Derriere Equestrian is a racing certainty for success

Dressage rider and trainer Claire Gale struggled to find supportive, non-chafing equestrian underwear, so created her own in 2013.

“Riders were reluctant to talk openly about needing padded underwear, but I was determined to change attitudes.”

Claire, who has a degree in equine physiology, sports science and nutrition, wanted to create something practical and comfortable, but also stylish and discreet for both male and female riders.

She sunk her own funds into firm Derriere Equestrian selling a racy range of pants, sports bras and riding breeches.

“My family has a strong entrepreneurial streak, so I was willing to take the risk.”

The company is based in Broadway, Worcestershire, and is short-listed in the best rural clothing or accessories category in the Rural Business Awards 2017, supported by Country Land and Business Association and online retailer Amazon.

Global sales jumped more than 20 per cent last year and could double as the firm moves into riding jackets, jeans and polo shirts, and cycling and rowing.