Absolute Horse January 2015

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January 2015 £2.80 ISSUE 283

SUFFOLK, NORFOLK, ESSEX,

BEDS, CAMBS & HERTS

Equine Escapes: From glamping to castle retreats!

INSIDE

Vetwatch: Standing Surgery Cool Therapy treatment explained

PLUS

Stables: Spruce up or new build?

EASTANGLIA’S ANGLIA’SLEADING LEADINGEQUESTRIAN EQUESTRIANMAGAZINE MAGAZINE EAST

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JANUARY 2015

ABSOLUTE HORSE MAGAZINE

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Absolute Horse is published monthly by: PCD Media (East Anglia) Limited.

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News Your Comments Kyla’s Corner Vetwatch: Standing Surgery Parelli EAST Local Show Results Classifieds Vets in the Spotlight Showdates

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First Aid: Cold Therapy Saddlery: Girths & Breastplates Stables & Bedding

28 Vetwatch

GIVEAWAYS 44

Giveaways

FEATURES 8 12 14 18 22 24 31

New Year Resolutions Charity Focus Riding Experiences Safety Health Advice Nutrition Ride Like: Sophie Wells: Enjoy Your Training

Please note, all calls are recorded for training purposes.

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Riding E xperien ces

Safety

Show 46 Local Results

Year 8 New Resolutions

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 3

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NEWS Essex based Showjumper becomes National Champion

RECORD

17-year-old Toni Evans from Southend-On-Sea, Essex was victorious on the 17-year-old dun mare Caramel Twist, in the Dodson & Horrell National 0.85cm Amateur championship which took place recently at Aintree Equestrian Centre.

The jump off was contested by twenty-nine of the starters and it proved to be competitive after sixteen double clears were achieved. Toni and Caramel Twist went into the class as one of the hot favourites after winning the two 0.85m Grand Prix qualifiers earlier on in the week and they continued their domination after crossing the finish line in 28.54 seconds with two clear rounds in the bag.

After having been drawn twenty-fifth to go inthe jump off, Toni admitted that she couldn’t watch the remainder of the class, “I was in it to win it, so my plan was to ride as quickly and as carefully as I could and then hope that the music was played to let me know that we had taken the lead. Once I knew we had done enough, I then waited outside until the class had finished. I’m so pleased with how Caramel Twist has gone all week; she really has had a fantastic show.”

The SEIB Burghley Sponsored ride took place over a 12km course in Burghley Park on the final day of the 2014 Land Rover Burghley Horse Trials.

Over 340 riders completed the ride and in doing so raised the record breaking sum of over £15,500 for equine and charities local to Burghley.

The main beneficiaries from the ride this year are the Brooke Animal Hospital, World Horse Welfare, British Horse Society and the Sue Ryder Thorpe Hall extension appeal. This fantastic amount is up £3000 on 2013 thanks mainly to over 125 more riders taking part.

FREDDIE LOVES JESSICA! Freddie Parker, the equestrian inspired fashion brand is proud to announce they are to sponsor emerging dressage talent Jessica Thompson.

Essex-based Jessica is the first rider to be representing the brand and Sue Bryant, MD and head designer for Freddie Parker is excited about working with Jessica: “We wanted someone who embodied the spirit of the brand with a youthful energy and Jess has this, plus great looks and plenty of talent in the saddle. It’s an exciting new chapter for us!”

Jessica is head girl at Assouline Dressage, home to international dressage stars Michel and Mette Assouline and was recently crowned Reserve Champion at the Winter National Championship Petplan Prix St. George and Elementary Open National Champion at the National Championships.

Opening of Championships increases opportunities to compete at HOYS Some exciting developments have taken place involving two Championships at Horse of the Year. The Ladies’ Hunter of the Year and Ridden Partbred Pony of the Year Championships will include changes allowing a greater number of competitors to aim for glory at “The World’s Most Famous Horse Show”.

The Ladies’ Hunter of the Year Championship will become the Ladies’ Side Saddle Horse of the Year Championship. From 2015, this final will be open to hacks, cobs and riding horses, as well as hunters, ridden side saddle by a lady. To reflect this, the final will renamed the Ladies’ Side Saddle Horse of the Year Championship. The aim of this move is to encourage greater participation in the class and to make it appeal to a wider audience.

The Championship and its qualifiers will remain under the administration of the British Show Horse Association, and horses will be judged according to their type, in addition to their suitability as a side saddle animal.

Introduced only last year, the hugely popular Ridden Partbred Pony of the Year Championship was open to ponies whose breeding is, in part, Welsh or Arab. With immediate effect, ponies whose breeding is in part Dartmoor, New Forest or Connemara will also be able to contest qualifiers and the final. To be eligible, ponies must be on the part-bred register of the corresponding breed society.

4 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

AMOUNT RAISED

PUK: NEW Couple found DATE AND guilty of cruelty VENUE P(UK) announced recently their 2015 Summer Supreme Show will take place at Bury Farm Equestrian Centre, Slapton, Bucks on Friday 24th July to Sunday 26th July 2015.

The Summer Supreme Show will have a guaranteed prize fund of £10,000 and £5,000 Working Hunter Prize Fund for those who wish to enjoy a good outing before Hickstead’s demanding course.

They also announce a new and ongoing partnership with Equifest (East of England Showground Services Ltd) to allow dual qualification for both Societies 2015 Championship shows.

Mr David Bickell, 45, of North Creake, and Mr William Bickell, 17, were sentenced recently after pleading guilty to a number of offences under the Animal Welfare Act after equines, cattle, pigs and dogs were found at a number of sites in North Norfolk between December 2013 and February 2014.

World Horse Welfare’s Field Officer Jacko Jackson said, “The condition these animals were found in was truly terrible. One colt in particular, a piebald yearling named Eric had to be put to sleep for welfare reasons.”

November competition winners Equerry Cool Mix: Angela Mansfield, Kent; Chelsey Collins, Suffolk; Debbie Voulstaker, Suffolk; Elissa Cunnington, Cambs; Fiona Prentice, Essex; Molly Johnson, Lincs; Mrs L Tye, Suffolk; Pam Wells, Essex; Yasmine Fox, Kent. Utterly Horses: Alex Coote, Suffolk; Angela Quantrill, Norfolk; Sarah Hamlett, Cambs. Cathy Evans, Essex; Declan Rackham-Cobb, Suffolk; Elle Laws, Herts; Emma Allum-Thorndyke, Suffolk; Hannah Donovan, Kent; Hayden Pace, Essex; Helen Jopson, Essex; Petrina Evans, Ceredigion; Susan Sims, Lincs; Suzannah Blowers, Suffolk.

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Neglected foal finds a home The foal called Star, who made national headlines after his owner was prosecuted for animal cruelty offences, has been found a new home.

At only two months old, Star was found in Hertfordshire suffering with deep wounds to his face and head. His head collar had been left on for so long that it had become deeply embedded into the little foal’s nose, jaw and the flesh behind his ears. Swollen and encrusted with blood, poor Star had been suffering for weeks as the head collar tightened into his flesh and bone as he grew. After surgical removal of Star’s head collar and extensive rehabilitation at one of World Horse Welfare’s four Rescue and Rehoming Centres, Star is now a happy, healthy young horse.

Sadly he will be left with some scarring and damage to his facial bones, but this will not prevent

him from leading a normal life in the future.

His owner, Pascale Musk, was charged under section four of the Animal Welfare Act 2006 with failure to adjust or remove the head collar which led to Star’s injuries. She received a three-year ban from owning or keeping horses.

After Star had undergone extensive rehabilitation with vets and World Horse Welfare’s expert team - he was ready to look for his new home. It wasn’t long before

the applications came flooding in and Star got lucky, finding a home with 22-yearold Charlotte Shepherd.

She says: “I heard about this case in the local news and had followed it from the start. I just couldn’t help offering him a home.

“I contacted World Horse Welfare about taking on Star but I had to wait until he was ready to go on their rehoming site so I checked it every Wednesday for five weeks. I was actually the first person to

The Animal Health Trust is launching the first UK epidemiological study into Atypical Myopathy, a debilitating and fatal disease caused by the ingestion of sycamore seeds, commonly known as ‘helicopters’ as their shape apply for him. It just so happened enables them to travel that he and I were well matched. several yards away from “It’s so lovely because if I go to the field to catch him, he comes to call. where the trees are located.

Horse owners whose horses Considering what he went have suffered from Atypical through, it’s amazing that he still has trust in humans. I think it just Myopathy are urged to fill in a goes to show what a little TLC will short questionnaire. do – he cannot get to the gate The deadline for reporting quick enough. It makes me mad cases is 15th January 2015. that someone could have allowed Visit www.aht.org.uk/cmsStar to go through so much xmodnewsrss_detail/atypical trauma when he was so myopathyresearch.html or vulnerable.” www.aht.org.uk.

BRITISH HORSE SOCIETY EAST OF ENGLAND ROUND-UP Both BHS Bedfordshire and BHS Essex have run very successful Introduction to Horse Agility days in late 2014, with groups learning about this fascinating in-hand competition. They tackled a range of obstacles such as leading their horse through a fly curtain, rolling a fitness ball between two poles, negotiating an S-bend, walking through a ‘spooky’ corner and standing with all four of the horse’s feet on a pedestal.

The sport is growing in popularity and it is an ideal way to focus your ground-work and improve communication and trust between horse and handler. It is also a great way to compete with a horse that you can’t ride – say unbroken (though the minimum age is two), injured or too small – four minis came to the Bedfordshire event.

Thanks to the judges Jean Lywood (Dressage) and Roy Dale (BS Judge). Also thanks to Mary Dale for writing and the loyal Newton Hall supporting team who officiated with dressage writing, scoring and stewarding. The Suffolk Committee offered a bursary of £250 towards future training. This was won by Nicola Sawyer who works for Sarah Robertson at Valley Farm Equestrian Leisure. Two runner-up bursaries of £100 each were awarded to Hannah Norris who runs a riding school at Saxtead Bottom near Framlingham, and to Melanie Lawson who has recently taken over Potsford Livery near Wickham Market. These three coaches have ambitions to train and achieve the Intermediate Instructor’s Certificate and these bursaries will enable them to attend training days in East Anglia.

BHS Suffolk ran a dressage, and a dressage with jumping competition at Newton Hall Equitation Centre on 17th November, aimed at professionals working or training in the industry. This was the third year that this event has been staged.

BHS Norfolk held an equine Crime Prevention and Christmas fair, which proved poplar with a raffle raising £112 for the Faith, Hope and Charity Appeal. Amanda Stoworthy was delighted to win two tickets to see War Horse in London.

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Tel: 07940 837158 / 01449 740731 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 5

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YOUR COMMENT

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again. I have not ridden for 3 months due to a back injury and I’m so desperate to get back in the saddle.

Emily Rose Wyatt: To win the lottery!

Maria Bourne: To be able to start competing my ex-racer again that I saved from being put to sleep - after being deemed to dangerous even for Polo. A very long road has been travelled but he has become a fantastic horse, my partner of a lifetime. After both of us having back issues we are now back as a partnership hoping to compete side saddle next year.

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Jacqui Clayton: To be the best we can be together!

We asked our

acebook fans the following question...

Anna De Ath: To have lots of fun, healthy and happy horses, anything above that is a bonus.

April Griffiths: To fully back my youngster and qualify for BD InterCounty Challenger his year and compete for Essex!

Nikola Penny: After a tough few years I am now fit and in working order again! This year I discovered that jumping is FUN, something that still astounds me! 2015 is going to be the year that I do XC for the first time ever.

I have the best horse on the planet and I am in no doubt that we will do it.

Anne Smith: To get Mouse to Holkham beach after a decade of ‘one day soon I'll ride on the beach...’ she doesn't like water, but the sea is just a big puddle, right?! X Donna Hammond: Dressage was a failure! Let's try leaping in 2015. Ohh and to go to Holkham Beach!

Jenny Downing: To show the world how great and talented my Princess is, rather than down centre line halt, salute, spin and run away.

Cher Massive East: To drink hot port at Willie Leheys!

Sally Hayes: To BE my Chico Pops, at long last, and qualify for Trailblazers in the summer.

Catherine Mills: To finish the season with sound, healthy horses is always my number 1 aim - but in terms of performance to step up to the next level, have more top ten finishes and to try and better each dressage test and have fun along the way.

Kelly Marie Greaves: Qualify for Trailblazers, affiliate dressage and hopefully ride for Suffolk team on the inter counties challenge, set out to do some BE80 tracks ending with a BE90.

Purchased new boy in September and he has already helped his riding club qualify for dressage champs so we are all guns blazing for 2015.

6 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

Elly Hardesty: To have a fun and successful year competing BD with Lollup. She has returned from having kissing spine surgery a year ago. She is stronger and happier than ever and gives me the best feeling to know what we have been through even to ride her again. She was worth giving a chance!

Claire Coleman: My time with my horse is precious, juggling a hectic life of young child and hubby who works away; so my hopes for 2015 are to continue to have fun with my special horse and enjoy our journey together.

For many of us it's time to start setting some goals for the New Year - what are your horsey hopes and ambitions for 2015?

Rachel Shorrock: To overcome my confidence crisis and experience for the first time the thrills of a hunt next season.

Liz Brown Swain: After all the sadness and tears thinking I had lost my horse Lisa Spence: To win a second pair of to arthritis... 9 months on and Dillon is Ariat breeches please! Pretty good goal sound. The old goals of team chasing ..

I reckon!

Eventing... Hunting... Well they are Gina Bruce: To get our lovely boy well replaced by the hope I will be able to and out competing again as has been ill just ride him again pain free and enjoy since May. Some nice new Ariat just being with my Dillon x breeches would look fab when he is Lynn Hunt: To qualify for the National well enough to go out partying again.

Dressage Championships at Hartbury Jenny Welham: To qualify my cob for HOYS. Bex Cross: Goal number 1: To break my pony to drive - give him a proper job to do! Goal number 2: Compete in as many different disciplines as possible with my mare, nothing like a true all rounder!

Maureen Read: To compete in our first BE90 at Poplar Park in March 2015 and to win those Arait Breeches as I had my competition breeches cut off when I broke my ankle after a unexpected fall when my stirrup leather broke mid way round a hunter trial back in October.

Heather Mcmillan: To keep being determined when there’s always hangups.

Vicky Zorn: To still be able to get on/off at the age of 66!

Sadie Smith: To have a successful year competing at BD with my superstar horse Highpoint McCauley aka Mac. Nicola Denley: To be able to have fit and healthy horses, and above all have a good year unlike this one.

by going through from the Winter Regionals in the Novice Dressage to Music, qualified at our first attempt at Norton Heath this year winning with 70% after a year which has seen me at 51 battling rapidly aggressive osteo arthritis, riding my 14.1hh pony who has had lameness issues as well, to achieve this dream in 2015 would be

ST R COMMENT WINNER Joannah Wyatt: As a nearly 50, slightly chubby, novice rider, I would like to have a bum that looks good in a pair of Ariat breeches and a seat that can stay in the saddle!

the most amazing thing in my life. As I don't know how long it will be that I can continue riding for x Kristina Schmidt: To get my little girl starting to ride, she loves horses and stables and I can't wait to be able to do lead rein with her.

Ellen Gibson: To have lots of fun with my boy, and go to some big horse events.

Hollie Morris: To just continue with getting the best out of my young horse and enjoy him, not rushing him and just have fun.

Laura Franchesca Oughton-Auker: Team chase my Welsh Cob! Lizzy Bird: My aims for 2015 are to go out and hit BE Novice with a bang and qualify to ride for Eastern England at the Weston Park CICJ1* Championships and hopefully get my qualification for intermediate whilst I am at it and hopefully have a go at either an I or an IN! After having such a great time riding at the 100u18 Champs for Eastern (in only my first year of BE) I’d be honoured to do it again!

Amanda-Jayne Bell: After nearly seven years of not being able to ride because of a very bad back injury that left me twisted and in a lot of constant pain, my goal for 2015 is to get back in the saddle and start having some lessons to put me back together with my dancing partners.

Christine Punter: To do my first CC1* on my homebred. Been a dream since I started eventing on his dam 8 years ago. Fingers and toes crossed x Claire Bolt: I hope to be able to ride

Debra Keane: Just staying on would be an achievement and maybe if I could stay on do a bit of dressage.

Imagen Elise Geeves: Having broken my leg I look forward to riding again. I hope in 2015 to buy my horse back from her current owners as she's for sale. Don't know how I sold her in the first place! I've got to juggle being a student nurse, living away at uni and look after my horse.

Kate Scorey: To get my confidence back.

Amy Foord: To have the confidence to get out to a competition again after a very long break!

