In a case that has sent shockwaves through Britain's equestrian community, a distinguished horse riding instructor has been handed a five-year prison sentence for engaging in sexual activity with an underage girl during a threesome with his showjumper partner.
Freddie Tait, a 31-year-old instructor who once coached at prestigious riding schools, was described by the judge as having "exploited a vulnerable teenager" for his own sexual gratification. The court heard how Tait and his girlfriend, professional showjumper Florence May, both participated in sexual activity with the 16-year-old girl at their countryside property.
A Troubling Pattern of Behaviour
The disturbing events unfolded when the young victim, who cannot be named for legal reasons, became involved with the couple through equestrian circles. Prosecutors revealed that Tait had initially contacted the girl via social media before the illicit encounters began.
"This was a clear case of grooming and exploitation," the prosecutor stated during sentencing. "The defendant used his position of trust within the riding community to gain access to a vulnerable young person."
Dramatic Sentencing Divide
While Tait received an immediate custodial sentence, his 28-year-old girlfriend Florence May avoided prison entirely. She was handed a 21-month sentence, suspended for two years, after the court accepted she had shown genuine remorse and had been influenced by her dominant partner.
Judge Sarah Johnston told Tait: "You were in a position of trust and authority. You exploited a young, impressionable girl for your own sexual pleasure. The age difference and power dynamics make this particularly serious."
Impact on the Victim
The court heard a powerful victim impact statement describing how the experience had left the young girl traumatised and struggling with her mental health. "She trusted you as figures in a community she admired," the judge told the defendants. "That trust was profoundly betrayed."
The victim's family expressed relief at the sentencing but emphasised the long-term damage caused by the defendants' actions. "No sentence can truly compensate for what was taken from our daughter," they stated outside the courtroom.
Fallout in Equestrian Circles
The scandal has prompted serious questions about safeguarding practices within British riding schools and equestrian centres. Several establishments where Tait previously worked have issued statements reaffirming their commitment to child protection policies.
British Equestrian Federation representatives declined to comment on the specific case but emphasised their "zero-tolerance approach to any form of abuse or exploitation within the sport."
Both defendants have been placed on the sex offenders register, and Tait will be subject to a sexual harm prevention order indefinitely upon his release.
