Gillian Carlisle – Chief Executive
Gillian joined BTRC in June 2015 and was instrumental in the planning of the Charity’s 25th Anniversary in 2016, including the rebranding of the Centre to become The British Thoroughbred Retraining Centre.
Gillian came from a professional background in operational management specialising in B2B, CRM, Marketing and Strategy development in the commercial and not-for-profit sectors in Ireland, United States and Hong Kong. Previous to joining BTRC she held the position of Equestrian Manager for the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Gillian managed the HKJC Beas River facilities as well as being responsible for the rehabilitation and retraining of the retired racehorse population that were not exported by their race owners and overseeing the rehabilitation stables for active racehorses at BREC. As ninety-five percent of all the horses in riding schools and private livery stables in Hong Kong are retrained retired racehorses this provided Gillian with a huge amount of experience in this unique area which spans across the racing and equestrian industries.
Privately, horses have always been a huge part of Gillian’s life and she has been involved in equestrian sport for 30 years, riding competitively in both show jumping and eventing and being a registered BHS Trainer (BHSII,SM/BHS Level 4 Senior Eventing Coach).
In 2016 Gillian was awarded a full scholarship by the Racing Foundation to represent the horse welfare sector on the British Horseracing Authority’s (BHA) supported Thoroughbred Horseracing Industries, MBA at the University of Liverpool. Gillian’s thesis was completed on behalf of the BHA and consisted of researching the welfare challenges facing retired racehorses in racing jurisdictions throughout the world, in order to provide an overview on International Aftercare and retraining practices. Following this, Gillian completed a post graduate course in International Animal Welfare, Ethics and Law at the University of Edinburgh, Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies.
Holly Hunter – Equine Coordinator
Holly joined the BTRC in June 2015 after gaining valuable experience working at several showing yards across Lancashire. She holds her BHS Stage 1 qualification as well as an NVQ Level 3 in Horse Care and Management, providing her with a strong foundation in equine welfare and professional yard standards. Holly first worked at the BTRC as a Stable Staff member for three years. After returning from maternity leave, she stepped into the role of Equine Coordinator—a position that perfectly suits her organisation, knowledge, and dedication. In this role, Holly is responsible for finding the right forever homes for our horses and overseeing the welfare of all horses currently out on loan. An integral part of the day-to-day running of the yard, Holly maintains exceptionally high standards for both the horses and the facilities. She is known as the team’s expert matchmaker, carefully pairing each horse with the most suitable loaner to ensure long-term success. Her responsibilities include managing and supporting the 130+ horses we have out on loan, a huge task that she approaches with commitment, attention to detail, and genuine care.
Holly works tirelessly behind the scenes and knows the BTRC inside out. If you phone the Centre to enquire about loaning a horse, chances are the friendly and knowledgeable voice you’ll hear is Holly’s. Her experience, passion, and deep understanding of each horse make her an invaluable member of the BTRC team.
Gordon Sidlow BVMS MRCVS – BTRC Consultant Vet
Gordon has been the consultant veterinary surgeon for the centre since 2015. As such he visits us at least once a month to assess how all the horses are progressing and attempt to alleviate the lameness and other issues that are thrown up by the retraining process. He also supports the centre by participating in CPD days or industry demonstrations and events that the Charity hosts to promote their work and British Racehorse Aftercare. Gordon has a great deal of experience with retired Thoroughbreds, he was the first equestrian vet for the Hong Kong Jockey Club from 1996 – 2009 and during that period worked with over 2000 horses which were retired from racing and retrained for use in Hong Kong riding schools or for equestrian use in China. As well as caring for riding school and racing horses in Hong Kong and working as a treating vet for the 2008 Olympic Games. He still visits China regularly and continues to monitor the health and welfare of retired HKJC horses throughout the country. Since returning to the UK Gordon runs the equine side of a busy mixed practice in Mid Devon and frequently officiates as an FEI Veterinary Delegate at competitions both In the UK and overseas. He also regularly flies with horses for both racing and equestrian competitions throughout Asia. Gordon’s many years of working with retired Thoroughbreds has led to an understanding that many of their lameness and apparent behavioural issues in retirement can be attributed to back and sacroiliac pain and has allowed him to develop treatment protocols which recognise this situation and to encourage as many horses as possible to take up equestrian careers.
Molly Wilson – Operations Manager
Molly joined BTRC in 2020 as part-time Stable Staff and quickly discovered her passion for the organisation and its mission. She soon progressed to full-time Stable Supervisor before moving into the administrative team as Office Support Manager. In mid-2025, Molly became BTRC’s Operations Manager, where she now oversees the smooth and efficient running of the Centre. Having worked both on the yard and in the office, Molly brings a comprehensive understanding of how every part of BTRC functions. She still prides herself on knowing every horse by name as they arrive and loves keeping involved with their progress through their programmes, especially as they reach the rewarding stage of being rehomed. Thoroughbreds hold a special place in Molly’s heart, and she remains deeply passionate about the work BTRC does to support them. Horses have been a part of Molly’s life from an early age. A long-standing member of Oxenholme Pony Club, she competed in various disciplines and particularly enjoyed coaching the Pony Club Games team for several years. Outside of work, she keeps her own much-loved horses, including Faith, her 27-year-old mare—and, in what everyone at BTRC saw coming, the inevitable happened and Molly ended up taking a horse home from work. Bee Crossing, a BTRC horse she has had on loan for over two years, is now firmly part of the family. These days Molly enjoys a quieter riding life, mainly hacking and taking part in the occasional fun ride or clinic, with her focus simply on keeping her horses happy and healthy..
