Daisy Bunn sings for the Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund

Is there no end to Daisy Bunn’s talents? Hickstead director, H&C blogger, photographer and classical singer – as we discovered at a Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund (MDIRF) charity event.

Famous faces

Daisy took to the stage for a Classically Equestrian Evening, in aid of the MDIRF and Ella Popely Memorial Fund. Daisy sang a number of solos and was also joined by a choir and special guest singers from the equestrian world, including H&C’s Head of Programming Jonathan Rippon and James Broome, son of David Broome.

Over 230 people from the equestrian world attended, with a number of famous faces including Jodie Kidd, William Whitaker, Jay Halim, news presenter Alastair Stewart and Zara Tindall who opened and closed the evening.

Incredibly emotional

During the opening Zara introduced Lea Popely, whose daughter Ella tragically died in a car crash last December. Ella was a talented showjumper with an exciting career ahead of her. Lea spoke about how loved her daughter was by the equestrian community and how much support she had received.

Ella was also the daughter of showjumper John Popely, who is a good friend of the Bunn family.

“It was an honour, albeit an incredibly emotional one, to support the Ella Popely Memorial Fund,” said Daisy. “Ella was practically part of our family, and she is missed every day. The strength of her family has been quite awe inspiring to watch, and it was lovely to have played a small part in offering tribute to her, all that she achieved and all those she touched in her tragically short life.”

Great success

As well as singing there was a raffle and auction, which is still open online. Prizes include breakfast with Nick Skelton, a lesson with Trevor Breen and an experience day at Hickstead with reigning Derby winner William Whitaker – so get bidding!

A total of £9,000 was raised on the night, and all proceeds will be shared equally between the MDIRF and Ella Popely Memorial Fund.

“As vice president of the Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund, I am delighted to have been able to support the event,” said Daisy. “The charity’s work is enormously important to our industry, and they have proved an invaluable life line, time and time again to our friends and colleagues when the worst happens.

“The evening was a great success, and I enjoyed every moment. Special thanks must go to all the wonderful musicians who gave their time so generously… and I think a campaign should be started to get James Broom on X Factor!”

Stars at the Castle

The MDIRF is holding another event at the end of April at Bolesworth Castle. Stars at the Castle will be hosted by equestrian TV presenter and commentator Steve Wilde, and special guests including Carl Hester, Trevor Breen and Alastair Stewart.

Tickets cost £195 and there are just 65 up for grabs, so book them now.