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A popular riding school based near Carnoustie is still going strong nearly 60 years after being founded as just a small venture.

Now there are more than 100 horses in the yard which employs 16 full-time and part-time staff.

Facilities include two small indoor schools and a sand paddock.

Rowanlea was established in 1965 by David Conchie, or Mr C as he was affectionately known, at Craigie Home Farm, Dundee, before moving out to Barry a few years later.

He was involved with horses all his working life – starting off as a horse ploughman and then hunt groom before deciding to start up the riding school.

Mr C then began to build up Rowanlea from just a few ponies.

The school has introduced hundreds of adults and children to horse riding over the years.

The founder wanted to give the opportunity for as many people as possible and of all ages to experience horse riding in an informal and friendly environment and this continues today.

The family business is now run by his son David and daughter Irene, who has enjoyed showjumping success herself.

So what was the business opportunity Mr C saw?

David said: “My father came to Broughty Ferry on holiday, liked the place and thought of pony rides on the beach for a start.

“My father just wanted to work with horses – it would take a lot to stop him.  He managed to work with horses one way or another from leaving school at age 14.”

David said the school specialises in getting riders started.

He added: “Many progress to getting their own horses, going to riding clubs, etc.

“We have about 100 riders a week, normally from within a 30-mile radius and others that come to use us any time they are in the area.”

David did not join the family business straight after finishing his education.

He explained: “I followed my father’s advice to serve my time on leaving school – doing broad based training in engineering and a full four years in metalwork before coming home to work.

“I started the shop here in 1984, and it is still going strong with I would say one of the best saddlery shops in the north-east.”

David said the riding school business is performing well, and still getting new customers.

He is hoping for another good year.

So are there many competitors out there to Rowanlea?

David responded: “There are not so many riding schools these days with costs, legislation, etc.

“We like to think we have been set up for a long time now, with a good set of horses and staff and do it at a fair price.”

David said secrets for the long-running success for the school include keeping going and trying to make little improvements every day.

This article appeared in The Courier Business Matters supplement on 25 June 2024.