Charlotte France: My goal for 2015 is to get back into the show ring after 7 years away and qualify my lovely Cob Horton Groovey for the SEIB Search for a Star.

Hollie Jones: To finally get the confidence back to get on my cob after he kicked me and broke my leg resulting in surgery and a metal rod.

Justin Hollis: To compete some very nice horses for friends and one day get one of my own.

Jacqui Brooking: Having had to watch other riders qualifying and competing my pony at HOYS and RI as my daughter is too scared to jump that height she is now battling her fears and is going to jump herself.

Samantha Dean: My 5-year-old son lost his pony a month ago and we have just got him an unhandled reg Dartmoor who is coming on amazingly so our goal is to get her broken and get him on board to put the smile back on his face.

Megan Holmes: Due to a loss of confidence in both horse and rider this year, our 2015 aim is to go out and have fun, be able to go to a competition and enjoy the sport and be the best we can possibly be. I'd love to qualify for something, so all our hard work would have been worth it, doesn't need to be big, I'm not expecting Badmimton or anything! But mainly we just want to get out and have fun!

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s ’ r a e Y w e N

SPECIAL FEATURE

My

RESOLUTION IS...

WHETHER IT’S TO BE HEALTHIER, LESS INDULGENT OR TO TAKE MORE TIME OUT, HERE ARE SOME OF OUR TOP PROFESSIONAL RIDER’S NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS. (WE WONDER IF THEY CAN KEEP THEM?!)

“I don't drink and I don't smoke, but my weakness is chocolate, so lots of sitting trot and visiting the gym, so the horses don’t start telling me off for having to much of a sweet tooth!”

“New Years Resolution? Would be to eat more healthy, I do like my take-aways and also have a real sweet tooth!”

Michael Eilberg

Bobby Hayler, senior international Grand Prix dressage rider, courtesy of Dressage Deluxe

“If I got my Christmas wish of a beach holiday, my New Years Resolution in making sure I recharge my batteries would be on the way!”

“My New Years Resolution is to give up wine during the week, it has become far too routine to pour my glass of wine when I get in!”

Lucy Cartwright, international dressage rider courtesy Aloeride

8 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

Maria Eilberg, international dressage riders courtesy of Shadow Horse

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“My New Years Resolution is to eat healthier... I might not be the tallest guy but I went to a 4* event recently on a 15.2hh!! So, it's only fair on the horses I try to keep as trim as possible!

Austin O’Connor, Olympic Event Rider, courtesy of Childéric Saddles

st ake any but ju m lly a re 't n o “I d ope f goals that I h e have a series o . The main on d a e st in ve ie to ach t ston Deluxe’ a o ‘B t u b e d to is the rry on refining Inter 1 and ca ing at home in work we're do ter 2 mpeting at In order to be co er.” by next summ sage rider and

“I don’t really go in for New Year Resolutions, but I will be aiming to get myself lean and fit for the season so I can go out and win!”

Gemma Tattersall, international event rider, courtesy of Childéric Saddles, Timothy Foxx & Verdo Horse Bedding

n, dres Jane Lavingto Dressage Deluxe y of judge, courtes

“My 2014 Resolution was not to buy any clothes for myself all year.

So far I have kept it! The 2015 Resolution is not so easy. Maybe I can do it again but I doubt it!”

Loraine Homer top show rider, producer and judge, courtesy of Aloeride

“I don't do New Years Resolutions normally, so will start by making a New Years Resolution to make a New Years Resolution” Jock Paget, International eventer courtesy of Childéric Saddles

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 9

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SPECIAL FEATURE “My New Years Resolution would be to get fitter. I've put on a few pounds recently for which my friends are taking the micky out of me so that will be my main one.”

Anthony Condon, show-jumper, courtesy of Childéric Saddles

“Try not to complain so much in the strength and conditioning suite at university during my personal training sessions, it might make the whole experience a little more enjoyable for everyone!”

Maisie Scruton, young dressage rider, courtesy of Childéric Saddles

“My New Years Resolution: Drink less fizzy drinks before all my teeth fall out (I think this has probably been my Resolution for the last three years but it doesn't appear to have worked so far!)

Becky Moody, international dressage rider courtesy of Childéric Saddles

“To get fit. I am playing polocrosse for the UK at the World Cup in South Africa next year and to keep up with the youngsters, I will have to work at it!”

Jason Webb, Natural Horseman, courtesy of Aloeride

SPONSORS WEBSITES: www.shadowhorse.co.uk www.aloeride.co.uk www.freddieparker.co.uk www.gollygaloshes.com 10 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

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“My New Years Resolutions are to drink more water, as it's important when I'm riding several horses a day. I get distracted and then end up with a headache! Other resolutions include taking care of my nails better and calling home more often, family is important and being so busy sometimes distracts me!”

Jessica Thompson, Dressage rider courtesy of Freddie Parker

“To eat less chocolate…

AGAIN! Ahh I don’t know! My life is pretty good, I am not sure I would change or resolve anything!”

Natasha Baker, Multi Gold Medallist Paralympic Dressage Rider courtesy of Verdo Horse Bedding and Golly Galoshes

“My New Year Resolution to do more BS jump practice in 2015!”

Victoria Bax, eventer and exracehorse trainer, courtesy of Golly Galoshes and Aloeride

“My New Years Resolution?

It would be to be a lot better at answering my phone!”

Daniel Moseley, international showjumper, courtesy of Verdo Horse Bedding

www.childericsaddles.co.uk www.verdohorsebedding.co.uk www.dressagedeluxe.co.uk www.timothyfoxx.co.uk ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 11

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CHARITY FOCUS

Doing your bit...

MAKE 2015 THE YEAR YOU DO YOUR BIT AND HELP TO RAISE MONEY AND GET INVOLVED WITH THE UK’S EQUINE CHARITIES

REDWINGS HORSE SANCTUARY Redwings is the UK’s largest horse sanctuary, providing a home to over 1,300 rescued horses, ponies, donkeys and mules.

Last year, Redwings pledged homes to over 150 rescued equines from their largest ever rescue operation. Although the Sanctuary was at its full capacity, the charity managed to secure the future of these survivors, many of whom were mares in foal meaning there are many more mouths to feed in 2015. As a 100% publicly funded charity, every donation – no matter how big or small – helps Redwings help horses in need.

Here’s how you can get involved: Donate your unwanted items With the New Year comes the time for a spring clean, but don’t throw away your unwanted items, donate them to Redwings!

The Sanctuary always welcomes rugs, tack and other horsey items to help care for its residents, but they also welcome donations of just about anything as this can in turn be sold via the Redwings eBay shop! Similarly, Redwings can provide recycling envelopes for unwanted jewellery and mobile phones, as well as raise funds through the donation of

used stamps and ink cartridges. You can even help Redwings when scrapping your car! For more information about donating, visit www.redwings.org.uk/fundraising/ Visit their centres Redwings has four visitor centres in Norfolk, Essex and Warwickshire that enable its supporters to see how their kind donations can contribute to the daily care of its residents. Here, you can meet rescued horses and donkeys and learn about their rescue stories, before relaxing in the onsite café or perusing the gift shop – all proceeds from which go directly towards caring for the residents. For your nearest centre, call 0870 040 0033 or visit www.redwings.org.uk/visiting/ Sponsor a resident The Redwings Adoption Club is a fun way to support the charity by sponsoring one of its residents and making a new friend at the same time! A year's adoption of a Redwings horse, pony, donkey or mule costs just £12.50, which goes directly towards their care. As an adopter you will receive a certificate, plus twice yearly updates and photographs from your new friend, not forgetting an invitation to your adopted horse or donkey’s birthday party. To sponsor a Redwings resident, visit www.redwings.org.uk/adopting/ Leave a legacy Gifts in Wills make up the largest proportion of Redwings’ income and the charity simply wouldn’t be able to function without them.

Remembering

12 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

Redwings in your Will is a wonderful way to support the charity’s work and leave a lasting legacy that will help them to help horses and donkeys for generations to come. Whether your gift is large or small, every donation makes a real difference to the future of Redwings’ residents. To remember Redwings in your Will, call 01508 481030 or email legacies@redwings.co.uk Rehome a Redwings horse Redwings has a rehoming programme for those rescued horses who have the potential for a fulfilling life outside the

Sanctuary. The Redwings Guardianship Scheme is currently available to homes across East Anglia, Hertfordshire and Buckinghamshire. To find out more visit www.redwings.org.uk/rehoming/

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AHT The Animal Health Trust is the UK’s leading veterinary charity dedicated to fighting disease and injury in animals. In addition to a small-animal clinic providing referral services for dogs and cats, the AHT has a first-class equine referral clinic with worldrenowned expert vets providing diagnosis and treatment to hundreds of horse owners a year.

It also conducts pioneering research into scientific techniques to progress veterinary treatment for animals, such as running a nationwide trial into equine grass sickness. All the money raised through its activities goes directly back into helping provide and advance medical care for horses, cats and dogs.

If you’d like to help the AHT continue improving the lives of horses, why not sign up to be a Friend of the charity? For as little as £3 a month, you can pledge your support to the AHT and know that you’re making a difference to the health and welfare of all the UK’s horses. Your money will go towards initiatives such as disease research, pioneering vaccine developments to eradicate equine diseases and, of course, helping the AHT treat even more horses in need of specialist veterinary treatment.

If you’re a horse owner, you can also help the AHT by signing up to its CARE about Laminitis study, supported by the RVC and World Horse Welfare. The AHT is seeking to identify the risk factors for Laminitis in order to better understand the disease, and by taking part in a simple, monthly questionnaire you’ll be contributing towards the advancement in knowledge of this terrible condition.

Whether your horse has had Laminitis once, multiple times or never at all, you can sign up. Visit www.careaboutlaminitis.org.uk to find out more.

For further information on the work of the AHT, visit www.aht.org.uk, Like ‘Animal Health Trust’ on Facebook or follow @ahtofficial on Twitter.

BRITISH HORSE SOCIETY The current horse crisis has left many in shocking states of neglect and the British Horse Society, as an equine charity, continues to battle the massive welfare issues that arise as a result.

As part of the action to tackle the horse crisis, the BHS have taken on Faith, Hope and Charity, three abandoned unbroken mares all abused and neglected in very different ways that represent many horses and ponies in the UK. Faith had been used as target practice on an urban estate, Charity had been abandoned, found freezing in harsh conditions and Hope had been subjected to starvation and unimaginable abuse – she was just days away from being euthanased. By placing the three ponies in BHS Approved Centres and raising funds to provide for their training and rehabilitation, the aim being to give them an education, developing skills that will enable them to have a purpose, a job with a secure future and a great home too.

All three ponies, after months of care and rehabilitation are well on track in their new lives and now that their health has been restored, fundraising continues to provide for the training and care that these ponies deserve. Every penny raised will be worthwhile to give Faith, Hope and Charity and others like them, productive and happy lives in BHS approved homes. Visit bhs.org.uk/faithhopecharity.

NFU Mutual is asking horse owners and equine businesses to donate unwanted tack and equipment in order to fight poverty and support working horses and donkeys in The Gambia.

More than 40 NFU Mutual offices are acting as drop-off points for unwanted tack and equipment.

Alison Cox, equine specialist at NFU Mutual said she is amazed by the sheer level of generosity of the public.

Alison, said: “The Gambia Horse and Donkey Trust is desperately seeking emergency supplies to help care for the animals it helps look after and is appealing for people to donate tack and equipment.

Visit: www.nfumutual.co.uk/gambia to find your nearest collection point and items requested for donation.

RDA Hiho Silver is delighted to announce a new partnership with Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA), which will see 15% of sales generated from products listed in the charity’s web shop being donated to the RDA. RDA currently has a number of popular Hiho Silver lines listed on the RDA web shop. Hiho Silver will fulfill all orders placed, so there’s no additional admin or costs for RDA – they just receive 15% of all sales to put towards the amazing work of the charity.

“We’re delighted to be working with RDA,” says Emma Warren from Hiho Silver. “It’s an excellent charity that helps so many people up and down the country. We’re very excited to be working with RDA – it’s a great way to combine our love of horses with helping a charity. We hope the pieces selected will help to bolster their funds, to help them carry on the excellent work they do.”

“Hiho Silver’s beautiful jewellery is a great addition to our web shop,” says Catherine Stuart from RDA. “Now we can give customers the chance to purchase something truly beautiful as well as support RDA at the same time.”

To shop at the RDA Web Shop, simply visit www.rdashop.org.uk

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RIDING EXPERIENCES

Equine Escapes Get fit and inspired on horseback, with a riding holiday in the Emerald Isle We all know that horse riding is great for fitness and wellbeing, but choosing a training break, even if you have your own horse, is also the perfect way to consolidate your knowledge, give you some new skills, and inspire you to achieve your riding goals. Let’s make 2015 an exciting and positive year!

Castle Leslie Estate in Ireland - voted as one of the Lonely Planet’s Top 10 equestrian destinations, worldwide - is one of Europe’s finest equestrian playgrounds, offering truly memorable horse riding holiday experiences. It offers expert tuition, gentle hacks and exhilarating cross-country rides.

Here are two of our favourite packages ‘Horse sport’ package. For experienced riders wanting to expand their skills or try a new riding discipline. Three hours’ riding per day. Dinner and breakfast included. Three day break from £608, or five day break from £983 per person sharing.

The romantic, weekend valentines package includes two nights’ luxurious accommodation in The Lodge or Castle, with a full Irish breakfast each morning, a personalised half hour spa treatment and a half hour riding lesson each. From £160pps at the Lodge; from £175pps at the Castle.

The Estate also offers falconry, clay pigeon shooting, kayaking, fishing, boating, hot air balloon rides, a beauty spa and walking trails. Visit www.castleleslie.com

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Glamping at Camp Katur Camp Katur glamping village, which is located in Bedale, North Yorkshire offers stabling facilities throughout the holiday season with stables and field accommodation available. Visitors can also take advantage of the 250 acres of surrounding countryside.

Owner of Camp Katur, Kerry Roy said: “We are set right in the heart of the stunning North Yorkshire countryside and it is just begging to be explored on horseback.”

With a wide range of accommodation options including en-suite safari tents, hobbit pods and 360 degree panoramic woodland Unidomes, visitors can enjoy the most luxurious of camping experiences. Camp Katur also features an indoor Norwegian ‘Grillkota’ barbeque hut and an outdoor eco-spa, perfect for soothing the muscles after a day’s riding.

For more information, please visit www.campkatur.com or call 0843 886 0607.

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Horse riding instructors in the US Fancy a Summer spent working as a horse-riding instructor in one of America’s beautiful summer camps, all whilst improving your CV and having fun?

Well the leading British Summer camp provider Camp Leaders has the answer. Latest figures released by Camp Leaders show that young people with a passion for sport are heading to the States for sporty work experience opportunities with an increase of 40% in departures last year. Liverpool-based Camp Leaders offer seasonal job placements working with children on American summer holiday camps - with a huge array of sports activities available to coach and get involved in. Sports include horse-riding, along with football, watersports, archery, dance and many more.

Whether you’re working in a dedicated horse camp or even a general camp that has horses, there are hundreds of opportunities for horse-riding instructor jobs in America. A Summer camp horse-riding specialist has quite a varied job, from teaching riding and taking care of the horses and the stables, to getting involved in the more general aspects of camp counselor responsibilities. Different camps will work with different levels of horse-riding abilities. You could be covering the basics such as mounting, dismounting and walk and trot, to higher skilled activities like show-jumping, cross country and dressage. Lessons will tend to be around an hour long, with several sessions a day teaching small groups of children at a time. The children will more than likely be at a beginner’s level and you will use your own experiences, along with the camp’s horse-riding programme to help develop the children’s skills.

Wondering what kind of qualifications are needed to be a horse riding instructor in America? Whilst a qualification or certificate will certainly improve your application, it is not a necessity. However, you do need a good work ethic, an open mind, the ability to be flexible and most importantly, want to have fun! You should also have several years’ riding experience and preferably some quality experience working with kids.

Sports entrepreneur and founder of Camp Leaders, Dave Robinson, believes a key reason for the increase in bookings comes down to the squeeze on career opportunities in the UK. He says: “The British sports industry continues to be a difficult sector to get jobs in. Young people are having to do more and more to boost their CV and many are looking at Camp Leaders to do that.”

Camp Leaders provides jobs, flights and visa assistance as part of a package to enable young people to head out to America and grab the adventure of a lifetime.

Visit www.campleaders.com/gb/horse-riding-instructor/

Young people with a passion for sport are heading to the States for sporty work experience opportunities with an increase of 40% in departures last year...

Join an equestrian icon on safari!

Lucy Higginson is a name that you will undoubtedly recognise as the previous editor of Horse & Hound. In The Saddle are offering an exclusive opportunity to join Lucy as she hosts an adventure across the Okavango Delta in Botswana from 14th – 21st February.

