An image of two horses grazing together has beaten off all the other entries to win a competition to feature on the front cover of the National Equine Forum’s (NEF) 2026 programme.
Ellie Taylor took the photo of her ex-racehorse Robbie and her friend’s Appaloosa mare Tilly grazing harmoniously together in a field. The pair, who is both now retired, is close friends having lived together in Devon for several years.
“I loved looking after Robbie and Tilly as they started retired life together – they had a special bond so it’s lovely that this moment has made the front cover of the NEF programme,” said Ellie.
“They are both continuing their (hopefully) happy retirements, albeit now in different herds in different counties.”
Cover star
The image will feature on the programme cover for the 34th National Equine Forum, which takes place on Thursday 5 March 2026.
The NEF organising committee chose the winning picture from a range of images which were submitted by amateur equine photographers around the world. The photos included stunning vistas from ‘between the ears’, grazing horses and ponies and windswept UK mountain and moorlands.
Five of the pictures have been accepted by the British Equine Trade Association for their 2026 calendar competition.
‘A gorgeous reflection’
“Ellie’s picture is a gorgeous reflection of perfect harmony between two field companions,” said NEF publicity officer Sarah Shephard.
“It’s the first time we have featured two horses on the NEF programme. We feel that Robbie and Tilly are very deserving of this accolade, not least because they look so content together, showing the joy of companionship.”
Last year’s winner was Arthur, a 10-year-old rescue Shetland pony who was found abandoned in a field of cows in Devon. The photo of Arthur was taken by Amy Newton who volunteers at the charity Munchkins Miniature Shetland Rescue where Arthur lives.
Image © Ellie Taylor.
