Absolute Horse - August 2017

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F

E M K ’M C -I !

PI P EE U R

Absolute

AUGUST 2017

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0 0 0 , 5 £ rship!

o s n o p S

- Full details inside

Training for Cross Country with Lissa Green - Page 35

SEIB Search for a Star Show - full report inside - Page 48

PLUS

Wonky - is she really Tokyo-bound?

Roberta Sheffield explains all...

- Page 14

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AUGUST

2017 7

8

16

ISSUE 314

30 10

Inter County Novice Champion, Abi Jacobs riding WS Jackson.

Photo: John Tyrrell BigTimeMedia

REGULARS 4 News Your Comments 6 7 Sophie Callahan: Equine Blogger and Photographer 21 MetaFitness: Rider fitness 40 Reports 60 Classifieds 62 Vets Directory 63 Showdates COMPETITIONS & GIVEAWAYS 23 TopSpec FEATURES 8 Special Feature: Is Grooming really a career?

Though every attempt is made to ensure accuracy, PCD Media Ltd cannot be held responsible for the opinions expressed in the magazine. The opinions and technical information in the articles are those of the authors.

10 12 14

Summer Fun Buyer’s Guide Special Report: Wonky - Is she really Tokyo-bound?

16 Transport 18 Health & Welfare 22 Nutrition 30 Equestrian Homes: Stabling 34 Safety 35 Lissa Green tutorial 36 Saddlery & Tack 38 Love Dogs SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITY 25 TopSpec £5,000

How to contact and connect with us...

INSIDE

WHAT’S

PHOTONEWS 52 Inter County Dressage Challenge: Keysoe EC 53 Tendring Hundred Show: Lawford House Park 54 Showing Show: Codham Park 55 British Showjumping: The Jays 56 Unaffil. Showjumping: Topthorn Arena 58 British Dressage PetPlan Area Festival: Codham Park 59 Worlington RC Dressage: Showground, Fordham JumpCross: Codham Park

01473 731220

office@ahmagazine.com

www.issuu.com

facebook.com/Absolute-Horse

#abfabnagmag

www.absolutehorsemagazine.com

PCD Media ( East Anglia) Ltd, Home Barn, Grove Hill, Belstead, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LS

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NEWS HRH DUKE OF CAMBRIDGE VISITS NORFOLK

The Duke of Cambridge was welcomed to Langley Abbey Estate in Norfolk, to play in the inaugural Norfolk Polo Royal Charity Cup, hosted by owners of Norfolk Polo Club, Mr and Mrs Townsend.

The Royal Match was played on 7th July, in aid of SkillForce and English Schools Swimming Association and raised over ÂŁ90,000 for the charities, of which the Duke of Cambridge is Patron.

UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT

ENTRIES OPEN FOR 2017 FUTURITY Entries are open for the Baileys Horse Feeds/BEF Futurity Evaluation series of 2017.

Futurity welcomes entries from British bred young horses from foals to three years with the potential to be dressage horses, endurance horses, showjumpers and eventers.

The 2017 Futurity evaluations will take place at 9 venues nationwide from the 14th of August to the 30th August. A total of 9 days of evaluations will be held and entries will be taken online at www.britishbreeding.org

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Happy Horse Saddlery and Kings of Suffolk are delighted to announce that they will be merging the two shops under the management of Abi Lea. This will make them the largest equestrian and country clothing store in East Suffolk, offering a full range of goods for everyone.

Based at Kings present site in Hasketon, the combined businesses will continue to offer all the brands and services that both shops currently provide.

Matilda Lanni, aged 13, from Peterborough, has been selected to represent Great Britain under the title sponsor banner of Team NAF in the Children and Junior European Championships in Samorin, Slovakia. The competition takes place between the 8th – 13th August.

Five-year-old Daniel Lee Barrett defied the odds with a 0.6km horse trek on 15th July - a mammoth undertaking for a boy who is visually impaired and has severe mobility issues caused by cerebral palsy.

Once a week Daniel rides at Riding for the Disabled, Woodbridge and District Group, currently in Sutton, Woodbridge.

The RDA are moving to a new home in Clopton in the autumn and funding for such a huge event is challenging for the Group so Daniel and his family wanted to raise awareness.

DANIEL RAISES AWARENESS OF RDA

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Inaugural education programme hailed a success The inaugural Dubai - Under Starters Orders education programme has been hailed as a success by students who took part in the specialist primary school education programme, which was sponsored for the first time by Godolphin.

Over two hundred Year 5 students from seven local schools, in and around Newmarket, benefited from the course which was created to develop students understanding and interest in the horseracing industry and the community within which they live.

Cast your vote...

The six finalists for the Virbac 3D Worming Show Pony Personality of the Year have been announced.

Visit www.showingworld online.co.uk

ANIMAL RESCUERS ROUND-UP HERD OF HORSES LOOSE ON HOUSING ESTATE Animal rescuers and police officers turned cowboy for the day after being called to round-up a herd of ponies running loose in Peterborough recently.

The RSPCA were called on recently after reports of 10 ponies roaming around a housing estate in Peterborough. RSPCA inspector Justin Stubbs, officers from Cambridgeshire Police and volunteers from Fenland Animal Rescue attended Scalford Drive and worked together to herd the horses back to the safety of their field.

“This incident could have been much more serious had the herd made their way onto any main roads or into the paths of traffic,” inspector Stubbs said.

“Thankfully, all went well, and I’d like to say a huge thank you to everyone who helped to ensure that all the horses were safe and sound.”

JUNE COMPETITION WINNERS Alltech: Emma Browne, Suffolk; Leeanne Crowe, Essex. Back On Track: Lorraine Eve, Suffolk. British Horse Feeds: Katie Foreman, Suffolk; Margaret Rose, Norfolk; Tina Brett, Essex; Jacquie Luker, Suffolk; Claire Sturgeon, Suffolk; Sarah Reader, Suffolk; Carrie Munro, Essex; Karen Roadnight, Essex; Karin Baria, Lincs; Kathryn McFee, Lincs. Equilibrium Products: Lesley Gillman, Essex; Clare Shrimpton-Wicks, Essex; Juliet Dolman, Norfolk. Holkham Country Fair Tickets: Jane Frost, Suffolk; Nicole Payne, Norfolk; Rebecca Smith, Suffolk; Richard Perry, Norfolk; Tracy Farrow, Cambridge; Sandra Gittens, Norfolk. Toggi: Amy Brownlee, Suffolk.

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YOUR COMMENT Every month we pose a question on the Absolute Horse Magazine Facebook page – for your chance to win the Ariat prize simply post ‘Your Comment’ in answer to our question, and the best answer wins!

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We asked our acebook fans the following question...

Jane Medcalf Nearly Hutchinson: If you fall off (and you can still talk!) get back on!

Charlotte Birch: When the outside shoulder comes towards you in trot...you sit!

Andie Getvoldsen: Always halt square. In-hand and ridden.

Nicki Smith Dyer: Trying to catch stubborn ponies in the rain - trying to catch stubborn horses in the rain.

Nadine Willis: Always kiss your pony goodnight no matter what!

Amanda Newrick: If in doubt, kick on!

Lynda Moules: If you fall off....hang on to the reins - did this when I came off my 17.2hh, not a good idea!

Beth Wadsworth: Whenever something new was bought for pony or rider you had to roll it around on the floor otherwise you would fall off. I once wore a whole new outfit after Christmas without doing this and fell off ripping the new jodhpurs and breaking the brand new riding hat! To this day I make sure everything new goes on the floor first.

Melly Dolittle: This stuck with me as a kid and I still swear by it.

Rosettes are not won at a show they are earned at home!

Karen Fowle: Always look up because if you look down that’s where you are going to end up... on the floor!

Jenny Downing: My Mumma always told me, when I was young and gullible, that every

IS THERE ANYTHING YOU WERE TAUGHT AS A CHILD THAT YOU STILL DO WITH YOUR HORSE TO THIS DAY?

bit of straw or shavings I left in my horse’s tail meant I had to buy the equivalent amount of sweets for others! My Mumma is still and always will be my biggest help and supporter, and I still always double check my horse’s tail!

Catherine McNab: Always smile and carry on pretending the nutter underneath you is behaving!

Ella Souster: Keep smiling and carry on, no matter what is REALLY happening!

Emma Matthews: Riding is meant to be fun! The day the fun stops get off your pony and give it to someone that deserves it!

Claire Glover: Always take care of your tack...it will remain comfy for the horse and last a lifetime. My handmade breastplate for my large mare is still going strong after 22-years!

Mel Fray: All the best riders fall off!

Harlyann Moon: My mum taught me to sing as loudly as I could if we were passing something scary or the horse was upset... it was usually the theme tune to Spongebob Square Pants haha!

Marie Filby: To warm a horse up

10 minutes of walk and cooling off the same.

Anna De Ath: Always treat your ponies how you would like to be treated. Needless to say they are always better looked after than me!

Becky West: Always pat him and thank him for a lovely ride.

They are beautiful animals and not machines.

Jessica Mason: I was told you ‘tell’ a gelding; you ‘ask’ a mare; and you ‘talk it over’ with a stallion! Would love to win a pair of your breeches after losing 4 stone and getting back in the saddle after 10-years.

Kate Scorey: Horse comes first, you come second!

Kayleigh Murphles Hedley: Sit up! Sit up! Sit up! Sit up!

Vicki Rudd: It’s not the winning but the taking part that counts!

We all do it for the same reason, we love it!

Laura Tilney: When you fall off you’re getting up and catching the horse because ‘you fix free on the NHS, the horse does not!’

and the Star Winner is...

Nicola Causton Kittle: Every time you ride,

you’re either teaching or un-teaching your pony.

I've passed that advice onto my daughter too.

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Photo: Real Simple Photography

Hello!

W

hat a crazy month! In all honesty, I still don’t really feel like I’ve quite got my head out of the clouds yet. If you’ve been following my monthly columns here, you’ll have seen that last we spoke, I was just off to get married.

Well, we did it! And it was incredible. I’ve included a photo from our day, because I’m still at that stage where I want to share them with everybody. There are more on my blog if you want to be nosey! But despite having a month off, I have still managed to get some work done.

My first shoot back was a gorgeous makeover session, with Pollyanna and her two boys, Blaze and Louie, over in Thorndon Country Park. Next up I travelled over to Suffolk to meet Zoe and her veteran mare, Polly. Despite having been wheelchair bound for the majority of her life, Zoe has an infectiously positive personality and is an absolute inspiration. It was such a pleasure to photograph her and her girls.

I also had a commercial shoot with Mrs Candy, a company that specialise in supplying top quality tweed riding jackets and accessories for the show ring, for their website revamp.

Next month I'm super busy, making up for lost time, so expect lots of shows, shoots and news!

Pollyanna Blaze and Louie

Zoe and Polly

BLOGS

www.sophiecallahanphotography.com Blog: www.sophiecallahanblog.com

Sophie. x

Mrs Candy photoshoot

We’re now on Instagram!

Follow us to see even more behind the scenes photos from the UK’s best free equestrian magazine! ... and remember to share your own photos with us using #abfabnagmag!

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CAREER? Is grooming really a THE BRITISH GROOMS ASSOCIATION (BGA) INVESTIGATES.

T

he BGA is passionate about retention in the industry and works alongside both grooms and employers to help improve retention rates and keep the many excellent grooms we have in the industry.

On the back of this mission the BGA Ambassadors were formed and consist of six experienced grooms, across all disciplines, who would like to give something back to the industry and inspire the younger generation.

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Alan Davies is one of the BGA Ambassadors and as #supergroom to Charlote Dujardin and Carl Hester he is no stranger to the spotlight.

With Olympic, World and European Championships under

his belt, not to mention in 2015 he was awarded Team GB Groom of the Year and in 2016 won the Horse and Hound Groom of the Year award, was awarded the British Grooms Association Lifetime

Photo: British Equestrian Federation / Jon Stroud Media

SPECIAL FEATURE

Achievement Award and the British Equestrian Federation Medal of Honour, the first groom to receive this prestigious award, Alan is a true inspiration to grooms all over the world.

“I was first inspired to become a groom many years ago when I left school and I realised that my fascination for taking care of horses could become a job and it could also fuel my desire to travel and see the world while doing a job I loved,” explained Alan, who has been a groom for over 30 years.

Alan is, quite rightly, very proud of his career and as part of his job has literally travelled the world with the horses in his care, “There have been many career highlights over the years. I will never forget flying horses back from USA to attend the first ever World Championships in Stockholm in 1990. It was the first time all the disciplines were together for the Worlds and it was an incredible experience.

And of course being part of Team GB at the London

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Olympics was unforgettable. On a personal note being voted Groom of the Year by the readers of the Horse and Hound last year was a hugely proud moment,” enthuses Alan, who is passionate about his horses and his job.

Many people would give their right arm to be able ride Valegro, something which Alan gets paid to do and says, “The most amazing thing about my job is getting to be with the best horses in the world everyday,” and we’re sure most dressage enthusiasts would agree – a pretty amazing perk of the job.

But of course life as a groom can be hard, physically and mentally demanding with long hours, and constant working under pressure, but Alan wouldn’t have it any other way. “I don't feel I have sacrificed anything for my career. My family and friends have always known how important my animals are to me. Being a groom is a way of life and not just a job and I'm lucky to be able to love what I do and I have had some amazing opportunities arise from being a top groom.”

Alan has certainly created some opportunities along the way and has his own set of sponsors including clothing company Kingsland and Saracen Horse Feeds. “Saracen sponsor my Shetland ponies, who I show inhand. They are my hobby, but I love them and have great fun showing them on my days off and Saracen have been great supporters,” explains Alan.

In 2017 Alan teamed up with Eqclusive to develop his own grooming set.

“I love my brushes and they are really important in my job and Eqclusive have recognised that and have been a huge support and we have some more very exciting ideas coming soon,” teases Alan.

For any budding grooms out there Alan has this advice: ”I think anyone aspiring to make a career from being a groom has to have total commitment to caring for horses. You have to have the desire to know your horses inside out and be prepared to make their wellbeing your highest priority.

Over the years the most valuable thing I have learnt is that you never stop learning!

I’ve been lucky to work with the best vets and farriers in the world and I have always listened and learned from them all.”

Alan certainly isn’t on his own when it comes to being an elite groom who has made grooming his career. With an increase in media coverage and a desire of the public wanting to know what goes on behind the scenes many grooms are now well known as professionals and an integral part of the team.

Of course there are still issues within the industry but grooming is now becoming a recognised professional career choice with 50% of BGA members over the age of 35.

“I made grooming my career because l love seeing a horse that I have nurtured and taken care of develop and blossom and perform to the best of their ability. I love my job,” concludes Alan. www.britishgrooms.org.uk

How well are your feet protected?

Has your horse made a good impression on you? If not, you are one of the lucky ones. Foot injuries of all accidents at the stables are by far the most common.

It all happens in a flash of a second, often resulting in at best a bruise, and at worst a broken toe. Yet wearing properly constructed boots with toe protection would eliminate most of the risks.

Boots made to the correct safety standards can withstand a compression in excess of 1000 kilo which is more than the weight of any horse.

With Equitector long and short boots you will feel safe and comfortable and they have many other unique features too. www.equitector.com

Riding Boots Showing Boots & Gaiters Calf any width 13” to 19” Short leg height available Size 2 to 14 Mens & ladies Made-to-measure available

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MANUFACTURERS OF FINE RIDING BOOTS

Made in UK

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SUMMER FUN!

YOUR GUIDE TO Euston Park Endurance, sponsored by Emirates Airline, are excited to announce the first UK Endurance Masters, under the patronage of HH Sheik Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, will be taking place at Euston Park, Suffolk.

