Innovative Hickstead founder dies

Douglas Bunn, the founder and owner of The All England Jumping Course at Hickstead, has died aged 81.

Bunn was regarded as a central figure in British showjumping after building and then opening the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead in 1960.

Michael Clayton, past editor of Horse and Hound, said: "Douglas Bunn was the greatest innovator in British showjumping in the post-war years.

"He succeeded in creating his personal vision virtually on his doorstep."

He added: "As well as giving Britain its most successful permanent showjumping course, which helped shape the future of the sport, he invented the entirely different sport of team chasing, which survives today, and produced many more new ideas.

"Douglas had flair as well as originality in making horse sports fun for the spectator as well as offering a new challenge to the competitor.

"He relished controversy and was never afraid to break new ground. His contribution was unique. Above all he was a true horseman."

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Hickstead
British Show Jumping Association
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