Lori Walsh (Junior Director). Nominated as Fossilfield’s Youth Ambassador 2022, Lori has been an inspirational role model and the driving force behind developing the equine-facilitated programmes which Fossilfield offers. Finding herself isolated during the Covid-19 pandemic she demonstrated a remarkable level of resilience and dedication to the welfare of the racehorses at Lucinda Russell Racing, Kinross. Her level of maturity and passion was recognised by her employer when she was nominated for the Godolphin Stable Staff Newcomer Award in 2022 at the age of 17.
Setting up Fossilfield Training Centre in partnership with her parents, her mission was to allow other young people opportunities to challenge themselves and discover positive pathways that were meaningful to them. Lori continues to be actively involved and is a Level 2 Race Coach supporting young riders into her Industry.
Lucy-Lee Crawford (Youth Ambassador 2023). Lucy joined Fossilfield in 2022 as part of an initiative to prevent Educational Disengagement. Working through a Leadership Programme she developed her confidence and team-building skills and now leads the Gallop Club as Head Lass. With her special bond with Emissaire (one of our end of career racehorses) she has became an accomplished rider and is working through her qualifications for Equestrian Coaching.
Lucy-Lee is currently completing her education and hopes to become an Agricultural Engineer.
Archie Patterson (Youth Ambassador 2024). Archie joined Fossilfield when he was 13 and has participated in the Do You Know How to Ride a Racehorse Scholarship Programme. He successfully completed his SCQF Level 4 Horse Care, Scottish Racing Academy (2023) and most recently undertook the SCQF Level 5 Introduction to Racehorse Care, Fossilfield (2024). He gained work experience as a Stable Hand at Ian Duncan Racing, Coylton and with Lucinda Russell Racing, Kinross as a Work Rider. Archie recently started his Apprenticeship to become a farrier (2025).
Matthew McGill (Youth Ambassador 2025). Matthew joined Fossilfield in 2024 as part of the No-one Left Behind Employment Initiative in partnership with East Ayrshire Council. Matthew was awarded the Most Improved Volunteer 2024 for his dedication in helping with morning stables, grooming and tack cleaning. Matthew also developed a particular passion for providing the Centre’s dogs, Samson & Bullet, with enrichment activities. Matthew has now re-engaged with his community and has started volunteering once a week with a local dog walking service.