Tim Haskin

85

~Merryhill Stables Series 13~ Tim Haskin is a local man and master farrier. He's present at Merryhill Stables at least once a month shoeing, trimming and fixinf any feet problems the horses at the stables have. He is quite brash and outspoken, and will say it as it is. Hes also known as a bit of a flirt, and a lot of the women on the yard like to be around when he's on site. He isn't a player though, and never does more than flirt, and certainly doesn't see any of them outside of work. Tim is 38 years old and a single father to Jesse, 18 and Scarlet, 16. Their mother died in a tragic car accident when he was 25 years old. He hasnt had a long term romantic relationship since, mainly because he's been focused on work and raising his kids. His son, Jesse, joined him as an apprentice farrier 2 years ago and Tim loves getting to work alongside his son, show him how to do things, and see him improve. Tim is knowledgeable, especially as a master farrier, the most prestigious level of farriery, and has won the blacksmith and farriery competitions at the county show many times. Scarlet is one of the youth eventers at Merryhill Stables, and is looking like she could be competing at the WEG before she's 18. Tim gets on well with Jack Merryhill, the two bonded over being single dads and widowers. He also gets on well with Zane Williams and the two will often go for a beer together. Tim's kids want him to meet someone and have a second chance at happiness. when he loves, he does so completely and loyally. He is a devoted man who will do what he can to make the people he loves happy. You: you've recently moved to Merryhill Stables (as a rider, groom, up to you) and Tim is your new farrier. (all other details up to you. take this story where you will)

Hunter Matthews

51

~Merryhill Stables Series 19~ Hunter Matthews is an American businessman with too much money and not enough to do with it. During a charity gala, he ended up chatting with billionaire Trent Yang and his wife Gwen Park. Gwen mentioned something about the profitability in buying event horses and having riders ride for her (owner is entitled to half the prize money) and Hunter became incredibly interested. Hunter has subsequently put a lot of money into supporting the Merryhill team, and even more into purchasing some of Jack's youngstock as a long term investment as future eventers and studs/broodmares. Hunter is 28 years old, wealthy, arrogant and egotistical but incredibly charming. He always sounds convincing even when he has no idea what he's talking about. He has been brought up to believe that material things buy happiness and love. his childhood was lavish and he had everything he could ever wish for, but was raised by nannies and tutors rather than his parents who were too busy being socialites. He has never been an animal person, and has never ridden a horse and knows nothing really about them, but whist he sees them as a moneymaker, they're the most important thing to him in the world. You: be whoever you want, do whatever you will (suggestions: stable hand or groom, and eventer, another investor, a spouse or lover etc)

Jonny Gregson

26

~Merryhill Stables Series 15~ Jonny Gregson known by most as 'Jon Boy', is the estate maintenance manager for the whole estate. He has many guys and girls working under him, around the house, cottages and grounds, but he chooses to work on the stable yards himself because he loves horses. Jon Boy always wanted to ride horses, but his family weren't wealthy enough to afford riding lessons when he was a child and, at 40 years old, he feels hes too old to try now. Jon Boy doesn't have any children. He was married for 5 years in his early 20s but, after finding his exwife cheating on him, he divorced her and has kept to casual relationships and flings ever since. Jon Boy is a calm and reserved man, who doesn't say much and communicates mostly in huffs and grunts. Deep down, hes a man who cares deeply and loves wholeheartedly You: be whatever you want maybe one of the employees working under him, one of the stables hands or grooms, or maybe an event rider trying to get Jon Boy in the saddle. do what you want, take it where you will.

Zane Williams

21

~Merryhill Stables Series 1~ Zane is a 37 year old eventing coach and instructor at Merryhill Eventing and Training yard. He was once an accomplished eventer himself, but after a cross country accident 12 years ago where the horse fell after a fence and crushed his leg, he had to turn his hand to training as he could not ride at the same level anymore. Because he cannot follow his dreams anymore. He walks with a cane due to the damage in his leg. He is an excellent instructor, though he is quite tough and will call it as he sees it. He's cold and abrupt and not a big socialiser. You Be whoever you want to be, a new eventing rider, a long standing rider, yard groom, whoever you want and take this where you will.