Macatoo is on the northern edge of the Kalahari Desert and provides guests with superb game viewing, adrenalin-fueled horse riding and luxury-tented accommodation.

Macatoo are welcoming a small group of guests into the beautiful camp, providing the chance to wine, dine and converse with Lucy.

Lucy and the team at In The Saddle are excited to offer this ‘once in a lifetime’ experience at a price of £3,545, which includes 7 nights in camp, all riding, full board and the light aircraft transfer from Maun. International flights are not included. To become part of this fantastic trip contact In The Saddle by calling 01299 272 997 or visit www.inthesaddle.com

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RIDING EXPERIENCES Monte Velho: Improve your riding in Portuguese bliss With a beautiful warm climate, stunning scenery, world-class horses and delicious food, Portugal’s Monte Velho is the perfect destination for a riding holiday. We chat to Olwen Law from In The Saddle to find out more about this gem of a location…

There are many reasons to put a riding holiday to Monte Velho Stud Farm on the top of your list for 2015. Situated in the heart of the Alentejo in Portugal, you can expect pleasant weather all year round, particularly during the spring and summer months, and if improving your riding is on the agenda then there is no better place to go!

“As a working stud farm, Monte Velho is a horse lover’s paradise,” Olwen explains. “Being home to some of the finest bred Lusitano horses in the world, it is a wonderful highlight to meet the broodmares and young stock, whilst learning about the breeding programme from the wonderful owner Diogo Lima Mayer. Diogo is recognised internationally as one of the best breeders of Lusitano horses in the world and you cannot fail to be inspired by his passion and dedication to the horses.”

Small but perfectly formed, Monte Velho has 14 Lusitano horses available for guests, including mares, geldings and stallions of varying levels. “You can choose to brush up on your dressage skills on one of their talented school masters, or head out to explore the enchanting and peaceful countryside on a trail ride. Alentejo offers some spectacular sights and as the farm lies inside an ecological reserve on a UNESCO World Heritage site you can see a number of wildlife, flora and fauna in their natural habitat.”

For those wanting to improve their dressage skills, Monte Velho combines the perfect balance of schoolbased training with luxurious accommodation, giving you the ideal place to relax and unwind after a challenging day in the saddle. “The ‘Monte’ or main building on the farm dates back to the Roman era and provides a beautiful place to stay. Lessons on the wonderful, quick-thinking and trainable Lusitano horses will undoubtedly leave your riding refined.”

If you are looking for the perfect balance of beautiful horses, tranquil surroundings and top class training then a trip to Monte Velho with In The Saddle should definitely be at the top of your list this year. You can virtually tailor your holiday to suit your requirements, from a purely training-based trip, to trail riding only, or a mixture of the two. Prices start at £329 not including flights.

For more information call 01299 272 997 or visit www.inthesaddle.com

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BELINDA SILLARS HAS LONG DREAMT OF COMPLETING A JOURNEY MANY OF US WOULD BE AFRAID TO UNDERTAKE

Over last winter, along with her pony, trap and three dogs the renowned bronze sculptor, Belinda Sillars, travelled across America from east to west and back again – and took in some amazing scenery on the way as well as encounters with much wild life not found in Britain.

Originally from Suffolk, Belinda now divides her time between her home county and Virginia in the United States, and spent many years planning her amazing adventure.

Early in 2013 Belinda flew her three dogs – veteran Sprout, 9-year-old Trouble (both terriers) and 2-year old Dalmatian Humphrey – and her coloured ride and drive pony, Scout, from Suffolk to Virginia.

“We stayed in Virginia for a while, allowing Scout to become acclimatised to the heat.

She is an incredible pony and takes

everything in her stride. The dogs are used to coming to America with me so it was a bit like home-from-home for them.

“Scout’s trap was a two-wheel lightweight but sturdy bespoke vehicle. Some tracks we traversed necessitated me getting off the cart, lifting it over huge boulders and getting back on again. It was real teamwork; Scout stood when I asked, walked forward when needed then waited while I climbed back on board. Our bond is very strong, living together 24/7 builds up a unique trust; what a pony!” says Belinda.

Once Scout was acclimatised, Belinda and her dogs started to travel around, visiting Lexington in Kentucky where she had once lived with her retired racehorse, Brambledown, on which Belinda competed in amateur steeplechases including the Foxhunter at Cheltenham’s Gold Cup meeting. They then set off across the whole

Following the sand tracks in the hills

A journey

realised country, taking in Texas and New Mexico and onto Hollister in California before travelling to the Mohave Desert in Southern California in mid-January. The adventure continued as Belinda, her pony and dogs travelled across the Sierra Nevada Mountains into Reno, Nevada, where they experienced high altitude with snow on the ground. After Reno they moved on to visit the south side of the Grand Canyon, which is 1000’ lower than the north side.

“We spent nearly all our time out driving or riding; Scout’s only days off were when we were travelling. She coped really well with the changing terrains, the heat and cold – at times we were subjected to plus 90ºC heat with humidity, other times it was minus 20ºC and Scout’s breath froze on her whiskers – and different altitudes.”

Belinda, Scout and her dogs really enjoyed climbing the hills and mountains into some of America’s remotest parts. When they reached the Pacific coast, Belinda says: “We ran out of America and had to turn around and go back!

“This was a journey of a lifetime; I gained so much inspiration for my work on the way - particularly bison, wolves, coyote, foxes, wild horses and many other animals - and I was fortunate to gather commissions on the way. There are many other places we want to explore but for now, though, I am turning that inspiration from my journey into reality with exciting new bronzes”.

To view Belinda’s work visit: www.belindasillars.com

Running out of America!

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SAFETY

Choosing the right riding hat, with Champion Head injuries present the most serious risk to riders; therefore it’s crucial that an approved form of protective headgear is always worn while riding and preferably when handling horses too. When it comes to safety there should be no compromise and developments in materials and designs mean that most hats on the market today are lightweight and new ventilation systems help to keep the head cool, making them extremely comfortable to wear.

Choosing a riding hat When deciding on the purchase of a new riding hat, first and foremost you should consider what types of activities you do or will do with your horse. Do you want to compete in dressage, show jumping, eventing or are you simply out to have a good, fun time hacking around? If you compete under rules you must also ensure that your hat is up to the standard specified by the organisation in question, e.g. Pony Club, British Eventing or British Show Jumping, etc. Your local retailer will be able to help you choose the best style according to your needs.

Aside from the standard that the hat is certified to, it’s important to ensure that the hat you choose fits properly and is comfortable for you to wear. Different brands of riding hat fit differently and may suit different head shapes and even within one brand, different styles of helmet may fit slightly differently. To help make sure you

Fixed peak versus skull cap?

The choice between a fixed peak riding hat or skull cap largely comes down to personal preference and the style that fits you most comfortably, once the hat you choose is up to the standard that you need to compete, if you intend to do so. Modern fixed peaks are flexible or detachable and so will not hinder the protection offered by your hat in the event of a fall. In fact, some research shows that fixed peaks offer extra protection to the nose as they can help to prevent full force facial impact in the event of a face down fall. Modern fixed peaks have an

The internal shock absorbing lining of a helmet that has sustained a severe impact.

advantage of helping to shade your eyes in bright sunshine and help to keep rain from your eyes during bad weather, but they can hinder line of sight when you’re riding in a forward, cross-country seat, hence why the vast majority of cross country riders choose skull caps for cross country riding.

The Evolution couture has a fixed peak and is a popular choice in the dressage and showjumping arenas

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Always have your new hat fitted by a trained hat fitter

choose the best hat for your head it’s essential that your hat is fitted in store by a qualified hat fitter as they will be able to guide you as to the best style and fit for your head shape and riding requirements.

The iconic Champion Ventair skull cap is worn and trusted by many of the world’s top riders, including including Pippa Funnell, Oliver Townend, Piggy French, Kitty King, Ruby and Katie Walsh and Choc Thornton, among many others.

NEW TO RIDING? BACK IN THE SADDLE AFTER A BREAK AWAY FROM THE SPORT? OR JUST PREPARING FOR THE NEW COMPETITION SEASON AHEAD? NOW IS THE TIME TO CHECK YOUR SAFETY EQUIPMENT TO MAKE SURE IT’S UP TO SCRATCH TO KEEP YOU SAFE AND PROTECTED DURING THE SEASON AHEAD. WE SPOKE TO BRITISH EQUESTRIAN SAFETY ICON CHAMPION EQUESTRIAN WEAR ABOUT HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST RIDING HAT FOR YOU AND WHEN YOU NEED TO INVEST IN A NEW ONE… When should you change your hat?

A crucial question that you should always have in the back of your mind is ‘does my hat still provide me with maximum protection?’ If you have ever had a fall during which your riding hat sustained an impact the answer to this question is probably no and so your hat should be replaced.

The reason for this is simple. The design of riding hats is such that they absorb the impact of blow before it gets to your head.

But what this means is that if you have a fall in which your hat sustained an impact, it’s already done its protective job. The hat may look fine on the outside, but the internal polystyrene shock absorbent liner may have been damaged and will not be able to provide the same level of protection in the future. Therefore, if your hat has suffered a severe impact, even if this is having been

dropped off the top tack room shelf, your hat should be thrown away and replaced, even if there is no outward sign of damage.

It’s also important for riders to remember that riding hats should also be replaced every 3 - 5 years as the protective materials they contain will gradually deteriorate with exposure to heat and repeated use. After a long time of use on a warm, sweaty head or body, storage in a warm tackroom and exposure to sun, your riding hat will not offer you the same level of protection. We strongly advise riders to replace their hats every 3-5 years and ALWAYS after a fall in which the head may have suffered an impact. After all, it’s easy to replace your hat and there should be no compromise where your safety is concerned.

For more information on the Champion collection, see www.championhats.co.uk

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Product news...

Champion Evolution Couture This limited edition helmet features genuine Swarovski crystals and a striking synthetic crocodile skin finish, for a high impact look you will love.

This stylish low profile, modern and lightweight hat is built with a glass fibre shell which incorporates a high tech ventilated airflow system. Made in the UK. Sizes: 6¼ - 7¾.

Colours: Black Couture.

RRP: £137.50 - £164.95 depending on size.

The Champion Ventair helmet is chosen by many of the world’s top jockeys and event riders including Ruby Walsh and Pippa Funnell. It is extremely lightweight and comfortable, whilst offering outstanding protection. The ventilated airflow system is styled to increase airflow to help keep your head cool. Colours: black, pink, navy or silver.

Sizes: 6¼ - 7¾.

RRP: From £84.50 - £100.95 depending on size

Champion EVO-FLEX Body Protector Extremely light weight and superbly flexible, the uni-sex EVO-FLEX from Champion takes body protector comfort and style to a whole new level. EVO-FLEX also incorporates a high-tech Polygiene treated inner lining, with its powerful anti-bacterial and anti-odour properties helping to keep it fresher for longer.

Available in 9 sizes from XS Child to XL Adult.

Price from £63.95 - £121.95 depending on size

The Champion Air-Tech helmet combines a stylish modern design with a high tech ventilation system and innovative adjustable head sizing ring which allows the helmet to be adjusted for the perfect fit. It offers exceptional ventilation and also features a removable head lining made from high tech moisture wicking material, for exceptional comfort. Sizes: Small: 6 1/4 - 6 5/8. Medium: 6 3/4 - 7 Large: 7 1/8 - 7 1/2 Available in Metallic Brown, Metallic Purple and Metallic Navy and traditional soft feel black. Made in the UK. RRP: £84.50 and £100.95 depending on size.

The Champion Junior X-Air Star features a spectacular bling design which is designed to appeal to younger riders, or simply the youthful at heart! UK made and built upon a lightweight injection moulded ABS shell, the Junior X-Air Star incorporates a ventilation system to help keep the head cool, while the limited edition rhinestone crystal design ensures you’ll be ready to sparkle as you ride. Sizes: 6¼ - 7¾. Colours: Black Star. RRP: £94.95

Dress like a Champion!

New from Champion, the Aintree blouson jacket is fully waterproof and breathable, with taped seams to protect you from the elements. With an anti-pill fleece lining for extra warmth, elasticated cuffs and hem and a practical concealed hood, Aintree is a Champion of jackets. Size: XXS - XXL. Colour: Black RRP: £70 www.championhats.co.uk; email info@fbi-ltd.co.uk or Tel: 0113 270 7000.

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Kyla’s Corner In this column, Michaela Huntingdon aims to help readers, so, if you have any particular question or problems concerning your riding, Kyla would love to hear from you.

Email kylascorner@gmail.com Safety Aid, as an extra security measure to keep you in the saddle!

OUT AND ABOUT When riding on the roads, always wear your high-viz clothing, as to be seen is to be safe. I’m lucky enough to live on country lanes but, if possible, I always try to get off the road when traffic passes.

Avoid busy times and it is preferable to hack in company, but if you are alone, ensure you have your mobile phone and that it is turned on, in case you need to be traced.

At events, in the warm up area, it is standard to always pass left to left and at your jumps there will be a red flag on the right and white on the left showing the

Staying safe We all participate in the dangerous occupation of riding and looking after horses, and need to be very aware of any safety measures which can cut risks and improve the odds in our favour of leading stress free lives.

ON THE GROUND Loose horses are a danger to themselves and others, so always ensure stable door bolts are in place at all times, and kick bars are secure.

Mucking out equipment needs to have a place and be returned to it after use, to avoid possible accidents to people and animals. I hang each horse’s headcollar outside the stable where it is easily to hand. Correct footwear around horses is essential, to ensure safety sore toes are a no-no! My horses are always cross tied, as it makes tacking them up, grooming and clipping so much easier, giving them less movement and providing a double safety measure. Do add baling twine between the rings and the rope, as should a horse panic, a snapped string

20 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

is preferable to damage to you, your horse or the buildings! If your horse is difficult to lead, I would recommend a riding hat, gloves and if needed, a bridle or chiffney.

IN THE SADDLE All tack needs to be well fitting and frequently checked for worn stitching. I like safety stirrups for children who ride, and my personal choice is the cheesegrater type of tread, which provides a superb grip on the sole of the boot. The newest idea on the market is magnetic pads to the stirrups and your riding boots, which is a very clever innovation and is definitely on my wish list! Your choice of riding hat is so very important, my own favourite is the GPA design. Always choose a top quality well known brand, as this is your most important piece of safety equipment. There is a wide range of back protectors; the new air jackets are an excellent choice as they do not restrict riders’ movement as can some of the more rigid designs. Another great bit of kit is the RS-tor Riding

direction you should go over the fences.

Be very aware of other horses and steer clear of red or stallion ribbons in the tails, a clear indication of possible danger. My personal choice is to travel my animals in gamgee and bandages, as I find travel boots can be big and bulky and appear restrictive on some horses.

Be selective and find what’s best for you and your horse, and maintain good old fashioned common sense, to remain safe around your horses!

Wishing you all a safe and prosperous New Year!

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SAFETY Riding hat safety standards set to change

Six Safety Points 1 Rampless - safer loading as the horse has his head inside the inviting trailer, before he steps easily in.

2 Barn-Style doors for a safer loading of your second horse as your first horse is safely locked behind his door.

3 Independent suspension for amazing comfort and superior stability 4 750KG, the lightest trailer on the market - no need for expensive 4x4 to tow safely.

5 Lifetime guarantee on the trailer floor!

6 Load-Aid system release the padded tailgate from your horses head!

Safety news...

The Frautras horse trailer already has over 300,000 happy customers, with more safety features and industry awards than any other trailer that we are used to using in the UK. Emma Coles from Horse Trailer World explains why soon Frautras trailers are going to be as common a sight in the UK, as they already are in France and Europe.

Emma needed a two-horse trailer and searched the UK market but was not bowled over by anything she had seen. Whist on holiday in France she saw the stylish Fautras trailers everywhere and looked into them. Emma towed one home from her holiday and was so delighted with her purchase that she agreed an exclusive deal to import these multi-award winning trailers to the UK; offering the discerning rider an alternative to the products that she had seen in the UK. Now the trailers are here and people are buying them, they are bowled over by the superior build quality, the ultralightweight design and the amazing features that come as standard. The try-beforeyou-buy service of Horse Trailer World is not previously known to this industry – they’ll drive the trailer to you to trial the product before you commit to buying one.

Customer service at its best - of course terms and conditions apply but this is great news for equine-lovers all around!

