Looking after your saddle is paramount for horse and rider safety - make sure you clean your tack every time it's used and check for signs of wear and tear. You should also check your bridle for worn stitching, broken keepers and cracks in the leather. Swap your stirrup leathers over on a weekly basis so they will stretch evenly and last much longer and make sure you check the stitching around the buckles when you do so.

The flocking should be regularly adjusted. It will settle within the first 6-12 weeks of purchasing a new saddle and will need to be re-balanced. Thereafter it should be checked every 6 months and re-balanced as required to ensure no hard lumps or unevenness develops.

Every 3-4 years the flocking should be completely removed and replaced. This is because over time the saddle will absorb moisture such as sweat from your horse and this affects the cushioning effect of flocking.

Leather suffers from excessive wet and heat so if your tack gets wet don't be tempted to dry it near a radiator or fire - leave it to dry out naturally in a well ventilated place then make sure you clean and condition it before you use it again. Don't be tempted to oil it excessively - this swells the fibre in the leather and causes it to stretch. Saddles should be stored in a damp free area and make sure you use a proper saddle rack or stand to prevent damage to your saddle. Keep the saddle covered with a soft, natural-fibre cloth to avoid dust and damage - never wrap your saddle in plastic or man-made fibre as these encourage mildew and mould.

Finally - think about security. Make sure all your tack is locked away securely as saddle theft is on the increase. Always ensure that your tack is insured and consider having your saddle security stamped with your postcode. The police recover hundreds of saddles each year but unless you are able to provide the police with identifiable markings on your saddle it's highly unlikely it will be returned to you. Kevin has been approved by Thames Valley Police to security stamp your saddles. This service is free of charge – please ask when you’re having your saddles fitted. It might reduce the cost of your insurance too!