The Foundation is extremely proud to count Suzie Fletcher as our Patron and Supporter.
Suzie is a Master English Saddle Maker and member of the Society of Master Saddlers. She also specializes in the restoration and repair of Saddles, Leather Goods and Solid Leather Furniture from her workshop in Oxfordshire.
Suzie has been an avid horse rider since her early childhood and it was no surprise that she found herself drawn to an Equestrian based trade. Traditionally a male occupation, Suzie was determined to become a Master Saddle Marker and began her training in 1975 with Ken Langford, Master Saddler and former president of the Society of Master Saddlers. This training was followed by two years at Cordwainers College in London and upon completion of her formal training, Suzie completed apprenticeships under several Master Saddlers to gain her knowledge in all saddlery skills. Among the group of distinguished Master Saddlers, Suzie worked with William Turner, the then appointed harness maker to the Queen of England and Suzie learned the fine art of harness making, including the honour of working on some of the harness sets used in many State functions.
With her combined expertise both as a rider and saddle maker, Suzie spent many years working abroad and lived in Colorado, USA acting as the authorised USA repair person for many well known saddle makers in England.
Now back in the UK permanently, Suzie has her own workshop in Oxfordshire where she continues to carry on the traditional saddlery skills, alongside the repair and restoration for other Leather Goods and Solid Leather Furniture.
Suzie Fletcher, Master Saddle Maker and member of the Society of Master Saddlers
“I am passionate about Sustainability and the leather industry’s place within a sustainable future, and that is why I am delighted to be Patron for the Sustainable Leather Foundation.
I am looking forward to being part of the drive to support improvement and to educate consumers about the natural balance that farming and the leather industry can provide as part of a long term solution for a sustainable future”