The Vision Breastplate is a bold V-shaped breastplate with 50mm reflective vertical stripes, which helps draw attention to you and your horse and also features a neck strap with adjustable buckle clip, adjustable branded reflective girth strap, reflective badge and reinforced binding to hem. RRP: £20.95 The Vision Neck Band features the Equetech contrast repeated logo, adjustable sliders to fit all shapes and sizes this neck band also has an adjustable girth strap to help hold neck strap in place. Colours: Fluorescent Yellow, Fluorescent Pink RRP: £16.75 www.equetech.com

The discreet appearance of the Hit-Air Vest is ideal for the dressage arena as the comfortable, flexible and smart vest can easily be fitted over a show jacket – and barely seen.

Available in a wide range of sizes in various colour choices including black or navy to match competition attire, the Hit-Air Vest starts at £325. www.hitairuk.co.uk

The EU Commission has announced that the European equestrian riding helmet standard BS EN 1384 is to be withdrawn from the Official Journal of the European Union (OJ) at its next publication.

This means that hat manufacturers will no longer be able to CE-mark their hats using this standard and will need to recertify to a specification currently being developed.

The withdrawal of the standard has no effect on riding hats already on the market. Once a hat has been manufactured to a standard, it will not become "non-standard" after withdrawal and can continue to be sold and worn. If riders have hats certified to EN 1384, they can continue to use them unless stated otherwise by rules of competition.

The existing EN 1384 standard is currently in the process of revision. The withdrawal is due in part to the European working group responsible for the hat standard failing to reach an agreement on this overdue revision and subsequently causing the commission to take this drastic step.

The draft proposal for the revision to EN 1384 has to go through the laborious procedure of comment and review, and it is still unclear when the final version will be published. An interim specification is being developed by a group of EU test houses and notified bodies (VG1) that will span the gap with a new specification.

In future, CE-marked riding hats will have to be successfully tested and certified against an alternative specification to allow CE certification to continue.

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HEALTH ADVICE

Encysted Small Redworms brought to life Zoetis is bringing the risks of encysted small redworm to life using Blippar ‘augumented reality’.

The company has used the new technology for its latest Trojan Horse advertising campaign to help drive home important messages about managing encysted small redworm this winter. Every Zoetis Trojan horse advertisement can be transformed into a captivating educational video using the Blippar app on a smart device.

The advertisement highlights the hidden dangers of encysted small redworm with a play on the Trojan horse tale, which involved Greek

soldiers entering the city of Troy by stealth, hidden within the mythological wooden Trojan horse. Encysted small redworm are also capable of concealing themselves inside a horse. Untreated, they may develop and emerge en masse from the gut wall in the early spring, causing diarrhoea and colic with a mortality rate of up to 50%.1 Penny McCann, Zoetis equine brand manager explains: “We hope that by bringing our campaign to life with Blippar we can capture the attention of horse owners and help them to understand the risks of encysted small redworm over the winter months. They

Clear & targeted advice

can actually account for up to 90% of the redworm burden in your horse but won’t show up in a standard faecal worm egg count.1“ The veterinary recommendation is that all horses should receive a treatment for encysted small redworm during the late autumn/winter, regardless of their faecal worm egg count.2,3” It’s crucial to remember that even if your horse’s faecal worm egg count is negative you must still treat for encysted small redworm before the early spring, to protect your horse from this deadly parasite.

To use Blippar simply download the

References 1. Dowdall S.M.J. et al (2002) Veterinary Parasitology 106, 225-242 2. Nielsen (2012) Veterinary Paristology. 185. 32-44 3. Matthews (2008) Equine Veterinary Education 552560

The British Horse Society, with Defra’s input, will be producing a toolkit for local equine groups to give people clear and targeted advice about the best practice and effective mechanisms for both control on own land and legal responsibilities in connection with ragwort. Additionally, The British Horse Society is calling for the establishment of local Ragwort Action Partnerships between local authorities, public and private landowners, and local equine groups. The aim of these partnerships is to help improve communication between these groups and ensure ragwort is controlled in areas used by horses.

These plans come after The British Horse Society, supported by Defra, conducted the largest survey of the English equine population to assess levels of awareness and concern about ragwort. It received 13,963 responses and showed a high awareness of ragwort, both in terms of its appearance and the affect it can have on livestock.

The key findings of the survey were:

20% 93% of the respondents knew personally of instances where horses had been suspected or confirmed as having been harmed by ragwort poisoning.

said that they take preventative measures to reduce the risk of ragwort on the land that they own, rent or manage.

97%-99% of respondents believed that more activity is needed with joint public / sector policy responses, including improving knowledge, the enforcement of ragwort control regulations and improving local councils’ monitoring of ragwort.

55% 22 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

free Blippar app, which is available on all platforms and scan the Zoetis Trojan Horse. Learn more about the Zoetis encysted small redworm awareness campaign at www.esrw.co.uk and test your knowledge before discussing the best treatment options with your vet or Suitably Qualified Person (SQP). The site contains an informative video, a quick quiz and a helpful advice leaflet that can be downloaded.

75% of respondents have not sought advice about ragwort from organisations

84% of respondents reported having seen ragwort on land that is used by horses in the seven days prior to them completing the survey.

of respondents had taken no action when they had seen ragwort growing on land that they did not themselves own – the main reasons being that they did not know who to contact and they did not think they would be listened to.

January 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 16/12/2014 18:12 Page 23

Make routine testing a must

By Gillian Booth, Westgate Laboratories

We all love a fresh start and this is just the time of year to review your horse’s worm control for the year ahead. It doesn’t matter whether you are looking after just one pony or have charge of a yard of sixty horses, the message is the same: ‘routine testing, not routine worming.’ All good worming programmes should be based on tests only adding wormer doses where they are essential.

Why is this important?

In the past all horses were treated as though they had the same parasite burden and wormed at intervals with suitable products.

Nowadays we know that the majority of worms affect only about a quarter of all horses so the others are being given strong medicines they don’t need.

Importantly, every time a population of worms is exposed to the drug then the most resistant worms will go on to survive and reproduce, increasing the proportion for next time.

Resistance is a real and growing problem, affecting all worming drugs to some degree. This means that when you worm your horse it may work only partially or not at all. Once the resistant worms affect your animals and grazing then they will always be there so it’s not a case of returning to using that product at a later date.

There is no time to lose, we need to act now.

What should I do?

As a first step reduce the number of wormers you give your horse each year.

Instead, put in place a routine testing programme, worm counting about every three months. You can buy a season pack of tests from Westgate Labs, using the on line shop, and be ready for the year ahead, knowing that the samples will be correctly prepared and analysed in a proper laboratory. Add to this two of the new saliva tests for tapeworm done six months apart. Finally, give a specific worming dose to treat encysted redworm in winter, using either plain Equest or five day Panacur Guard.

What next?

Don’t worry if this is all new to you as Westgate try to make it all as easy as possible. You can buy everything you need on line or simply ring the lab for a free dung collection kit and send payment when you post the sample. Have a look online as there is lots of helpful information on the website. Additionally advice and support is always available from the friendly, qualified team and that is what makes the system work.

Time to start routine testing not routine worming for a better future for parasite control in all our horses. www.westgatelabs.co.uk

The easy and effective saliva tests from Westgate Labs

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 23

January 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 16/12/2014 18:12 Page 24

NUTRITION

Learn about nutrition, forage and the equine digestive system Alltech are offering a series of free online educational equine webinars giving horse owners the chance to expand their knowledge on nutrition, forage and the equine digestive system.

Hosted by Dr Helen Warren RSci, Alltech’s Technical Co-ordinator, the two webinars that have already taken place have proved hugely popular, with people registering from all over the world.

The first webinar looked at the basics of nutrition and how to feed your horse. This involved learning more about how the horses’ digestive system works, how feed is digested, types of feed, nutritional requirements and how to avoid common problems associated with feeding such as acidosis and colic.

The second webinar in the series was on winter feeding with a focus on forage. Dr Warren gave an insight into feeding horses in winter with a specific emphasis on the different forage options, feeding values and nutritional issues to watch out for.

Clare Fahey, Alltech’s Global Equine and Pet Marketing Manager also addressed the behavioural and management aspect of feeding stabled horses over winter.

The two webinars are available online via the Alltech website as an ongoing point of reference for anyone wanting to learn more about nutrition and are regularly being accessed by horse owners worldwide.

Future webinars will be announced on Alltech’s Equine Hero facebook page, where you will be able to register to listen and view the webinar broadcast live. Anyone who registers will also receive an email containing a recording of the webinar.

For further information please visit www.alltech.com or go to the Equine Hero facebook page.

Loyalty scheme

What does Blue Chip have in common with Nandos and Costa coffee?

Blue Chip’s Marketing Director Guy Blaskey obviously spends too much time in Nandos and Costa coffee! He thought their loyalty card was a great way to reward their customers, so worked on a way of incorporating it into Blue Chip products. The solution was to print loyalty cards on each sack as well as making them available to download from www.bluechipfeed.com/loyalty.

Blue Chip is the only equine feed company to reward their loyal customers by means of a ‘loyalty card.’

To take advantage of this offer customers can collect points from any Blue Chip balancer (Original, Original Native, Pro and Lami-light), Joint supplements (Dynamic and Joint RLF) and liquid supplements (Karma and Garliq). Once you have collected 8, you can receive your nineth purchase free of charge. Your free product can be any Blue Chip product in the range.** Blue Chip’s owner and founder Clare Blaskey says, “We understand that times are hard and wanted to show our appreciation to our loyal customers who have stayed with us through thick and thin and recommend our products to friends and family. We also understand that sometimes customers want to try a new product but are apprehensive to do so. This is why our offer extends throughout the range and customers can either exchange their points for a free sack or bottle of their favourite product or they can try a new product in the range.”

The Blue Chip loyalty card is in addition to the long running and very popular merchandise offer, where customers can collect ‘merchandise tokens’ and exchange them for polo shirts, hoodies, waterproof jackets, saddlecloths, fleece rugs and much more. There is also a ‘win a fleece rug’ entry printed on every sack for a monthly prize draw.

To find out more visit www.bluechipfeed.com/loyalty ** Clothing not available.

24 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

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January 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 16/12/2014 18:13 Page 26

NUTRITION

BOOSTING Winter often signals a decrease in the nutritional value of grazing, in turn resulting in a need to supplement with good quality forage and equines spending longer periods of time stabled. So, winter can be a balancing act between keeping equines both physically healthy and psychologically happy!

By allowing horses to carry out natural behaviour, such as receiving access to continued turn-out, owners can keep boredom at bay.

Horslyx is an ideal solution to balancing the nutrient deficiencies lost due to a lack of good quality grazing, providing a high specification of vitamins, minerals and trace elements. The weather-proof lick is perfect for use in the field throughout the winter.

Horslyx is also great for keeping the stabled or part-stabled horse happy and healthy, as when confined to the stable they can be more prone to developing stereotypical behaviours, such as crib biting, weaving and wind sucking as a coping mechanism for stress and boredom. Reducing boredom before behaviour becomes a serious issue is the ideal solution and Horslyx is the perfect healthy solution. The palatable lick promotes a natural trickle-feeding

Health

pattern, allowing the horse to self regulate and consume Horslyx as and when it is needed, resulting in supported digestion and less risk of stressy behaviour. Horslyx is suited to even the fussiest of eaters, as well as good-doers and those prone to laminitis provided that consumption is regulated. With no chemical hardeners, artificial colours or preservatives, Horslyx is the ideal nutritional addition to your feeding regime this winter.

For more information visit www.horslyx.co.uk or telephone 01697 332 592.

Boosting health from the inside out Stiff joints can result in reduced stride length, reluctance to work through and forward, refusing at jumps and sometimes a depressed attitude. Including a Horse Joint Supplement in your equine's diet can help alleviate these problems and can also protect a younger horse or pony from these issues developing in the first place by providing the body what it needs to maintain optimum joint health! RRP: £22.75 www.horsesupplementsdirect.co.uk

The immune system is the horses very own natural defence mechanism, constantly under attack. If the immune system is adequately supported by good nutrition it is better placed to fight off infection and speed up recovery from injury.

Simple steps can ensure the digestive system is functioning efficiently to support the immune system and help maintain general health and wellbeing.

Providing adequate fibre and aiming to keep concentrate meals small can help prevent the hind gut from becoming disrupted.

Where possible minimise stress, as stress can weaken the immune system and be a contributing factor in digestive disturbance.

Ensure forage is of the highest quality and practice good hygiene to prevent the digestive system from being exposed to mycotoxins.

By supplementing the diet with yeast cultures you can help reduce hind gut acidity, creating optimum conditions for the beneficial bacteria to flourish, thereby improving digestion, as well as nutrient absorption and buffering against digestive upset.

The Lifeforce Range from Alltech has been designed to optimise the digestive health of horses at every stage of life, from breeding stock to leisure and performance horses.

For further information please visit www.lifeforcehorse.co.uk or telephone 01780 764512

DENGIE QUESTIONS HAY NET ‘BENEFITS’ Research by a Writtle College student showing that smallholed hay nets do little to prolong feeding times and even cause frustration in some horses has made Dengie Horse Feeds question their effectiveness.

“Members of the nutrition team often advise using this type of net to slow down the rate of forage intake and therefore improve gut health,” said Dengie senior nutritionist Katie Williams, “but the findings suggest that horses are too clever by half and suss out how to eat just as quickly after just 10 minutes of using a smallholed net!”

Lily Crockett conducted a 28-day trial using seven horses from Writtle College, near Chelmsford, Essex. They were given hay nets 26 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

of different designs filled with hay. Each was weighed before the trial and at 10-minute intervals over a 30-minute period.

There was no significant difference in the volume of consumption when comparing a large-holed net, small-holed net and doublemeshed net.

Similarly, the actual rate of intake was not radically different.

Dengie believes the report’s assertion that hay nets appear to cause frustration in horses reflects a study involving a triple-layered net quoted at the 2014 European Workshop on Equine Nutrition.

It suggested that creating multiple feeding stations around the stable was more effective at slowing down horses’ intake.

Designed to help improve the performance of the hard working equine athlete Power contains a specifically formulated blend of micro nutrients to enable your horse to perform at its best.

With a full complement of B group vitamins Power is particularly beneficial to the performance horse and horses with poor appetites, but it will also help to reinvigorate any horses feeling run down. B vitamins play a vital part in the metabolism of a horses energy and are naturally produced as a result of fibre digestion in the hind gut, therefore any horses fed on a low fibre diet will benefit from being fed Power.

Increasing athletic work can cause free radical production to flourish, so Power contains a high specification of antioxidants alongside performance nutrients to help attract and bind free radicals. This will help improve stamina in the performance horse as well as helping to reduce exercise induced muscle damage strengthening the immune response helping the horse to remain healthier in times of stress.

Power also contains essential amino acids which are the building blocks of protein. To help support a healthy digestive system Yeasacc 1026 is also included which will help support optimum fibre and mineral digestion within the hind gut and help to maintain gut health in the performance horse.

Power is supplied in 750gm pouches which last a 500kg horse for 15 days.

Economic 1kg pouches and 5kg tubs are also available.

For more information please contact Rowen Barbary Horse Feeds on 01948 880598 or visit www.rowenbarbary.co.uk

January 2015 pages 1 to 27_Layout 1 16/12/2014 18:13 Page 27

Product news...

You’ve got to hand it to us...

Equerry Stud & Youngstock Cubes, and Equerry Stud & Yearling Mix help provide the correct nutrition which is so vital for all stages of reproduction, lactation and growth.

Highly digestible energy sources promote condition and milk production, while raised levels of Vitamin E are an important antioxidant and assist with fertility.

Highly digestible cereals improve digestive efficiency and added vitamins and minerals include calcium, phosphorous, copper, zinc and manganese to support bone development.

The Equerry range of top-quality horse feeds contains something for every horse or pony, whether you are feeding youngstock, a leisure horse or a competition horse, there is a product in the range to meet their nutritional requirements.

Equerry horse feeds are formulated by experienced nutritionists, using only the best quality ingredients and are produced under the BETA NOPS scheme giving horse owners peace of mind.

RRP: £11.25 and £13.85. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

Blue Chip Original is the ideal feed balancer for all horses and ponies.

Original contains a comprehensive probiotic, which can double the digestibility of fibre in your horse’s diet. Also included are a complete hoof and respiratory supplement and generous levels of oils. The whole cereal and molasses free formula combines the optimum levels of vitamins, minerals and nutrients to help keep your horse in fantastic condition all year round. RRP £39.95. www.bluechipfeed.com

From its single milling base in the heart of East Anglia, Charnwood offers one of the most comprehensive ranges of horse and pet feeds in the UK. Charnwood's horse feeds offer a choice of many different diets, including both pelleted and coarse mix rations. They contain all the vitamins, minerals and trace elements necessary to maintain horses in tip-top condition.

