A career with horses was the only option for Catriona.

"I started in Pony Club and went on from there. Dad is a farmer in Carnoustie and, with 3 daughters, horses have taken over from farming.

School were very helpful in guiding me towards an equine career although they encouraged me to go via the academic route. This led me to undertake a BSc in Equine Science at Hartpury College. During my placement year I was a working pupil at Gleneagles where I took my SVQ level 3. I also hold the Pony Club A test, BHSAI and BHS Stage 4.

Whilst at Hartpury I spent 6 months at their Therapy Centre which inspired me later on to undertake the ITec Diploma in anatomy, physiology and massage. This was for humans, which I had to gain before being able to study the ITec Diploma in Equine Sports Massage. I am just about to take the exams so fingers crossed.

I have had many different careers opportunities and have worked with point-to-pointers, dressage and show horses. I even spent time at the Spanish Bit Riding School in Windsor.

I am now back home in Scotland where I am kept busy working as a freelance instructor, a coach at Gleneagles and human massage therapist.

There is no such thing as a typical day although I do like to spend most mornings exercising my own horse at the farm in Carnoustie. Afternoons and evenings will be spent teaching or massaging.

I have benefited greatly from the qualifications that I have gained. I have done so much each way and have gained a wide knowledge of the many different aspects of the equine industry.

Just at the moment I seem to spend most of my time driving. Studying for the equine massage qualification has meant monthly trips to Exmoor.

Working with horses is very rewarding. I enjoy seeing the clients improve and grow in their own confidence. There are great opportunities to meet people and to travel.

Looking to the future, I will hopefully gain my equine massage diploma and then my Intermediate Instructors qualification. In 5 to 10 years time I hope to be running my own rehabilitation centre where I can bring in my massage, schooling and teaching abilities.

The biggest inspiration for me has been my 2 big sisters. They both hold their Pony Club A test and are BHSIIs so the competition is on!

I would encourage anyone to take up an equine career. It is a growing industry with opportunities for everyone. It is immensely rewarding and satisfying but keeps you down to earth."