The weekend of competition is expected to attract many of the world’s leading combinations, with over 200 international entries expected to attend Euston Park, one of the best endurance tracks in the world. Riders that are eligible can compete in the following rides: CEI1* 80 KM, CEI2* 120 KM, CEIYJ2* 120KM and CEI3* 160KM, and a host of National rides taking place on Sunday 20th August.

The UK Endurance Masters will withhold the greatest prize fund in Europe along with many fantastic benefits for riders such as a €1,000 completion bonus to all finishing horses, a €1,500 allowance towards travel and accommodation, and free hay and stabling. In addition to this, riders can expect fantastic free catering and a celebratory opening party featuring live music, a barbecue, and special competitions for all to take part in!

Entries for the UK Endurance Masters Close on 11th August. www.eustonparkendurance.co.uk

Photo: Kit Houghton

UK ENDURANCE MASTERS 18TH -20TH AUGUST

4TH -6TH AUGUST

Presented by the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA), this event returns to the beautiful setting of Gatcombe Park.

Prestigious Championship classes take place over The Festival weekend including The British Open Championship CIC3* incorporating the Event Rider Masters.

To celebrate the SEIB BURGHLEY SPONSORED Animal Health RIDE - 3RD SEPTEMBER Trust’s 75th Anniversary, the charity has been added to the selected equine organisations who will receive donations from the SEIB Burghley Sponsored Ride.

Up to 500 budding riders of all ages and abilities will have the opportunity to ride the cross country course which, just the day before, will have hosted some of the best eventers in the world.

Riders will enjoy the experience of seeing the massive international four star fences first hand from the backs of their own horses, with the spectacular back-drop of Burghley House.

100% of the funds raised (including 100% of your entry fee) will go to the event’s chosen charities, including the AHT and its vital work improving horse health. www.burghleysponsoredride.co.uk www.facebook.com/SEIB.BurghleySponsoredRide

Olympic Star Scott Brash launches countdown British Olympic gold medallist Scott Brash was joined recently by Chelsea Pensioners for the launch of the London leg of the Longines Global Champions Tour, which will be held at the iconic Royal Hospital Chelsea from 4th-6th August.

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Photo: Julia Shearwood Photography

WHAT’S ON!

THE FESTIVAL OF BRITISH EVENTING -

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BUYERS GUIDE Hiho Silver has added new bumblebee themed pieces to its country jewellery collection – ideal for country lovers everywhere.

RRP from £40. www.hihosilver.co.uk

This Blanket Wrap can be draped, folded, flipped and even toggled to give a different look. RRP: £40. www.thespanish bootcompany.co.uk

Catching our eye this month...

The Pluma 100% silk scarf is printed with hand-drawn game bird feathers.

RRP: £68. www.evemyandevemy.com

e l b a l i a v A Now! Tile Mate is a discreet tracker that can be attached to anything – tack, kit, bag, purses – and shares the location of things via a smartphone or tablet. RRP £23. www.thetileapp.com

This simple, stylish baseball cap from Aztec Diamond Equestrian comes in Navy, Grey, Black, Burgundy and Pink. RRP £20. www.aztecdiamond equestrian.com

This suede belt has a natural nubuck lining and the buckle and fitting are solid brass that has been hand polished and lacquered. RRP of £64.99. www.mackenzie andgeorge.com

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Shotgun Cartridge Necklace, from £35. www.equestrian jewellers.co.uk

The Ruffle shirt in a navy, gold and orange tattersall check British cotton brings together fashion and countryside style. RRP: £68 www.timothy foxx.co.uk

The Marlow Deluxe Tweed Riding Jacket is styled in exclusive tweed and features flap pockets with concealed zips, plus Navy velvet inset collar and pocket jets and a rich Gold Equetech jacquard lining for a flash of brilliance.

RRP: £154.50. www.equetech.com

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The Sandhurst Fishtail Jacket by Egaility Freedom and available through The Spanish Boot Company is a beautiful military-inspired jacket in navy. RRP: £395. www.thespanish bootcompany.co.uk

Skyline high performance boots, now available in fashionable Mahogany with Rosewood trim.

RRP: £75. www.grubsboot.com

Equine Fashion Jeans from Equi-Thème Comfort is guaranteed, thanks to the stretch denim fabric, which allows freedom of movement in the saddle.

RRP: £81.90. www.equi-theme.com

Hiho Silver’s new Sterling Silver Fox Cherry Roller Bangle comes in three gorgeous finishes to suit all tastes.

RRP: from £185. www.hihosilver.co.uk

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SPECIAL FEATURE

Wonky WE MEET UP WITH HORSEHAGESPONSORED PARAEQUESTRIAN RIDER, BERT (ROBERTA) SHEFFIELD, TO FIND OUT HOW HER UNHANDLED, FERAL HORSE IS COMING ON

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S

ome of you may have met Wonky Horse before through my blogs for SEIB Insurance and my social media channels but for those that haven’t here goes...

“Just under two years ago, I found a semi-feral Gelderlander cross in a herd. I was actually looking for a Friesian-cross as I really fancied training something a little bit different, having had warmbloods in recent years. She was a whim, not a conscious decision!

“While we walked

Is she really Tokyo-bound?

through these driving-bred but pretty untouched horses of all different ages, genders and types, I was drawn to this very cautious but very curious looking mare. She held my eye and watched us steely.

“To be a top international Paradressage horse, the horse needs to have three good, expressive paces while handling a crazy environment and showing their own unique star quality and charisma. I was struck from the get-go by her presence and her sparkly, powerful trot biomechanic.

Never did see her canter initially, she didn’t know how to canter until months later when under saddle. Her walk is good with a regular rhythm and shows a quality overtrack.

“So, to cut a long story short, she came home with us. I have never seen a horse more terrified than she was, I thought she was about 14 hands when I opened the lorry to unload her.

Gradually, over several weeks, she unfolded out of her cowering crouch to show her solid 16.3hh frame.

“Wonky had to learn EVERYTHING - how to have a headcollar on and off, how to lead, how to cope with being

touched. She collapsed in panic if you touched her legs. Jess Butler Eventing did a very good job starting her under saddle once she had learnt how to be a pet horse. She didn’t have a name but Jess called her Wonky because of her strange blaze. I decided on the name Fairuza for her ‘smart’ name, after the wild child actress, Fairuza Balk.

“She had been under saddle for about three months and everything was going fairly smoothly until she began to get very spooky and anxious and then started flinging herself about in the trot-canter transitions. I felt something wasn’t quite right. She is generally a very willing horse, although she does have a temper and a high opinion of herself. As I was likely to be going to the Rio Paralympics as part of the Canadian team, and the team were keen for me to safeguard myself, I decided to give her the summer out in the field with my old international horse, Wonderboy, who she adores.

“When I got home from the Paralympics, I started to get Wonky back into work but when my rough rider, Yasmin MorganKay, climbed on board, she fired her mercilessly through the air like a human cannon ball! So I got my vet to investigate and he

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Photos: Rich Neale

“Wonky constantly amazes me with her ability to learn and enter into the spirit of what I ask of her” found that she had kissing spines. Because the spinal processes were actually hooked on each other, she was a good candidate for the remodelling operation. I had had no experience of kissing spines so had to do a lot of research.

“So, last November Wonky had the operation, where the vet cuts away the offending bone on the spinal processes. She was not a model rehab pony. After a week, hand walking and total incarceration in a stable were not possible, she was a definite wild child! So once her staples were out, the vets said to just turn her out to keep all of us safe.

“In February this year, after months of careful lungeing, she was cleared to start ridden work as part of her rehab. We have taken her very gently to give her the best chance to make a great recovery. It was quite a challenge to do the rehab ridden work with such an inexperienced horse.

“Now she is well on her way and back in training to be my dressage horse for the future. I am really hoping she will be my ride for the Tokyo Paralympics in 2020. I have a plan of how I get

her mentally and physically ready for this grand goal. Yasmin is helping me with some of the hacking out and psychological work. As part of this, I took Yasmin with me to the international shows around Europe this spring so that she could see what we are training Wonky to deal with. Until you have actually spent a week behind the scenes at a big show like Mannheim’s Maimarkt Turnier CPEDI3*, it is very hard to imagine all the strange scenarios.

“Wonky is doing a lot of hacking to learn how to be confident in the unpredictable human environment. She has also been doing the clear round jumping at our weekly yard shows and local tiny dressage shows. It is all about building a firm base of life experience to stand her in good stead for the future. I am hoping Yasmin will take her to the SEIB Burghley sponsored ride in September.

“I have also been using natural horsemanship techniques to build up her understanding and strengthen our partnership. She loves doing different things.

Now when she meets something scary, she stomps up

to bump it with her nose and check it out.

“The next step is for me to ride her away from home, going out to training clinics and hopefully compete at British Dressage shows before the end of the summer. She is currently working a good Novice/starting elementary level at home but for Tokyo she needs to be working at least at Prix St George level and be able to handle the craziest atmospheres. It is going to be a challenge but I really do believe in her!

“Next year I am planning on teaching her more about the competition experience by doing a lot of BD shows as well as giving Wonky a fun and varied life. She needs to be going to International Para shows in 2019 to qualify for Tokyo and to build her scores towards team selection. Hopefully, on 25th August 2020 we will be in Tokyo for the opening ceremony of the greatest show on Earth.”

Wonky eats Timothy HorseHage as it is high in fibre and helps to keep her occupied eating while still minding her waistline. www.horsehage.co.uk

JOIN THE CLUB! Redwings Horse Sanctuary is helping to banish holiday boredom with the return of its annual Summer Club offering children free and fun activities over the school break.

Redwings’ Norfolk, Essex and Warwickshire visitor centres will be hosting a free weekly Summer Club, giving children aged seven to 11-years-old (and their parents/guardians!) the chance to experience the world of the Sanctuary for themselves.

Summer Club sessions will take place every Friday at 11.30am until Friday 11th August. Each 45-minute session offers a range of hands-on activities to show how Redwings looks after the rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules in its care.

The Summer Club is perfect for children who do not have a horse of their own but who want to experience what is involved in caring for one.

Those who are able to attend four or more of the Summer Club sessions will also receive a special Redwings rosette.

Places for each session are booked on a first-come firstserved basis, email: education@redwings.co.uk

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TRANSPORT What will be required to hire a trailer?

AGROCO HIRE: he hire fleet at Agroco Trailers has grown rapidly over the last couple of years. Customers like the ease and practicalities of hiring a trailer rather than owning, which requires initial outlay, storage, maintenance and insurance, etc.

“We not only hire out our horse trailers but also flatbeds and tippers - some of which you may find useful around the yard or while completing projects,” explained Vicky Ruffle from Agroco.

T

16

What’s available?

• A refundable deposit of £250 is required on commencement of hire.

• Drivers Licence.

• Address identification.

• Sight of insurance documents to ensure that the hirer is insured to tow a trailer. You are responsible for the trailer while it is hired to you and you are responsible to ensure that you are insured to tow during this time. We insure for fire and theft of the trailer.

• Signed Terms and Conditions which can be viewed on www.agrocotrailers. co.uk/hire.

• A number plate will also be required. You are welcome to bring your own or we can make these up for you at an additional cost in which case please bring your V5 Logbook.

Horse Trailer Hire

The Ifor Williams HB506 will easily accommodate two horses up to 16.2hh and the HB511 can take two horses up to 17.2hh. These modern, light and airy horse trailers are amazing to tow - you don’t even know you are towing! They have a rear load and front unload ramp and are maintained to a high standard so your horse is in a safe environment on the road.

“All our horse trailers have aluminium floors and are thoroughly washed out after every hire though we do ask that hirers clear out any muck and bedding from the trailer before dropping it back to us. We are able to fit head partitions or full width breast bars for use during your hire – simply let us know your requirements when booking,” explained Vicky.

Prices start from £34 per day, £60 per weekend, £120 per week to £180 per month.

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Eventa Trailer Hire

The Ifor Williams Eventa can accommodate two horses up to 16.2hh and this particular trailer comes in the gold spec and includes: • TV/DVD • Hot Water • Electric Fridge • Thermostat Heater • 1 x 12v Socket • Outside Tap • Saddle Rack • Rug Rack • Front Window • Side Window • Head Locker.

Moving away from traditional trailers the partitions for the horses are at a herringbone angle - widely used on horsebox lorries.

Prices start from £99 per day, £120 per weekend, £240 per week to £450 per month. A refundable deposit of £500 is required on this trailer.

Tipping Trailer Hire

“Our tipping trailer could prove useful for anyone building a sand school, creating a hard standing area on the yard or collecting a ménage top up. Tippers are superb for transporting sand, waste etc and features an alloy floor and electric tip making your job as easy as possible. The TT2515 (8ft x 5ft) can take payloads of up to 2000kg.”

Flatbed Trailer Hire

Prices start from £54 per day, £78 per weekend, £144 per week to £480 per month.

“Need to collect hay, straw or a bulk load of bedding? Our 12' and 16' flatbed trailers come with or without dropsides, mesh sides and ramps. They can be used for many purposes and can take loads of almost 3000kg. We can provide ratchet straps for use during your hire,” said Vicky.

Prices start from £54 per day, £78 per weekend, £144 per week to £480 per month.

What will be provided?

• A serviced, clean and reliable trailer; • Locks and security products that must be used; • Spare essentials such as lenses and bulbs (where necessary).

“If you would like to check availability on any of our trailers please call us on 01473 657571 and one of our team will be happy to help,” concluded Vicky. www.agrocotrailers.co.uk

INSURANCE >>>

Buying a horsebox or trailer involves a major investment and insurance should be an important consideration to cover loss, damage or breakdown. SEIB Insurance Brokers were the first to introduce specific horsebox insurance so have unrivalled expertise.

Fully comprehensive cover is essential for private horseboxes to keep them on the road but SEIB offer several insurance options for age, type of box and circumstances. Cover includes windscreens and accidental damage, even damage by horses. There are extremely good rates for high value boxes and SEIB are one of the few companies offering horsebox insurance that can offer cover for young drivers often even those under 21 years of age.

Breakdown cover that will take care of the horses as well as the vehicle and passengers if an incident occurs should be a priority and can be included with the SEIB insurance policy. In fact, alternative transport is included and cover for hotel and livery fees should an overnight stay be unavoidable.

Breakdown cover on trailer insurance covers the designated towing vehicle even when the trailer is unhitched and includes home call out.

When purchasing a horsebox SEIB offer an HPI check on any potential purchase to check the vehicle’s true condition and age. Any buyer should be as well informed as possible on the vehicle’s status and history, and SEIB will arrange for the HPI check to be carried out for a nominal fee of £10 which is refunded when a horsebox policy is taken out. As more and more horse owners are driving 3.5t lorries, SEIB offer a discount for these smaller boxes.

High value trailers can be accommodated and cover for a trailer includes loss or accidental damage and discounts are available if the trailer is kept at home.

All trailers must be secured with a proprietary security device such as a hitch or ball lock.

Cover is available for hire and reward, commercial lorries and many discounts are available depending on size and value of the horsebox, terms and conditions will apply. www.seib.co.uk

“We received some funny looks when we took the horses to Treadfirst for a photoshoot!”

Turn to page 47 to find out more...

>>> 17

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HEALTH & WELFARE

ESSEX: RESCUE ANIMALS BENEFIT FROM

MCTIMONEY TREATMENT

H

orses, goats and cats taken in by the Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary in Essex are benefitting from regular check-ups from McTimoney Animal Practitioner, Sophie Plummer-Jones. Many of the animals at the sanctuary have physical problems, whether due to age or circumstance, and the McTimoney treatments are playing a vital role in their rehabilitation.