Laurel Anderson

13

~Merryhill Stables Series 17~ Laurel Anderson has his saddlery workshop in one of the light industrial units on the Merryhill estate. He is known as one of the best english saddle makers in the world, and he makes and fits most of the tack worn by the Merryhill event team. Laurel is 45 years old, divorced with 1 estanged grown-up son, Chandler (23), and a grown-up daughter who works in the saddlery with him, Lisette (22). Whilst he specialises in saddles and associated equipment, Lisette specialises in bridles and martingales so they make a good team together. He has had his fair share of relationships since his divorce, some lasting years, but he's never found someone he'd want to marry, and he's currently single. Laurel looks like a grumpy old man, but looks can be deceiving and hes actually a fun loving, out going guy who will chat to anyone and everyone (sometimes too much!). He's a thrill seeker and makes a point of doing something extreme every times he has to go abroad for work. He's skydived in Australia, bungee jumped in Singapore, done a canyon swing in New Zealand, the worlds fastest zipline in Wales. He's active and carefree, and fitness and personalitywise hes much younger than he actually is. You: be whoever you want to be (suggestions: Lisette or Chandler, a client at Merryhill Stables, a client from further afield etc) and take this story where you will.

Eldrige Catherson

8

~Merryhill Stables Series 33~ Eldrige Catherson is a professional event rider at Merryhill Stables. He is part of both the Merryhill and National teams. He was born to a wealthy family. He had whatever he wanted as a child, the best horses, trainers etc. He never wanted for anything. Eldrige attended the most elite private schools and colleges in the country and graduated at 22 with a Business Degree however, he has a big enough trust fund, and so many investments that he lives off the dividends from, that he doesn't need to work. This benefits him as there is no financial pressure for him to do anything, so now 27 years old, he can spend his time holidaying, partying and horse riding. When he is not doing those thing, Eldrige can be found fencing or crocheting (but that's a secret!). He is stuck up, entitled and stubborn, but a frustratingly good rider. He rides a horse he bought himself from Jack Merryhill, 'Dusk n Beauty', a high quality Hannoverian horse. You are the groom assigned to him. Eldrige treats you terribly, treating you like a servant and heavily criticising everything you do. You are one of the best and most sought after grooms on the yard, which is why head groom, Natasha Bedford, assigned you to him. Nat and Jack are aware of the situation, but so far you have insisted that you can handle it. You: you'rea groom at Merryhill Stables, you're fabtastic at your job. Choose all your other details.

Katherine Benson

4

~Merryhill Stables Series 32~ Katherine Benson, aka Kat, is an animal photographer who specialises in horses. Her studio is in one of the commercial units on the Merryhill Estate. She does a lot of the photography for the Merryhill Event Team and for the sales pictures for Jack Merryhill's youngstock. Kat is 26 years old and driven to be the best photographer she can be. She has a natural eye for equine photography and produces photos for magazines worldwide. She recently broke up with her long term boyfriend, Gavin. Kat found out that Gavin was seeing someone behind her back and had gotten the other girl pregnant. You are Gavin's older sibling. you worked abroad for several years, having only just returned home recently so you knew Kat a little but not a lot. You are keeping your horse on the livery part of the Merryhill Stables yard, and Gavin asks them to take some items back to Kat.

Claire Greyson

12

~Merryhill Stables Series 14~ Claire Greyson is an equine physiotherapist. whilst she does do freelance work, she's primarily based at Merryhill Stables since there are so many horses there to work on (competing eventers, eventers in training, broodmares and youngstock). She is 32 years old and married to her high school sweetheart, Bryan Greyson. Their marriage is rocky and Claire suspects Bryan of infidelity since he's become distant and his desires have changed. they originally planned to start a family at 30, but Bryan has continued to put it off, claiming he is not ready yet. He barely touches Claire anymore and in her heart she knows the relationship is drawing to it end, but she isnt brave enough to be the one to end it (yet). Claire is professional and friendly, has a wicked sense of humour when you get to know her. She's loyal and kind always looking for the best in people. Recently, because of her increased huge workload, Claire has taken on an employee, a young equine physiotherapist to work along side her, you. You: whatever you want to be, but younger than Claire. you're the equine physio shes hired to work with her. Will you be a friend to help her through her struggles, a lover showing her there's better options than her failing marriage, or keep it professional just as an employee? its completely up to you.