To find out more about Charnwood and their range of feeds visit: www.charnwood-milling.co.uk or call us on: 01728 622300

Saxtead Road, Framlingham, Suffolk IP13 9PT Tel: 01728 622300

www.charnwood-milling.co.uk ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 27

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Vetwatch

STANDING

By Richard Payne

Surgery carried out on horses under heavy sedation and local anaesthetic has now become a well-established and routine part of equine practice. This has been made possible by advances in many different areas, including improvements in sedative drugs, increasing expertise, advances in technical equipment, improvements in hospitalisation facilities, and specialist care provided by nursing and support staff.

Team work is the key to success!

The fact that surgery can often be carried out under local anaesthetic offers a considerable advantage to the horse in avoiding the risks associated with a general anaesthetic. In addition, many procedures may actually be accomplished more easily in the standing sedated horse rather than under a general anaesthetic.

At Rossdales Equine Hospital we carry out approximately 1300 surgical procedures per year, of which approximately 50% are now carried out in the standing patient, and 50% under a general anaesthetic. We have a purposebuilt standing surgery operating theatre in our Diagnostic Centre and the following are some examples of how it is used.

Fig 1a

Fig 1b Research at Rossdales Equine Hospital has found that laser surgery carries a success rate of approximately 80% in removal of sarcoids, and this can often be done safely under local anaesthetic.

1). Laser surgery has also revolutionised our ability to treat diseases and disorders of the nose and throat which are at

surgically inaccessible locations (Fig 2). Procedures such as a ventriculectomy and cordectomy (hobday surgery) have traditionally required a general anaesthetic and an incision beneath the throat. These are now routinely performed in the standing patient by laser surgery, without the need for throat incision. Laser surgery may also be useful for treatment of selected tumours (such as ethmoidal haematomas) within the nose, throat and sinuses, where access can be achieved endoscopically (by ‘keyhole’ surgery).

European Specialist in Large Animal Surgery (Equine)

Fig 3

Ocular Surgery

Surgery of the horse’s eye can be complex, requiring precise expertise and specialist equipment, often under a general anaesthetic. However, several procedures relating to the horse’s eye can be carried out safely under local anaesthetic, in a sensible adequately sedated patient. One example of this

Open sinus surgery under local anaesthetic offers considerable advantages in terms of access, vision, and reduced haemorrhage.

would be removal of the third eyelid – usually where there is a tumour such as a squamous cell carcinoma on it. In some cases, minor surgery of the cornea (the

surface of the eye) may also be carried out safely under local anaesthetic. Where major injuries to the horse’s eye occur and the eye cannot be salvaged, surgical

Fig 4

Laser surgery

Laser surgery has been used at our hospital for over 20 years and allows precise tissue removal with minimal haemorrhage and reduced post-operative pain and swelling. It is very commonly used to remove sarcoids - one of the most problematic, frustrating and locally invasive skin tumours (Fig 28 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

Fig 2 Our Hospital has a particular interest in the treatment of upper respiratory lesions. A laser fibre can be passed through a video-endoscope which allows access and vision to these remote and awkward surgical sites.

Laparoscopic (keyhole) investigation of the abdomen has been carried out at Rossdales Equine Hospital for the past 18 years. In this image an ovary is being removed.

January 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 16/12/2014 17:36 Page 29

ROSSDALES EQUINE HOSPITAL & DIAGNOSTIC CENTRE Cotton End Road, Exning, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7NN.

www.rossdales.com

SURGERY Fig 5

Kissing spines can be treated by two types of surgery, both routinely carried out under local anaesthetic.

removal is sometimes required.

This is a procedure which can be carried out routinely under sedation and local anaesthetic.

The prognosis for full recovery and healing once the badly damaged eye has been removed is usually excellent, and horses with one eye adapt and cope amazingly well, adjusting to normal life and returning to almost all forms of activity and use.

way. Our hospital has a team of four veterinary surgeons who have a particular interest and expertise in dental surgery and this team of people is constantly improving the standard of care that can be offered to horses and ponies.

Sinus Surgery

Just like humans, horses not

Dental Surgery

There have been huge advances in equine dentistry over the past decade. This relates not only to a better understanding of disease, but also improved expertise and technical equipment for dealing with problems. Clients would expect routine dental surgery to be carried out under sedation and local anaesthetic, and nowadays even fairly major procedures such as complex dental extraction may be successfully conducted in this

Fig 6

uncommonly suffer from sinus problems. These can range from relatively simple problems with infection through to more complex problems which might involve tooth root infection, or even on rare occasions, the presence of tumours. As previously mentioned, using minimally invasive surgical techniques, it is often possible to deal with these problems.

However, sometimes sinuses need to be ‘opened up’ fully to explore them and deal with the problems. In the past, traditionally this would have been carried out under a general anaesthetic but nowadays it is routine to carry out ‘open’ exploratory sinus surgery under local anaesthetic (Fig 3).

part of the abdomen without the need for a midline incision and full ‘colic surgery’ under general anaesthetic. In certain cases, examination of the liver and spleen may be carried out, and biopsies of the diseased tissues may be carried out under the safety of direct vision.

Laparoscopic surgery may also be successfully employed during cryptorchid (‘rig’) investigations in search of retained testicles.

This method of examination and castration can offer significant advantages, in some cases saving the horse from more invasive ‘open’ surgery either through the groin, or through a full abdominal incision. Laparoscopic surgery also offers significant advantages for ovariectomy (the removal of an ovary). The mare’s Laparoscopic surgery ovaries are located in the upper Laparoscopic (keyhole) part of the abdomen just investigation of the abdomen beneath the lumbar spine, which has a variety of uses (Fig 4). It is a difficult area to access with a can be useful for investigation of traditional midline incision. horses which suffer chronic and Keyhole surgery in the standing recurrent bouts of colic, as it patient has revolutionised this allows inspection of a significant procedure with decreased incision size and swifter recovery.

Most commonly this procedure is used to remove an ovarian ‘granulosa cell’ tumour.

Thankfully these are benign tumours, and the prognosis for full recovery and return to normal cyclical activity on just one remaining ovary is good, with many mares able to breed successfully after surgery.

Laparoscopy may also be used to access and carry out surgery on other areas of the reproductive tract. One example of this would

Kissing spines: in the most advanced cases, certain dorsal spinous processes (DSPs) are removed surgically to prevent impingement

Vet Profile

Name: Richard J. Payne Qualifications: BSc, BVSc, CertES(Orth), DipECVS, MRCVS Richard is the partner responsible for Rossdales Equine Hospital and is one of the busiest equine surgeons in the UK. Richard graduated from the University of Bristol in 1995 and after a year in mixed practice, he moved to Rossdales Equine Hospital where he completed a threeyear residency in Equine Surgery. He became a partner at Rossdales in 2002. He has a large and varied caseload of elective and emergency surgery, which is referred to Rossdales from practices throughout the UK. His further qualifications include an RCVS Certificate in Equine Surgery (Orthopaedics) and in 2012 the European College of Veterinary Surgeons (ECVS) awarded him Diplomate status.

Richard has published papers on equine surgery in peerreviewed scientific journals, and authored several book chapters. He has acted as an examiner for the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons, and lectured on equine surgery at national and international meetings.

CONTINUED OVER PAGE

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 29

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Vetwatch surgical procedures can be carried out, from routine injury repair (for example after foaling), through to surgery which improves conformation, and more specialist procedures such as ‘urethral extension’ in order to prevent internal urine pooling problems.

Fig 7

Kissing Spines

A recent study of fractures repaired under standing surgery at Rossdales Equine Hospital was published in the Equine Veterinary Journal. Approximately two thirds of horses returned successfully to racing.

Continued from previous page be flushing of the oviduct (fallopian tube) which is carried out under laparoscopic guidance. More recently, a technique called ‘uteropexy’ has been used for broodmares (typically in middle to older age) where the uterus becomes rather ‘slack’ and falls away into the abdomen resulting in pooling of infection within it, which can predispose to infertility. Using laparoscopy the uterus is lifted and stitched into a more horizontal position which can be helpful in improving fertility.

Gynaecological surgery

Surgery of the reproductive tract can often be carried out in the standing sedated horse, often under local or epidural anaesthetic. A whole variety of

Kissing spines causing back pain and problems in the horse are a wellrecognised problem. There is huge complexity to this disease. In some cases, where medical management and physiotherapy are not effective, surgery may be helpful (Fig 5). Where there is significant new bone formation obstructing the gaps between the impinging dorsal spinous processes (DSPs), surgical removal of carefully selected DSPs may be carried out (Fig 6).

In other carefully selected cases, in particular where there is no bone bridging the gap between adjacent DSPs, it may be possible to cut the interspinous ligament between the kissing spines, which can also be helpful.

ROSSDALES EQUINE HOSPITAL & DIAGNOSTIC CENTRE Trauma Management

Summary

Accidents and injuries are not uncommon in horses, and may have serious consequences. These may range from typical kicks, wounds from fencing or ‘over-reach’ injuries, to complex trauma and impact injuries, either from falls during competition or, for example, from car accidents. If a horse has sustained a recent trauma injury, it is often far from ideal for it then to have a general anaesthetic, unless absolutely necessary. With patience, sedation and local anaesthetic, a surprising number of even fairly nasty looking trauma injuries may be investigated, treated or reconstructed under local anaesthetic.

This would include typical injuries of the face, the trunk and the limbs. In some cases where there is puncture and infection of synovial cavities (joints, tendon sheaths and bursae), a considered decision to flush the affected cavity under local anaesthetic may even be possible.

A huge range of surgical techniques may be accomplished successfully in the standing, sedated horse. The final decision to carry out a procedure in a standing patient will be influenced by a large number of factors including the type and complexity of the problem, the temperament of the horse and the personal experience preference and expertise of the surgeon.

The essential ingredients for successful standing surgery include: 1. A well trained, experienced organised team of vets, nurses and support staff 2. Appropriate technical equipment 3. A compliant patient 4. A quiet undisturbed operating environment 5. Patience!

Fracture Repair

Fractures of the lower limb (often in racehorses) have traditionally been repaired by insertion of screws under a general anaesthetic. The anaesthetic itself involves a risk, but also recovering a horse from an anaesthetic even with the leg in a cast, is not without added risk.

Work carried out since 2004 at Rossdales Equine Hospital has helped to establish and develop a safe method of repair of certain fractures under sedation and local anaesthetic, offering obvious advantages to the horse (Fig 7).

Rossdales Equine Hospital & Diagnostic Centre (All horse admissions)

Cotton End Road, Exning, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 7NN. 01638 577754 (Office hours); 01638 663150 (24 hours) hospital@rossdales.com

Rossdales Equine Practice (Ambulatory Practice, Pharmacy and Accounts)

Beaufort Cottage Stables, High Street, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 8JS. 01638 663150 (24 hours) practice@rossdales.com

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RIDE LIKE... Sophie Wells wE cAUGHT Up wiTH BlAck coUnTry SADDlES SponSorED DrESSAGE riDEr, SopHiE wEllS MBE for SoME Top TrAininG TipS AS wE Go inTo 2015...

ENJOY YOUR TRAINING Dressage is not just for dressage horses and riders - all horses can benefit from dressage, keeping them supple, flexible, moving easily and in harmony with their rider.

Working-in for a workout – Dressage is gymnastics for horses so if you don’t warm up correctly injuries can occur when you start the more complex work.

Try walking for around 10 minutes to start with, encouraging your horse to work long and round, stretching the muscles in front of, and behind, the saddle.

Stretching off muscles – Encourage your horse to stretch regularly throughout training sessions to help him relax, reducing tension that comes with repeating individual movements.

This can be achieved by lengthening the rein, lowering your hands and squeezing and releasing the rein to gently massage the bit in the horse’s mouth.

Mixing it up – Dressage may be your thing but try mixing up training sessions with some hacking and jumping to help keep your horse

interested… and more importantly for you, relax and have some fun!

Hill work – Hacking up hills can help with fitness and developing and strengthening muscles.

The Saddle – i ride in the Vinici Dressage Saddle from Black country Saddles. i am very fortunate to be sponsored by Black country Saddles who provide me with their bespoke, made to measure saddles that are simply the best. The team understand what i need and i work very closely with them when designing and developing a saddle for me and my horses.

Repeat, repeat, repeat! – Dressage is about repetition so once again make sure your training is varied. repeating exercises over and over again until it

becomes a natural movement for the horse is what we do, but if things aren’t going too well and the horse becomes upset or less responsive try some other movements. you can always come back to it later, it’s all about dedication!

Rhythm and balance – Two very important aspects of dressage. To help you maintain a rhythm while training sing a song in your head while you ride. for balance try using lots of half-halts before you ask for any other movement which will steady him and allow him to naturally find his balance.

Working the trot – Try lots of transitions from trot to canter and canter to trot. This will help improve your trot work making your horse carry more weight on his hind quarters.

Achieving Self-Carriage – To help get your horse to carry his head and neck ask for a few lengthened strides before coming back to a working pace. keep repeating this until he achieves good self carriage.

Mirror, Mirror on the wall... Mirrors situated around the school are one of the best training aids. you can see

exactly what your horse looks like and you can also have a look at your own position.

Reward with a Treat – A great treat to reward your horse during training is sugar lumps. They encourage the horse to drool a bit and he will become lighter in the hand.

Standing Square – A good square halt on the centre line is something that is often overlooked but is something that we should train for. Teach your horse to always stand square even when you are mounting and dismounting.

Cool down – A cool down is just as important as a warm up and helps prevent stiffness and injury. Gradually slow the pace winding down, especially if you have been practising any complex movements. your horse should be feeling tired so let him stretch out in walk for a good 10 minutes or so.

Black Country Saddles Telephone: 01543 578 243 www.blackcountrysaddles.com ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 31

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FIRST AID

Cold Therapy Cold therapy is a cooling treatment used externally on horses (and other mammals) which is available in various forms. It is commonly used in the treatment of inflammation and soft tissue injuries such as bruises and strains.

Cold therapy can also be used for trauma to bone, muscle, ligaments, tendons, skin and other forms of mammalian tissue. Alongside injury, it may also be suitable for athletic recovery, post-operative aftercare and in rehabilitation programs.

It is a popular choice of treatment as it is effective and a natural, drug-free way to help treat injuries and reduce pain. Cold therapy lowers the temperature at the site of injury through heat exchange and constricts local blood vessels. This reduces cell damage and fluid build-up, producing a numbing sensation.

Cold therapy is ideally used immediately after an injury occurs and then subsequently for the next 48 hours at regular intervals. Due to the frequent nature of its use, cold therapy involving water (such as cold hosing) may lead to cracked heels (when the legs are treated) or other skin problems, especially in winter.

Dry application minimises the risk of such dermatological issues.

One of the most common methods of applying cold therapy is the use of an ice bag or frozen peas; however such methods are not without their limitations. They can be difficult to apply and keep in place and the cooling may be uneven and the temperature uncontrolled - often the application is either too cold, or not cold enough. As it melts it can become messy and the treatment may not last long enough.

Also available are packs held in place by wraps or straps for specific areas, these generally need to be frozen before use. Other popular cold therapy treatments include chemical cold packs which are comprised of two or more chemical substances stored separately in a flexible packet. When needed, the packet is manipulated, causing an internal seal to break and the chemical substances to mix. This results in an endothermic reaction which causes the packet to cool.

A variation on the chemical packs, cold therapy bandage, is activated by submersion in a chemical solution. In addition, cooling clays/gels can be

32 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

applied under regular bandages and various equine specific cold therapy systems, which often combine massage therapy, are on the market.

For horses, cold therapy is commonly used following work on hard ground or after strenuous work, such as the XC phase at competitions. For such scenarios instant dry cold therapy which doesn’t require any previous refrigeration is ideal and can be applied for up to an hour (minimum of 15-20 minutes). When

treating injuries with cold therapy, always consult with your veterinary surgeon for directions on the best method to use, including the regularity and duration of the treatment required.

For immediate dry cold therapy, Koolpak from Robinson Animal Healthcare is ideal for emergency and routine use as it requires no refrigeration. Suitable for providing fast, effective treatment for tendon injuries, inflammation, knocks, strains, bruises and swellings.

Koolpak is also ideal for use after competing, particularly on hard ground. It provides instant relief to the leg area and is suitable for all horses.

Easy to use, you simply squeeze the inner sachet in the pack to release freezing liquid. It can be applied directly to the skin and if necessary held in place with a bandage. The Koolpak will remain effective for up to one hour. RRP is around ÂŁ2.50.

Robinson Animal Healthcare has a wide range of products for all your first aid requirements.

For more information contact Robinson Animal Healthcare on 01909 735000 or visit www.robinsonhealthcare.com.

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Equi-Med Ag works wonders for George!

Breed: TB x Arab mare Age: 17 Colour: Chestnut Rider’s name: Katie Lee

When I took George on loan I knew she had suffered in the past from mud fever through the summer months, and had previously had veterinary treatment which had failed to clear up the infection. I had tried every cream and topical treatment available but nothing seemed to really work that well.