The Remus Memorial Horse Sanctuary is a non-profit organisation and runs solely on public donation. All 200 or so animals at the sanctuary have been rescued, they are mainly horses, but donkeys, goats, sheep, cows and plenty of cats are also in residence there.

Whilst undertaking her MSc in

Animal Manipulation at the McTimoney College of Chiropractic in Abingdon, Sophie worked part-time at the sanctuary. Upon becoming fully qualified, the sanctuary were very enthusiastic for Sophie to come and use her McTimoney skills on some of the animals to help improve their quality of life.

Sophie said: “Many of the animals I treat at the sanctuary are quite elderly. The McTimoney treatments help keep them comfortable, particularly those that suffer with arthritis. I also spend time treating some of the younger horses that require more attention as part as their rehabilitation. In addition to this, animals that have just arrived at the sanctuary are treated with McTimoney as part

Elderly goat, Willow also very much enjoys her McTimoney visits from Sophie

of their new start in life.”

McTimoney treatments take a very holistic approach with the focus on rebalancing the animal’s skeletal frame to aid overall wellbeing and mobility.

The McTimoney treatment uses quick light adjustments to rebalance and achieve skeletal symmetry again.

From her work at the sanctuary Sophie has learned a lot about the common problems that can be found in ageing animals, she said: “Often the horses with arthritic changes in their front limbs will become very tense through their shoulders with misalignments displayed mostly in the cervical and thoracic region. Horses with hind limb

arthritic changes display tension in the lumbar region and also pelvic misalignments.”

Sophie has also found that horses that have been prone to laminitis can be very tense through their base of neck and shoulders and late cervicals and early thoracic.

Sophie is delighted that she can use her McTimoney skills to help improve the lives of the animals at Remus. She added: “It is very rewarding to see these animals that haven’t had the best start to life really benefit from the allround care that the sanctuary provides.” www.mctimoneyanimal.org.uk

Take the guess-work out of rugging Orcsana is a new equine sensor that monitors and tracks body heat, moisture and movement, collecting real-time data. Orcsana logs how long a horse lies down, rests, stands calmly or is mobile, and whether he is a comfortable temperature beneath his rugs. Linked with weather forecasts and the previous night’s data, Orcsana, can then advise you, via its app, how to rug your horse.

Available now for £90 from www.harryhall.com

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Circular sensor is attached to the lining of your horse’s rug

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NEW CPD LAUNCHED...

Redwings Horse Sanctuary has developed a Continued Professional Development course – called ‘Forging Welfare Partnerships’ (FWP) – to support farriers, horse owners and their horses.

As this course is the first of its kind, participants will also have the chance to assist Redwings with evaluating its effectiveness, with findings and feedback independently evaluated by Jenny Lynden of University of Surrey.

FWP is a practical CPD course designed to both provide farriers with training in horse welfare, and to build on their education and client communication skills. The aim is to build on existing skills that farriers use to educate owners, but in particular to equip them to work with those owners who they may feel are struggling with their horse care practices.

“What’s so exciting about the work that farriers are doing is that we know they are already key advisors to horse owners so they can have an impact on vulnerable horses and struggling owners that they may come into contact with.” Said Andie Vilela.

Redwings are running the CPD course on 30th August – with additional mentoring sessions at their Ada Cole Centre near Harlow, Essex.

Andie continues: “We’re initially looking for farriers in the Essex area to take part in the first CPD event and we’d like to invite those interested to get in touch.”

To find out more please contact Andie Vilela by calling 01508 481066 or by emailing avilela@redwings.co.uk.

NOW SEEK OWNERS Three ponies who have overcome previous cruel treatment and learnt to trust again, thanks to Blue Cross care, are seeking special new owners.

Seven-year-old Puffin, 10-year-old Sultana and 11-year-old Kestrel were some of the most traumatised ponies Blue Cross has ever taken in to its care.

Kestrel, Puffin and Sultana are looking for kind and gentle owners who understand that further training will take time and patience due to their sad histories. All three ponies have great potential and working with them will be extremely rewarding.

To find out more about how you can help visit www.bluecross.org.uk.

A date for the Diary....

SEVERELY TRAUMATISED PONIES

Principles of Saddle fitting

4-day training course with Anne Bondi BHSI, Saddle Research Trust Director, will be held from 9th to 12th August at Writtle College, Essex.

Anne Bondi recently completed her PhD researching horse, saddle and rider interaction.

This course will be of benefit to horse owners, riders, coaches, equine therapists, vets, saddle fitters and other equine industry professionals. www.equin energy.com

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HEALTH & WELFARE

Summer Camp

First Aid

For pony-mad youngsters, summer means one thing – Pony Camp! The list of required items can seem endless. No doubt you have packed every kind of product available in the chemist to deal with any human minor first aid injuries and ailments, but

have your remembered the same for your equine friend?

The excitement of spending a precious week away with your horse or pony can soon turn into disappointment if an injury occurs.

The Horse & Rider

TOP TIPS

First Aid Kit from Robinson Animal Healthcare provides all the essential items required to cope with that unexpected emergency.

The kit contains all the necessary products to deal with minor cuts and grazes, including market-leading products Animalintex, which is the only medicinal licensed veterinary poultice and dressing on the market and Veterinary Gamgee. www.robinsonhealthcare.com

Rider Product News...

Storm’s Base & Mid Layer Wash is designed to maximise performance and hygienically clean wicking garments without effecting functionality. www.storm care.co.uk Odaban Antipersperant Spray can last up to seven days making it one of the most impressive solutions on the market.

Available from Boots.com and leading pharmacies.

RRP: £10.49

hay, hard feed and bedding in bulk, where space allows; KELLY HORSPOLE’S •• Order Use under-rugs beneath your turnout rug - you’ll still need to have them all

for Saving Money 20

washed, but you’ll only have one to re-proof; • Consider a sharer, you’ll not only save money, but also time and possibly make a good friend; • Check out Poundland for equipment like sponges and bucket brushes; • Use barrels and tyres for jump wings and fillers – just make sure they have no sharp bits that could potentially cause injury; • If hiring a lorry/trailer or training facilities split the costs with a friend; • Save your baler twine – you can use it to fix almost anything; • If you have multiple horses, or you’re on a livery yard, buy carrots or parsnips direct by the tonnes, they are much better value!

I hope you’ve enjoyed these tips, next month I’m talking about saving time - I’d love to hear your top tips. My favourite one will be featured in my column!

Email kellyhorspole@hotmail.com www.khequestrian.net

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RIDER FITNESS BACK PAIN? KNEE PAIN?

LOOK BEHIND YOU...

By Samantha Hardingham of Meta Fitness

I

f I was asked which muscle group is the most important group to exercise it would be the gluteal muscles - the ones in your backside!

The three gluteal muscles - minimus, medius and maximus - are responsible for hip extension, hip abduction, external and internal hip rotation and raising the body from a bent position. If you have any type of knee pain, check your buttocks. They also stabilise the lower back and sacroiliac joint, any back pain? Check your buttocks.

The fact is that in this day and age we sit too much, take too many lifts and park too close to the shops, resulting in loss of glute activation, yet the glute muscles are the most important and largest group of muscles in the body that we need to use everyday.

It’s pretty unusual to find people that know how to contract their glutes without having to involve other muscle groups, largely the hamstrings. If you have tight hamstrings then it’s likely you’ll be experiencing some sort of lower back discomfort.

The best way to start activating your glutes? Exercise.

Here are my top five exercises for firing up your gluteal range of muscles:

Bridge; Squat and squeeze ; Single leg deadlift; Band walk; Hip thrust.

The number one reason the elderly go into a care home is because they can’t get off the toilet without assistance. Squatting and adding glute isolation exercises into your daily routine is therefore an investment exercise!

Visit

www.facebook.com/ lovenaturaleating to view Samantha’s

FREE online tutorial

Tel: 07740 047279 http://meta.fitness/ home

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e g a or

NUTRITION

f

Guide to T

he dictionary definition of forage is: food for horses and cattle, esp. hay or straw. Although this definition misses out the most obvious source of forage, it is a starting point.

Forage is the base line of equine nutrition; it is the prime source of fibre that supplies the animal’s requirement for energy through its fermentation and release of slow release energy. It fulfils the requirement of a ‘trickle feeder’, being a continuous source of feed that can be consumed constantly through the day and so stimulates and maintains the gastro-intestinal tract in optimal condition. From stimulation of saliva through chewing to bulking the gut which stimulates the peristaltic waves that pushes the feed along its length, to providing the correct

balance of nutrients both for the horse and its microbial gut population, forage defines the nutrition of the horse.

So what is forage? After all, fibre can be offered in a variety of feedstuffs from brans to super fibres, although none of these are generally defined as forage.

The biggest single difference between forages and fibre sources is simply its physical size. The term long fibre seems to be going out of fashion but a fibre feed which naturally occurs in lengths of more than 2.5 cm (as opposed to a long pellet!), can be considered a forage. The length of the fibre strand is critical, as it is this that promotes sufficient chewing to

By Dr Tom Shurlock of British Horse Feeds

generate the saliva that buffers the stomach to provide the correct conditions for subsequent digestion. It is long fibre that provides the bulk in gut fill that ensures good transit times and holds the contents in the hind gut for sufficient time to be fermented to produce the energy required by the horse.

And it is the long fibre that produces the correct shape and consistency to their droppings, an indication of continued health.

From the requirement of being a supplier of long fibre, as the major component of a horse’s diet, and provider of most of its nutrients, forage can be one of several sources:

• Grazing: Grass is the principal forage across the world, although different grass species will feature in different countries, such as teff in South Africa, or bluegrass in the US. In the UK grass pastures can be a range of temperate species, a single ley or interspersed with wild plants (natural meadow).

These pastures change throughout the year in their nutrient composition, from a high sugar content in the spring to high protein in summer and an increase in oil before winter.

• Hay: Hay is the dried version of grazing. Cut grass, usually with seed heads, is dried naturally, under the sun, and stored in bales. Due to the time of cut (2 or 3 times a year, from late spring to late summer) the nutrient profile is maybe more consistent than grazing. However, the drying process can reduce some nutrients, vitamins in particular, and some sugars are lost.

• Haylage: Harvested grass may be baled in plastic wrapping, rather than sun dried. Such product undergoes

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WIN! WIN! COMPETITION

partial fermentation under best fed alongside other storage. This releases some forages. volatile fatty acids (including • Dried grass: Basically, lactic acid) which ‘fixes’ the artificially dried and harvested haylage. This means that at more regular intervals. Less digestion, in the horse, has a seed heads and so a more head start and fermentation consistent product. However it may occur in the small is necessary to ensure it is a intestine allowing a greater long fibre source. energy utilisation of the forage Forage should make up the by the horse. majority of a horse’s diet.

• Straw/Chaff: By definition However, it can be seen that it is straw is a forage, although oat a variable feedstuff. Feeding a straw is possibly the only consistent fibre source recommended source. Horses alongside, whether a bran or a can happily manage both super fibre such as Fibre-Beet, wheat or barley straw (as will complement the profile of evidenced by eating their the fibre, and so optimise the bedding) but the fibre profile nutrition obtained. is not optimal for the energy www.britishhorsefeeds.com needs of the horse and so is

TopSpec Senior Lite Feed Balancer

WE HAVE A BAG TO GIVE AWAY TO 8 LUCKY WINNERS! TopSpec Senior Lite Feed Balancer is a very palatable ‘NonHeating’ very low calorie feed that contains a multisupplement including the levels of micronutrients and digestive aids normally only found in high quality specialised supplements.

And in this month’s competition 8 lucky winners will each win a bag.

Of particular importance to elderly horses is the inclusion of micronutrients known to help maintain mobility. The scientifically recommended rate of 10 grams of glucosamine/500kg horse/day is a key feature of the mobility supplement included in this formula.

This superb specification provides micronutrients to balance the diets of Good-Doers at rest or in light to medium work.

Using TopSpec Senior Lite Feed Balancer will help to maintain mobility and will not promote weight gain. Feeding it will help to improve hoof quality and promote a supple skin with a shiny coat.

TopSpec Senior Lite Feed Balancer helps to maintain a healthy immune system and also includes a highly available source of vitamin C to help maintain healthy lung tissue.

Available in 15kg sacks, RRP £31.50.

www.topspec.com

k!

Good Luc

To enter go online at www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click the competitions page. Deadline is 31st August 2017.

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NUTRITION

Why Feed a Balancer?

Product News...

A

HorseHage is a dust-free bagged forage and when fed as the main forage source, it can enable you to reduce your horse’s hard feed by up to a third. It contains no chemical additives, mould inhibitors, flavourings, molasses or inoculants and due to the unique fermentation process, the sugar in HorseHage is considerably lower than other forages. www.horsehage.co.uk

t Baileys, we have analysed a lot of forage and pasture over the past 10 years and it has become increasingly evident that levels of certain naturally occurring vitamins and minerals, in particular, are in decline.

For example, we find that the copper typically analyses below the UK average range, which would be 6mg/kg, with figures being consistently lower than 3mg/kg in both hays and haylage.

Protein levels are also often insufficient for the working, breeding or performance horse, with values often analysing towards the lower end of the typical range. The typical UK range for protein would be 6-10%, in haylage, and 4-9%, in hay.

We often see values of 5-7% protein, in hay, and up to 7-9%, in haylage, although this is not always the case.

An increase in indigestible fibre as the forage matures, which can also be affected by its species, will impact on how well the horse can utilise the available nutrients. Grass pasture, once past the vegetative stage of growth - usually as we progress into summer - will certainly be less digestible and offer fewer nutrients as a result.

For this reason, we always recommend some form of supplementary feed, whether that be a mix, cube or balancer. For those whose calorie requirements are met (or more than met) by forage alone, we recommend a balancer as these contain all the essential nutrients likely to be lacking in a forage-only diet, without unwanted calories.

The advantage that a balancer brings over a broad spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement, is appropriate levels of (quality) protein, often accompanied by digestive enhancers, like pre and/or probiotics to ensure maximum utilisation of the forage/fibre portion of the diet. A balancer, therefore, represents an all-in-one option which

24

nutritionally balances forage.

Managed good-doers are, quite rightly, kept on poor grazing, or have access restricted, and are often fed reduced amounts of hay or haylage, which could also be soaked to further reduce its nutritional content. This compounds the fact that the forage can be nutritionally deficient and makes the feeding of a balancer even more important.

Balancers are also useful for those ‘inbetweeners’ who need some additional calories but not the full recommended amount of a mix or cube. Since these compound feeds are formulated to be fed at certain levels, according to workload, in order to supply a fully balanced diet alongside forage, ‘under-feeding’ them to control calorie intake results in under-feeding their associated vitamin, mineral and protein content too.

As workload increases so do requirements for all nutrients, not just calories, so adding a balancer to reduced amounts of a mix or cube ensures that levels of essential nutrients can be brought up to meet requirements without adding unwanted calories. Some working horses will consume sufficient calories to maintain condition and fuel their work from forage alone, especially with access to spring and summer pasture.

Balancers formulated for performance can be fed as the sole concentrate to supply what’s lacking in forage and support muscle build and repair as well as recovery from exertion.

Find the right feed for your horse right now, with Baileys’ online Feed Finder at www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

TopChop Grass is a blend of specially selected, dried, British grasses.

TopChop Grass is a high quality chop that can be fed solely with a TopSpec feed balancer or supplement.

Additional feed, for example a TopSpec Blend, can be added if extra nutrients for work or condition are required.