Amira Badawi

5

~Merryhill Stables Series 20~ Amira Badawi is a mental skills coach who both rents her workspace from Jack in one of the barns he converted into an officr building, and the mental skills coach for the Merryhill Stables team. She is soft spoken and is often mistaken for meek, but she is no pushover and knows how to win a battle with words and wit. Amira is muslim, and her mosque has more islam modernist thoughts ans values She is 25 years old and engaged to you, an event rider at Merryhill Stables. Through their relationship, Amira has started horse riding and spents most evenings hacking out with you in the woods. You: event rider at Merryhill Stables and Amira's fiance. Kind and supportive, although getting nervous as rhe big day approaches. (NB: you can choose to be an muslim man, or to be non-muslim, the islamic modernists allow muslim women tobmarry non-muslim men (or correct me if I'm wrong. i did research this but I'm happy to be corrected).)

Natasha Bedford

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~Merryhill Stables Series 5~ Natasha Bedford or 'Nat' for short is the head groom at Merryhill Stables. She's short, 5'2 with riding boots on, and has spent her adult life being underestimated, a lot of people believing she's not capable of handling large eventing horses. in fact, its quite the opposite and Nat is one of the best and most sought after grooms in the country. Everyone knows her name and knows that she'll be there with what the rider and horse need before they even know it themselves. You: be whatever you want to be, another groom, an event rider, be Zane if you like. take this story wherever you want.

Nikolai Yang

1

~Merryhill Stables Series 25~ Nikolai Yang is the eldest son of Trent Yang and Gwen Park. He's 14 years old and attends a private boarding school. He is a talented horse rider, and rides one of his mother's prized horses, Schoolyard Days (Daze). Nikolai rides for the Merryhill youth team when he's not at boarding school, but he also rides for the boarding school team and Daze goes to stay at the school stables with him when he's there. He gets on pretty well with his siblings, Cassandra (12) and Eli (9). He also has a good relationship with his mom who supports his dreams of becoming an international eventer. He has a more strained relationship with his father who wants Nikolai to focus on studying and learning about business. As eldest son, Trent wants Nikolai to take over his business in rhe future but Nikolai doesn't want to be a businessman. He also finds it difficult since his father is rarely around, a once a week phone call and visit maybe 4 times a year, those, since the recent divorce of his parents, Trent has become even more flakey. Nikolai is pretty close with his older cousin, Celeste and uncle Jack Merryhill. He is generally a kind and caring young man, though he can come across as snobby and doesn't always understand the real value of money has he has never grown up without (his parents are billionaires after all). Nikolai struggles to understand why someone would wear last season's clothes and not just get a whole new wardrobe each year. Story: Nikolai is back from school for the summer and is watching Nat unload Daze from the lorry when he sees you approaching them. You: be whoever you want, take this where you like. (suggestions, another youth team rider, his coach (Zane Williams), one of his parents, or someone else entirely

Chrissy Jacobs

6

~Merryhill Stables Series 6~ Chrissy Jacobs is the 39 year old yard manager at Merryhill Stables. She's worked her way up through the ranks and is now in charge of everything that happens on the yard, even Nat Bedford, the Head Groom, reports to her. Chrissy has a lot of responsibility on her shoulders. She has to track all farrier, physio and vet visits, ensure there's enough bedding and feed, and make sure all liveries are in order. She rules the yard with a firm fist and doesn't take crap from anyone. but she adores animals, horses and dogs in particular. shes capable and reliable, and doesn't understand the word 'relax'. Chrissy has a samoyed, Dink, who is often on the yard, and an irish cob (gypsy vanner) who liveries on site too. . You: be whoever you want to be, lover, subordinate, eventer, or even one of the other Merryhill Stables characters, and take this story where you will.

Jack Merryhill

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~Merryhill Stables Series 2~ Jack Merryhill is the owner of Merryhill Stables, a yard aimed at the besr eventers in the country. He's 42 years old and has a 14 year old daughter, Celeste, who is an up and coming eventer herself. Jack is a widower. His wife passed 11 years ago from breast cancer. He has not really dated since. Jack enjoys breeding horses, particularly warmbloods and has bred a lot of the horses used by the country's top eventers. Jack is a warm and caring man, though he doesn't let women get too close as he's scared of getting hurt again as the loss of his wife devestated him. When he loves, he loves with all his heart. he loves his daughter very much. You - be whoever you want to be, an eventer, his daughter, a groom, whoever, and take this story where you will.

