About Us

The Essex Shire Horse Association is affiliated to the Shire Horse Society and was formed in 1985 with the objectives of improving the breed and promoting the breeding of the Shire horse.

 

We are a registered charity for which volunteers work hard to promote and support the heritage of these magnificent heavy horses within our area and beyond. It still appears to be a little-known fact that many of our heavy horse breeds are now on the Rare Breed Survival lists with numbers significantly less than those of the Giant Panda. The Shire horse, like the Suffolk and Clydesdale, is in need of support and involvement from the general public and we are especially encouraging younger generations to learn the skill and knowledge to help their survival, or we risk the loss of these beautiful and graceful animals forever.

 

If you enjoy seeing the spectacle of these magnificent heavy horses and would like to see them continue to be bred and shown in this county, then please become one of our official supporters - if you would like to join the Essex Shire Horse Association, see our Membership Page to apply online or for a downloadable membership form. You do not have to own a Shire, or even a horse to become a member – just be keen to support the continuation of our heritage. We welcome offers of help at our show, even if it’s for an hour or so, and we are always eager to hear ideas on how to raise the profile of the wonderful Shire horse.

 

We also try to hold various social events throughout the year, including a popular quiz night and, weather permitting, a summer barbecue.

 

Members receive free entry to our annual show, including access to the Members’ Marquee.