TopChop Grass is dustextracted and the grass has been high-temperature dried. These two procedures minimise potential mould, making the chop suitable for horses and ponies with respiratory problems. www.top spec.com

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&

NEWS

MORE

WIN A

HUGE

£5,000 SPONSORSHIP!

Topspec is running an amazing sponsorship competition where one lucky winner will receive £5,000 worth of prizes!

Whatever your chosen discipline, show jumping, dressage, eventing, showing or endurance the competition is open to everyone and the North Yorkshire-based horse feed experts want to hear from you!

The 2016 sponsorship search was awarded to dressage rider Amy Schiessl who says: “The sponsorship has just been fantastic, I can’t thank everyone enough; it has been amazing and made such a difference this year.”

Well known for their range of feed balancers and other innovative horse feed, TopSpec already sponsor leading names Nicola Wilson, Kitty King, Andrew Nicholson, Hayley Watson-Greaves, Louise Saywell and Robert Walker as well as a host of other riders.

But don’t let these superstar riders put you off entering.

Whether you are competing at

novice level or are about to go international, the competition is open to everyone.

Said Katy Mickle of TopSpec: “Our sponsorship programme provides support for some of the top riders competing internationally as well as pony, junior and young riders that are the up and coming names of the future.”

Prize includes: • £1,000 worth of TopSpec feed • £1,000 for training and lessons • £1,000 to cover entry fees • £1,000 horse clothing, rugs and accessories • £1,000 rider, competition and leisure clothing.

To enter email TopSpec at: sponsorship@topspec.com Write in no more than 200 words why you deserve the sponsorship, provide information about your horses and ambitions for the future. Attach a photograph of yourself competing.

The deadline for entering is 30th September 2017.

Good luck!

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HERBS, LEAVES, ROOTS SEEDS NUTRITION

Natural solutions to horse health issues for all-round wellbeing...

&

A is for... B is for Boswellia (Boswellia Serrata) ‘Aspirin’ Also known as Frankincense, it is an excellent herb for horses and ponies with joint White willow contains Salicylic acid and is often thought of as a herbal aspirin.

issues or for those that require additional joint support, as it helps to reduce swelling and discomfort. Anti-inflammatory properties within Boswellia help to maintain mobility and optimum performance in horses. It also helps to soothe the digestive tract and reduce irritation and lesions within the colon, helping to firm-up loose droppings.

Boswellia also assists laboured or compromised breathing, and has anti-bacterial properties. www.feedmark.com

C is for Chamomile...

Chamomile is a popular, powerful herb that supports your horses nervous system and helps to maintain digestive health.

From the Asteraceae family which compromises several daisy-like plants, Chamomile is an annual herb with white flowers and feathery leaves that can be used either fresh, dry or crushed. The herb is found to contain high levels of calcium, magnesium, and also potassium, iron, manganese and zinc.

Most commonly used to help relieve anxiety and restlessness, many owners include it in the diet as a natural way to help support the nervous system and promote calmness. As a digestive aid it is especially useful for horses that suffer from loose droppings when they are upset by changes in routine, travel or work. www.rowenbarbary.co.uk

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D is for Dandelion Roots and Leaves...

These provide excellent support for the liver and kidneys, cleansing the blood as well as promoting joint mobility. Dandelion (Taraxacum officinale) was historically called ‘pee-the-bed’ due to its diuretic action, and also known as ‘Lion’s Tooth’ because of the shape of its leaves. Dandelion is one of the most useful European herbs and both the roots and leaves are used. The roots have the greatest liver and kidney supporting properties as well as promoting healthy digestion; whilst the leaves are rich in vitamins A, B, C and D, and have the better diuretic action, expelling toxins and waste material from the body. The high levels of Potassium, Magnesium, and Calcium make Dandelion an excellent diuretic as it replaces these minerals as they are lost from the body. www.feedmark.com

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E is for Echinacea...

Echinacea has been used for centuries to help the body fight infection and to boost the immune system. It can be used both internally by feeding the roots or tops, or externally and as a poultice or compress.

As an antibacterial, immuno-stimulant antiviral it can be used to help with both bacterial and viral infections, and to protect against infection as scientific studies have shown it stimulates white blood cells. Therefore this is a great herb to use not only if your horse has an infection, but also if there is a virus in the area. People often take Echinacea coming into winter to ward off colds. It’s vulnerary and antiinflammatory actions also mean that it promotes the healing of wounds and skin complaints.

Other uses include: aiding with upper respiratory infections, mastitis, thrush, puncture wounds and urinary infections.

Tel: 07758 610253 www.facebook.com/Champerene-Herbs-For-Animals

F is for Fenugreek

G is for Garlic...

Garlic is regularly used for it’s pain-relieving, immune system

Fenugreek has been taken for many years and has been found to have a number of different benefits. These tasty little seeds can help tempt even a very fussy eater to enjoy their food again.

Garlic Oil & Fenugreek RRP from £15.

Studies in humans have found that Fenugreek can help reduce cholesterol levels, as it is rich in steroidal saponins that help prevent the absorption of cholesterol.

It has high levels of potassium which helps counter the action of excess sodium. It is rich in fibre and antioxidents, meaning it helps to flush out toxins from the body. It is also taken to assist with soothing of the digestive system.

These little seeds are also a good source of digestible iron. www.animal-health.co.uk

I is for I-bright Euphrasia officinalis (Eyebright) supports normal functioning of the eye.

J is for Joints

support and anti-inflammatory benefits. Garlic also helps the

digestive system and to maintain a healthy respiratory system.

H is for Hawthorn (Crataegus oxyacantha)

Hawthorn has excellent circulatory benefits through its blood cleansing and capillary strengthening properties. It is an ideal tonic for the circulatory, kidney, and urinary systems and for maintaining optimum blood supply to the limbs. Hawthorn is a vasodilator and widens blood vessels that take blood from the heart, lowering blood pressure, and increasing blood supply to areas of local injury. As a result, Hawthorn is particularly beneficial for those horses and ponies with joint issues. Hawthorn also assists with breathing and helps to reduce feelings of fatigue. www.feedmark.com

To support the joints and mobility it is important to use combinations of herbs that will help holistically and enable the body to heal/help itself. Commonly used herbs are: Devil's Claw, Boswellia, Turmeric and White Willow as anti-inflammatories and analgesics, Meadowsweet as an anti-inflammatory; Turmeric for pain/stiffness; Nettle, Hawthorn and Buckwheat are all excellent for circulation, with Nettle also being a rich source of vitamin C, a diuretic and a blood cleanser; Clivers are excellent for the Lymphatic system and therefore very beneficial if there is swelling on the joints. It is also diuretic and a tonic; Comfrey is rich in allantoin enabling it to help healing of cartilage, bone and connective tissue by encouraging cell production; Celery seed is good for arthritis as it is rich in volatile oil which helps with stiffness.

Tel: 07758 610253 www.facebook.com/Champerene-Herbs-For-Animals

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NUTRITION K is for Kelp Can be used to

stimulate the thyroid.

L is for Liquorice Root Has gut-soothing propeties.

M is for Meadowsweet

Meadowsweet has several actions, it is antacid, stomachic, antirheumatic and astringent. Therefore it can be beneficial in many ways: • Excellent for supporting/protecting the digestive system, reducing excess gastric acid and therefore reducing ulcerations; • It is an astringent; • It has an anti-inflammatory action for rheumatic pain.

Meadowsweet is known as herbal aspirin due to it containing salicylic acid. However unlike aspirin, which can cause gastric ulcers or bleeding, meadowsweet also contains tannins and mucilage which actually prevent such problems.

This is a great example of when feeding a plant as a whole is more beneficial than taking just one active ingredient.

Tel: 07758 610253 www.facebook.com /ChampereneHerbs-For-Animals

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N is for Nettle...

Nettle is traditionally used to help improve skin and coat condition and for circulatory health.

A common plant, Nettle is a rich source of vitamins and minerals, high in iron and Vitamin C. Many owners feed dried nettle, but if you decide to feed them fresh allow them to wither in the sun for at least four hours to remove the sting, or pour boiling water over first and allow them to cool.

A popular choice for owners wanting a general all-purpose tonic for their horse and has been used as a natural body fluid regulator, and to help support the urinary tract. Nettle also helps encourage the dappling of the horse’s coat. www.rowenbarbary.co.uk

O is for Old Age... P is for Peppermint As the horse gets older their systems will become less efficient. Therefore using herbs to support them can be beneficial in preventing poor health and illness.

Herbs that work as a tonic to cleanse the systems such as Sea Kelp (a rich source of Vitamins and Minerals and excellent for skin and coat), Celery seed (helps with rheumatism), Nettle Burdock (good for circulation) and Clivers will help to restore function.

Herbs to support the circulatory system are Nettle, Hawthorn and Buckwheat.

Milk Thistle will support liver function.

Dandelion will support kidneys and urinary sytem.

Problems with digestion will be helped by Slippery Elm, Meadowsweet and Marshmallow root.

Condition can be improved by using Fenugreek as it is very nutritious, being rich in oil, protein and vitamins A, B, C and E. It also helps with poor appetite.

Tel: 07758 610253 www.facebook.com /ChampereneHerbs-For-Animals

These fragrant leaves have been found to soothe the intestines, relax the muscles in the digestive tract, help aid digestion in the hind gut, and stimulate the appetite. In some cases a horse off their NoWheeze RRP food can be stimulated to eat from £23. by simply smelling fresh peppermint leaves in their food.

Peppermint leaves contain menthol and menthone which are known for their beneficial effects on the respiratory system, clearing and soothing the airways, and is found to have some antihistamine properties. www.animal-health.co.uk

R is for Restorative

Small brown Chaste berries (Agnus Castus) are about the size of a peppercorn.

When the pituitary gland doesn’t function properly it Hormonise E RRP from £18. can affect oestrogen, hormone and blood sugar levels in the system to be out of balance. Chaste berry has been found to stabilise and enhance the work of the pituitary gland and therefore restore the hormones to their natural levels. This can be useful for a stroppy mare or a horses suffering from cushings disease. www.animal-health.co.uk

Ab Horse AUG2017 final pages.qxp_Layout 1 25/07/2017 11:35 Page 29

Q is for Q&A...

Visit the website of any of the UK’s leading equine herb suppliers for answers to frequently asked questions.

T is for Turmeric...

Turmeric’s benefits are widely

known - it is said to strengthen the

S is for Spearmint...

Spearmint is a natural appetiser and digestive aid, but most commonly fed to help encourage fussy eaters.

Gently dried and finely cut for easy feeding it has a strong, pleasant aroma with many horses finding it highly palatable.

Horses will readily seek out and eat this herb if it is available in their field. Additionally, spearmint is also fed as a digestive aid, for a calm and settled digestive system. www.rowenbarbary.co.uk

V is for Valerian...

The extract of the valerian plants roots has been used in herbal remedies for over 100 years. The oil in Valerian, Volatile oil, immune system and have antihelps to relax the muscles so it is used as a herbal treatment for anxiety, tension, stress and as an anitconvulsant. Valerian inflammatory properties. contains gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA), these are neurotransmitter in the nervous system which are responsible for the activity of the brains neurons. Increasing the number of GABA’s in the system promotes relaxation and lowers stress Gastric Ulcers can be caused by various factors such levels.

Tranquil E RRP www.animal-health.co.uk from: £17. as stress, long term medication, lack of grazing, low forage/high grain diets and intermittent feeding. There are several herbs that can be very beneficial in healing and the prevention of ulcers, however it is important that the cause is Herbs to help with worm damage. Milk Thistle is mainly for discovered and that changes to diet, routine etc. damage to the liver; Kelp will help to detoxify and give a are made to prevent them returning. good source of vitamins and minerals; Meadowsweet will Herbs that can be beneficial include: help with inflammation; Slippery elm will soothe the system Slippery Elm to reduce gastric acid, ease and Comfrey will encourage healing. inflammation and work internally as a poultice to Wormwood can be used to get rid of worms, but it is very soothe the digestive tract; Marshmallow Root for powerful and should only be used in small quantities for a soothing ulceration and inflammation of the short period, by experienced people. digestive system; Meadowsweet will protect the Tel: 07758 610253 digestive system, soothe and reduce the build up www.facebook.com/Champerene-Herbs-For-Animals of acid. An excellent all round herb for the digestive system. It is particularly effective for ulcers caused by drugs.

Comfrey Leaf is an excellent herb for healing (Yucca schidigera) and can aid in the healing of ulcers.

Helps to reduce discomfort and soothe sore, If stress is the cause of the arthritic joints. Yucca is an excellent problem, herbs such as addition to the diet of horses and ponies Chamomile, Valerian and Vervain with joint and muscle discomfort. Helps to can also be used to support the reduce bloating and flatulence, increasing nervous system. overall digestive comfort. Yucca is an antiTel: 07758 610253 inflammatory, and can be fed on a www.facebook.com/Champerene daily basis, for long term support.

-Herbs-For-Animals www.feedmark.com

U is for Ulcers...

W is for Worm damage...

Y is for Yucca

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EQUESTRIAN HOMES: STABLING

Childhood memories of Scotts relived in

GRAND DESIGNS M

oving into a Grade II listed building that had not been touched for 18 years is not for the faint hearted, but the Dickens family did just that and set to work on making it a dream home for their young family.

When disaster struck and they had to reappoint a new builder

and architect halfway through, whilst many people would have walked away, the Dickens kept going.

Holding strong their vision for the perfect family home and equestrian facility, they have now created a modern space by re-modelling the building and undertaking extensive landscaping. Taking 8 years to

Mrs Dickens’ first rosette that inspired the dream

complete the full build, they have created flexible family living spaces that look out on to extensive views across the property’s 40 acres as well as an indoor pool. Scotts of Thrapston were the final piece of the jigsaw that was put in place during the build, with a bespoke stable yard to complement the property.

Scotts was the first and only

stabling company Mrs Dickens had on her mind, recalling her childhood where she was lucky to have Scotts Stables on her family’s farm. There was no way that when the time came to develop her own equestrian facilities, she would be able to settle for anything else.

Continued overleaf...

Mrs Dickens‘ new horse that has arrived in his luxury home

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EQUESTRIAN HOMES: STABLING Continued from previous page...

At first the family ponies were kept in the existing outbuildings, until they were converted as part of the pool complex, which meant it was time to make the eagerly anticipated call to Scotts. Mrs Dickens recalls: “When we met Zoe on the stabling team at Scotts, I knew straight away she had captured our vision, and throughout the process she was so easy to work with”.

The family’s two grey horses have since moved on to the yard, a 16.2hh hunter called Jim and Highland pony Ivan have settled well into their new homes. “We are delighted with the new facilities, the wash down area in particular is so useful, especially for our big grey who although is a hack also competes at county level showing. It’s certainly made light work of getting him ready for the show ring. It’s also been great for our lifestyle, with the muddy dog and children. I put them all in there now, before they come in the house!”

One last thing that has been a major part of the development has been setting up the tack room, which has not missed the attention to detail that Mrs Dickens gave to the rest of the property. Ingeniously finding use for items such as extra tiles

Product News...

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Her original rosstte case - Mrs Dickens had replicas made for her own children

that were over ordered in the house, the tack room has been impressively styled. Pride of place are the original tack room antique saddle racks from her grandparent’s farm, saddle horse and rosette display cabinets

proudly showing her first rosette. Mrs Dickens has since had a replica cabinet made for each of her children’s rosettes.

This installation will give Mrs Dickens and her family many more years of enjoyment, and as

Mrs Dickens’ mother is still involved with carriage driving at the age of 84 we are sure these Scotts stables will have plenty more action at this family home. www.scottsofthrapston.co.uk

Antique saddle horse from her grandparent’s farm

Antique Saddle Racks used for the Shire horses on her grandparent’s farm

The new Galloping Horse Tweed Cushion is the perfect addition to traditional country homes.