After seeing an advert to take part in the Equi-Med Ag study I thought I would give it a try. The heat seemed to activate the bacterial infection and George’s condition had worsened and her legs were extremely sore and swollen.

Prior to using the Equi-Med Ag Wound Dressing her legs had become so sore and swollen that she hated me washing and even touching her legs.

I soon realised ‘mud fever’ was the very generic term for this bacterial infection and that it still could be a threat in the summer months. Through the study we discovered from the swabs that a stronger strain of bacteria was now responsible - Staphylococcus Aureus.

So I ditched the creams and topical treatments and dressed her legs with the wound dressing, changing the dressing every three days. It was so simple to use, there was no need to keep washing her legs as I had done when I was using the creams.

Straight away after the first dressing change I could see the scabs had started to dry out, they looked darker and the redness and swelling had started to go. As I kept using the dressing the scabs started to fall away and I could see the skin and hair started to look healthy again.

After 27 days the scabs were completely gone and you couldn’t even tell where they had been.

The Equi-Med Ag products are so easy to use, cost effective and they really did work eliminating the bacterial infection.

For more information visit www.EquiMedAg.co.uk or call on 0191 5118323.

Product news...

Keep your Equi-Med Ag Antibacterial boots in top condition Re-Gen washing detergent eliminates any risk of deactivating the activated carbon and silver fabric.

It is the only detergent that can be guaranteed to keep the antibacterial boots clean and working effectively, prolonging their life span. There is also no fear of chemical crosscontamination which cannot be guaranteed with shop-bought products. Re-Gen is also ideal for washing rugs, girths, saddlecloths and numnahs. RRP: £2.99. www.EquiMedAg.co.uk Activate is an activated carbon dressing for cleansing and healing open and infected wounds. The multi-layered dressing incorporates activated carbon which has been found to attract and absorb bacteria into the dressing keeping contamination away from the wound surface.

The dressing promotes rapid wound closure and improves normal healing process of wounds susceptible to exuberant granulation (proud flesh).

Excellent results have been observed when Activate has been used on chronic wounds that were previously not responding to treatment. The dressings are sterile, non-adherent and absorb exudates, eliminating odours. www.robinsonhealthcare.com.

Animalintex is a multi layered poultice and wound dressing that is highly absorbent and extremely versatile. It can be applied either as a wet, hot or cold poultice, or as a dry dressing, to suit the needs of the injury. It contains an antiseptic to clean and prevent re-infection and natural poulticing agent, Tragacanth, which, when it reacts with water, draws out any infection and creates a clean area for the wound to heal. RRP: £5.50. www.robinsonhealthcare.com

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 33

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SADDLERY

Girths & Breastplates There are dozens of different designs of girth on the market today and really with a horse with no apparent girthing issues it comes down to personal preference and budget as to what you can afford.

There are some principles which should however be watched out for. The rider is always tempted to ‘overgirth’ by tightening the girth too much and thus causing discomfort to the horse. Leather is obviously better than synthetic as it breathes but should be kept clean and supple – if the leather is dried out it will crack and cause problems.

Horses with specific conformation issues should be able to find a girth to suit every need. For example for the horse with a forward girth groove there are girths which are shaped back at the elbow or these horses often benefit from a girth made of neoprene or other synthetic material which has no seams on the edge. The girth can then ‘squash’ back and so cause little discomfort. You should always make sure that your girth is long enough and This Five Point Breastplate combines lots of clever features to make something really special.

The breastplate is made using a combination of English leather, padded leather across the shoulders and special elastic created for Kate Negus. It attaches at five points: between the horse’s legs, either side of the wither and below the saddle flap on both sides, and is highly adjustable to ensure the perfect fit. The design helps to give maximum saddle stability without compromising movement.

With standing and running martingale attachments available separately, it gives incredible flexibility. RRP: £250. www.katenegus.com

By Martin Wilkinson Saddlery buckles above the end of the ribs. This is equally true of the shorter girths made for use with monoflap jump saddles or dressage saddles – research has shown that they need to buckle above the end of the ribs in order for the horse to be able to use the muscles which run along the barrel effectively.

Mention should also be made of the revolutionary Fairfax girth which again empirical research has shown to improve a horses movement by some 40%! These are expensive but if you want that extra performance then this is worth a try! They should be fitted and aren’t always suitable for the horse which is narrow between the front legs as they are designed with a forward curve.

There are basically three kinds of breastplate with several variations on each. The most basic kind is the elastic one which attaches from D to D around the horse’s chest. This is more often seen on racehorses, point to pointers and show jumpers who are generally in the saddle for short periods of time. The next kind is the basic hunting breastplate which attaches also from D to D but with a third strap which attaches to the girth. This is more traditional and often more discrete and you can have a strap which goes over the horses neck or not according to your preference. The more popular design now is the 5 point breastplate which is used frequently by eventers and can have sheepskin padding at each of the five points or not, again according to preference. With any breastplate however the most important aspect is the fit – some types of breastplate suit different conformation types but it must be neither too big or too tight in order for it to do its job properly and it also therefore needs to be either custom made or adjustable so that you can get an exact fit.

At Martin Wilkinson Saddlers we can advise on which type of girth or breastplate will suit you and your horse according to its conformation and the job you need your horse to do – just call Jenny on 01727 821020 and we’ll be glad to help. We can also make breastplates and girths to order or get them made for you.

Childéric Short Anatomical Girth

The Childéric Saddles Jump Girth Collection offers four different styles, which all feature triple thick elasticated ends for excellent saddle stability and an ergonomically cut to ensure even distribution of pressure.

The shape of the girths allows for the girth to sit in the correct position, without catching the horse around the sensitive area behind the elbow and eliminating the possibility of trapping the muscles. All four girths can be adjusted in width for a bespoke fit if required.

Prices start at £240. www.childericsaddles.co.uk

Here the Society of Master Saddlers asks the question...

Buckles or Hook Stud Fastenings?

Which you choose may well come down to personal preference but which is actually best?

Found at the bottom of the cheek pieces with their main function being to attach the bit to the bridle and reins. Hook Stud fastenings are traditionally seen in this country and are the fastenings of choice within the racing industry, often seen as fiddly and difficult to undo but providing a much neater overall appearance.

Buckles seem to be becoming increasingly popular especially within the dressage and eventing worlds. The buckle allows the leather to lie flat against the horse’s head meaning there is less chance of rubbing or chaffing as the buckle is on the outside.

As the buckle is actually stitched into thick leather, they are generally seen as the stronger more durable option.

Which to choose could also depend upon the horse that you intend to bridle. Horses with small heads tend to suit the hook stud fastenings more, with large hunter type horses complemented better by the buckles.

In the interest of safety whichever type of fastening you choose should be inspected regularly, cleaned and oiled to prevent the leather from drying out and becoming stiff and any bent or loose hook studs should be replaced immediately.

Buckles with any sharp edges or that have become loose or bent should also be replaced by your Master Saddler.

To find out more information on the Society of Master Saddlers visit www.mastersaddlers.co.uk or contact on 01449 711642.

34 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

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Survey reveals shortage of saddlefitters Sue Carson Saddles has released some of the findings from a recent online survey asking riders and horseowners about their experiences with saddlefitters, which provide a worrying insight into what is a vitally important aspect of equine health and wellbeing.

The survey respondents reveal: • 25% own 1 saddle, 43% own 2 or 3 saddles, 30% 4 or more.

• 10% check saddle fit every 3 months or more often, 23% every 3-6 months, 44% only every 6-12 months and at the other end of the scale, more than 1% never do.

• Of the different ways riders have found a saddlefitter, over 75% have followed a recommendation, 27% asked a local retailer and 7% have used an internet search at some point. Of most concern, more than 6% have asked a friend or livery yard owner to do it!

• Most people (53%) wait less than 2 weeks for a saddlefitting appointment, 36% 2-4 weeks, leaving over 10% having to wait more than 4 weeks.

• Over 52% of riders said they are 'very satisfied' with their saddlefitter and a further 22% are 'satisfied', but amongst the others, comments ranged from

"charged me too much to tell me I had it sat too far forward and didn't even watch me ride in it" to "recently found a very good one, had some very bad ones, could do better myself!"

• 22% of riders say their saddlefitter travels more than 50 miles to visit, a further 28% report 25-50 miles and another 29% between 10-25 miles. Riders are looking for knowledge and experience to ensure they get a good job done and many can't find that locally.

• Over 52% of respondents answered 'yes' when asked if their saddlefitter had any qualifications, and 47% said 'don't know'.

No-one answered 'no' but of those who said 'yes', many didn't actually know what or how relevant their saddlefitter's qualifications are.

• Asked whether there are enough experienced saddlefitters in their area, a resounding 77% said no and a further 12% didn't know.

it’s fabulous that so many riders are now appreciating the benefits and need for saddle fitting beyond the purchase of a saddle as it is a vital part of your horse care management to keep your horse as comfortable as possible. However, it is just as important to fit your saddle to your horses changing shape in the winter, as well as the summer months. it is all too easy to feel that as you are probably riding less due to the dark, cold weather; that the saddle is not as important to you as it is in the summer months, therefore it easily becomes forgotten. But your horse changes shape in the winter just as much as in the summer. not only does he usually drop some condition but he is not as well muscled up, due to limited work. Therefore the demands on the saddle between the seasons can be quite significant usually within weeks of the seasons changing as it will have already begun to affect his saddle fit.

By Sophie rodger of Express Equine

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 35

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STABLES & BEDDING

Putting your yard back together Has winter wreaked havoc for you and your yard? Does it need pulling back together again with some cosmetic improvements or perhaps it’s time to invest in a brand new stable block?

As we plan for a new year and a fresh start, now is a great time to take a close look at the stables and plan what work you will need to do as the weather starts improving. From a spruce up, to a brand new build, Scotts of Thrapston, established 95 years ago is the leading stabling manufacturer and know a thing or two about getting the most from your yard.

Spruce Up You can breathe fresh air into your yard and add a touch of glamour following these simple steps: • Plan a painting schedule by enlisting helpers or obtain quotes from professional painters now. This will ensure these are in place in order to undertake the work in the summer when the wood is at its driest point.

Scotts recommends regularly painting or staining your stables but prior to applying any stain it’s important to

36 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

prepare surfaces and treat any damp areas first.

• Research hiring a steam cleaner as this is a great way to give your yard and stables a really thorough clean and leave windows and walls sparkling. Set aside a weekend to blast away the grime and muck, although make sure you have the cleaner on a gentle setting for the cladding, doors and windows!

• Hanging baskets and window boxes will brighten up the yard. Choose ever-green plants that will last, such as small conifer trees or herbs. Remember to keep out of the horses reach!

• Put up extra hooks in the tack room and • Clear out leaves, moss and dirt from around the stable and yard. Head collars, gutters and drains. lead ropes, coats and bags look much neater when hung up. Individual name • Look for insect damage and fungus growth in timbers. Using wood cards will ensure everyone uses their preservatives will prevent further own coat hook. deterioration.

• If there are cracks in the stable windows, consider replacing them for safety and • If your doors don’t come with metal capping and galvanised metal (which to limit drafts on windy days. come as standard with Scotts of • Check your stable roof is watertight and Thrapston doors), then make sure you lace them with anti-crib biting replace any loose tiles, most treatments to prolong the appearance deterioration and damage is caused by of the wood. water.

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after the toil of winter Finishing Touches Treat your yard to a unique new feature from the Scotts accessories range: • Scotts bespoke weather vane • A classic clock tower • Impressive new gates for security and style • New stable doors or windows

Invest in a dream yard Imagine a yard crafted to your own specification, and tailored to your style and taste?

There are so many options available, whether you’re adding extra stabling or starting a yard from scratch! From a built-in tack room, feed store or even a cosy kitchen or office area to relax with a cup of tea, Scotts of Thrapston can make your dream a reality.

Location Choosing the right location for stables and buildings is essential. Some owners would leap at the chance to be able to see their

horse from a kitchen or living room window, others would prefer to have the yard tucked away in a private corner.

Zoe Dolan of Scotts of Thrapston says; “The location of the stables can have a major impact on planning permission as well as the working efficiency of the yard.

“It’s also essential to take into account the position. Can the horse enjoy any sunshine and see what’s going on, and is he sheltered from direct winds?”

Design and Planning All plans must be approved by the Local Planning Authority, so it’s wise to use a

specialist designer.

“A professionally drawn plan can assist with the process of obtaining planning permission,” Zoe says. “Decide how many stables you require and what they are to be used for. Thoughtful positioning of feed rooms, hay stores, and muck heaps will make the yard more practical too.”

Construction A common pitfall when planning a build is not taking all the potential extras into account. Don't forget to add costs for ground works, drainage, electricity supply and fittings.

The specification of your stables will depend on your budget, but bear in mind they must be strong and durable.

For safety reasons, timber stables are generally preferred over brick. A quality timber stable should last for decades with the minimum of maintenance. Cutting corners on price at the initial building stages is often a false economy.

As a family business, Scotts recognises the importance of personal service and staff are always prepared to pass on the benefit of their experience. They recognise that a stable is a major investment and are happy to give advice to help you design, plan and build the stables and yard that’s perfect for you and your horses.

For further information please telephone Zoe Dolan or James Scott on 01832 732366 or email equestrian@scottsofthrapston.co.uk

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STABLES & BEDDING

From the manufacturer...

QUALITY STABLING DIRECT FROM THE MANUFACTURER

New!

Pantile effect Onduvilla tiles for a truly stunning look

straight to you!

Local stabling firm, F.J.Lucas have been manufacturing sectional timber buildings since 1978. We asked Shane Lucas MD, for his advice.

“Around the January/February time we find that many horse owners are looking to upgrade their existing stabling and this is the best time of year to speak with your chosen stable provider. They will be able to advise you on the style of stable-block that would best suit your needs, and they will also be able to provide details on the materials used in the actual construction process to ensure that your investment lasts for many years to come.

“For example, at F.J.Lucas we use a weatherproof membrane lining to all

external sections, and all nails and fittings are galvanized to ensure they are rust-resistant. All exterior timbers and cladding are treated to preserve the timber from the elements, and we use Onduvilla tiles on the roof to ensure that not only does the stable look attractive, but that the roof offers an advanced weathering performance, again to protect your horses form the British weather.”

Shane continued, “We use our own staff to build, deliver and erect our quality products, which are actually all produced locally from our 10,000ft² factory based in West Dereham, Norfolk.”

Visit www.fjlucas.com for more information.

HUNTER BOX

MOBILE FIELD SHELTER

STANDARD STABLE

See us at numerous leading shows and events throughout 2015!

WWW.FJLUCAS.COM TEL: 01366 500502 FAX: 01366 501005 Horseshoe Farm, West Dereham, Norfolk PE33 9RH 38 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

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What should you bed your horse on?

Ask 10 horse owners and you'll get 10 or more answers!

Here's some top tips for a great stable this winter Price We all want to know that we are paying a good price for our bedding, but some bedding is more efficient when you're mucking out, meaning you could be throwing your hard earned pennies on the muck heap!

Absorbency If your bedding is highly absorbent, not only will it soak up any moisture, and mean less of the bedding will be wet, you might find you have a cleaner horse too!

need to make sure that you’re not wasting bedding unnecessarily and that you can easily pick out muck and wet bedding. If you prefer a deep litter, you’ll probably need a bedding which is very absorbent so that it remains at the base of your bed and the top remains reasonably dry.

So what are your options?

Caviera Bedding offer a range of 3 products that are very popular with professional yards and amateur riders across the country.

Rape straw bedding – Raviera & Raviera Pro Dust extracted If you’re looking for a bedding that is highly Nobody likes to see horses with snotty absorbent, but that creates a comfortable noses in winter, that can be caused by dusty dense bed, try Raviera or Raveria Pro, from stable environments. You can help improve Caviera. Both products are made from rape your horse’s wellbeing and general health by straw, are dust extracted and are sold in using quality dust extracted bedding. compressed 20kg bags. The Raviera Pro is also sterilised and the preferred choice of What is it made from? professional yards.

Is your bedding free from chemicals, natural and organic? It might not be high on your Louise Robson of Thoroughbred Dressage list but it'll give you peace of mind that (www.thoroughbreddressage.co.uk), you’re doing the best you can for your retrainer of HM The Queen’s horses for horse. dressage uses Raviera Pro and commented, “Raviera Pro has made a significant How much do you use? difference to our yard, and all for the better!

It can be tempting to choose the cheapest Our horses welfare is paramount, minimal bedding, but monitoring how much you dust and sterilised bedding is an essential use is important. You might find you part to our stable management. Our actually use more because it's less housekeeping time has reduced also, absorbent, or not hard-wearing, or you’re allowing us more time for other activities.” getting less in a bag. Like the saying goes, buy cheap buy twice.