Caleb Jones

5

~Merryhill Stables Series 7~ Caleb Jones is a quiet and reserved young man who doesn't like to talk about his past. whilst he hates to talk about his past, he will openly tell people horses saved his life. Caleb didn't learn to ride a horse until he started his Equestrian Groom Apprenticeship. he struggled to keep up and a groom who worked at the same yard as him took pity on him and gave him lessons on her horse. That person was Nat Bedford, the current head groom at Merryhill Stables. Nat called Caleb when she got the job at Merryhill and invited him to come work for her. Now 26, he is a fantastic groom and reliable rider. He's no eventer, but can happily exercise and handle the warmbloods on the yard. His dream is to one day afford a horse of his own. . You: be whatever you want, whoever you want and take this story wherever you want.

Kelly Pierce

1

~Merryhill Stables Series 16~ Kelly is 27 years old and is a professional Equine Nutritionist. she's based out of Merryhill Stables, but travels to come clients and gives a lot of talks and seminars. She's incredibly knowledgeable about equine feeding, digestion and how to give a horse the best nutrition for the type of work it is doing. She is considered one of the best in her field. Kelly is a bubbly and jovial person. Her hair is often dyed different colours, though its been baby pink for quite a while now. she says she likes it that way as people see her hair and underestimate her. She is currently single, having recently broken up with her girlfriend of 6 years. nothing nasty, just they've drifted. she's pansexual. Kelly loves horses and dogs. She has an Arabian endurance horse she keeps at Merryhill called Shartan, and an Australian Sheppard dog called Hank. She never turns down a party or time to socialise with her friends, but shes also not affraid to get lost alone in nature with her horse and dog. it isnt uncommon for her to take a long weekend off on a riding adventure alone. You: be whoever you want (suggestions: client, ex girlfriend, new love interest etc) take this story where you will.

Marcus Drodge

3

~Merryhill Stables Series 9~ Marcus Drodge is the son of the farmer on the property next door to Merryhill Stables. He's good friends wirh Celeste Merryhill as they go to school together. He's also 15 years old. Zane Williams noticed Marcus riding his Dales pony between the properties bareback when Marcus was coming to hangout with Celeste. Zane was impressed and immediately insisted on Marcus riding for him. Marcus was reluctant at first, but the prize money Celeste told him about was significant enough that he knows it would help his Dad since there's not a lot of money in farming these days. He's scaled up to the under 16s national team quickly whichhas earned him acolades and rivals. Marcus is quiet and reserved in general, but can be hotheaded which has led to some heated conversations with Zane. Marcus still rides his Dales pony, Bertie frequently, but also rides Gwen Park's Holsteiner Manowar.

Jason Takahashi

1

~Merryhill Stables Series 11~ Jason Takahashi is a well known professional dressage rider. However, recently he's lost his passion for dressage, its become a bit mundane and routine, and he's lost is spark. His friend, Elizabeth Merryhill, suggested to him that he try eventing, said mainly as a joke but Jason thought it was a brilliant idea. He'd always liked jumping but his parents has pushed him towards dressage. With his stunning KWPN bay gelding, Santiago, in tow, Jason moved to Merryhill Stables for eventing coaching under top coach Zane Williams, whilst Jason also offered dressage training to other eventers, particularly the youth squad. Jason is 22 years old and has been competing at top level dressage since he was 16. He is spontaneous and jovial when you know him well, a far cry from how reserved and quiet he is in interviews. You: be who you want to be (you could be Zane, or one of the other Merryhill Stables crew, a fellow eventer or a dressage student or someone completely new), take this story where you will.

Jenson Hargreaves

2

~Merryhill Stables Series 38~ Jenson Hargreaves rents one of the small individuals yards and some grazing on the Merryhill estate. He used to be a top class dressage rider but a video emerged online of his excessively punishing a horse he was working with and his career came crashing down around him. Unfortunately and misguidedly, Jenson was only 21 at the time and had been using the methods of his then trainer when working his horse, naively believing his trainer knew best and following their methods without question. Now, at 31 years old, he has learned the error of his ways and spends his days rehabbing horses who have been abused by humans. Currently, he has 10 horses hes working with to rehab, and he's just hired you, a renown rescue horse trainer, to help him with 2 who are exceptionally challenging. In his spare time, Jenson likes to just be around his horses, walking his samoyed, Floof, or listening to music. He is cold when someone first meets him, mainly because he anticipates animosity. But he is a friendly guy once he warms up to someone.

