Saddling up for business award (From Malvern Gazette)

Saddling up for business award

10:03am Friday 29th December 2006 in News By Candice Pearson

THE Malvern Saddle Company is riding high after scooping a top award in the Countryside Alliance Best Rural Retailer competition.

The firm, run by husband and wife team Robert and Angie Jenkins, won the prize for best traditional business.

Master saddler Mr Jenkins travels the country measuring horses for side-saddles, making each bespoke item from British leather in his Little Malvern workshop.

He also carries out restoration work on saddles dating as far back as 1850, as well as making astride saddles, bridlework, driving harnesses, leather dog leads and sheepskin-lined leather bonnet straps for Morgan sports cars.

He said: "I am passionate about keeping British manufacturing alive, particularly when traditional skills and values are involved."

Clare Rowson, from Countryside Alliance, said: "We really felt that if Robert Jenkins and his small team weren't here, then the traditional saddle-making business in this country would be in danger of dying out."

“I am passionate about keeping British manufacturing alive, particularly when traditional skills and values are involved.”

Robert Jenkins

The firm now goes head-to-head with other regional winners for a shot at national glory.