Miscanthus Grass - Cavianthus Another product loved by people who've Your muck heap used it, especially when they've had messy Muck heaps not only take up valuable horses or box walkers is Cavianthus space, but they can be costly to dispose of. bedding, made from Miscanthus grass. The Some bedding materials rot faster, meaning plant looks similar to bamboo but when it's smaller heaps. Have a chat with your local chopped and processed to expose it's fluffy farmer, some will prefer muck from stables inner pith it creates a super absorbent and using rape straw or miscanthus grass over extremely hard wearing bedding. more traditional bedding such as shavings and wood based products which can take a Stockists of Raviera, Raviera Pro and long time to rot downl.

Cavianthus can be found on the Caviera Bedding website Deep litter or not www.cavierabedding.co.uk or contact If you do a full muck out everyday, you’ll them directly on 01302 759420.

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STABLES & BEDDING

Q&A

with horsebedding.co.uk

Q: I have an older horse and I have just clipped my 8-year-old. I was just wondering if any bedding may be warmer in winter than the straw I am currently using, and if so, how do I get it?

A: The thermal properties in the linen flax Equisorb bedding is higher than any other equine bedding material available. This bed creates a soft, warm bed, perfect for the winter months, but is then cooler in the summer. plus in trials Equisorb flax bedding was shown to be significantly more absorbent.

As Equisorb flax is a bi-product from the manufacture of linen, it is a natural bedding that is made up from the central and ligneous part of the flax stalk, and is protected by its non-allergic fibre envelope. So Equisorb makes for a drier, thermal, dust free, anti-allergy winter bed, is an overall improvement in the horses winter home, as well as being warmer for your ageing horse. our new secure website will make life so easy for us to get the product to you, just when you want it. Simply select your product, pop in your postcode and the site will calculate the rest. our product will be with you just three working days later, or you can select ‘express the delivery’ for an additional £10 and have it on your yard the next day!

In a recent survey of 146 horse owners, research showed that 27% of people felt that high absorbency was the deciding factor when it came to choosing bedding. This was followed closely by 26% of people stating that dust free bedding was the most important benefit and 25% rated comfort as their top priority. This compared with just 17% who were primarily concerned with cost, and the remaining customers put biodegradability as key. www.nedz.co.uk

Nedz Original and Nedz Pro RRP:£7-£8.50 per 20kg bale.

Ezimate is a specially designed handle that can be attached to all long handled yard tools to help reduce back strain, making it perfect for mucking out stables and sweeping yards.

The handle fits onto the shaft of long handled tools and provides a comfortable horizontal grip. The position of this handle works to reduce back and arm ache, to make using long handled tools a whole lot easier.

Ezimate is available in a range of colours, one size, in single or triple packs. RRP: £15. www.newequinewear.co.uk

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Bliss Bedding is premium quality rape straw that is finely chopped and dust extracted.

Treated with Trus-STEED, this increases protection from harmful bacteria in the stable environment and helps to stave off Strangles, Equine Influenza and mud rash.

A bittering agent is added increasing its unpalatability to even the most persistent of stable grazers.

Bliss-Eucalyptus is treated with a mild decongestant and antiseptic, making it the perfect choice for equines with respiratory difficulties or those stabled for long periods.

Bliss-Citronella is treated with essential oils that are well known fly and insect deterrents proven to be extremely helpful for horses with insect related skin complaints

WINNERS HAVE A WONDERFUL DAY!

When it comes to super star dressage riders, the winners of the British Riding Club’s ‘Verdo Horse Bedding Dressage To Music Champships’ certainly proved their worth in the arena!

So much so, that they were treated to an exclusive ‘winners day’ at a rather well known riders’ yard as part of their prize: Verdo Horse Bedding’s sponsored rider Natasha Baker’s Uxbridge yard.

The multi Gold Medallist and Paralympic dressage rider gave the lucky winners a guided yard tour and introduced them to a few of her super star horses including Cabral or JP as he is known at home. JP was Natasha’s Paralympic horse on whom she won two Gold Medals at London 2012.

The winners were then treated to a ridden display

by Natasha on her exciting new ride Sooki St James and a chance to chat to Natasha over lunch.

Talking after the event, Natasha said: “We had a fantastic day. It was really great to meet the winners, all of whom were as passionate about their horses as I am! The championships were very closely contested and the standard high, so I was a teeny bit nervous about riding for them!” www.verdohorsebedding.co.uk

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 41

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BEDDING We make it ‘easi’ to keep your horse happy and healthy easibed dust-free horse bedding is a popular choice with many of the UK’s top trainers and riders including former British Olympic dressage champion Richard Davison, international show jumpers Billy Twomey and Ellen Whitaker and international polo player Oli Hipwood.

Brought to you from one of the UK's leading suppliers of alternative animal bedding, easibed is made from clean recycled whitewood and is dust free making it a healthier choice for the rider and the horse.

Pony scurrying champion Chris Orchard noticed the difference easibed made to her ponies after it was provided at the British Open Show Championships. “We liked it so much we went home and changed all our beds to easibed,” said Chris. easibed’s consistency means it provides a dust-free bed, with the wet draining through to the bottom and the top

remaining dry and supportive.

Chris said: “My scurry ponies have to be turned out to a very high standard for competition at all the major County Shows.

“The ponies’ bedding is a vital ingredient to achieve this standard. It needs to be as clean as possible and we find this is only possible by using easibed,” she added.

One of the main benefits of easibed is its economical use, which not only saves money, but time spent on mucking out since any droppings stay on top of the bed and are easily lifted off.

Chris said: “easibed is clean and efficient in every way. I can’t recommend it any more highly. It saves us so much time, especially when we have seven ponies to do each day it makes a big difference,” she added.

You can keep up to date with the latest easibed news by visiting www.easibed.co.uk, following easibed on Facebook and Twitter or contacting the enquiry line on 07717 434207.

Belvoir Bed is virtually dust-free and the extra absorbency keeps ammonia to an absolute minimum. Belvoir Bed is treated with an exclusive, natural formula containing Tea Tree and White Camphor to discourage bed eating, repel insects and provide a fresh, but not overpowering, odour in the stable environment. In addition to this the formula provides anti-fungal and anti-septic benefits to help protect against contagious diseases and viruses - making it ideal for large yards or competition horses. Tea Tree has great natural skin treatment benefits and has been used to treat cuts, scrapes and insect bites, whilst White Camphor is both an anti-inflammatory and an anti-septic, perfect for provide a soothing and hygienic environment for your horse.

Belvoir Bed is only available direct, delivered straight to your yard, meaning that costs can be kept to a minimum and constant trips to your local supplier can be avoided! www.belvoirbed.co.uk

Product news...

The Bale Carry holds up to a full bale of hay or straw and allows the bale to be moved around without leaving a trail behind it.

The showerproof fabric is slightly shiny to prevent hay or straw sticking to it. With a drawstring closure to keep everything inside and easy lift handles too, it’s made to be easy and neat to use, whether it’s used to move hay and straw around the yard or in the car.

RRP of £21.95.

The Hay Carry is a must-have yard tool, allowing you to move hay, straw and haylage in a neat, tidy fashion.

The showerproof carry will hold up to half a bale of hay, straw or the equivalent of haylage. It has a drawstring cord at the top to keep the contents inside and has a handle at the bottom to make it easy to tip out and empty. It can be used day to day on the yard, for transporting hay to competitions and for taking forage to the field. RRP: £10.95. www.moorlandrider.co.uk

42 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

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NATURAL HORSEMANSHIP in this monthly column, EAST will be answering your questions on natural Horsemanship...

“

My horse is strong when i lead him, especially from the stable into the field. can you help?

”

Now you’re heading towards the field, here’s what to do: • Give your horse at least 3 – 4 feet of slack in the lead rope. Do not hold him short and tight or all the good work you’ve done to calm him down will evaporate.

• walk in a big, sweeping zig zag line towards the pasture, don’t go in a straight line. you might even stop along the way and give him a few mouthfuls of grass.

Horses are innately claustrophobic.

Because they are prey animals, their survival is based on escape, so anything that holds them back is cause for panic. They are literally programmed to push against pressure, so when you hold them tight and short it brings up those instincts and not only does the horse fight the containment, he crowds on top of you, fights for his head or rears up.

Most people tend to think that it’s necessary to hold a horse on a short rope but the opposite is actually more effective and safer. By giving the horse a little more room he settles down emotionally and stops crowding you. now all you need is a few strategies so you can get him

where you want to go! first of all, don’t wait until you are out of the stable to start... start in the stable! Horses learn patterns very quickly so they know that you’re taking them out of the stable and to the field. not only has he been cooped up all night so he’s bursting with energy, but he’s thinking about getting to the field so his level of anticipation and excitement is high. The secret then is to do something different... put the halter and lead on your horse and don’t take him out of the stable right away.

• Spend a little time maneuvering him in the stable... especially asking him to go backwards.

• Teach him to move out of your space by doing some jumping jacks in place.

• Do no open the door and take him out until he is settled, even if that means taking the halter off and leaving him in there for a while and coming back to it. when you come out of the stable, ask him to wait as you open the door and then invite him out... this is where wiggling the rope will help. if he rushes out, turn him around and send him back in. repeat this until he can calmly walk out at your request. once again, do not pass ‘go’ until he is calm as things will only escalate and get worse.

EAST is a group of parelli professionals based in East Anglia who teach the parelli programme to individuals in the area, either with one to one tuition or group lessons. you can find more information or locate your local instructor at: www.parelliinstructors-eastanglia.co.uk

• if your horse surges ahead of you, let the rope slide through your hand almost all the way. keep walking and you’ll find your horse kind of arcs around in front of you. Simply shoo him out of your way but don’t miss a beat as you walk. pretty soon he’ll figure out that staying a little behind you is a much nicer option!

Don’t just lead your horse from point A to point B, use every moment as an opportunity for doing something constructive with your horse.

For further information contact the Parelli UK team on 0800 0234 813 or visit www.parelli.com

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 43

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Giveaways READER

WE HAVE 4 HORSE & RIDER FIRST AID KITS UP FOR GRABS

The Horse & Rider First Aid Kit from Robinson Animal Healthcare provides essential first aid items for horse and rider. Available in an easy to carry kit bag, it contains Animalintex, Veterinary Gamgee, Wound Dressings, Equiwrap bandages, Vetalintex wound gel and bluntended scissors. Also for the rider a FastAid essentials travel pack is included for minor cuts and grazes.

Robinson Animal Healthcare has a wide range of products for all your first aid requirements.

The Horse & Rider First Aid Kit retails at around £24.99.

For more information call 01909 735000 or visit www.robinsonhealthcare.com

WIN A POLITE 360° WINTER WRAPAROUND RUG WORTH £49.99 EACH This winter rug is 100% waterproof, breathable and windproof but nevertheless is lightweight and will not overheat the horse. Manufactured from a more durable, wickable fabric and slightly quilted. This tough performance fabric is built for abuse, it provides durability and increases abrasion and snag/pick resistance in a soft breathable fabric whilst maintaining an excellent after wash appearance. 360° reflective and fluorescent performance fabric has been used to guarantee the highest performance. The fully adjustable chest protector is fitted at the top of the pommel area so that it does not get in the way of the horses movement, it is also detachable and can be clipped on to the saddle. XXS Fitted to 11.1hh. XSmall Pony: 4’/ 5’6”-5’9” Pony: 4’3” / 5’9” - 6’ Cob: 4’6” / 6’3” Horse: 4’9”/ 6’9” Xfull: 5’+ / 7’ (fits up to a 18.2hh Shire cross) RRP: £49.99 For more information visit www.equisafety.com

WIN A WINTER WARMER BUNDLE FROM HOT TOGS Hot Togs is giving away three winter warmer bundles this January!

Each bundle contains one pair of black Ultra Thermal Leggings, one pair of Nude Thermal Leggings (ideal for under white and beige jodhpurs and breeches), one pair of Knee Length Thermal Socks, and one of Thermolite Socks. Both leggings have a close comfortable fit, soft grip ankles and are perfect for under jods and breeches. Both styles of thermal sock have padded feet, ribbed legs for perfect positioning and will help keep feet warm. Each bundle retails at £51.49. All items are available to buy separately.

To find out more visit www.hottogs.co.uk or call 01782 372662.

WE HAVE 10 ESTONIA AND EQUINES BOOKS UP FOR GRABS Estonia and Equines is an intimate and refreshing alternative to the usual celebrity-focused autobiography. Devon-based author Annabelle Till, 66, recounts how her enthusiasm for horses and ponies started during her childhood when she first began to understand the sensitivity and intelligence of these gentle creatures.

She reveals how this passion led her to sacrifice a place at university to instead embark on equine adventures across the UK, taking in the training of horses, and the thrills and spills of showjumping competitions and gymkhanas.

The other section of the book details the author’s heart-felt search for the lost Eastern European branch of her family, who became divided from Annabelle’s Estonian mother, Astrid, during the horrors and turmoil of the Second World War. Her mission to reconnect with her relatives uncovers some shocking events, and insights into her “horsey heritage”. Paperback £7.99.

Visit www.annabelletill.co.uk

✁ TO ENTER, FILL IN THE COUPON AND RETURN BEFORE THE DEADLINE STATED.

I would like to enter the draw for: (tick all appropriate boxes and indicate prize preference where applicable)

Name....................................................................................................................................... Address....................................................................................................... ........................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................................ ....................................................................................................................................................................................................................... Postcode................................

Horse & rider First Aid Kit

Polite wraparound Rug Size required.....................................

44 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

Hot Togs Winter Warmers Sizes required Leggings S M L ..............................

Socks 4-8/8-12..............................

Estonia and Equines book

Daytime tel.......................................................Mob............................................................ Email: ..........................................................................................................

See page 3 for full terms and conditions.

Post to: Absolute Horse, Home Barn, Grove Hill, Belstead, Ipswich, Suffolk IP8 3LS. Closing date: 31st January 2015 2014. Alternatively enter online at www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click the competitions page

s

January 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 16/12/2014 17:36 Page 45

EXTRA

Sophie Beaty A Shining Star

Tell us about your current team of horses?

I currently have five horses. Stanly my top horse, is just a star. He has taken me to two European Championships at Junior and Young Rider level.

Then there is Pink Gin another seasoned campaigner who I have competed up to Advanced level with.

Navigator who used to be ridden by William Fox-Pitt at four star level and is in fact still owned by him, my granny and Lynne Earle and is still on great form.

My younger stars are Mister O who is an 8year-old I've produced myself and who I am aiming for Young Rider teams, and then Bueno Sino who is the newest member who is another eight-year-old and one I see to be a serious star for the future.

Championships, was a member of the Young Rider team for Europeans in Portugal, am now on the World Class Development Programme, and completed three Advanced classes on Pink Gin. Do you have a favourite horse in your team?

I would never say I have a favourite horse, but Pinks (Pink Gin) I do love a lot as he is literally the colour pink and also my aim with him is to do our first Four Star together, maybe even the 2016 Olympics – you have to aim high!

What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

I am currently studying Business in Oxford at the Oxford Media and Business School.

But I love doing arty things like taking photographs and painting, as well as almost How did 2014 go for you?

I had a great year, with lots of successes and all sports. after moving house I was able to expand my team of horses which is so important when Do you plan to make riding your career?

I would like to think so. But I believe you are looking to the future. everything happens for a reason, so fingers crossed all goes to plan and I can make it What were the major highlights?

I finished second in the Under 21 National my official career as such.

MODEL FOR THE BRITISH EVENTING RANGE AND A SHINING LIGHT ON THE YOUNG RIDER CIRCUIT, WE CATCH UP WITH SOPHIE TO FIND OUT HOW COMBINING RIDING WITH COLLEGE AND MODELLING HAS GONE.

What do you look for in the ideal event horse?

I think a genuine horse is the best, one which is happy to work with you as a team and always wants to please. Not necessarily the most beautiful, flashy horses are the best!

grow bigger and better than it already is.

Do you have a favourite event and why?

I love Rockingham Castle event as it's the home of one of my best mates and I also really see the potential as a new event to

What aims do you have for 2015?

My main aim is to get into the Young Rider team again and complete my first CCI3*!

In your career so far who do you feel has been the biggest influence?

I would have to say my mum, Annabelle, she is my inspiration and 100% the reason I am where I am today!

HORSE RIDERS TRY OUT NEW A11 UNDERPASS A group of East Anglian horse riders recently tested a newly constructed underpass beneath the A11 near the Elveden monument.

The underpass links rights of way to the north and south of the dual carriageway and will be of immense benefit to all nonmotorised users, as well as being a boost to equestrian tourism.