RRP £58. www.timothy foxx.co.uk

How’s about a custom cushion from Equetech?

Cushion featured RRP:£31.95. Design your own from a range of colours on Equetech's 'DESIGN-LAB' section on their website. www.equetech.com

Ab Horse AUG2017 final pages.qxp_Layout 1 25/07/2017 11:35 Page 33

BUY THE STUNNING NEW AVODA TILE COLLECTION AT

WWW.AVODASTEIN.CO.UK 01206 616731 SALES@AVODASTEIN.CO.UK Follow us on

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SAFETY FIRST

A

ccidents can happen at any time and having the correctly fitted safety wear can help prevent or lessen injuries.

The most important piece of safety kit advice is purchasing a correctly fitted riding hat that meets one of the current safety standards and which has undergone rigorous testing.

There are four main areas of testing for riding hats/skulls to ensure they meet the performance criteria laid down in current standards.

HAVING THE RIGHT SAFETY GEAR PLAYS AN IMPORTANT ROLE IN FEELING CONFIDENT AROUND HORSES AND WHEN RIDING

SAFETY HERITAGE 1) Penetration test:

a 3kg toughened steel spike is dropped directly onto the hat, vent and or rivet area to test the hats resilience against sharp objects such as horseshoe studs.

3) Crush test:

a hat is placed between two steel plates and crushed, the amount of crushing is measured over a controlled period of time.

2) Impact shock test:

Key riding hat features for comfort and safety a hat is fixed to a 1) Outer shell in ABS or Glass graduated weight Fibre helps prevent penetration metal head form and by sharp objects and helps dropped from a controlled height onto a steel anvil to distribute impact forces evenly to polystyrene liner. test the shock absorption qualities 2) Expanded polystyrene liner which will help protect you in a absorbs and reduces impact potential fall. forces to the head.

3) Foam comfort padding ensures snug fit and prevents 4) Harness test: tests both the strength excessive movement in use. of the harness, and the 4) Fully adjustable nylon or ability to keep the hat polypropylene harness ensures the helmet remains in place securely in place.

A credited British Kitemark is obtained through regular batch testing. A Champion hat is tested every day of the year by The British Standards Institute.

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Caring for your riding hat It is very important to take care of your riding hat to ensure it

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By Lissa Green in conjunction with performance footwear manufacturer, Grub’s

CROSS COUNTRY Training a Young Horse for

will offer you the maximum level of protection over its lifetime. Dropping the hat, or allowing it to roll around in the car etc can cause damage. This damage may not be visible on the outside; however, it could have caused damage to the shock absorbing polystyrene liner.

Your riding hat should be stored in a cool environment and not be exposed to direct heat for drying or placed in direct sunlight under glass such as the back shelf of the car. This is because heating your hat to 70 degrees centigrade and above will break down the protective materials used in construction of your riding hat, especially the polystyrene liner, this will gradually reduce the level of protection it offers. A protective hat bag is the ideal way to store your hat when not being used to ensure the right conditions are maintained and to provide cushioned protection.

When to replace your riding hat If your riding hat hasn’t sustained an impact, it is still

important to get it replaced regularly. This is because the protective materials it contains will gradually deteriorate with exposure to heat and repeated use leading to your riding hat not offering you the same level of protection as when it was new.

If you are riding daily, the recommendation is to replace your hat annually and occasional riders to replace their hats every two to three years and ALWAYS replace your hat after a fall.

If you are concerned that your hat might be damaged then replace it, there should be no compromise where head safety is concerned.

Champion has a tremendous safety heritage and the brand has been a driving force in the design and development of protective riding hats for over three decades. Over this time, design and production technology has been refined, enhanced and perfected to ensure Champion products are based upon the most up-todate, scientific safety research. www.championhats.co.uk

tarting off, you should spend a lot of time walking round with a relaxed rein so your horse can comfortably adjust to the environment. Even walking over some small fences will allow your horse to process what has just happened.

You must remain relaxed and not put any pressure on the horse and allow the horse to do it in its own time.

Some of the obstacles may cause a young horse to spook, but it’s so important that you don’t turn the horse away from the jump, as this teaches the horse it’s ok to stop and go around. Be patient, allow your horse to smell it, work it out and then back him up to reapproach.

Once your horse is comfortable walking over the fences, attempt the same small jumps in trot, but again, allowing your horse to figure it out. Once he’s happy going over these, move onto a different set of small jumps that look different.

Eventually he will trust you enough to go over the jumps in

S

trot again.

Banks can easily worry an inexperienced horse so make sure when you go up the bank to come back down the same way, so it’s not so much of a surprise, but once your horse is confident then progress to riding the bank conventionally.

Water can be a horse’s worst nightmare and the help of a ‘nanny’ horse to walk with your young horse into the water as encouragement can be really useful. Once your horse has his feet wet, come back out and redo the process without the ‘nanny’ horse. Once your horse is happy, with positive reinforcement you can include a small jump leading into the water.

The most precarious obstacles to overcome are ditches. Allow your horse to check both sides of the ditch and then use the ‘nanny’ horse again, showing the younger horse how to do it.

Then remove the ‘nanny’ horse and try again - they should gain a wealth of confidence and trust in you. www.grubsboot.com

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SADDLERY & TACK

SADDLE CHECKS

MATTER! H

orses change considerably over time. A horse’s ‘shape’ is very dependent on the horse owner’s management.

A horse can change shape for many reasons. Maybe he is enjoying a break from work turned out in a field with lots of grass. Possibly, the competition season is well under way, and he is leaner and more muscled than he was at the beginning of the season. Maybe he is a young horse and he is going through a period of rapid growth and development. Maybe his owner, school over for the summer, has vastly increased his exercise and schooling programme. Or perhaps he has lost condition over winter.

It’s surprising how many owners notice a rug getting tighter but the fact that the saddle no longer fits well completely escapes them. This is why it is very important to get saddles

36

checked regularly.

Saddle fitting checks are an important part of horse care.

Yes, they cost money. And yes, occasionally the saddle fitter may need to return quite quickly because the horse has changed shape so rapidly. This isn’t an unnecessary expense it is vital to make sure your horse is comfortable.

A saddle that is too narrow and is pinching and exerting other unwanted pressure - or too wide and pressing down and restricting the horse’s ability to use himself correctly - can result in welfare, veterinary, behavioural and performance problems. Overcoming the resulting problems could be expensive in terms of veterinary, schooling and other professional services. Meanwhile the horse has suffered unnecessarily.

Recognise that changes in exercise and feed regimes have the potential to alter the horse’s

IN THIS ISSUE THE TEAM AT THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS DISCUSSES THE IMPORTANCE OF REGULAR SADDLE CHECKS

shape. Try to stick to the principle one saddle should fit one horse and remember a saddle adopts the contours of the horse, if placed on a different horse, it could be very uncomfortable. When a saddle suffers an accident or when the horse suffers a fall whilst being ridden the saddle should be examined by a Master or Qualified Saddler. Internal damage such as a broken tree can be difficult to spot and, if not rectified, it may result in complicated veterinary problems.

Use the services of a Society of Master Saddlers’ qualified saddle fitter to undertake fitting

checks regularly. Always have a new saddle fitted and recognise that it is at least equally important to have a secondhand saddle fitted. SMS saddle fitters have a comprehensive knowledge of saddle brands and designs. They are aware of the rules and regulations applicable to tack and equipment used in all the equestrian disciplines and sports, and offer advice and professional services. www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

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LAURENCE PEARMAN IS A TWICE PRESIDENT OF SOCIETY MASTER SADDLERS, LECTURER/ASSESSOR ON SADDLE FITTING COURSES AND MASTER SADDLER.

A reader asks...

I've bought a lovely second-hand saddle for my horse, but it's brown and his bridle is black. Is it possible to have a saddle dyed a different colour?

“I have not yet found a successful way of dying a saddle, as a wet day riding in a dyed saddle inevitably will always result in the riding apparel picking up the dye.

“Also various leather conditioners can extract the dye even to the point of taking the original colour out of the leather itself. It is much easier to purchase a matching bridle which is the least expensive option”, advises Laurence.

Product News...

Stubbs Saddle Mate is the perfect solution for transporting your horse’s tack and equipment around the yard or at a show.

Available in Red, Blue, Green, White or Pink.

RRP: £25.99. www.abbey england.com

The Kentucky Horsewear Anatomic Girth is made from an artificial ‘leather-look’ material. It is lightly padded to give a comfortable fit and was developed for horses with sensitive skin and helps prevent sores and rubs.

RRP: £117.39. globalequestrianproducts@gmail.com

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LOVE DOGS

TICKS Talking

I

n support of The Big Tick Project, nature broadcaster and dog lover Chris Packham has been educating dog owners about the threats posed by ticks, how best to protect their pets and what to do if they find a tick.

Chris Packham, who is spearheading The Big Tick Project, said: “As a dog owner myself, I know how important it is to protect your pets – and your families – from all preventable disease and suffering.

“Almost half of dog owners are

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unaware that ticks can transmit diseases that are infectious to both animals and humans, such as Lyme Disease. The amount of ticks in the UK is on the rise and a staggering one in three dogs tested in the Big Tick study had ticks. This is why we need education and exactly why I’ve got behind The Big Tick Project.”

The Big Tick Project is the largest ever veterinary study of ticks and tick-borne diseases in

the UK, conducted by MSD Animal Health and the University of Bristol in 2015.

The study found that tick numbers are increasing in the UK, which is partly due to changing weather patterns, particularly wetter summers and warmer winters, which provide longer periods of conditions that are favourable to ticks.

Not only this, but a lack of awareness and concern among pet owners can lead to inadequate treatment and prevention. Following the results of the study, Tick Awareness Month was launched in May to challenge the growing problem in the UK. The Big Tick team will be touring the country at key events until September. www.bigtickproject.co.uk

TV presenter Jenni Falconer and her dog Alfie, supporting the Pet Parasite Action campaign

TV and Radio’s Jenni Falconer supports Pet Parasite Action campaign

The Pet Parasite Action campaign is being supported

by TV presenter Jenni Falconer, “As a dog owner and a mum I want to be sure I do the best thing for my pet and my family. During the Pet Parasite Action campaign I’m encouraging all pet owners to visit their vet for a simple way to help protect their pet against parasites inside and out, including those that might be harmful to the rest of the family. Let’s act now to protect all the members of our family, furry or otherwise.” www.petparasite action.co.uk

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Product News...

Betty & Dodge Dog Lead Hooks from £40. www.bettyand dodge.co.uk

Growlees present seven unisex tees featuring illustrations inspired by their cheeky collar charms for dogs.

RRP:£25. www.growlees.com

The Hound Necklace is carved in silver and for the whole of August, 15% of every sale will go to the The Blind Dog Rescue UK. RRP: £174 www.sylviakerr jewellery.com

Pink Whiskers’ new ‘mini’ collection is entitled ‘Plaid and Polka Dot’.

Prices start at RRP: £25.

This Game & Country Tweed and Leather Bed is available in small, medium, large and extra large with other sizes made to order. RRP: £295. www.pinkwhiskers.co.uk

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REPORTS

Alltech Showing Classes at Hickead attract top riders

Photo: Julian Portch

WINNER: ESSEX’S CLAUDIA MOORE!

There was strong competition in the showing classes at the Al Shira'aa Hickstead Derby Meeting, with many of the country’s leading show riders and producers competing.

In the beautiful sunshine the top horse and rider combinations contested a wide range of classes, which were sponsored by Alltech for a third year running.

The competition was fierce with a number of Horse of the Year Show qualifier tickets on offer. Jayne Ross and Casino retained the Alltech Small Riding Horse, with the Alltech Supreme Riding Horse Championship going to locally-based Allister Hood riding Diamonds Are Forever III, after the pair were victorious in the Alltech Large Riding Horse.

The Alltech Supreme Hunter Championship also went to Jayne Ross riding the imposing Bloomfield Valhalla, following their win in the The Alltech Middleweight Hunter.

Georgia Aungier, riding Fielden The Real MCCoy, was on impressive form in the CHAPS qualifiers, taking the Alltech CHAPS UK NonNative Open In-Hand, before securing the Alltech Supreme Coloured Horse In-Hand Championship.

Alltech’s UK Marketing Manager, Isla Baker-Browne was in attendance to present the prize in the iconic main international arena to Jordan Cook, winner of the Alltech Supreme Hack Championship on-board Fleetwater Xecutive.

Said Isla: “Walking into the iconic Hickstead main arena to present the prize was such an honour. The whole day was just wonderful from start to finish.”

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Bicton Arena in Budleigh Salterton, Devon saw forty-six pony riders gather to compete in The Stable Company HOYS 138cms Qualifier recently and it was Claudia Moore who claimed top spot after delivering three faultless rounds.

With each combination hoping to take home one of the three places on offer for The Stable Company HOYS 138cms Championship Final held at the prestigious Horse of the Year Show in October, the first two

rounds saw competitor numbers whittled down until just three determined combinations were left to do battle against the clock in the final jump off.

Taking her place at the top of the leader board was Claudia Moore, aged 12, from Brentwood, Essex with Tullineaskey Fear Deas, a 16year-old bay gelding owned by Katrina Moore. This combination had speed on their side as they stormed to a consistent treble clear in just 36.79 seconds.

PETERBOROUGH Festival of Hunting

On Wednesday 19th July an enthusiastic crowd of over 7000 hunting and countryside supporters attended The Festival of Hunting at The East of England Showground, with festival organisers recording that there were over 25% more attendees than last year’s event.

This year’s festival encompassed the 129th running of the Peterborough Royal Foxhound Show and is widely renowned as being the most important event in the world for foxhound breeding.

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THOMAS LOCAL RIDER: HOOPER STAR ON WINS HOYS TO NATIONAL STAGE QUALIFIER

The sun shone down on each of the thirty-nine starters contesting The Stable Company HOYS 138cms Qualifier recently and it proved to be a competitive class to watch for all of those attending the Pony Premier Show at Port Royal Equestrian Centre in Holme on Spalding Moor, York.

With three places on offer for The Stable Company HOYS 138cms Championship Final held at HOYS, a highly fought class unfolded. Rounds one and two saw poles fall to leave just seven determined combinations to do battle against the clock in the final jump off.

Thomas Hooper, aged 13, from Brentwood, Essex made his journey up the country worthwhile when he emerged as the winner of the qualifier on board Misty Bay II, a 14year-old bay mare owned by Richard Hooper. The pair showed a great turn of pace in the jump off to blast through the finish with a treble clear in 37.88 seconds.

Photo: SMR Photos

Photo: Jumpforit.co.uk

“To win this was a big surprise”

College student Maisie Swain, 17, will make her debut at HOYS after claiming the working show horse ticket in the SEIB Insurance Brokers Search For A Star (SFAS) qualifier at Bury Farm, Bucks recently.

Herts-based Maisie, who is studying at Dunstable College, partnered her mannerly 6-year-old Marlon Brando.

“We’ve only owned Marlon for a year, having bought him just-backed,” said her mother Danielle.

GOLD FOR GREAT BRITAIN

Squads have been selected to represent Great Britain under the title sponsor banner of Team NAF in the Children and Junior European Championships in Samorin, Slovakia. The competition takes place between the 8th – 13th August.

Matilda Lanni, aged 13, from Peterborough, Cambridgeshire with Newbridge’s Master Brown, an 11-year-old bay gelding owned by Stacey Webb, is one of those selected.

