W ENDY Mason-Smith has launched her new 16 Plus Rider's online clothing range to fit and flatter larger woman who ride.

Her business, which targets women of size 16 and over, was grown out of her own frustration with trying to find riding wear that fits.

"I wobble around at size 18 to 20 and I always found it difficult to get something that fits, let alone flatters and lasts," explains Wendy who is based in Torpoint.

"Waistbands that cut me in two; having to buy men's jackets and finding that not even men's extra large boots could accommodate my calves had left me in despair," she said.

With over 50 per cent of women in this country size 16 or above, Wendy saw a gap in the market.

"I wonder how many women have been put off riding by not being able to find attractive and practical clothing – the lack of availability of sizes above size 18 in particular seems to imply that a size 20 woman shouldn't be riding – but why not," she said with a determined voice.

"A lot of sites only go to size 18 which is only one above the average – I've been getting orders from people up to size 26.

"Basically I want to provide for woman like me."

Wendy has ridden all her life and at the age of 45 she bought her own horse, a beautiful black 15.3hh Friesian mare called Minke who she rides and drives.

"She is not particularly chunky but she carries me with ease, and so I decided I would do all I could to ensure that women who want to ride can find the clothing they need to give them confidence in their appearance, and comfort in the saddle," said Wendy, who has her BHSAI and is a member of the board of the Friesian Horse Association of Great Britain and Ireland

The 16 Plus Rider's online shop offers a range of stylish, flattering and practical riding wear for bigger women.

"I've deliberately chosen designers who understand the proportions of curvy women, and who also understand what it takes to be comfortable when riding," said Wendy. "Attention to design, cut, seams and fabric combine to produce riding wear which will keep you comfortable and looking your best all day, day after day."

Whether you are looking for hard-wearing, cool and flattering jods for long, warm summer days with your horse, or the ultimate in weather protection, you will find the design and fabric combination to suit your needs.

Wendy said: "You too can look gorgeous whether you are on the yard or in the show ring – all of it is designed to flatter your figure and you can be eye-catching for all the right reasons."

To find out more you can visit www.16plusrider.co.uk