Meet The Team
Meet the dedicated team behind Saddle & Soul – combining years of equine experience with a deep understanding of the therapeutic power of horses to deliver personalised, nature-based services that support learning, wellbeing, and connection.
Lisa Johnstone Project Manager
Lisa Johnstone is an experienced Senior Services Manager with over 15 years in Criminal Justice, Mental Health, and Adult Social Care. She has previously lead Ministry of Justice–commissioned services supporting women in the justice system across South Central and Bedfordshire. Known for her trauma-informed, partnership-led approach, Lisa has a strong track record of turning around complex services and is widely respected as a safeguarding specialist, skilled leader, and advocate for inclusive, high-quality support for people with complex needs.
Beyond her professional career, Lisa has been deeply connected to horses since childhood. Drawn to their strength, intuition, and silent understanding, she learned not only how to ride, care for, and communicate with them, but also how to listen more deeply to herself and others. Horses have been her companions, teachers, and healers, guiding her through life’s challenges with grace and grounding.
Lisa’s lifelong passion for horses has evolved into a mission to help others experience the same powerful bond. She believes the relationship between humans and horses goes far beyond sport or recreation, offering emotional growth, self-awareness, and inner healing. Whether through equine-assisted work, mentorship, or sharing stories of how horses heal, Lisa is dedicated to creating spaces where both people and horses can thrive together.
Paul Johnstone Estates Manager
With extensive experience in every aspect of estate and equestrian management, Paul is a dedicated and highly skilled Estate Manager for Saddle and Soul, overseeing the smooth running of all operations on the property. Combining a deep knowledge of equine care with expertise in land management, facilities upkeep, and staff coordination, Paul ensures the yard operates to the highest standards for both horses and clients.
Over the course of a career spanning 14 years, Paul has successfully managed livery services, pasture rotation, stable maintenance, health and safety compliance, and budget planning. Equally adept at handling the day-to-day needs of liveries and long-term estate projects, Paul prides themselves on attention to detail, efficiency, and creating a welcoming, professional environment.
With hands-on skills in horse handling, staff training, event coordination, and client relations, Paul combines practical knowledge with strategic oversight, ensuring the yard thrives as both a business and a community. Passionate about animal welfare, sustainable land use, and operational excellence, paul is committed to keeping Saddle and soul a safe, well-maintained, and enjoyable place for horses and riders alike
Savannah Johnstone Yard Manager
Hi, I’m Savannah, a lifelong horse lover and proud yard manager at Saddle and Soul Equestrian. Growing up with horses taught me hard work, patience, and the special bond between rider and horse. I run our family livery yard, providing care for horses of all breeds and abilities, and find joy in feeding, grooming, and supporting them daily. Diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes young, horses became my strength and emotional anchor, helping me face challenges with resilience. Through my work, I aim to share the healing, connection, and inspiration that horses bring with others.
Summer Glass Yard Manager
Horses have been part of Summer’s life for as long as she can remember, inspired by her mothers love for riding at a young age and the thrill of eventing, Growing up with horses and pony’s with quirks sparked a passion that’s never faded. Today, she runs Saddle and Soul Equestrian centre with the same energy and care – blending her riding experience and knowlage of different horses and temperments with a holistic approach so every horse is happy, healthy, and ready to shine.
Ian Wilson Maintenance Manager
Ian is a retired Site Manager with over 40 years of hands-on experience in the construction industry. Throughout his distinguished career, Ian oversaw a wide range of building and maintenance projects, from residential developments to large-scale commercial builds. Known for his deep knowledge, practical problem-solving, and leadership on-site, Ian built a reputation for delivering quality results safely, on time, and within budget. Now retired, he enjoys staying active around the yard, regularly undertaking maintenance projects and putting his skills to good use.
Paula Wilson Events Organiser
There was a time when I used to be scared of horses. But through Jessica’s passion for them and my time spent helping at the yard, that fear gradually turned into confidence. I’ve come to deeply appreciate the calming, healing presence that horses offer — not just for me, but for others too.
My background working with children and young people with SEND (Special Educational Needs and Disabilities) has given me a solid foundation in understanding individual needs and creating supportive, inclusive environments. This experience helps me plan and adapt activities so that everyone can benefit from the unique connection horses provide. What started as a personal journey has become something much more meaningful — combining my past experience with a new passion that I now get to share with others.
Jess Wilson Yard Staff
Jess Wilson first joined Saddle & Soul as a volunteer in September 2024, driven by her passion for horses and a desire to gain more experience through riding lessons. Over time, her confidence and knowledge grew, and her involvement with the team deepened. Inspired by her journey, Jess purchased her own pony and chose to move them to Saddle & Soul to continue her development in a supportive environment. Now a dedicated livery, she’s actively working towards her BHS qualifications alongside Savannah and Holly, further expanding her skills and commitment to equine care.
Our Volunteers
At Saddle and Soul Equestrian, our volunteers are at the heart of everything we do. Whether they join us for work experience or come with SEN needs, each person is a valued part of our community. Working alongside our horses teaches responsibility, patience, and teamwork, while creating a welcoming space where everyone can contribute and grow. Their dedication helps us care for horses of all breeds and abilities, and in return, they discover the same healing connection and sense of purpose that horses give to us all.
Beth Robinson Vet
Robinson Equine Vet & Dental Surgery is a proudly independent ambulatory equine veterinary practice. Led by a small, dedicated team—Beth and Nicky—both recognised as Advanced Practitioners by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, the practice delivers exceptional continuity and the highest standard of care. Their expertise spans all aspects of equine veterinary care, including routine health checks, lameness and performance investigations, surgical procedures, advanced dentistry, medical diagnostics, and 24/7 emergency support. Built on reliable, long-term relationships, Robinson Equine takes the time to know each client and horse personally, tailoring every aspect of care to meet individual needs.
Brandon Joyner Farrier
Brandon Joyner, Dip WCF – Registered Farrier
Based in Dorset and Hampshire, Brandon provides professional farriery services for all disciplines, including barefoot trimming and both hot and cold shoeing. With a Diploma from the Worshipful Company of Farriers (Dip WCF), he combines skill, precision, and a passion for equine hoof health to ensure every horse is comfortable, balanced, and performing at their best. Whether your horse is in competition or enjoying leisure riding, Brandon offers a reliable, knowledgeable service tailored to your horse’s individual needs.
Nikki Green Yard Instructor
Nikki is an experienced dressage trainer and rider with a lifelong passion for horses. Her background in personnel and training skills makes her an empathetic, effective instructor, particularly for riders lacking confidence. Having overcome poor early teaching herself, Nikki values supportive, classical equitation methods that focus on harmony rather than quick fixes. She has trained with leading professionals and adapts exercises to suit all levels, helping both horse and rider improve fitness, soundness, and performance. In addition to flatwork and dressage, she offers polework sessions, drawing on a wealth of experience to create tailored, confidence-building training plans.