A fantastic effort from the Racesafe British Juniors in the final show jumping phase meant they finished with the team silver medal - 11.5 penalties behind gold medallist Germany and a huge 33 penalties ahead of France in bronze.

Bubby Upton (pictured) led from pillar to post in the individual competition; adding just two time faults from the show jumping to her exceptional dressage score of 23.9 she took individual gold on Rachel Upton’s Eros DHI.

Photo: Adam Fanthorpe

MATILDA LANNI SELECTED

AT THE YOUNG RIDER & JUNIOR EUROPEAN EVENTING CHAMPIONSHIPS

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REPORTS

ROYAL NORFOLK SHOW:

Redwings Bert wi th Nikki Rix

RESCUE HORSES PUT BEST HOOVES FORWARD

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lmost 30 rescue horses and ponies competed at the Royal Norfolk Show in June in the second year that the show has run classes sponsored by World Horse Welfare.

Each horse or pony competing had been rehomed from a range of charities including World Horse Welfare, Redwings, the RSPCA and many more with judging based on their background story in addition to their performance on the day.

Norwich-resident Nikki Rix and her horse, Bert, rehomed from Redwings stood Overall Champion of the section as well as winning the Ridden Four Years Old and Over class, with World Horse Welfare Oliver and

World Horse Welfare Oliver with Rachel Blake

44

Monks taking the top spot in the Ridden Fifteen Years and Over class.

World Horse Welfare Deputy Chief Executive, Tony Tyler said: “The rescue classes are a fantastic opportunity to showcase the amazing things that rehomed horses and ponies rehomer Rachel Blake, also from are capable of and we were Norwich, taking first prize in the delighted to see so many In-hand Four Years Old and Over entrants from around the local area and beyond. Anyone seeing class.

Other winners included Reserve the horses and ponies Champion and first place in the competing at the show could never imagine the difficulties In-hand Under Four Years Old that so many of them have category, Mereseborough’s suffered in their lives and each Chevez and Bury St Edmunds resident, Melanie Cole and Horse and every one is a real credit to the rehomers who have helped Rescue Fund Phoenix with rehomer Lindsey Plant from Toft give them a second chance.”

Meresboroughs Chevez with Melanie Cole

World horse Welfare McCloud with Lorraine Holmes

World Horse Welfare Nutkin ridden by Darcy Fowler

Norfolk rules!

Despite the up and down weather at the Norfolk Show this year, the equine classes were still hotly contested - in particular the Veteran Classes, for the older horses and ponies.

With large entries coming forward, it was lovely to see the In-hand Champion and Reserve Champion were both from Norfolk.

Champion went to 30-year-old Hot Fuss, owned by Karen Oughton and shown by daughter Laura. Laura said, “We have owned Charlie for 15-years, after my parents purchased him from a riding school where he was deemed ‘unsuitable’ for the beginner riders. Charlie has had quite the life from living in a shed to winning Champion at the Royal Norfolk Show. He’s done everything from driving to endurance and showjumping, and still enjoys going out hunting in the winter and obviously still loves the show ring! He is irreplaceable and is very much in charge at home!”

Reserve Champion went to 19year old Bureside Autumn Mist, owned by Jo Cullen, and shown L-R: Charlie and Jessie

Report and photographs

by Emily Harris

by daughter Gwynnepac Meredith (Mojo) Amy Harris.

Good friends with Laura, it was an emotional moment when they were both pulled forward, and before the Judges could present their awards, Laura and Amy shared a heartfelt hug, showing true sportsmanship in the ring with all after she won the Ridden Precompetitiveness pushed aside.

Veteran at the RNS in 2016).

Amy said, “Jessie (Bureside Jessie owes me nothing, and is, Autumn Mist) is a Welsh Section without a doubt, my pony of a B mare who I have had the lifetime'. absolute pleasure of owning for Laura and Charlie then went on 10-years. She was bred in Great to win their Ridden section as Yarmouth, lives in Norfolk still well, just missing out on the with us, although we ended up Championship this time round. travelling down to Cornwall to Champion Ridden went to actually buy her! We have had Norfolk based rider Ella May, great success together, riding her own 17-year-old specifically in the show ring, Welsh Section D Gwynneparc most recently winning the InMeredith and Reserve Champion hand Pre-Veteran Class and went to Marie Filby riding 15Reserve In-hand Championship year old Thomas. at the RNS (making it a double

Photo: Spencer Morat Photography

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Well done!

“My brother and I own our horse together (we were late starters riding) but my brother Mark, 37, has just entered his first ever competition and he came sixth!

“It was also only my horse’s third ever time out and she came third in the second class with Mark’s girlfriend riding.

“We have owned Megan for about eighteen months but she had never left the yard or loaded onto a trailer before we got her so although she is 8-years-old she is a baby really!

“Mark entered Megan (Shovern Splash of Colour) into Codham Park Equestrian’s jump cross competition. He did the x-pole class and came sixth gaining his first ever rosette” - Charlotte Gilbert.

“I won the 2ft3ins (68cm) class on the 2nd July at Wix EC with Box of Tricks” - Thalia Dale.

Well done!

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Buying a ‘baby’ pays off Rebecca Hedger on Just Louis II

assistant Zoe Stevens, 24, earned her HOYS ticket at the first attempt with her 10-yearold hunter, The Talisman, who finished second in the class.

‘Taz’ as he is known at home, is a true all-rounder. “He turns his hoof to anything,” said Zoe, who bought him two and a half years ago after her previous horse broke a leg in the field.

“We never thought we could replace that mare but Taz is amazing,” she added.

Cobs A horse that was advertised on Facebook ‘for about five minutes’ headed the cob line-up with the 5-year-old Louis herself. given up their own precious at Keysoe. Kate Over bought Cob “I bought Louis as a unbacked 2- time to take me out all over the Only Knows (Sam) last October year-old. I fell in love with him at place to compete him. And Jo and they have done some Bates convinced me to enter first sight and knew instantly I coloured Royal International him [for SFAS] - without her had to buy him,” she said. “I qualifiers, as well as British Show input I wouldn’t have attempted Horse Association amateur and couldn’t afford the quality of horse I wanted so knew I had to the class this year.” home-produced classes.

Becky showed Louis in-hand as a “He was advertised for about take the risk of buying a baby youngster and has entered him and it has well and truly paid five minutes and I was lucky in both Ridden Hunter and Irish enough to get a private message off.”

Draught Sport Horse classes at She credited friends Jackie and to the owner, Jane Jones, who’d Andrea Smith for their ‘amazing county shows. But even so, she found him in a field down the hadn’t expected to win at her support’, as well as Jo Bates, road,” said Kate, who farms and first attempt at a SFAS qualifier. runs a B&B at Elmswell in with whom she had a recent “I was overwhelmed when our lesson.

Suffolk. number was called. I will never “I honestly wouldn’t be here She started showing Sam this forget that moment.” today without Jackie and season and they have qualified Warwick-based accounts admin for the coloured sections at the Andrea,” she said. “They have Photos: SM

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onestly, it’s the horse,” said an elated Becky Hedger as she collected her awards for winning the Hunter section at the wellsupported SEIB Search for a Star (SFAS) show at The College, Keysoe recently with Just Louis II. “He never lets me down and I am immensely proud of him. For the Judges to acknowledge what I see in him and how I feel about him is an amazing feeling.”

Judges Richard Ramsay and David Ingle had two good classes of hunters to assess at Keysoe, where around 100 horses and ponies came forward for judging across five SFAS sections, with qualifying places for the prestigious Horse of the Year Show in October.

Becky, 22, a sales negotiator for Country Properties Estate Agents, has done all the work

R Photos.

REPORTS

Samantha Rose on Ferryland Brenin

Zoe Stevens on The Talisman

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Over on Cob Only Knows

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Royal International in 2017 and 2018, as well as some amateur and home-produced classes.

Although Sam has always been placed in the top three, it took a comment from renowned producer Allister Hood - who Kate says ‘puts her right with little tweaks here and there’ - to enter Search for a Star.

“Allister said he had as good a chance as any,” she said. “I hoped that I would get Sam through to HOYS - a lot of people had said he was good enough - and he did it on his first outing.”

Sam Rose and her Welsh section D, Ferryland Brenin, will also get the experience of going to HOYS, having finished second in the Cob section at Keysoe. She bought Brenin, now 11, aged just eight months.

“He never did very well in Welsh classes, so a friend suggested hogging him,” explained Sam, who lives in Wisbech, Cambs.

“So I did in 2015, and he’s found his niche. We’ve done lots of local showing and I only came here to see how we’d compare with more county-level cobs.”

Sam does all the work with Brenin - whom she describes as ‘highly intelligent’ - herself, although she has had a few lessons. But she advocates asking for advice from experienced showing competitors.

“We have a few locals who are knowledgeable about showing, such as Kay Gillam, who has cobs, and Sue Bhogal, whose daughters have been to HOYS. They willingly offer help and advice.”

Brenin does a bit of everything,

including hunting, Roberta Bradby on but Sam says they Neutrino mainly concentrate on showing, having had excellent placings in amateur classes.

“I went into the ring today to get some feedback and hopefully to be told we were on the right Nadia Catterwell track,” said Sam, on Azara who works as a kitchen assistant at a primary school. “The qualifiers, was split into two experience as a whole has been would do - I started off show went to Nadia Catterwell and amazing. Brenin gave me the jumping him, he’s been crossAzara. Nadia got Azara, whose best ride to date - even in the country and the goal is to do 30°C heat - and my fellow working show horses and show name means ‘the chosen one’, as a just-broken project three competitors were cheerful and jump, as well as hack classes. years ago. She had competed in supportive of one another, as He’s the most obliging and SFAS with her previous horse showing should be.” willing horse I’ve ever had - he but never managed to qualify. tries his heart out for me.”

Hacks and riding horses “My hope was to get good Roberta was quick to credit her “If somebody had said I would mother’s input. “She’s amazing. feedback [at Keysoe] and for her qualify at my first attempt, I to go as well as I know she can Words cannot describe how wouldn’t have believed them - it grateful I am. She’s taught me to they are top Judges so I took on still hasn’t sunk in,” said Roberta ride from when I was three and I board their opinions to improve Bradby, whose ‘wild little chap’, my young horse,” said Nadia, wouldn’t be able to do any of the 8-year-old Neutrino, joined who has run her own what I’ve done without her,” the family six years ago. “He was hairdressing salon in Roberta declared. barely halter-broken,” added Woodbridge, Suffolk, for 18This was the first SFAS show Roberta, an account manager years. “I didn’t expect to qualify Roberta had been to and she for Essex Life magazine. “He had with her on my first attempt. was full of praise for both the just been in a field and even She’s an amazing horse - she is organisation and the concept. though we didn’t really have “This was just the best day ever - intelligent and learns quickly, is room for him, we got him.” well behaved, always tries hard everybody was so friendly and She and her mother Jo broke and has loads of personality.” helpful, the atmosphere was him in but, due to Roberta’s lovely and all the competitors Working show horse/pony work commitments, Jasper has were really supportive. The It was third-time lucky for competed only lightly.

Judges were also great; they Milton Keynes-based scientist “I’d always had workers before were really helpful and gave Nicki Stapleton and her pureso having a hack is a bit such good advice.” bred Connemara Morepark different,” she said. “However, Second place in this section Prince, who won the Working he does all the stuff my workers which, like all the SFAS Continued overleaf...

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REPORTS Continued from previous page...

Show Horse qualifier. The pair, who compete in a variety of disciplines, have tried for the past two years to earn a coveted place at HOYS but this was to be their year - the revised format of the class earning a huge thumbs-up.

The format of this SFAS section requires the competitors to jump two out of three fences placed in the arena, with the Judges awarding marks for jumping style as well as performance.

There were tears of joy, too, when Lucy Smith’s ThingymaBob headed the Working Show Pony line-up, ridden by her friend Hannah Downes. Lucy, who has just finished her English degree at the University of Wolverhampton, had seen a video of the SFAS Working Pony class and thought it was something Hannah might like to do.

“We thought it would be a good class to show off his combination of flatwork and jumping,” said Lucy, who bought Bob, who is a Welsh section C-gypsy cob cross, eight years ago from travellers. “We decided to enter him for a bit of experience and something different for him too.

“It was an absolute pleasure to see my amazing friend Hannah riding my pride and joy round in the group. When the Judges announced first place was number 291, Hannah was looking around to see who had won. She and I just looked at each other and burst into tears.”

Lucy had seen Bob advertised in

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was actually only three and he had not been broken in.”

Giving Bob time to settle in then having him re-broken meant that Lucy’s confidence dipped even lower. It wasn’t until she started having lessons with Sylvia Farmer that things improved.

“Over the past couple of years we have achieved so much a local paper as a ‘rising 6-year- together, from starting and old confidence-giving family scoring low at intro-level pony’. She had broken her dressage to winning at novice collarbone and damaged a and scoring percentages that I cranial nerve in show jumping would never thought I would accidents but was determined to achieve,” said Lucy. have her own pony. When she “I have always had an absolutely tried him, Bob felt unbalanced massive dream that Bob would and very green but she loved the get to HOYS, especially since I look of him so bought him have attended the show nearly anyway. every year since I was about 10She asked an experience friend years-old. But I never thought to ride him in the school before he’d do it the first time out,” she got on - and Bob said Lucy. “It goes to show that immediately bucked her off. A you definitely don’t need to buy vet and a farrier came to check anything seriously well-bred and Bob over. flashy to get to HOYS.” “He wouldn’t let the farrier SEIB Racehorse to Riding anywhere near him and it was Horse then that we learned that Bob A self-confessed ‘horse hoarder’ Nicola Stapleton on Morepark Prince

will be returning to HOYS after her Thoroughbred Clonard Lad (Chester) won the SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse at Keysoe.

Chester first went to the SEIB HOYS final in 2015 - which Becky admitted was a year too soon for him - and finished a creditable seventh. Last year, he was sixth and finished eighth in the Large Riding Horses for good measure.

The second-placed SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse also goes to HOYS and this was debutant Mr Ooosh, owned by Baileys Horse Feeds and ridden

by Lynn Russell.

“He came out of training in June last year and was totally useless,” said Lynn. “He won more in showing and that says it all.”

The 7-year-old gelding, by Midnight Legend out of the Irish mare Blackbriery Thyne, was in training with Tom Symonds. He ran twice, without troubling the Judges, in 2015. Hopefully, he’s found his niche with SEIB Racehorse to Riding Horse.

Hannah Downes on Thingymabob

Paul Langrick on Clonard Lade

Lynn Russell on Mr Ooosh

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TREADFIRST BACKS A NEW FORM OF HORSEPOWER

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fter winning the British Riding Club National Championships the Saffron Walden and District Riding Club team were invited to the Generalli World Club Show Jumping Championships in France.

The team members will be taking their own horses to the tournament; Sophie Reason and her horse Heartstopper; Sarah Hamlett and Grafique Banta; Catherine Berisford and Tara Chisnall on Lough Lad Wooleypark Destiny; Lisa Spence won the 18inchs class at Wix and Fidget.

EC recently.

Spokesperson Lisa Spence said, “The cost of transporting the horses to France was not cheap, so I decided to appeal for sponsorship to help us. It wasn’t easy in today’s financial climate!

Thankfully for the team, Director Mick Shaw from Treadfirst saw the opportunity to grow the agricultural side of the business and agreed to back us.”

Treadfirst being a large local East Anglian based tyre fitting company are keen to develop the agricultural tyre fitting and Local competitor Danny Stahn emergency call out side of the was winner of the 90cm and business especially with harvest 1.0m on 2nd July at Wix EC coming up. riding Quin.

