The History of Sheepgate The name Sheepgate has strong religious connotations, there being a gated entrance to the City of Jerusalem sharing our name and metaphorically "Whoever enters through me will be safe. He will go in and out, and find pasture." Our location has a different, simpler and more down to earth interpretation. Years ago, centuries rather than decades, what is now the A52 bounded the natural land reclamation from the sea and to the east was a strip of land which at Leverton was about 1/2 mile wide, gated at either side and used for grazing sheep. Today Sheepgate Nursery is home
			to a diversity of business interests, including of course, the Equestrian Centre, which is now close to fulfilling the aspirations of the Grant/Payne families. The "Tiny acorns to mighty oak trees" certainly applies when the humble beginnings are examined. The 50 quid pony bought as a grass cutter 25 years ago triggered an interest into a hobby and in time, as the wallet emptied, into an oak tree of a business. The indoor school was opened in September 1997, and the next four years saw more stables, paddocks fenced, the competition arenas, the "Grandstand" and a comprehensive Tack and Clothing Shop.		The whole now represents a viable and sustainable proposition giving this part of the Country a Centre of excellence whether it be as a Riding School, Training Yard or Competition Venue. To date all activities are run and controlled by family, a fact which strongly contributes to Sheepgate's reputation for creating a friendly hospitable atmosphere for competitions. The Young Rider Festival is Sheepgate`s biggest competition undertaking so far and by the time you read this you will have made your own decision about the meaning of the word "Excellence". Bruce Grant bgrant@sheepgate.co.uk