MIKE HANNIGAN
THE British Show Pony Society (BSPS) steward, whose ring policy was “no smile, no entry”, died on 12 April, aged 67.
Mike was born on 5 December 1956, in Flint, Michigan, USA. He was from a large family, with 10 siblings. Mike came to England, aged 15.
As the years passed, stewarding became a significant part of Mike's life, and he particularly loved being with the children in the working hunter ring. He would calm them and fill them with confidence before their ride and would always be on hand to help out.
He would also actively encourage smiling. This was something that Mike knew was important, not only to allay nerves before a ride, but to cultivate positivity and friendliness, something he knew was vital in life…