The team has already generated a massive following on facebook, twitter and instagram To have your photograph included here please email your as they prepare to embark to France. The team now hope they recent successes to can do Treadfirst proud and be office@ahmagazine.com and successful in the competition. attach a hi-resolution Lisa said, “We received some photograph...

Well done!

Well done!

looks when we took the horses and the horseboxes to the Saffron Walden and Sudbury branch of Treadfirst for a photoshoot! The tyre fitters definitely prefer the mechanical horsepower to the real thing!

However it is great to see a company like Treadfirst support such an interesting experience.”

The team of ladies are aged from 24 to 51-years-old and have all been long standing members of the Saffron Walden and District Riding Club.

To say they are excited to be representing Great Britain on behalf of British Riding Clubs is

an understatement! This will be the first time for all of the team flying the GB Flag.

The competition in France is run by the Fédération Française D'équitation (FFE), its aim is to encourage multicultural integration within the equine industry.

To follow the team and keep up to date with their progress at the competition visit Facebook at http://fb.me/GWCTeamGB201 7 you can also find them on instagram and twitter @GWCteamGB2017

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SPECIAL REPORT

TEAM ACHIEVES HIGHEST ressage teams from across the region headed to Keysoe EC to represent their county in this years Inter County Dressage Challenge. Suffolk team led by team coordinator, Tammy Ruffles, were looking to build on their fourth place from the year before.

The twelve riders selected to represent Suffolk were (Prelim Sec) Emma Kelly, Emma Owen, Frances Schonut and Rosie Stevens. In the Novice section, Abi Jacobs, Caroline Steward, Gaby Botfield and Kelsey Love.

In the Elementary section, Jessica Zampi, Katie Brown, Laura Smith and Rachel Morphey.

Saturday kicked off with the

D

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dressage team dressing up the stables while the quadrille team were using their warm-up slot to the max. As Suffolk has the most stunning beaches the team went to town with all things ‘by the sea’ theme, with Emma Kelly’s horse sleeping in a beach hut themed stable for the night. The team were rewarded by winning the Best Dressed Stables award on Sunday.

This years theme for the quadrille teams was ‘Books’ and the work that went into all the performances was amazing to watch. There was everything from London A to Z, to Bridget Jones, to Black Beauty. The whole team sat together supping on bubbly in full support.

Saturday night brought about a team BBQ cooked by Abi and

Jess, with food provided by the lovely Linda including salads, puddings and amazing cakes from the Bake House, Woodbridge!

Sunday brought the main team event with each rider riding two tests at their level in different arenas. The scores from the two

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tests would count for individual placings, and all scores would fight for team placings.

Team moral and support was second to none, everyone supported, helped, called and watched all team members, and kept Tammy fed and watered as she stood helping/advising/

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REPORT SPONSORED BY

EVER POSITION!

supporting all day.

Every team had their own colours to represent their counties. Suffolk’s being maroon and gold which looked so smart thanks to all sponsors.

“The team all did amazingly, I could not be prouder,” said Tammy. “We had two individual ninths, (Jess Zampi and Emma Kelly), a fourth (Katie Brown), a second (Caroline Steward) and a first, with Abi Jacobs winning the Novice section and becoming this years Inter County Novice Champion. The team spirit throughout the whole weekend was fantastic, everyone worked and rode their socks off, culminating in us being placed third, our highest ever position. I would like to say a big thank you to all of our sponsors, without whom we could not do what we do - from all the team, thank you!”

Here’s what the team members had to say: ABI JACOBS “I have literally been blown away by whole experience!

From being chosen to ride for county to the closeness of the team even when I’d not met half of them before. The support and work Tammy put in, and the goodies the sponsors gave. The way that we stuck together all weekend and held our heads high - proud to be sitting on our amazing four legged friends riding for our lives and county!

“The quadrilles were amazing to watch and team BBQ and bubbles a winner!

“The standard on team day was far higher than I expected. I had no idea the two tests were added together for the individual championship and team placings. I knew Absolute

Horse had offered up a front cover for an arena win which I won in the morning, but to be handed the Champion Novice sash blew me away! I had to ride every stride in that arena but that special little horse, who belongs to Lily Hill, listened and tried his heart out.

“Everyone squealed when it came over the tannoy at lunch that I was first to break the 70% barrier! I cried with joy - Just wow! Still literally blown away by everything!

Thank you Tammy and team Suffolk!”

JESS ZAMPI “After the high of being selected, I went with little expectation, just proud to represent Team Suffolk and determined to do my best.

“The competition was extremely high, with some fabulous horses, so the pressure was on. Moo and I did a relatively ‘safe’ first test and were well positioned, but had everything to ride for in the second test – so we gave it the ride of our lives.

“Then the long wait… and they made us wait for the presentation - nail biting!

“I was totally gobsmacked to find Moo and I were ninth overall in the Elementary, and so, so chuffed that Team Suffolk surpassed all recent results to take third overall.

Continued overleaf...

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Bed-Down LLP are proud to be sponsors of the Suffolk BD Intercounty Challenge Team

Long summer days and warm temperatures bring great opportunities for riding, and competing at all levels and across all disciplines. Bed-Down LLP are proud to be sponsors of Tammy Ruffles and the Suffolk BD Inter County Challenge Team. We feel it is important for local companies to support and encourage riders to rise through the ranks, helping them to fulfil their dreams.

Being part of that team and being able to impart knowledge and advice really does make it a team effort.

Bed-Down are celebrating their 60th birthday this year and with 60 years of manufacturing and tradition behind us, we specialise in premium animal bedding, with our complete product range shouting quality.

Our love for horses and ponies mean that their welfare is at the heart of every single bale we produce. All our equine bedding range undergoes our unique, extensive, multiple dust extraction process, Easy Breathe.

Bed-Down are the only manufacturer that provide a complete “One Stop Shop” for all your equine bedding needs. The premium range is well known for its absorbency levels, its fresh scent, the dual sized packaging and the ability to serve any horse from field to high performance.

To find your nearest Bed-Down stockist, please do not hesitate to contact us on 01986 785 278 or reach out on our social media networks using @beddownbedding. You can find us on both Facebook and Twitter.

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SPECIAL REPORT Continued from previous page...

“I don’t think I’m alone in being proud to have pulled this result for Tammy – she works so hard to make the whole Team Suffolk experience memorable - and to have shared the team’s successes, especially Abi Jacobs for her truly stratospheric win!

“I have come away with new friends and the burning desire for more, and would recommend the experience to anyone.

“Finally, I would say that one of the most memorable parts of the weekend was our stable decorating efforts – Team Suffolk were exceptional in this field! But this is where the team spirit began and this carried us through the rest of the weekend. Well done Teamies and thank you!”

EMMA KELLY “It was my first time competing at Affiliated level in dressage, so I didn’t know many people but everyone was so fab and supportive which for me really made the weekend.

“Toto was great and tolerated my nerves for us to come ninth overall in the Prelim section, which was a big surprise as there were so many lovely horses and riders taking part. Being part of the team was a brilliant experience and team third was the icing on the cake. There were so many people who worked so hard to make this a great experience but I especially want to say thank you to Tammy for

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organising us all.

“Some of the highlights were a fantastic BBQ on the Saturday, cakes for breakfast Sunday morning (always a good thing), Tammy helping warm everyone up and the giant sticks of rock and the Beach Hut that Caroline made to decorate the stables with.”

CAROLINE STEWARD “Really thrilled to be picked and be part of the Inter County Squad - lovely opportunity to meet new people having been away from competition riding for a number of years.

“The camaraderie and support from everybody riding and behind the scenes was amazing.

“For me it was a great competition, with Rouvin scoring 68.97% and 71.23% to finish overall second in the Novice section, very proud of him and how he coped at his first big event with me, only being beaten by another Suffolk rider, Abi Jacobs who posted two sensational 70+% scores to win the Novice outright.”

KATIE BROWN “Competing in the Inter County Teams was on my bucket list and I was proud to represent Suffolk.

I met some amazing people and can’t thank everyone enough for

making it so memorable. After a very hard winter with BG I wasn’t even sure whether I would be able to ride him again.

He had an infection in the suture lines in his skull, a bone fracture just below his eye socket and a large swelling. I was convinced that he wasn’t going to pull through. However with a lot of time, medication and TLC he made it.

“The week before Keysoe we went to Brook Farm to compete in the PetPlan Area Festival at Elementary level. BG is such a cheeky monkey that he was a little naughty. He won the warm up test but for our qualifying test we were unplaced.

Although this was infuriating, this is why I love him. When he’s good, he’s good and when he’s bad, he’s bad!

“At the Inter County Teams I was so worried that the atmosphere would be a little too much and would be a perfect opportunity for a few huge spooks and spins!

“However he did me proud and kept completely cool and managed 67% and 68% in his tests.”

RACHEL MORPHEY “Cooper and I had an amazing weekend at Keysoe for The Inter County Challenge. I was

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extremely proud to be part of the Suffolk team.

“Cooper loves to compete at this venue and thrives on the atmosphere. I, on the other hand, always feel slightly nervous and I am not worth talking to early in the morning.

Cooper excelled himself and danced his socks off.”

LAURA SMITH “Goodie and I had a fantastic weekend. He behaved perfectly and took everything in his stride doing two good solid elementary tests. He has only just gone up to this level so I was over the moon with how well we did. He was a little spooky the day before when we did our warm up tests, so it was a great relief that he wasn't phased by anything on the day.

“It was a privilege to ride for Suffolk and spend time with some lovely people. Tammy did an amazing job with our sponsors so we all looked immaculate in our new kit.”

JULIE LONG “I was selected with my Friesian mare Tooske van de Oude Kleefsebaan (Lacey) to play the part of Black Beauty in the quadrille, it was our first time of riding a quadrille and to actually win the Best Equine Storyline

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REPORT SPONSORED BY found the experience of riding in a group great fun as normally he can be a bit behind the leg, so riding so close alongside others gave him that extra sparkle.”

was quite an achievement. The quadrille was made up of 7 members, we started off with Black Beauty entering with his mother and then the storyline carried on through time riding with Merry Legs, Ginger, Captain and other horses that Beauty met through his life.

“We had some fantastic costumes and I actually made my own period costume.

“All the horses behaved exceptionally considering the audience and atmosphere of the whole evening, I found it more nerve racking than actually riding a dressage test!

“Being part of the quadrille was exciting and I met some lovely new friends.”

STEPH MUSK “I was thrilled to be picked for the Suffolk quadrille team.

Neither me or my horse Dougal have done anything like this before and I was so pleased to take him there. We had an amazing weekend with the whole Suffolk team and all supported each other through the quadrille and the test riding the following day.“ GABY BOTFIELD “I enjoyed the event very much and was pleased with my performance being the first big event I have done on Cracker, who behaved himself impeccably. I’m hoping to compete again next year but for now aiming to improve on things at Area Festival back at Keysoe towards end of August.

“I enjoyed the quadrille very much, especially the dressing up as Ice Queen. Queenie was the perfect partner for this job.”

JUDY BROWN “After a life changing back injury

10-years ago (44-yearsold at that time) which left me at one stage unable to stand or walk, I thought my riding days were done - until I met Tammy Ruffles. With endless gadgets to aid my safety on my horse, I was finally able to ride again.

“Not expecting to reach great heights, I soon did, with a good chance of riding Para in my grasp. Tammy asked if I would ride in the Suffolk quadrille team and to ride on a beautiful black mare as Anne Sewell, the author of the famous Black Beauty story. Anne herself was an impaired rider, and I was honoured Tammy asked me.

“It was a great weekend, fantastic team spirit, my confidence was boosted and showed riding life doesn’t have to end, impaired or otherwise.”

ROSIE STEVENS “Me and my warmblood Van Neolux aka Alwyn were very proud to be representing Suffolk. We decided to make a weekend of it and do our very first BD tests on the Saturday, which went very well and got Alwyn used to the arenas as he

can be a little tinker spooking!

“There was a great atmosphere within the teams and the quadrille evening was great to watch.

“Warming up for our Inter County test on the Sunday was hot and interesting. Alwyn was determined he needed to show off his medium trot (his favourite move) in the Prelim tests, so felt like I was a bit out of control, but we put in a fair test.”

PAULA SAVORY “I was super excited to be chosen to be a part of the Suffolk team quadrille, Lion, Witch and the Wardrobe. This is the first team event I have ever been involved with and Rudi was a superstar.

“I have been riding him for two years and he is teaching me loads. Tammy is an amazing trainer I can’ t thank her enough and we won Best Costume which was great!”

SARAH AGAR “Riding for the Suffolk quadrille team was a new experience for myself and my horse Cloud. We played the role of Justice in Black Beauty. Cloud is a 13-year-old 15.2 Connemara x. We usually compete BD elementary level dressage and when we are feeling brave attempt a little cross country jumping. I think he

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PHOTONEWS ❙ Inter County Dressage Challenge ❙ Keysoe EC ❙ 8th & 9th July

Jess Zampi riding Nemisis

Abi Jacobs riding WS Jackson

BigTimeMedia

Caroline Steward riding Rouvin

Emma Owen riding Woodcroft Larimar

Frances Schonhut riding Mirianog Alice

Gary Botfield riding Cracker III

Emma Kelly riding Greenwing Steptoe

Katie Brown riding Clifton Bee Gee

Kelsey Love riding Castle House Gem

Laura Smith riding Goodie Two Shoes

Rachel Morphey riding Urival

Rosie Stevens riding Van Neolux

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❙ Tendring Hundred Show ❙ Lawford House Park ❙ 8th July

Team Greyness Snapper

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PHOTONEWS ❙ Showing Show ❙ Codham Park ❙ 4th June

Natalie Romani and Donna Rosa, In Hand Best Condition winners

Chantel Pinney and Kilital Billy, 2nd place In Hand Best Condition

Jade Nunn and Colour with Courage, In Hand Sports/Competition Horse winners

Emma Mortimer and Templedruid Faith

Aaron Vickery and Myli, 3rd place In Hand Prettiest Mare

Katie Grimwood and Tiercel Modesty, Reserve In Hand Champion

Aydan Wallis and Tiercel Disco, 3rd place In Hand Foreign Breeds

Charlie Linsell-Clark on Ulverscroft Northern Dancer, M&M Lead Rein winners

Geoffrey Baldwin and Allstars Technicoloured Pestachio, Supreme Champion

Grace Human riding Tiercel Crumpet, 2nd place Ridden M&M

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Susan Johnston on New Years Day, Reserve Ridden Champion

Rosie Beanland riding Abracadabra, Ridden rare and Foreign Breeds winners

Spencer Moret Photography

Beatruce Uthwatt-Bouverie riding Tommy, First Ridden rider under 12 winners

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❙ British Showjumping ❙ The Jays ❙ 8th July

Ellie Dainton on Inverin Bobby, 70cm Open winners

Caitlin Sedgwick on Red Rhapsody, British Novice winners

Anya Andrews on Drealistown Dandy, Discovery winners

Amelia Newby on Grey Lad V, 2nd place Discovery

Katie Stockwell on Lahinch PJ, Newcomers / 1m Open winners

Nicola Withey on Cambola Des Fontaines, Senior British Novice winners

Nissi Laddell on Ayonie, 1m Open winners

Sara Cheshire on Bruce Almighty V, 2nd place 1.05m Open

Jessica Macey on Coolin Lucky Star, 1.05m Open winners Far left: Biddy Brasted-Watts riding Bansha Vendi, Senior Discovery winners

Lucy Jane Photography Left: Nissi Laddell on Chimichurri, Senior Newcomers / 1.10m Open winners

