By Eamonn Harrington DipWCF, Farrier Upskilling Course, Enniskillen Campus

Having attended Enniskillen Campus for two days in every month, I had worked hard, under the guidance of staff, to bring my understanding of the horse’s anatomy and physiology and my practical skills to ‘concert pitch’. My ambition was to become a qualified member of the farriery profession.

The recent rounds of the Diploma of the Worshipful Company of Farriers (DipWCF) examination saw my colleagues and myself sit the two and a half hour theory paper and then the practical test, which involves the fabrication and fitting of two horse shoes to a high standard. I’m pleased to say that we achieved a 100 percent pass rate, demonstrating enough knowledge and skill to satisfy the examiners.

Two weeks later, we flew to London for the Worshipful Company of Farriers awards ceremony. Proceedings began in the early afternoon with a service of thanksgiving at Wesley’s Chapel in City Road. Just opposite the chapel are the magnificent buildings which are the home of the Honourable Artillery Company. In the company of our families, a memorable day was rounded off with the presentation of our certificates of achievement by the Master of the Worshipful Company of Farriers, Colonel Richard Kinsella-Bevan.

After a little celebration and letting down of hair in downtown London (!), we travelled home to continue our careers as qualified farriers. I think that I will be able to approach my work with more confidence in my ability to do a good professional job for my clients and to safeguard the welfare of the horses in my care. All in all, I am proud of my achievement and have found that the entire experience has required considerable effort but has been completely satisfying and very worthwhile.

Eamonn Harrington DipWCF, Sam Nelson MRCVS, Farrier Course Manager and Tutor and Peter Finnerty  DipWCF