09/09/2026
📣 💜 Expressions of Interest – Grove District Commissioner
Dear Grove,
The time has come to begin the process of handing over the DC reins.
As of 1 January 2027, I will be stepping down as Grove’s District Commissioner.
I have honestly had the best time being DC, Assistant DC and part of our fantastic Grove Committee and community over the past eight years.
I’ve made so many wonderful friends, met countless lovely members, families and ponies, and I am incredibly proud of our branch. It has been a true privilege to share in our members journeys, their highs, lows and all those very special moments along the way.
I will always be a super fan of Grove, and I’ll never be too far away! However, the timing feels right, and I’m sure our next DC will bring fresh enthusiasm, new ideas and their own energy to the role working alongside the best committee you could ask for.
💜 Expressions of Interest – District Commissioner
The Grove Committee is inviting expressions of interest for the position of District Commissioner, commencing 1 January 2027.
The DC role is a voluntary, unpaid position as are all committee members🥰.
Ideally, the successful applicant will work alongside the Committee and me over the coming months to ensure a smooth and supported transition.
The position is open to everyone — including current Committee members, the wider Grove community and anyone outside the branch who is interested in becoming part of our fantastic Grove family.
We do, however, want to be open and honest about the commitment involved.
Being DC is a significant role and a daily commitment, with a busy Grove calendar running throughout the year. There is considerable work behind the scenes, much of which members and families will never see, alongside attending events, supporting members and volunteers, managing the branch and working closely with the Committee.
For that reason, the role may particularly suit someone with flexibility in their working life, such as someone who is part-time, retired, self-employed or otherwise able to dedicate the necessary time. It is possible to balance the role with family life, horses, hobbies and work, but it requires strong organisation, time and commitment.
That said, it is hugely rewarding. There is no better feeling than seeing our members thrive, watching their journeys develop and knowing that you have played a small part in creating opportunities and memories for them.
We want anyone considering applying to have a realistic understanding of the commitment from the outset. It is a big role, but an incredibly rewarding one.
💜 Could you help Grove?
As part of this transition, there may also be vacancies and opportunities within the Grove Committee following the appointment of our new DC.
Grove is constantly evolving, as are our Committee and wider community. We are always keen to welcome new people, ideas and enthusiasm to help us continue providing an active, successful and enjoyable branch for our members.
You do not necessarily need to join the Committee. We would also love to hear from anyone who would like to volunteer their time or become more involved in whatever way suits them.
Perhaps you have a particular discipline you would like to support, such as helping at our dressage or show jumping competitions, or you would enjoy getting involved with camp, holiday rallies, fun activities, Christmas parties, social events or other branch activities.
There are lots of different ways to get involved, and we would love to hear from you.
💜 Want to chat about it?
If you’re interested but would like to have an informal chat about what being DC or part of the Committee involves, please get in touch. There is absolutely no obligation — we are very happy to talk things through and answer any questions.
You can contact me directly on 07980 282606 or email [email protected].
I’ll will be away on holiday from 19–23 September, but will respond to queries/emails beforehand and on my return.
Likewise, any of our Committee members would be very happy to chat. They are a fantastic, approachable bunch and can give you a real insight into what being involved with Grove is like.
💜 How to apply
If you would like to be considered for the DC role, or would like to express an interest in joining or supporting the Grove Committee, please submit a CV and/or expression of interest to:
[email protected]
Deadline: 24 September 2026
The Committee will consider all applications and expressions of interest at our next meeting on 29 September at 7:30pm.
If required, applicants for the DC role may be invited to an informal interview on this date.
So, Grove, thank you for an absolutely incredible eight years. It has been a privilege, a pleasure and a whole lot of fun! 💜
Here’s to the next chapter for Grove!
Much love,
Emma x
Emma Marsden
Grove District Commissioner
[email protected] / [email protected]
07980 282606