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PHOTONEWS ❙ Unaffiliated Showjumping ❙ Codham Park ❙ 14th May

Helene Kontofrios riding Princess, X-Pole winners

Maria Weston riding Reggie, 2nd place 50cm Novice Pony

Ruth Cartwright on Dayrells Ella, 2nd place 50cm Novice Horse

Nikki Ford on Whizz, 3rd place 50cm Novice Horse

Spencer Moret Photography

Beth Sen riding Meelickisland Cloud, 50cm Novice Horse winners

Caitlin Faulkner on Tornado Tilly, 50cm Novice Horse winners

Maddie Molloy on Pickles, 60cm Novice Pony winners

Megan Saunders on The Artful Dodger, 2nd place 80cm Open Pony

Danny Stahn on Quin, 2nd place 80cm Open Horse

Alice Perrins on Vera, 3rd place 90cm Open Horse

Georgia Davis on Lonheulog Moc, 90cm Open Horse winners

Beau Damps riding Marilyn Monroe, 90cm Open Pony winners

Harriet Garrett on CSC Indian Lakota, 2nd place 90cm Open Horse

Beau Damps on Ballymac D White Socks, 2nd place 1.05m Open

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❙ Unaffiliated Showjumping ❙ Topthorn Arena ❙ 2nd July

Olivia Aldous

Lydia Alderson

Rachel Woodward

Gemma Platt

Nikki Websdale

Lauren Edwards

Sophie Knight

Lucy Jane Photography

❙ Unaffiliated Showjumping ❙ The Jays ❙ 24th June

Lydia Anderson on Mojo, 50cm Open winners

Kirsty Way on Jimmy, 60cm Open winners

Anna Smith on Pasha, 70cm Open winners

Georgia Maynard on Chonta, 2nd place 70cm Open

Faith Rookyard on Lola, 80cm Open winners

Toni Arlett-Johnson on Theo, 2nd place 80cm Open

Nicola Denley on Great News, 90cm Open winners

Hollie Nuttall on Mr Dorey, 1m Open

57

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PHOTONEWS ❙ British Dressage PetPlan Area Festival ❙ Codham Park ❙ 17th June

Charlotte Wisbey on Mission Statement, Advanced Medium 91 winners Ali Black on Joe’s Hero, Prelim 19 winners

Joanne Blagrove on Bertie, 3rd place Prelim 19 Bronze Sec

George Twyman on Tuskerbister Jarl Sweyn, 3rd place Prelim 19 Silver Sec

Spencer Moret Photography

Bethan Young on Jackpots Forsetti, Prelim 19 U18 winners

Danielle Dickson on Uniquely Bee, Novice 23 Bronze Sec winners

Karen Gosney on San Remo Sony, Medium 73 winners

Suzanne Ashwell on Pumlon Loveheart, 2nd place Novice 23 Silver Sec

Jessica Clarke on TT Amika, 2nd place Elementary 53 Bronze Sec

Caroline Marsh riding Lismore Choice

Jack Poelvoorde on Midnight Finito, Elementary 53 U18 winners

Emma Pewter on San Rafael, Advanced Medium 91 Silver Sec winners

Sophie Chatwin on Ready Jetset Go, Medium 73 Silver Sec winners

Lindsay Mason-Banchero on Banagher Steel, Prelim 19 Silver Sec winners

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❙ Worlington RC Dressage ❙ Showground, Fordham ❙ 9th July

Sarah Lummis on Jazz, 2nd place Prelim 12

Rebecca Rivett on Kingston 9, 2nd place Prelim 18

Julia Woods riding Moonstone, Novice 24 winners

David Bartholomew on Rifleman, Novice 24 winners

Jenna Hoyle, Prelim 12 winners

Lucy Jane Photography

Rebecca Jarvis on Tilly, 3rd place Prelim 12

Scott Clelland riding Bodge, Intro B winners

Siobhan Gilligan on Renoir, Novice 27 winners

❙ JumpCross ❙ Codham Park ❙ 3rd June

Phoebe Jefferies on Brook, 60-65cm Novice Pony winners

Ruth Cartwright on Dayrells Ella, 2nd place 50cm Mini Horse

Martha Millar on Kimbo, 50cm Mini Challenge winners

Lauren Dunn riding Flying Spirit, 2nd place 50cm Mini Pony

Susan Johnston 60-65cm Novice Horse winner

Georgia Davis on Lonheulog Moc, 70-75cm Intro Horse winners

Edith Smith and Secret, 2nd place 50cm Mini Challenge

Spencer Moret Photography

59

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING

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60

Transport

MARK HOWES

C.V.S. (ANGLIA) LTD

BEDFORD • AWD • SPECIALISTS

HORSEBOX SPECIALISTS IN MOT PREPARATION, MOT TESTING FOR CLASS 4 & 7 VEHICLES, SERVICING, PARTS, SPECIALIST BODY (Aluminium & Wooden) ACCIDENT REPAIRS Welcome old and new customers to their premises at

HOLYWELLS ROAD, IPSWICH TEL: (01473) 216462 Surfaces

To advertise your business or service call:

Saddleries

01473 731222

Juddpurs Saddlery Specialists in saddle fitting by Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddle fitter.

Most ranges of saddles in stock or we can order.

111 Bedingfield Crescent Halesworth, Suffolk IP19 8ED

Tel: 01986 874800

KAY HOWARD

QUALIFIED MASTER SADDLER & SADDLE FITTER • Range of quality new, secondhand and synthetic saddles and accessories • Impartial, independent, saddle fitting and advice • Mobile workshop.

• Re-flocking, top-ups and remedial flocking • Full saddle repair service.

Please phone Kay on (07775) 850400

Based in Norfolk, but covering a wide area.

Registered member

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Equine Crematoriums

Stables

Suffolk Pet & Equine Crematorium

PEACE OF MIND AT A TIME OF GRIEF 01284 810981

www.suffolkpetcrematorium.com

Pet Crematorium for large and small animals

Horse Supplies

Fakenham (01328) 851351 Stockist for a wide range of Horse Feeds; Bedding; Supplements; Requisites.

Horse wormers now available Delivery Service. Everyone welcome.

Come and see us at our new larger premises Clipbush Business Park, Fakenham NR21 8SW

WIX

www.gjlaninmalfeeds.co.uk

EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

Battlesbridge Mills Horse & Country Shop

Everything for the Horse & Rider Huge range of tack, accessories, stable supplies

Tel: 01268 560008 The Mills, Chelmsford Road, Battlesbridge, Essex SS11 8TR www.horseandcountryshop.co.uk

Dentist

PROFESSIONAL, QUALIFIED & CARING EQUINE DENTISTRY

Full range of Horse & Pet, Feed & Bedding Open 7 days a week Indoor schools for hire

01255 870744

07968 445509 WWW.BEDT.CO.UK

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Vets in the Spotlight

VETERINARY CONTACTS Ryder-Davies & Partners VETERINARY SURGEONS Our experienced equine team offer a range of services throughout Suffolk, South Norfolk & North Essex Services include: • Full lameness investigations • Teeth rasping & advanced dental work • Pre purchase examinations • Vaccinations, worming regimes • Equine reproductive stud work • BEVA accredited practice for chilled & frozen semen • Investigation of breeding problems in mares Facilities include: Inpatient and outpatient stabling with 24 hour care • Digital x-ray, In-house laboratory, endoscope & digital ultrasound.

We offer: Visits on a round-reduced visit fee Yard visit days- no visit fee • Spread the cost health plans Regular client information evenings & newsletters. www.ryder-daviesvets.co.uk

24 Hour Emergency Support Tel: 01394 380083

01284 789428

Bury St Edmunds Suffolk IP29 4NP

www.hawkedonvets.co.uk

Essex based mobile veterinary practice

Advanced dentistry, lameness evaluations, portable Xray, ultrasound, portable video gastroscopy/endoscopy all carried out in the comfort of your horses’s home.

Pre purchase examinations.

24 hour local emergency cover.

01371 851755/ 01371 850532 www.fullerequine.co.uk www.facebook.com/fullerequine fullerequine@gmail.com

Wherry Veterinary Group Bungay, Suffolk

Working with you for the health and wellbeing of your equine companions.

Take advantage of our experienced equine team and our modern, purpose built premises.

01986 892771 62

HAWKEDON VETS EQUINE PRACTICE

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SHOWDATE DIARY

SPONSORED BY

Your Showdate listings for... Aug/Sept 2017 TUESDAY 1ST AUGUST FUN SHOW Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Children’s Fun Show. Tel: 01279 414310 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01371 811881 WEDNESDAY 2ND AUGUST DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; British Dressage. Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 THURSDAY 3RD AUGUST SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping League. Tel: 01328 878282 FRIDAY 4TH AUGUST SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Summer Fun Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Open

Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 5TH AUGUST ARENA EVENTING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Unaffiliated Arena Eventing. Tel: 07879 881755 DRESSAGE Essex: Fletchers Farm Riding School; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01206 242210 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Mixed British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; X-Pole Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 6TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: Twin Trees EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01767 627414 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping.

Tel: 01353 727109 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook

Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 TUESDAY 8TH AUGUST SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01371 811881 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 WEDNESDAY 9TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Evening Showjumping.

Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01603 731577

SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 10TH AUGUST SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01353 727109 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Very Novice Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping League. Tel: 01328 878282 FRIDAY 11TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Evening Dressage. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 12TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage Eastern Regionals. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping.

Tel: 01353 727109 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Mixed British Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962

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SHOWDATE DIARY Your Showdate listings for... August/September 2017 SUNDAY 13TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage Eastern Regionals. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Cambs: Fenning Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07711 739300 DRESSAGE Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01279 414310 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01328 878282 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01353 727109 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 MONDAY 14TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage Eastern Regionals. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm EC; Evening Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 TUESDAY 15TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage incl Freestyle. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Beds: Twin Trees EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01767 627414

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SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01371 811881 WEDNESDAY 16TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01353 727109 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; British Dressage. Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 17TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01353 727109 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage, Intro to Ad Med & Music. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Clesar Round Showjumping and Gymkhana.

Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC;

Unaffiliated Showjumping League. Tel: 01328 878282 FRIDAY 18TH AUGUST SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Open Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 19TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage Area Festival. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage Music. Tel: 01353 727109 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Boyton Hall EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Mini Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 20TH AUGUST ARENA EVENTING Essex: Codham Park EC; Arena Eventing. Tel: 07769 907076 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage Area Festival. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01353 727109 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Essex: Finchingfield EC; Unaffiliated

Dressage. Tel: 01371 811881 ONE DAY EVENT Norfolk: Blackwater Farm; Unaffiliated One Day Event. Tel: 01362 688227 or 01603 873187 SHOWJUMPING Beds: Twin Trees EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01767 627414 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping.

Tel: 01279 414310 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 MONDAY 21ST AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage Area Festival. Tel: 01234 708400 TUESDAY 22ND AUGUST SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01371 811881 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 WEDNESDAY 23RD AUGUST SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400

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SPONSORED BY

SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 24TH AUGUST SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01353 727109 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping League. Tel: 01328 878282 FRIDAY 25TH AUGUST EVENTING Beds: The College EC; British Eventing Keysoe (3). Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 26TH AUGUST CROSS COUNTRY Essex: Wix EC; Clear Round Cross Country. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; British Dressage. Tel: 07879 881755 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; British Dressage. Tel: 01603 731577 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Centaur

Trust; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 EVENTING Beds: The College EC; British Eventing Keysoe (3). Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01353 727109 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping.

Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SUNDAY 27TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Essex: Codham Park EC; British Dressage. Tel: 07769 907076 EVENTING Beds: The College EC; British Eventing Keysoe (3). Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Fenning Farm EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07711 739300 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping.

Tel: 01353 727109 MONDAY 28TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm EC; Evening Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Essex: Shopland Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01702 543377

t ly day ou i m a f s u o e A fabul nds for th u f g n i s i ra angered d n e y l l a c criti rse

nch ho u P

k l o f f Su ly! the fami Somethin

g for all

Reg. Charity No. 220756

Come and see the magnificent Suffolk horses with a full programme of displays and demonstrations of their modern and traditional use in the beautiful setting of Marks Hall Estate • Craft Stands • Food & Drink • Free Parking Gates Open 10.00am Admission: Adults £10 Children (6-16) £5 Under 6yo FREE Well behaved dogs on leads welcome

www.suffolkhorsesociety.org.uk Tel: 01394 380643

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SPONSORED BY

SHOWDATE DIARY

Your Showdate listings for... Aug/Sept 2017 TUESDAY 29TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage inc Freestyle. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01371 811881 WEDNESDAY 30TH AUGUST DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; British Dressage. Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 THURSDAY 31ST AUGUST DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01449 711962 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01353 727109 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping League. Tel: 01328 878282

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907076 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 TUESDAY 5TH SEPTEMBER SATURDAY 2ND SEPTEMBER DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton & DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm Otley College; Evening Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01603 731577 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Codham Park EC; Senior British Showjumping Tel: 07769 Showjumping. Tel: 01353 907076 727109 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Senior British Forest Edge Arena; Junior Showjumping. Tel: 07879 British Showjumping. Tel: 881755 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Forest Edge Arena; Evening Topthorn Arena; X-Pole Showjumping. Tel: 01760 Showjumping. Tel: 01449 722616 711962 WEDNESDAY 6TH SUNDAY 3RD SEPTEMBER SEPTEMBER DRESSAGE Beds: Twin Trees EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British 01767 627414 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Anvil Park Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 Stud; Unaffiliated Dressage.

SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Tel: 07879 881755 Farm EC; Evening SPONSORED RIDE Suffolk: Showjumping. Tel: 01708 Old Hall Estate Barham; 687312 Ipswich Horse Society sponsored ride in aid of Suffolk SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Senior British Accident Rescue Service.

Showjumping. Tel: 01284 Approx 11 miles. Tel: 01449 386014 613923 or 01449 711427 THURSDAY 7TH SEPTEMBER SHOWJUMPING Cambs: DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Houghton Hall EC; Senior Dressage, Intro to Ad Med & British Showjumping. Tel: Music. Tel: 01255 870744 01353 727109 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The SHOWJUMPING Essex: Codham Park EC; Unaffiliated College EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: Showjumping Tel: 07769 FRIDAY 1ST SEPTEMBER SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Open Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962

01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01603 731577 FRIDAY 8TH SEPTEMBER SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 9TH SEPTEMBER SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; NSJC British Showjumping. Tel: 01603 731577 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Mini Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; Mixed British Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 SUNDAY 10TH SEPTEMBER DRESSAGE Essex: Finchingfield EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01371 811881 DRESSAGE Essex: Harolds Park Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01279 414310 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage.

Tel: 01449 711962 JUMPCROSS Essex: Codham Park EC; JumpCross Comp. Tel: 07769 907076 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton & Otley College; NSJC British Showjumping. Tel: 01603 731577

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Park Stud

BRAND NEW, UP AND COMING, FRIENDLY, FAMILY

EVENT CENTRE Compete in our newly refurbished indoor arena and our brand new 70 x 70 outdoor arena with a brand new CombiRide surface

Livery spaces available • Lots of hacking • BD venue confirmed RY LIVE CIES N VACA , PART FULL DIY &

4 August 5 August 6 August 13 August

August Dates

Summer Fun Showjumping UA Arena Eventing Unaffiliated Dressage Unaffiliated Cash Jumping

17 August 23 August 26 August

Clear round showjumping & Gymkhana UA Evening Showjumping British Dressage

Anvil Park Stud, Sallow Lane, Larling, Norwich, Norfolk NR16 2QU emma@anvil-park-stud.co.uk 07879 881755 www.anvil-park-stud.co.uk