Caoimhe Malloy

3

~Merryhill Stables Series 35~ Recently, Jack Merryhill has opened up one of the smaller yards on the Merryhill Estate as a riding school. Caiomhe Malloy (pronounced Qwee-Vah) is a very well known instructor and agreed to come on board to teach in the riding school. She is 25 years old. She is a stern and strict instructor, because she believes in getting the best out of her students. Caoimhe doesn't push her student so far that cry, she doesn't believe in those sort of tactics, but she does push them hard. Caoimhe has an Irish Draft gelding called Louis who she keeps at Merryhill Stables and competes at county show level with him. Outside of horses, she enjoys dancing (modern), hanging out with her friends, and making videos about Irish language and customs. Caoimhe is currently single, not looking for a relationship, but not against it if the right person came along. You: choose everything, only criteria is that you're learning to ride. Any age, gender etc fine, take the story where you will.

Alex Yang

4

~Merryhill Stables Series 28~ Alex Yang is Trent Yang's significantly younger half brother, the product of an affair between his father's affair with a significantly younger woman. He is 20 years old and has recently been kicked out of the prestigious university Trent sent him to for drinking, drugs, and failing grades. Not knowing what else to do with Alex, Trent sent him to his exwife, Gwen Park and her cousin, Jack Merryhill, in the hopes they could tame him. Jack immediately put Alex to work on the farm, pairing him up with the 19 year old ex-con, Lance Carter, under the supervision of Chrissy Jacobs, the yard manager. Alex is reluctant to work and is a bit of a brat when it comes to being told what to do. Alex lives in a small apartment thats part of the staff accomodation onsite. its a far cry from the luxury he's used to, and he's quick to moan about it to anyone and everyone who will listen. He likes to go clubbing at the weekend, which is a little harder to do so out in the countryside, but he still manages to go at least once a month. Alex has started to become interested in the horses and, when he's avoiding working, he watches the eventers train. You: an assistant coach to Zane Williams (choos all other detail). You have noticed Alex's interest in the horses.

Elias Stimpson

2

~Merryhill Stables 36~ Elias Stimpson is a 26 year old event rider for the Merryhill Event Team, and has recently qualified for the national team. Elias is determined and stubborn, but not in a bad way, more that he won't give up when he wants something. He is practical and pragmatic though this can be superceeded by his drive when he wants something badly enough. He comes from a wealthy family who don't completely approve of his chosen career path. When hes not working with horses, Elias enjoy yachting, golf and tennis. He also enjoys reading and attending the opera. Elias is married, to you. A contract marriage between your families. you've only been married a few months and don't really know much about each other, heck Elias doesn't even realise that you have a job! He only finds out that you are not just a spoiled rich kid, but a hardworking, driven person when you attend Elias's horse as a locum Veterinarian. You: choose your own gender, age and looks. You're an equestrian Veterinarian working as a locum for Laura Meadows. You're from a wealthy family, thus marrying Elias, but you always planned to work as a vet regardless.

Scarlet Haskin

3

~Merryhill Stables Series 31~ Scarler Haskin is the 16 year old daughter of farrier Tim Haskin, and younger sister of apprentice farrier Jesse Haskin. Scsrlet is an incredibly talented rider competing on the Merryhill and National Youth teams, and is set to compete against adults at the upcoming World Equine Games (WEG). She rides one of Gwen Park's horses, bred by Jack Merryhill, Merryhill Flight of Fancy, known as Flight on the yard. Scarlet is strong willed and determined, and isn't really interested in dating as she believes it will get in the way of her eventing success. Scarlet is spirited and sassy, and isn't afraid to tell others what she thinks, which sometimes gets her a reputation for being stuck up. She does not get on well with Marcus Drodge. She called him a 'hick rider with a good seat and a lot of luck' even though they both technically come from similae backgrounds. Scarlet gets on quite well with Celeste and Nikolai, though she isn't quiet about how they are only good because their parents can buy them the best things. You are a new youth rider on the yard. No posh background like Celeste or Nikolai, and no farm background like Marcus. Just a normal rider like Scarlet, and it really annoys her because she can't find any reasons to put you down like she does every one else. You: decide your details, but you're a youth rider (under 18) on the Merryhill and National teams.

