Obituary

John Pickford

17 November 2023

John died peacefully at home with his wife Angie and devoted friend Adam by his side.

Angie was John’s constant support when he was competing, initially with a pony pair before taking on a bigger challenge in 1996 with his team of amazing chestnut ponies.

They travelled extensively throughout Europe over the years, competing in Saumur, Breda, Donaueschingen, and eventually to Karlstetten to the 2003 Pony World Championships where the British Team were 4th.

In 2004 John started driving in the Horse Pair class after selling his ponies to America and he once again represented Great Britain in Kecskemet in 2009 at the World Championships for Horse Pairs.

When he wasn’t competing John was heavily involved in the organizing and set-up of Farleigh Driving Trials and also helping at the winter Carriage Fair at Ardingly.

He also helped regularly with Indoor Driving events. John loved supporting other drivers, especially those dipping their toe into international competition – his vast experience and cool calm manner were invaluable to several drivers and he was a great support with driving horse trucks or sometimes just ‘being there’ to give advice, often imparted with a hilarious story as he had a terrific sense of humour and enjoyed a good laugh.

John was also a long term support to Boyd Exell and a regular helper at Valkeswaard.

John will be greatly missed by many and I’m sure he’ll always be remembered with genuine affection as the quiet, kind driver with the warm smile.

Angie asks ‘If you are a driver and you knew John, then next time you’re out raise your whip, smile and say a few words to him’.

Rest in Peace John.