OUR STORY
It all began 20 years ago at a stable yard in Argyll, Scotland.
After becoming friends with some people who were in active service, the war in Iraq began in 2001 and my friends were deployed. Over the next few years they had several further deployments and each time I met up with them I saw a change. This was completely understandable, but I couldn’t quite put my finger on what it was that had changed and I don’t think they knew themselves. We were all just in our early 20’s.
In particular, one of my friend's outlook on life changed for the worse. He - entirely understandably - didn’t want to discuss anything about his experience at war.
During this time, I had two horses of my own, so I invited these military veterans up to the small yard I was renting out. We relaxed in the calming environment, hung out with the horses, chatted and even rode the horses - it was a great few days.
To our surprise, our friend, who had become very distant, spent the following days at the stables. I found him go from being very quiet and non-engaging to talking, hugging and grooming one of my horses, and then at one point breaking down in tears and opening up like never before.
At first neither of us understood what was the catalyst for this outpouring of emotion; but, as we spoke, we realised that it was my horse who helped him address his inner thoughts. It may sound nonsensical to some, but having been around horses my whole life I understood. And so the idea, concept and dream of The Haven at Vanguard began.
It’s taken me the best part of those 20 years to get to where I am, with lots of sectors telling me that it wasn’t a feasible concept and my time would be wasted. I never let that deter me, continuing to focus on finding the correct location to conduct the work I've dreamt in doing with horses helping our Military and Emergency Service Heroes.
So finally, in May 2021, we got Charity status for The Haven at Vanguard. Our trustees are all from very different backgrounds, but we all share a strong desire to help as many different people as we can. It's been along journey, but I personally am looking forward to what lies ahead.
Why are we called
"The Haven at Vanguard"?
To begin, "The Haven" was chosen as we want you to treat this place as your wee safe haven, where the tranquility and stunning views of our yard help you to be calm, steady and relaxed.
"Vanguard" was chosen for several reasons: first, it's a homage to our founder’s papa, who bred Clydesdale horses and show jumpers. His Cawdor Cup winning stallion was called "Hillhouse Vanguard" and he represented the epitome of the breed - strong and powerful, yet graceful and gentle.
Horses, specifically Clydesdales, have a great deal of history with the military, with many of them being used in the First and Second World War.
Additionally, the word 'Vanguard' has an association with the military. In the dictionary, the definition of "Vanguard" is “The leading division or units of a military force.” Considering this, we believe it’s all very apt, given that our main focus is to support our military veterans.