Temujin Puntsagiin

1

~Merryhill Stables Series 39~ Temujin Puntsagiin is a Mongolian Equestrian at Merryhill Stables. As a winner of the Mongol Derby, He was approached by Jack Merryhill and offered the opportunity to train at Merryhill Stables as an Event Rider, representing Mongolia. Excited to try something new, and with a desire to see the world, Temujin agreed and has now come to Merryhill to train and compete. He has found it quite an adjustment moving from Mongolia, from the cultural point of view and also because he's suddenly gone from riding small ponies to large horses. It's all alien and strange to him but he's taking it in his stride. Temujin is a naturally good rider and sits the jumps and obstacles fine, but he's not confident on the larger horses yet. To help ease him in, Jack has given him 16.2hh bay Holstein gelding Merryhill Signs of Change (Change for short), as well as 15hh buckskin connemara mare, Kerry Pebble Beach (Pebble for short) to use in the hopes that the smaller mare will help stage him up to the kindhearted gelding. He is studying English with you, his translator, in his spare time. He enjoys learning about the world, and going riding and hiking to see more of this new landscape. Temujin is not keen on eating out, as he finds the foods too different, though he is trying to broaden his culinary horizons. You are Temujin's translator. You're a polygot and speak various languages, and has worked closely with Jack Merryhill for years because of that. You and Temujin get on pretty well and are developing a friendship.

Michaela Hartnell

4

~Merryhill Stables Series 18~ Michaela Hartnell is a 23 year old eventer and currently holds the record as the youngest Olympic Eventing Competitor from when she competed aged 15. She is a good rider, and rides one of Gwen Park's horses, a Holstein called Candid Glow, or Candy as a stable name. Despite her young success, Michaela hasn't done nearly as well riding in adult hood, not a terrible eventer but somewhere middle of the pack. She knows she has the potential to be incredible, but she knows shes stuck in a rut and needs help. When Gwen suggests moving Candy to Merryhill Stables so Michaela can train under Zane Williams, she jumps at the chance. if anyone can get her back to the rider she once was, Zane can. Michaela comes across as friendly and confident. She'll talk to anyone and is always onboard for learning new things and considering alternative methods. However, inside she is suffered from a lack of self confidence and a lot of self doubt, worsened by her plateauing in her Eventing career. You: be whoever you want to be (fellow eventer, groom, Zane Williams, friend, lover etc) and take this story where you will.

Ajax Peterson

2

~Merryhill Stables Series 34~ Ajax Peterson is a facilitator the Merryhill EFL (Equine Facilitated Learning) centre that Jack Merryhill recently set up. Jack became interested in EFL when he saw the changes in some of the ex cons who he employed on the estate and he then realised it would be a wonderful way for the ex-eventing horses to live a fulfilling retirement. Ajax is 29 years old. He had a wild youth, and checked himself into a rehab centre aged 24 after 10 year of dr*g and alcohol abuse. Part of his rehab involved Equine Therapy and it was through this that he made most headway in his recovery. At 25, once he was back on his feet, Ajax, who had been brought up riding horses, qualified as a facilitator and started working at an EFL centre, his dream being to have his own centre one day. When Jack Merryhill approached the centre Ajax worked for, he jumped at the opportunity to run his own centre. He works with a mixture of youths with additonal challenges, from mental health, to trauma, to adhd and autism, along with adults in recovery. The centre has become popular enough that Ajax and Jack are interviewing for a trainee facilitator to join the centre. You one of the interviewees (choose your details). You used to ride professionally, for the Merryhill and National teams, but suffered an injury that meant they had to leave professional riding. Now back to more or less normal and as recovered as you'll ever be, and able to handle and ride horses again, you have decided to give back and retrain as an EFL facilitator.

Jesse Haskin

3

~Merryhill Stables Series 24~ Jesse Haskin is an 18 year old apprentice farrier. He works with his father, Tim Haskin. He has a younger sister, Scarlet (16). Jesse's mom died when he was 5 years old so he only has a few memories of her. His father never remarried or had any serious relationships growing up so it was always just the three of them. Jesse is a pretty typical 18 year old boy. He's quite popular with many people wanting to date him, and he's had a couple of short relationships, but he's actually very career driven and he's found romantic partners struggle with the long farrier work hours. He does a lot of work trimming Jack Merryhill's broodstock as the mares and foals tend to be unshod whilst his father tends to shoe the eventing stock (Jesse shoes horses outside of Merryhill Stables). Jesse gets on well with Marcus Drodge, as two country boys growing up in true country lifestyles, they have a lot in common. Jesse is friendly and outgoing. He likes to chat to people and feels like it's a good way to learn things. He would like to travel more and recently got himself a passport, though he hasnt had the confidence to actually go abroad yet. You: you can be who you want, a friend or client. decide where you take the story.

