A MOVE into new premises has given an equestrian business room to specialise in saddle fitting.

Priory Saddlery, owned by Lizzy Bunting and her business partner and fiancé, Paul Freeman, has taken over a workshop and office space at UK Steel Enterprise’s Innovation Centre on the Kirkleatham Business Park, Redcar.

The couple, who are from Redcar but now live in Saltburn, decided to focus on the supply and fitting of a whole range of saddles – from children with their first ponies right through to professional riders.

Having run an equestrian shop in Guisborough for about 10 years, they found themselves battling an increasing amount of competition from Internet and online sellers.

"Although it was a real wrench to close the shop, we realised we needed to specialise in order to grow the business," said Miss Bunting, who has a background in retail and marketing, but has a lifelong love of horses.

"Saddles can be an expensive purchase, ranging from about £400 for a synthetic saddle for a pony right up to WOW saddles that start at £2,600 and lots in between. We had always provided a wide choice of brands and offered a fitting service to help customers get the best saddle for them and their horse and avoid costly mistakes.

"I studied with the Society of Master Saddlers and became a qualified fitter in 2009. We already had a large customer base, but now we are specialising in saddle fitting we are attracting more.

"Many are from Darlington, Richmond and other local areas but we also have clients in Northumberland and Yorkshire."

The business stocks a wide range of saddles and associated tack, provides a back-up service with regular fitting checks, and offers a local repair service.

Miss Bunting said: "We were particularly keen to move into the Innovation Centre because it provides all the services and facilities we need.

"With a manned reception we know that deliveries and collections will be dealt with when we are out visiting customers and there is ample free parking.

"With shutter doors opening directly into the car park it is ideal for loading and unloading heavy saddles. We are delighted to be here and are confident about the future."

Sue Kirk of UK Steel Enterprise, the Tata Steel business-support subsidiary, said: "We have more than 80 tenants in our Innovation Centres in Redcar and Hartlepool and our aim is always to provide them with the space and facilities that they need so they can grow their business successfully and speedily."

For information, call Priory Saddlery on 01642 777 970 or visit priorysaddlery.com.