HORSE riding was a pursuit limited to the wealthy few when a South Lakeland saddlery business first got off the ground.

Today, as Todds the Saddlers marks 60 years of trading, equestrianism is now a popular leisure pastime enjoyed by people of all ages.

And while the Kendal firm has moved with the times, reflecting changes in the society as well as the sport, the business still offers the manufacture and repair services that were in demand back at the beginning in 1948.

The late W.G. Todd, or Gordon as he was known, served his time with Thomas Atkinson and Sons and started working on his own after the business switched from saddlery to a sports outfitters.

He carried out a variety of work, from making bridle wear and head collars, to stock sheets, as well as doing repairs.

His sons, Gordon and Jim, joined him after leaving school, and now run the business with their respective wives, Mary and Helen. They employ four full and part-time staff, plus some Saturday help.