H&H news editor Eleanor Jones recaps this year’s big stories, and assesses what lies ahead in 2026

Readers cast 107,337 votes to decide who would take home the trophies at this year’s Horse & Hound Awards

Shared rides, developing riders and comeback horses produced a series of hardearned victories

→ When Bella meets Chris Packham, she engages in what the wildlife presenter describes as an “ancient greeting ceremony”. That is to say, she licks his entire face. “Oh, she likes you,” says Big Issue

Kim Bailey on the new-style hurdles and repercussions from the budget

Native ponies reign in the supreme championships, with an experienced Dartmoor and a promising Highland colt each shine brightest in their respective divisions