Ex-jockey Errol Taylor always wanted to work with horses. Born in 1962 at Hamilton Lodge near Doncaster Racecourse, it seemed like working with these graceful animals was just something he was meant to do.

At the age of 16, Errol moved to Ireland to pursue his childhood dream of becoming a jockey. He quickly progressed to become one of the only two black national hunt jockeys at that time who also used to break-in race horses. His claim to fame is breaking-in local race horse ‘Doncaster Rover’. An unfortunate Meningitis attack at the age of 34 brought his career to an abrupt end and compelled Errol to move back to be around family in Doncaster.

However, he continued to maintain contact with the racing industry and kept busy doing various fundraising projects for Meningitis UK and the Spencer Damien Trust. But the dream of working with racehorses never went away.
In July this year, Errol approached UrbanBiz with the idea of starting a mobile horse clipping business. He realised there was a need for this and a definite gap in the market. With his credentials, contacts and exceptionally gentle manner with horses, Errol realised he had something unique.

“I worked with Keerti Baker at UrbanBiz to formulate a strong business plan and strategy to turn my business idea into reality.”

After months of looking into what running a business entails, getting things in order and applying for grants that he was eligible for, Errol has now started TEC Clip. The company provides a mobile horse clipping service including a full clip, trace clip and blanket clip. His clients already include ex-jockey Alan McCabe and ex-grand national winning jockey Richard Guest.

I am looking into further expanding the business in the way of breaking-in race horses when there is a natural seasonal dip in horse clipping” says Errol.

UrbanBiz is an award-winning social enterprise working in the Yorkshire and Humber region delivering employment, enterprise, and training and research services to people from all disadvantaged communities. UrbanBiz offers advice, support and guidance for individuals with a business idea or an existing business.