If you call BTRC, you’ll most likely speak to Molly—always ready to help with a friendly voice and a wealth of knowledge.
Paige Dodgson – Weekend Stable Staff
Paige joined BTRC in March 2024 working weekends around college where she has now completed Level 2 Equine Management and is currently studying Level 3 Equine Management. Paige is also preparing for her BHS stages, and hoped to complete one and two soon with the aim of completing stage three in the future. She is passionate about horses and hopes to have a career in the equine industry.
Paige has been been riding since the age of three, and spends most of her spare time with horses. She owns a sports cob Queenie, who she competes at local shows, and has also recently bought a 2 year old sports horse called Belle who she is slowly producing.
Hattie Jones – Apprentice Stable Staff
Having finished school in Summer 2024, Hattie chose to embark on a Level 2 Equine (Racing) Apprenticeship with the BTRC. This apprenticeship will see Hattie working and training at BTRC in partnership with Myerscough College and the Scottish Racing Academy.
Hattie chose to complete an apprenticeship as she has a love of horses and wants to expand her knowledge in the racing industry and also the rehabilitation of retired racehorses.
Evie Hayward – Stable Staff
Evie has been around horses since the age of five and spent as much time riding as she could while growing up. Her passion for horses led her to study Horse Management at college, where she gained valuable hands-on experience through multiple placements on livery yards. She particularly enjoyed the opportunities she had to work with Thoroughbreds, whose character and athleticism sparked a strong interest in the breed. During her time at Craven College, Evie successfully achieved her Level 1 and Level 2 qualifications in Equine Care. These courses strengthened her practical skills and deepened her understanding of horse welfare, management, and everyday yard routines. When Evie began looking for a role where she could put her knowledge and enthusiasm to good use, she didn’t hesitate when a position at the BTRC became available. Joining the team felt like the perfect opportunity to work with horses she loves while continuing to learn and develop her skills in a supportive and rewarding environment. Evie is a fantastic addition to the team, bringing enthusiasm, commitment, and a strong work ethic to everything she does at the BTRC.Rosie Rumney – Rider Groom
Rosie joined the BTRC in mid-2025 after completing her university studies. With over 16 years of riding experience, she has spent much of her life around horses and regularly competes with her own. Her strong academic background and practical experience make her a valuable addition to the team. Rosie graduated from Hartpury University with a First-Class BA (Hons) degree in International Horseracing Business. During her time at Hartpury, she developed a deep interest in equine welfare, retraining, and the wider racing industry. Alongside her studies, Rosie took on the challenge of owning and retraining her former racehorse, Boris. Under her care and training, Boris successfully transitioned into a new career, and the pair now compete together in British Showjumping competitions—an achievement Rosie is incredibly proud of. Her experience retraining Boris sparked Rosie’s passion for helping other ex-racehorses find rewarding second careers. Joining the BTRC felt like a natural next step, allowing her to combine her academic knowledge with hands-on retraining work. Rosie loves getting to know each horse, understanding their personalities, and helping them progress towards a confident and fulfilling future. Dedicated, enthusiastic, and eager to learn, Rosie is proud to be part of the BTRC team and is committed to supporting every horse as they begin the next chapter of their lives after racing.Gracie Nott – Weekend Stable Staff
Gracie joined the BTRC in 2024 and is currently studying Level 3 Equine Management at Myerscough College. Having owned horses her entire life, she has gained extensive hands-on experience from a young age, developing a strong understanding of horse care, training, and day-to-day yard life. Her natural confidence around horses and long-standing involvement in the equine world have shaped her passion for working with them. Her favourite discipline is jumping, which she enjoys for the fun and challenge it brings. With a real need for speed, she also loves a good gallop—whether on a fun ride, out in the countryside, or along the beach. At the BTRC, Gracie loves getting to know each horse individually and discovering their unique personalities. She finds it incredibly rewarding to follow their rehabilitation journeys, watching them grow in confidence and ability. Seeing horses progress through their training and move on to wonderful new homes is one of the parts of the job she enjoys most.Kaylee Everson – Apprentice Stable Staff
Kaylee joined the BTRC in 2023 as part of the weekend stable staff. During her time working weekends, she rediscovered her passion for horses, and when it came time to choose her next step after completing her GCSEs, the decision was easy. She chose to begin a Level 2 Equine (Riding) Apprenticeship with the BTRC. This apprenticeship allows Kaylee to continue working and training at the Centre while studying in partnership with Myerscough College. Before joining the BTRC, Kaylee worked at a livery yard, exercising horses that hadn’t been ridden for some time and restarting their ridden work. She focused on rebuilding their muscle, improving their way of going, and helping them become confident well rounded horses. This hands-on work inspired her long-term goals in rehabilitation and behaviour—areas she enjoys for the challenge and the opportunity to understand each horse as an individual. Horses have always been Kaylee’s passion, and she feels that the BTRC has truly helped her realise this.Millie Jeory – Rider Groom
