23/02/2026
Statement on the Closure of BlackBearing Ranch
The sudden closure of BlackBearing Ranch will come as a surprise to many, and I feel it is important to address it openly.
On 24th March 2025, I was given one mission: to build the ranch, grow it into a sustainable business, and most importantly create a haven for military veterans. It was also intended to become a hub where people could learn Western riding, develop practical horsemanship skills, and be part of a welcoming Western community. A place of purpose, learning, escape, and connection. Since that day I have worked relentlessly toward that goal. From supporting veterans in crisis late at night, to building infrastructure on the ground, managing horses, handling administration, and shaping the vision, BlackBearing was never just a project to me, it was a duty.
In return for this work and commitment, I was promised one third of the land, supported by a written and signed agreement. That deadline passed without being honoured, yet I continued to invest my time, energy, and resources into building the ranch and the community around it.
Over time, disagreements became more frequent and decision making increasingly erratic. The environment began to shift away from the clear mission of helping veterans, supporting the Western riding community, and building a professional operation. It also became increasingly apparent to me that BlackBearing’s work, reputation, and community impact were being used to support planning ambitions connected to the land, rather than to genuinely support the long term future of the ranch itself. This raised serious concerns about whether the project was ever intended to develop in the way that had been presented.
The level of control and tension surrounding the situation became so significant that I found myself needing to seek counselling support simply to manage day to day interactions and maintain my wellbeing while continuing to push the project forward.
Throughout this period, I lived solely on my military pension, with any support received reinvested directly into the ranch.
After exhausting every avenue to resolve matters constructively, I reached the painful conclusion that continuing under those circumstances would not serve veterans, the Western community, supporters, or the wider network who believed in what we were building. With a heavy heart, I therefore made the decision to begin winding down operations and take legal action.
I also want to acknowledge the effect this has had on others connected to the ranch. In particular, I fully support Casey of Double CJ Horsemanship and his work ethic. Western horsemanship is not English riding, it carries a different culture, approach, and standard of partnership with the horse. Casey moved to the southwest to support the vision we were building, and he proved himself to be a true asset and a dear friend. I will continue to support him as he forges his own path in the region, and I have no doubt he will succeed through his dedication and integrity.
I want to sincerely apologise to the many individuals, businesses, veterans, riders, and supporters who placed their trust in BlackBearing Ranch and were affected by this outcome. Your support meant everything, and I do not take that lightly.
Sadly, the experience of working alongside others who did not share the same values and standards that I did has left a sour taste in my mouth, and at this time I simply cannot bring myself to get back in the saddle.
Thank you to everyone who stood with me. You all know the situation i have been in and the continued support means alot.
James Prideaux
Director, BlackBearing Ltd
