Little Alf first came to live with me in 2012 when I was 16 years old, he changed my life in the best way possible, who knew a 28-inch pony would make such a difference to me. Over the last eight years or so, me and Little Alf have faced highs and lows, we’ve had books published, merchandise launched, raised awanress and money for charity campaigns, had books published overseas, been on TV, radio and so much more… Little Alf has become quite the star.

The journey hasn’t always been easy, I was born in Yorkshire and brought up in the Yorkshire Dales, I’ve always been obsessed with horses and animals in general, I had dreams of one day been a riding instructor or working with horses, but in my teens, I started to suffer from severe back pain, an MRI scan showed that I had fractured Vertebrae and worn discs in my back and doctors made it clear and advised I shouldn’t ride again.

It was at that time in my life I was in a low ebb and looking for a new focus when one day I found out a little pony who was only 28 inches high due to him having dwarfism needed a home… ‘miniature Shetland’s normal stand around 34 inches high, but Little Alf measures at a pint sized 28 inches.’

As well as writing the books, I have gone on to start a few different business adventures, working with home interiors, conservation projects and as a business coach.

Little Alf really helped bring out my entrepreneur spirit, I opened up ‘Russell Home interiors’ a shop based in Leyburn, the Yorkshire Dales, the business is a shop and online retail business selling furniture and many in house designed products.

Strangely enough before I took over the premises in Leyburn, I use to work there in my teenage years for three years and the shop was the first ever place to stock my books, when I found out the previous owners were moving on, I knew it was the place for me.

The theme behind the business ‘Russell home interiors’ is escaping the ordinary, to me the home is where the memories are made and this is what I try to achieve in the shop, it’s all about standing out from the crowd and being different, the shop has really grown its reputation and has been awarded for customer service and products within the shop.

My family who are evidently as creatively, are a key part of the project. Sharron Russell, my mum, is the painter behind the ‘Quirky Cows’ - cheery colourful images of cows and other Dales animals. Available as original canvases or prints. They also feature on a huge range of items, from mugs, coasters, chopping boards to cufflinks, blankets, and even kitchen splash backs. 

My Dad Mike meanwhile crafts striking contemporary furniture by adorning locally sourced wood and vibrant epoxy resins.