Millie has been around horses her entire life, and her passion for them led her to the National Horseracing College in 2021. After completing the foundation course, she went on to work for Kim Bailey Racing, where she completed her apprenticeship and achieved a distinction. During her time there, Millie also held her Point-to-Point licence and was proud to have two rides for the yard—an experience that strengthened her love for racing and riding. After leaving Kim Bailey Racing, Millie moved to Ireland to work for Gordon Elliott. She spent a full racing season there, gaining invaluable experience in riding, managing horses, and travelling horses overseas for racing. This time in Ireland allowed her to broaden her knowledge of the racing industry and work with a variety of high-level horses. Millie returned to England in April 2025 and worked on a small racing yard in Oxfordshire before deciding it was time to move home and pursue a new direction. Her passion for equine welfare and her interest in supporting horses beyond their racing careers inspired her to shift her focus to the retraining and rehabilitation side of the industry. With her extensive background in racing, strong work ethic, and deep understanding of Thoroughbreds, Millie is excited to bring her experience to the BTRC and help horses thrive in their new lives after racing.Isla Slater – Weekend Stable Staff
Isla first came to the BTRC as a volunteer and quickly proved herself to be a dedicated, enthusiastic member of the team. After gaining valuable experience through volunteering, she began a weekend role with the Centre in September 2025. Isla is still in school and currently studying for her A Levels, balancing her education with her commitment to the horses at BTRC. Although Isla didn’t grow up around horses, she began riding lessons and discovered her passion for them. In 2022, she got her own Connemara pony, Prince, and the pair now enjoy a variety of activities together, always having fun and continuing to build their partnership. Through her volunteering at the BTRC, Isla realised how much she loved spending time with horses and how rewarding it was to see them progress and eventually move on to wonderful new homes. Her time here has allowed her to gain a wide range of practical skills, and her confidence has grown enormously as she has learned more about horse care, handling, and their individual personalities. Isla hopes to pursue a career as an equine vet in the future, and her experience at the BTRC is giving her a strong foundation for that ambition. With her enthusiasm, curiosity, and dedication, she is a valued part of the team and we look forward to seeing her long term plans progress.Maddy Wattam – Rehabilitation Supervisor
Maddy graduated from Myerscough University in 2022 with a First-Class BSc (Hons) in Equine Science. Her dissertation explored the effects of massage techniques on equine range of motion and stride length, and her research earned her the prestigious Oakhill Veterinary Centre Award. Inspired by her studies and her passion for supporting horses’ physical wellbeing, Maddy qualified as an Equine Sports Massage Therapist in 2023. She loves helping horses relax, feel comfortable, and perform at their best. Maddy has been riding since the age of 10 and spent many happy years at Pony Club. She got her first horse, Mai, at 15—an exciting project who sparked her long-term interest in equine rehabilitation. In August 2022, Maddy rehomed Peter Pan from the BTRC, and the pair now enjoy hacking, schooling, and fun rides together. As Rehabilitation Supervisor at the BTRC, Maddy plays a key role in managing the horses’ medical needs and supporting their physical development. She focuses on building their topline, confidence, and strength through thoughtful groundwork and tailored rehabilitation programmes. Seeing each horse progress, grow in ability, and eventually move on to their forever home is one of the most rewarding parts of her work. Dedicated, knowledgeable, and passionate about equine welfare, Maddy brings both scientific understanding and hands-on experience to the rehabilitation team, ensuring every horse receives the care and support they need.
Zoe Williams – Part Time Stable Staff
Zoe has been around horses since the age of four and has recently returned to work at the BTRC, having originally been part of the team in 2020. Her first experience working at the Centre strengthened her love for Thoroughbreds and even led to her and her mum getting one of their own—Harry, who remains a much-loved member of the family. Local to the area, Zoe has always enjoyed spending her days outdoors and being surrounded by horses. She loves getting to know each horse at the BTRC and finds it rewarding to be involved in their care and daily routines. Alongside her work at the Centre, Zoe is currently in college and preparing to study Biology at university.
Jack Plows – Stable Staff
Jack has been around horses since the age of eight and has gained a wide range of experience within the industry over the years. He has worked in several different roles, most recently spending time handling stallions and assisting with breeding—challenging yet rewarding work that strengthened his skills and deepened his understanding of equine behaviour. Jack enjoys the dedication, hard work, and problem-solving that come with caring for horses. He loves a challenge and takes pride in helping each horse feel safe, secure, and well cared for. For him, the most important part of the job is ensuring that every horse knows they are loved and supported. Alongside his experience, Jack brings a very positive attitude to the yard. He keeps the team laughing and smiling, helping create a friendly and supportive atmosphere no matter how busy the day gets.
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