instructor’s liability policy with KBIS, clothing and continuous professional development training.