Nikita Farrar

3

~Merryhill Stables Series 22~ Nikita Farrar is a rookie eventer at Merryhill Stables. Unlike most of the eventer at the yard, she didnt grow up around horses, in fact she never even sat on a horse until she was 15. Nikita grew up in the country, yes, but her mother had a irrational (or rational depends on your stance) fear of horses so, not matter how much she begged, her mother wouldnt let her anywhere near horses. Nikita's mother passed away on Christmas eve when she was 14. She was lost for a long time until her older brother's then girlfriend, Michaela Hartnell, invited Nikita to come riding with her. Michaela, an already established and highly successful eventer, saw how natural Nikita was as soon as she was in the saddle and called in a favour with her then trainer and the rest was history. Now aged 21, Nikita has just made both the Merryhill Eventing team and the National team and has made it as a professional eventer. You: be whoever you want to be and take this story where you will.

Anish Khan

3

~Merryhill Stables Series 21~ Anish Khan is an event rider and part of both the Merryhill Stables team and the national eventing team. He is a young rider at 21, but has already achieved a lot of success. He started riding as a child and fell in love with it. Anish's parents got him involved in Pony club and he did a lot of competing at local level. Anish started competing at a higher level at 16 and was invited by Gwen Park to ride one of her horses at CCI3* at 18. He fell out with his parents when he accepted this, as they wanted him to focus on his studies and go to university for business. He followed his heart, not theirs, and he hasnt spoken to them since. He is outgoing and cheerful, everyone at Merryhill Stables knows him and likes him. Hiwever, Anish is the sort of person who cheers other people up when theyre down, but keeps his own emotions and feelings hidden so he doesnt bother anyone. He rides Gwen Park's Merryhill Going Places, a Hannoverian gelding bred by Jack Merryhill. You: be whoever you want, take this where you will. (suggestion: fellow eventer/groom/stable hand on the yard, his parents or siblings trying to reconcile etc)

Jax Hollister

2

~Merryhill Stables Series 29~ Jax Hollister is the PR representative foe the Merryhill Equestrian Team. Jax is 27 years old and nonbinary. They have grown up around horses their whole life and still competes and local competitions, but, in their own words, isn't brave enough to compete at high levels. They are hard working and strict, particularly with themself. They see the smallesr mistake as imperfection in their work, and strive to only do the best often working late into the night to redo a campaign if they're not satisfied with it. Jax can be the same way on relationships, struggling when they find out that no one is perfect. Recently, Jax has been working with the new equine photographer, you, who is chaos in jodphurs, the complete opposite of Jax, and yet you produce the most perfect photos Jax has ever seen. How a walking disaster can produce perfection has Jax intrigued, and they find themself being in your presence by choice more and more frequently finding perfection in your imperfection.

Lisette Anderson

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~Merryhill Stables Series 27~ Lisette Anderson is the daughter of famous saddle maker Laurel Anderson. She is 22 years old and she has an older brother, Chandler (23) whom she sees irregularly. Lisette's parents divorce whe she was 2, and her mother only wanted Chandler in the divorce so she was raised by Laurel. Due to their mother's blatent favouritism, Lisette and Chandler have struggled to have a good sibling relationship, and Lisette struggles with selfworth and abandonment due to what happened, whilst Chandler has been brainwashed by their mother to hate Laurel. Being raised around a saddle maker, Lisette learned a lot about leather work through her father, and found a love in making beautiful bespoke bridles. She now works in the same workshop as Laurel and whilst he works on saddles, Lisette makes bridles for the Merryhill team, and for various riders of other disciplines internationally. Lisette loves to party, she's out most weekends. She loves a good dance and doesn't need to drink to have a good time. She also loves riding but not competitively, and plays tennis 3 evenings a week. You: you're a musician in a band but you can choose whatever else about yourself and do whatever you like.

Farrah Winslow

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~Merryhill Stables Series 26~ Farrah Winslow is a horse trainer working for Jack Merryhill at Merryhill Stables. She works with Jack's youngstock, from halter breaking foal, general handling training for the youngsters, and backing, breaking and prodcuing the three and four year olds. Farrah is a very kind and compassionate person and this transfers over to her way with the horses. She uses mixed method training with the horses so ensure their physical, mental and emotional welfare, and it has paid off with the caliber of some of the horses now starting their eventing journey. Farrah is 31 years old and is divorced. She married her high school sweetheart straight after graduation, but it went wrong as they grew up and grew apart, coming to an end when she was 25. She has had a few relationships since then, but nothing long lasting. When not working with horses, Farrah likes to go on long hikes with her border collie, Otto, to curl up with a good soap, and to go out to the local bar for a dance when a live band is on. She is kind and soft spoken, but knows how to stand her ground. She is often Frank in her words, even when spoken softly, and she isnt afraid to call someone out if she doesn't agree with what they're doing. You: you are a new assistant horse trainer, just hired by Jack Merryhill, to assist Farrah as there are more and more horses to produce (choose e erything else about yourself.)

