Originating as cattle dealers, T. W. Bowler Ltd moved from Offerton Farm to its present site at Shady Oak Farm, Offerton, Stockport in 1965. Founded by Thomas Bowler the business was passed to his son John who developed it further incorporating animal feeds before placing it into the capable hands of his son and present owner, Nick
Managed by Nick, the
feed business is flourishing and provides a comprehensive range of feeds, warmers and
agricultural pharmaceuticals for both farm animals and horses. Alongside which, he runs a
fleet of low loaders
with which he
has been known on several occasions to rescue damsels in distress and their broken down
horseboxes from the hard shoulder of the motorway. He has also transported the odd
emergency case to Leahurst or Ashbrooke Veterinary Hospitals in his horsebox
In 1980 the
decision was made to add items of tack and saddlery to the feed side and in 1989 the
present shop site tripled in size to allow for the massive range of saddlery and horse and
riding clothing for which T.W. Bowler is presently renowned. It was at this time
that the effervescent Lyndsey Bowler, who manages the tack shop, took on the new and now
very familiar company logo, the bowler hat. "We wanted something that would
differentiate us from other tack shops", said Lyndsey.The bowler hat was not the only
innovation and after organising three Equestrian fashion Shows at Quaffers night club and
several feed nights, which are now annual events, T.W. Bowler has raised over £12,000 for
local and equestrian charities
Both Lyndsey and Nick have a good knowledge of equine nutrition which was proved when Lyndsey's own mare Alacrity won a gold medal at the Warmblood Breed Society Show and was graded as an HIS Grade 1 mare
In the 1980's Bowlers Boarding Cattery was added to the 'Stable' of businesses - a natural extension due to Lyndsey's love of felines as well as equines! The cattery boasts the Sheraton and Dorchester suite's, aptly named due to their pristine and comfortable conditions and the loving care and attention of all the 'Cat Butlers'
Nick and Lyndsey give due credit to all their loyal staff, for their endless support throughout the fifty years T.W. Bowler Ltd has been trading. "We are very proud of all of them," comments Lyndsey. "Many have been with us from the beginning and have supported the fashion shows and feed nights, we couldn't have done it without them