Last week, I had the privilege of exhibiting Lockwood Smocks at the prestigious Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead — one of the most iconic events on the British equestrian calendar. Nestled in the members’ area with the stand fully set up, it quickly became clear that something bigger than sales was happening: a real connection with people who are ready for change in the country clothing world.

British-Made, Not Just British-Branded

What stood out the most this week was how many people stopped at my stand to share the same frustration: the status quo in the so-called “British heritage” clothing market. So many brands push the narrative of “British tradition” and “country roots,” yet they manufacture overseas, slap on a tweed collar, and call it homegrown. People are waking up to it — and they’re tired of being misled.

The conversations I had with visitors, customers, and fellow exhibitors made it clear: Lockwood Smocks is offering something different. Something honest. Something real. A brand that’s actually made in Britain, by real people in real British factories, with the craftsmanship and care that used to define this country’s industry.

The Camaraderie of the Circuit

For someone with a military background, I often miss the camaraderie and the team spirit of being on operations or exercise. But this week, I found that same energy on the show circuit.

It was brilliant to catch up with so many fellow exhibitors and traders who share the same ethos. A special thank you to:

    •    Espayo Equestrian – always a class act and great to be alongside you.

    •    Barker’s Equestrian – solid stand neighbours with plenty of good craic.

    •    Suzanne Sherratt Designs – huge congratulations on winning Best Non-Equine Trade Stand! Your stand was nothing short of stunning.

    •    Daniel P Britten – kept me fuelled with top-tier grub all week. Legend.

And of course, the girls at Blackheart Equestrian who gave me a few golden tips for social media (I’m trying to get better). Whether it was chatting products, swapping marketing insights, or just having a laugh between the busy waves of customers — the camaraderie was real.

New Faces, Old Friends

Between meeting new supporters of the brand and catching up with familiar faces, this show felt like the Lockwood community is really growing. I lost count of the number of times someone came up and said, “I’ve been following you online — I love what you’re doing.” Moments like that make all the long days and late nights worth it.

The horses, the people, the energy of it all — I’m really starting to bloody enjoy my life on the show circuit.

Why It Matters

Exhibiting at events like the Royal International isn’t just about shifting smocks or collecting emails. It’s about spreading the message that British manufacturing isn’t dead — it’s just been ignored. And I’m here, with Lockwood Smocks, to put it back on the map.

If you visited the stand, thank you. If you bought something — you’re now part of a growing tribe that’s refusing to accept mediocrity wrapped in “British branding.” You’re backing the real deal.

Until the next show — thank you for the support. Let’s keep flying the flag for real British craftsmanship.