Midcheshire Independent Issue 182

15 AUGUST 2025 Visit our website: www.independentnewspapers.co.uk T: 0161 480 8171 | E: info@damartraining.com or visit our website: www.damartraining.com A specialist provider of apprentice recruitment and training ALL smiles! Emily Carter and her ride Buachaill Acla shared a special moment a f ter being crowned national champions. Emily is a member of King’s School’s talented equestrian team – one of the strongest squads of young riders in the country Taking part in the National School’s Championships, held at Hickstead, the spiritual home of English equestrianism, the Mac- clesfield school’s riders achieved a brilliant double in the Eventers Challenge, with a stunning seven top places in seven other classes. With teams entering from schools across the country, the results proved that young Chesh- ire riders are among the crème de la crème. The squad of Rubi Ambrey Brosnahan, Emily Carter, Poppy Holding, Oliver Ravenscroft, Lacey Barton Firbank, Ruby Barton Firbank, Libby James and Nina Robinson have had a stellar 2025 season. They quali- fied for 11 championship classes across three disciplines: Even- ters Challenge, Show Jumping and Dressage. The winning double came in the Eventers Challenge, a heart-pounding combination of show jumping and cross-country fences, including logs, ditches, and water, all in one continu- ous round of around 25 jump- ing elements. Rubi, Emily, Poppy and Oliver kicked off the weekend in style, taking first place in the 105cm class and another first place and national title in the 95cm class. King’s other Eventers Chal- lenge teams also put in top class performances, with Poppy, Lacey, Ruby and Libby securing ninth in the 85cm class, and Lacey, Ruby, Libby and Nina achiev- ing a respectable 19th in the 75cm class. In Show Jumping, Lacey, Ruby, Libby and Nina jumped their way to fourth place in the 75cm class. Libby, Lacey, and Ruby, also tack- led the 85cm class, finishing 17th. With two national titles under their belts, Rubi, Emily, Poppy and Oliver earned second place in the 95cm class and a solid sixth place in the 105cm class. King’s riders then demon- strated their prowess in Dres- sage. The preliminary team of Emily, Oliver, Libby, and Poppy performed beautifully, securing 6th place with the Open team of Poppy, Rubi, Emily and Oliver impressing the judges with their elegance and precision, earning a well-deserved third place. Rubi Ambrey Brosnahan also qualified as an individual and rode to a third place in the Novice Individual Final. Poppy Holding and Rubi Ambrey Brosnahan, have earned national selection for the Wales and West Midlands team and will compete in the prestigious Bishop Burton trials. Young riders show off their champion class Stellar season: Rubi Ambrey Brosnahan and Poppy Holding on Kieran and Macy A FUN primary school competition has helped young people across Cheshire East focus on recycling. The ‘Small hands, big impact’ compe- tition invited schools in the borough to learn about composting and recycle their food and garden waste. Each school got a free compost bin and children were given help and advice on how to use them. A total of 16 primary schools and one youth club for primary-aged chil- dren took part, reaching more than 3,000 students and staff. More than 500 pupils got their hands dirty with fun composting activities during the competition. The joint winners of the competition were Acton CE Primary Academy in Nantwich and Smallwood C of E Pri- mary Academy. St John the Evangelist Church of England Primary School in Macclesfield and Daven Primary School in Congleton were runners-up. All schools were praised for their hard work and dedication to being eco-friendly. David Jefferay, who chairs Cheshire East Council’s environment and com- munities committee, said: “Getting young people involved in recycling and composting helps them see how small actions can make a big impact at school, at home, and in their communities. “ Thei r enthusiasm reflects the power of local action to reduce food waste and boost recycling. “They’re learning that it’s not just good for the planet, it’s something they can do right now. Their excitement and knowledge show how hands-on learning builds lifelong habits.” Pupils Molly and Theodore, both age six, from Smallwood C of E Primary Academy said: “We put in cardboard, leftover food and egg boxes, potato leaves and bits of newspaper. It was lots of fun!” The council’s recycling team continues to build strong relationships with schools across the borough as part of its mission to promote recycling and reduce waste. Eco-friendly youngsters are recycling winners