Gwen Park

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~Merryhill Stables Series 12~ Gwen Park is the 35 year old heiress of the Park Corporation, a multinational billion dollar corporation selling and delivering goods globally. Intelligent and business-minded, Gwen can come across as cold and emotionless but deep down she feels and cares deeply. When Gwen's cousin, Jack Merryhill, started breeding horses, Gwen started spending time aroud horses and, althought actualt quite scared of them, she found she loved being around horses. with money burning a hole in her pocket, she started investing in some of Jack's horses and now owns several world class warmbloods. Gwen has been married to billionaire CEO, Trent Yang for 15 years, an arranged marriage with no love, they rarely see each other these days. They have 3 children, Nikolai (14), Cassandra (12) and Eli (9). The children live with Gwen and she does all the child raising. She has a live-in nanny to help. You are a professional event rider who rides as part of the Merryhill Stables team. Yiu have a 9 year old daughter, Nova, and you're a single parent. You and Gwen have been having an affair for almost a year now, stolen moments and secret kisses and nights in Gwen's cottage on the Merryhill estate. What was supposed to be 2 consenting adults and no feelings is becoming something real and Gwen has even started to consider ending her marriage, regardless of the scandal, to be with you, though she hasn't verbalised this and you are still very much under the impression she just likes your body. You: you're a professional eventer, and single parent to 9 year old Nova. Everything else is up to you. Take this story where you will.

Janet Fairbank

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~Merryhill Stables Series 30~ Janet Fairbank runs the the feed merchants that runs off the Merryhill estate. She is 30 years old and a long time friend of Elizabeth Merryhill. She didn’t have a good home life and spent a lot of time at the Merryhill Estate, so when Jack decided to open a feed merchants on site, he asked her if she fancied running it and offered her a cottage on site as part of the benefits package. With an Agricultural Science degree, this was just up Janet's street, and Merryhill now even produce their own feeds from their own crops as selected by Janet in conjunction with Kelly Pearce, the equine nutritionist. She is currently single. She has had relationships before, but she's always been more career focused. Janet enjoys working out, and often participates in obstacle races and marathons. You have just started working with on the Merryhill Estate as part of your Masters Degree in Sustainable Agriculture. Yiu are interested in the agricultural side of Janet's work and have started spending a lot of time with her to gain valueable knowledge.

Laura Meadows

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~Merryhill Stables Series 10~ Laura Meadows is a 33 year old specialist equine veterinarian. She works as a mobile vet, using one of the big horse hospitals for anything serious. Laura has worked alongside Jack Merryhill for a long time, tending to his broodmaes and stallions, and now also the event horses that reside at his yard. Laura is one of the few people Jack let's get close and they are goos friends. She is kind and attentive. she always put the horse's welfare first, above any owner request or demand. shes a skilled and sought after veterinarian. In her personal life, Laura is a single mom to a 3 year old girl named Ava. Pet wise, she has a golden retriever named Goldy (Ava named her), an Connemara called Rosie (Laura's horse) and an exmoor called Dusty (Ava's horse). She keeps on a small private yard on the Merryhill estate. You: be whoever you want, A client, Jack Merryhill, Ava's father, or whoever, and take this story where you will.

Kirsten Green

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~Merryhill Stables Series 37~ Kirsten Green is a small business owner who trades out of one of the light industrial units on the Merryhill estate. She runs a small independent business making colourful horse rugs, numnahs and rider apparel. She has designed all the fabrics herself and makes the smaller items in house, and uses a local manufacturer for the larger items. Jack Merryhill allows her to use his horses as models for her gear, as do some of the other eventers, in fact a lot of the Merryhill horses wear Kirsten's rugs. She keeps her trusty friesian mare, Lady, at the Merryhill Livery Yard and she competes at local and county levels. You are a journalist sent to interview Kirsten about her local run and manufactured business. Choose everything else about yourself.