In memoriam: John Mead

It is with great sadness that British Dressage has learned of the passing of BD List 1 and FEI Judge John Mead at the age of 86, only weeks after the passing of his wife, Cath.

John enjoyed a successful career in the motor industry but it was in the equestrian world that he preferred to spend his 'downtime'. He always owned horses including Frivol who was partnered to success by Ferdi Eilberg, and had an interest in breeding too. Pursuing his passion for dressage he commenced his judge training in the early 1980s, progressing up the ranks to List 1 and ultimately FEI status.

BD Judges Director Peter Storr paid tribute: "John was a highly respected man within the judging community and dressage as a whole. His contribution to dressage over the years, both here in Great Britain and throughout the world has been immense and he'll be fondly remembered by so many for his wisdom, generosity and fairness. He was always approachable and always encouraging. We have lost an excellent judge and a dear friend. Our prayers are with his family at this sad time."

Fellow judge Sally Lidsey officiated alongside John on many occasions including at the iconic Goodwood international in 1986. "We trained at the same time. John was always reliable, and a modest, very approachable man," she said. "He experienced dressage as an owner too, and although he didn't compete, he continued to ride all his life."

All at British Dressage offer their sincere condolences to John's family and friends. He will be greatly missed by so many in the sport.

A Requiem Mass for John will be held on Thursday, 8 November 2018 at 2.30pm at Holy Cross RC Church, Signal Hayes Road, Walmley, Sutton Coldfield, West Midlands B76 2RS.