British Grooms Association founder Lucy Katan awarded MBE
Monday, 16 June 2025
Lucy Katan, founder and Executive Director of the British Grooms Association (BGA), has been awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in recognition of her exceptional contribution to the equestrian industry and dedication to improving the lives of grooms across the UK.
Founded in 2007, the British Grooms Association gives grooms a much-needed voice and platform within the industry. Under Lucy’s leadership, the BGA has become the trusted representative body for professional grooms, offering guidance, employment support, mental health resources, and industry advocacy.
Lucy’s tireless efforts have led to:
- National recognition of grooms’ employment rights and wellbeing,
- Groundbreaking support tools for employers via the Equestrian Employers Association (EEA),
- Key collaborations with British Equestrian and other governing bodies to raise standards across the sector.
The MBE marks a major milestone for Lucy and the BGA – not just as a personal accolade, but as a powerful moment of recognition for the essential role of grooms in the equestrian world.
“I’m deeply honoured to receive this award,” said Lucy. “But this MBE isn’t just about me, it belongs to every groom who gets up at dawn, works in all weathers, and gives everything to the horses and riders they care for. They are the backbone of our sport, and they deserve recognition, respect, and fair employment. This honour is proof that groom’s matter – and that their contribution is finally being seen, respected, and celebrated.”
Further equestrian honours include:
OBE
- Prof Dr Nat Waran, internationally recognised animal behaviour and welfare scientist, Chair of the FEI Equine Ethics and Wellbeing Commission
- Prof Stephen May, honorary fellow of the Royal Veterinary College
CBE
- David Howden, CEO of Hyperion Insurance Group Ltd, founder and president of Cornbury House Horse Trials and major funder of the Thoroughbred Aftercare Programme via The Howden Way.
MBE
- Heather Armstong, Director of the Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust
- Lucy Katan, founder of the British Grooms Association
- Grace Muir, CEO of HEROS, an ex-racehorse charity
British Empire Medal
- Susan Price, Chair of West Suffolk and Suffolk County RDA
- David Nicholls, consultant farrier at Hampshire’s Liphook Equine Hospital
- Angela Ellis, Crawley and Horsham Pony Club Secretary
Royal Victorian Medal
- Peter Harris, a groom at Hampton Court Palace Stables
- Justin Kemp, a liveried helper (caring for horses) at the Royal Mews, Buckingham Palace