The completion of the underpass marks the successful end to a campaign started in 2006 by Bryan Freemantle, then the British Horse Society County Access and Bridleways Officer. At that time an estimated 20,000 vehicles a day were using the A11, making it dangerous, if not impossible, to cross the road on foot or on horseback. So it was no surprise to be told at a Public Consultation that there was no evidence of usage at the equestrian crossing points. Bryan enlisted

the help of Elizabeth Barrett, Chairman of the Suffolk Federation of Byway and Bridleway Groups and Camino Riders, together with individual riders, local bridleway groups and riding clubs, they contacted the local media, wrote numerous letters, and organised a peaceful protest.

Anglia TV filmed horse riders and protestors gathered at the A11 to draw attention to the need for a safe crossing. The resulting press coverage led local MP Richard Spring to engage with the Highways Agency and it was eventually agreed that an underpass would be included in the A11 improvement scheme.

The building of the underpass was made possible by the Elveden Estate and Suffolk County Council who contributed to the cost and diverted existing rights of way where necessary.

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 45

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LOCAL SHOWS 7th & 8th November Forest Edge Arena: Senior British Showjumping British Novice 1 Sarah Wales – Doon Peter; 2 Amy Turner – Fortino; 3 Kiely Powles – Supreme Grace; 4 Tamzyn Ranson – Monnlight Magic II. Discovery 1 Tamsin Conyers – Donna II; 2 Lizzie Gray – Capitol Star; 3 Sarah Wales – Doon Peter. 1.05m Open 1 Tamsin Conyers – Night Life; 2 Kate Nunn – Nippon. Newcomers 1 Jo Wilkins – Clover Honey; 2 Lizzie Gray – Brooktown Girl. Foxhunter 1 Amy Turner – It’s Neyo; 2 Tamsin Conyers – Valerie B. 8th November Novice Championship Qualifier 1 Michaela Huntington – Frank Sonate; 2 Clare-Louise Bond – Laughtons Nazaratti; 3 Michaela Huntington – Congeen Realt Rua; 4 Julia Hardy – Jizebelle Vandi Dude Bosh.

Discovery Championship 1 Erica Daniels – Lucy Lucern; 2 Laura Harrison – Remi Vantarsi; 3 Andy Crane – Amidala II; 4 Leanne Holmes – Chippi BFZ. 1.05m Open 1 Anna Peruzzi-Smith – Picco Colour; 2 Hannah Vincent – Jabberwocky; 3 Lorna Walker – Baroness; 4 Lorna Walker – Dior III. Newcomers 1 Hannah Vincent – Jabberwocky; 2 Leanne Holmes – Chippi BFZ; 3 Alice Ellison – Elsalinda S; 4 Stacey Nicholls – Ninola. 1.15m Open 1 Siobhan Edmunds – B Amelusina R; 2 Siobhan Edmunds – Anniki III; 3 Kelly hancy – Simply Zaffire. Foxhunter 1 Amy Turner – It’s Neyo; 2 Jenny Mitchell – Dhumavarna.

1.30m Open 1 Ruby Pointer – Calinka II.

9th November Forest Edge Arena: Unaffiliated Showjumping 60cm 1 Charlie Loates – Hot Spot; 2 Annabelle Loates – Maddison County; 3 Hollie Ludlow – Gladdy; 4 Bonnie Tarsey – Rose Hill. 70cm 1 A Richards – Mystic Miller; 2 Charlotte Rose Eyre – CB Sam; 3 Anny Clark – Sports Silver; 4 Emily Ringer – Skehanna Girl. 80cm 1 Rhianna Jones – Hall of Mirrors; 2 Charlotte Rose Eyre – CB Sam; 3 Summer Barber – Bert; 4 Jane Hart – Molly. 90cm 1 Atiya Bussey – Westside Menlough; 2 Annabel Jackson – Blond Ambition; 3 Charlotte Rose Eyre – Loftsome Galaxy; 4 Davina Barber – Sammy. 1m 1 Annabel Jackson – Blond Ambition; 2 Harriet Blake – Gemarko; 3 Rosy Standing – Ruby; 4 Davina Barber – Sammy.

15th November Forest Edge Arena: Mini Showjumping

Forest Edge Arena: British Dressage

30cm 1 Erin Enefer Harrison – Goldie; 2 Cameron Hodge – Eddie; 3 Ellie Cavill – Destiny; 4 George Brazier – Philmarsh Amazing Grace. 40cm 1 Jocelyn Simmons – Molly; 2 Robbie Bell – Captain; 3 Charlie Parker-King – Jasper; 4 Arthur Case – Toddy.

50cm 1 Kirsty Saunderson – Harriet; 2 Lydia Dawson – Haslams Apollo; 3 Shauna Stephenson – Isabella; 4 Ronnie Robinson – Ardcarrig Snowball. 60cm 1 Annabelle Loates – Maddison County; 2 Charlie Parker-King – Ruby; 3 Hollie Ludlow – Gladdy; 4 Lucy Lapping – Gentle. 70cm 1 ellie Brewer – Ballyellen Bella; 2 Shauna Stephenson – Isabella; 3 Kirsty Saunderson – Harriet; 4 Issy Gabain – Va Va Voom.

80cm 1 Ellie Brewer – Ballyellen Bella; 2 Sarah Earl – Euro KP; 3 Skye Valderas – Middleton Smarty Pants; 4 Megan Collins – Summer Breeze.

Prelim 19 1 Lorna Crook – Catapoult II; 2 Helen Boast – Dutch Obsession; 3 Judy Bates – Pembretti Diamond Dancer. Prelim 15 1 Lorna Crook – Catapoult II; 2 Jenny Brown – Rockwell Star; 3 Helen Boast – Dutch Obsession; 4 Judy Bates – Pembretti Diamond Dancer. Open 1 Catherine Lake – Slip Away. Novice 23 1 Jane Howard – Leo Ventura. Novice 38 1 Lindsey Wright – Alina 315; 2 Jenny Martin – Jonas O’Shannon. Open 1 Jane Howard – Leo Ventura. Elemenatry 57 1 Steph Cason – Harland; 2 Lindsey Wright – Alina 315; 3 Jenny Martin – Jonas O’Shannon. Medium 73 1 Julia Maddever – Idyllic Amazing Grace. Medium 75 1 Julia Maddever – Idyllic Amazing Grace. Open 1 Jane Howard – Mylo.

21st November A crowd of 50 enjoyed the annual Carleton Riding Club AGM and prizegiving at The Gamekeeper Pub in Old Buckenham on Friday evening. Carleton members who had competed at the club shows at Easton College during the year and had accrued points for wins and placings were there to collect their Trophies. Over 25 trophies were presented to Senior and Junior members in all classes. Classes had been very hotly contested with just a single point seperating top prize winners after a full season of competition. The overall points winners for their successes in both showjumping and dressage throughout the season were Nichola Broughton in Juniors with her pony Melick and Sarah Youngs in Seniors with Mystical Dreams.

The prizes of two lovely embroidered rugs were kindly sponsored by Treif UK Ltd. The runners up were Olivia Howard with Tip Top Timmy and Karen Rose with Katie who also received sponsored saddle cloths.

Easton is already booked to host all the club shows again next year and Carleton will be putting on talks in the meantime during the winter months. For membership see www.carletonridingclub.co.uk

22nd November 16th November Forest Edge Arena: Eventer Trials 60cm 1 Jessica Funnell – Ace; 2 Stephanie Howes – Trixies Silver Wynsana; 3 Helena Parkinson – Tower Honey Drew; 4 Lauren Sing – Mountain Creek. 70cm 1 Meg Willis – Achie; 2 Rosie Ringer – James; 3 Stephanie Howes – Trixies Silver Wynsana; 4 Chloe Jones – Prim. 80cm 1 Sophie Jackson – Forest Prince; 2 Tara Murphy – Kitty Fisher; 3 Polly Papworth – Bubble; 4 Chloe James – Prim. 90cm Charlotte Rose-Eyre – It’s Logic; 2 Sophie Jackson – Forest Prince; 3 sophie Jackson – Atlanta Bell; 4 Bethany Hams – Private Matinee. 1m Janine Hagger – Floating Angel; 2 Charlotte Rose-Eyre – It’s Logic; 3 Bethany Hams – Private Matinee; 4 Laurie Beynon – Midnight Glits. 1.05m 1 Hannah Gize – Maerdy Venture; 2 Claire Rivett – Sparky; 3 Elise Howard – Flag Heath; 4 Hollie Hitter – Pennal Llewelyn.

30th November Finchingfield EC: Unaffiliated Dressage Walk & Trot B 1 Sheena Pearson – Timmy Country Mouse; 2 Ella Caton – Imperial Player; 3 Polly Kempster – Daichristu That’s My Boy; =4 Lucy Haylock – Dennis; =4 Martha Millar – Chocolate. Prelim 7’ 1 Rosie Turtle – Lonesome Prince; 2 Cerys Yeo – Coschinski; 3 Karen Norman – Chieffy; 4 Emma Thurtle – Owen Maxwell. Prelim 12 1 Hannah Bentley – Danaroso; 2 Rachel Gunter – Ziggy Stardust; 3 Emma Turtle – Owen Maxwell; 4 Lucinda Gibson – Paddy. Prelim 13 1 Becky Turner – Botanical; 2 Verity Sexton – Navarro; 3 Karen Condron – Mister Max; 4 Maddie Blackburn – Jack.

Novice 34 1 Becky Turner – Botanical; 2 Lou Orr – Claude; 3 Jessica Richardson – Iceford Diamond; 4 Ireen Ridler – Monaco Myth. PYO 1 Sue Newbury – Spider; 2 Ireen Ridler – Monaco Myth; 3 Ed Kragh – Theo; 4 Jessica Richardson – Iceford Diamond.

46 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

19th November

Brook Farm TC: Dressage W&T Intro B 1 Angela Fenn – Milo; 2 Marie Anderson – Skelwith Atomic Peony; 3 Elizabeth Samuels – El Passo; 4 Mary Devoil – Windmill Lady.

Juniors 1 janel Yusuf – Be My Baby; 2 Jessica White – Ballinree Little Legs; 3 Louisa Gordon – Jake; 4 Maya McNelis – Dolly. W&T Intro A 1 Angela Fenn – Milo; 2 Yvonne Toms – Parker; 3 Lucy Timcke – Dazzle Me Daisy; 4 Lucy Kingham – Vuvuzela.

Juniors 1 Janel Yusuf – Be My Baby; 2 Robyn Lane – Chicco; 3 Rhianna Fook – Pie In The Skye; 4 Alice Hawker – Sparky. Prelim 13 1 Collenn Taylor – Clourouge Frost; 2 Jo Porter – Findon Liberty; 3 Jane Milton – Parkhill Henry; 4 Sue Philpot – Finano. Juniors 1 Ellie Bull – Inca Futina; 2 Abbi Burbridge – Castle Fantastic; 3 Emma Jarrett – Rosie Grey; 4 Demi-Mae Roddy – Ice Ice Baby.

Prelim 18 1 Jo Porter – Findon Liberty; 2 Colleen Taylor – Clourouge Frost; 3 Louise Smith – koi Babas Scarlett Lady; 4 Debbie Bind – Sienna.

Juniors 1 Claudia Ross – Parkland Benjamin; 2 Ellie Bull – Inca Futina; 3 Abbi Burbidge – Castle Fantastic; 4 Demi-Mae Roddy – Ice Ice Baby.

Novice 27 1 Rachel Kellett – Frog; 2 Kerrie Newman – Basil; 3 Kathryn Herring – Corrigan; 4 Cyndy Johnson – Well Overdue. Juniors 1 Claudia Ross – Parkland Benjamin. Novice 28 1 Rachel Kellett – Frog; 2 Selena Cramer – Camilla; 3 Cyndy Johnson – Well Overdue; 4 Claire Stickland – Opall.

23rd November Forest Edge Arena: Unaffiliated Showjumping 65cm 1 Lydia Dawson – Haslams Apollo; 2 Charlie Loates – Hot Spot; 3 Annabelle Loates – Maddison County; 4 Cian Murphy – William. 65cm 1 Ella Davis – Lola Belle; 2 Charlie Loates – Hot Spot; 3 Holly White – Brightwood dorado; 4 Lydia Dawson – Haslams Apollo. 75cm 1 Rebecca Allen – Ginger; 2 Tara Murphy – Kitty Fisher; 3 Hannah Shippam – Beba; 4 Abby Clark – Sports Silver. 85cm 1 Rosy Standing – Ruby; 2 Tara Murphy – Kitty Fisher; 3 Hannah Shippam – Beba; 4 Darcy Eagle – Falcon Van Beek. 95cm 1 Rosy Standing – Ruby; 2 Helen Newton – Coranfest Charlie; 3 Darcy Eagle – Falcon Van Beek; 4 Summer Turner – EB. 1.05m 1 Sam Lees – Red; 2 Claire Rivett – Sparky; 3 Helen Newton – Coranfest Charlie; 4 Summer Turner – EB. 1.10m 1 Sam Lees – Red; 2 Sam Lees – EB; 3 Claire Rivett – Sparky.

29th November Lime Kiln Farm EC: Unaffiliated Showjumping 40cm 1 Honoria Bulwer-Long - Kings Conquest; 2 Robbie Bell – Captain; 3 Emily Gurney – Conker; 4 Lucy Witton - Jubbly Bubbly. 50cm 1 Hollie Ludlow – Gladdy; 2 Naomi Steadman – Jodie; 3 Honoria Bulwer-Long - Kings Conquest; 4 Emily Gurney – Conker. 60cm 1 Naomi Steadman – Jodie; 2 Hollie Ludlow – Gladdy; 3 Emily Gurney – Conker; 4 Ella Fairbairn-Day - August Surprise. 70cm 1 Steve Smith – Dixie; 2 Jenny Warne - Grand Persika; 3 Laura Smith – Machismo; 4 Tasarla Lagan - Foreman’s Boy. 80cm 1 Jenny Warne - Grand Persika; 2 Laura Smith – Machismo; 3 Steve Smith – Dixie; =4 Ella Fairbairn-Day - August Surprise; =4 Lizzy Phillips – Jimmy.

29th & 30th November Forest Edge Arena: Junior British Showjumping 70cm Intro Open 1 Millie Hale – Taz Valley Suzanne; 2 Georgina Barnard – Farrier’s Gift; 3 India Fincham – My Lila Rose; 4 Georgia Sims – Spooktacula. British Novice / 80cm 1 Robyn Woodward – Little Meg; 2 Robyn Woodward – Harwel Sinbad; 3 Emma Arguile – Celtic Tigger; 4 India Fincham – My Lila Rose. Novice 1 Millie Hale – Trixie Dixie; 2 Sophie Curtis – Californian Class Act; 3 Lily Surridge – Regal Temptation; 4 Francesca Murrell – River Valley Tyron. Discovery Championship 1 Adele Rand – Issy Go; 2 Kelly Wecke – Cherokee Lass; 3 Elliott Armes – Tzigane II; 4 Holly Grimwade – Hail Caesar. 128cm / 138 cm =1 Annabel Saunderson – Just So Handy; =1 Millicent Stennett – Lessans Speciality; =1 Lily Surridge – Regal Temptation; =1 Alice Young – Barham Maestro; =1 Millicent Stennett – Doirhn Mist. Newcomers 1st Round / 1m Open 1 Alex Curran – Oakley Mist; 2 Robyn Woodward – String of Pearls; 3 Charlotte Rose-Eyre – It’s Logic; 4 Adele Rand – Issy Go. 128cm 1 Millicent Stennett – Lessans Speciality; 2 Ellie Bailey – Sebastian Dundee; 3 Claudia Moore – Pringle; 4 Holly Cooper – Tynebank Royal Jubilee. 138cm 1 Courtney Young – Darosa D’Armour; 2 Holly Cooper – Errigal Blaze; 3 Millicent Stennett – Glenwave; 4 Olivia McCaul – Matchmo Celebration. Pony Foxhunter / 1.10m Open 1 Ward Otley – Ronja III; 2 Charlotte Meikle – Sprite II; 3 Jordan Woodward – Emerald Isle III. 1.15m Pony Open 1 Natasha Piper – Kilimanjaro II. 30th November: British Novice 1 Lilla Parrat – Broheulog Samba; 2 Kirsty Saunderson – Tom’s Dream. Open 1 India Fincham – My Lila Rose. Small Open Pony 1 Alice Young – Barham Maestro; 2 Lily Surridge – Regal Temptation. Novice Championship 1 Georgia Cattermole – Wise Dennis; 2 Georgia Sims – Spooktacular; 3 Lily Surridge – Regal Temptation; 4 Tilly Shaw – Magic Monkey. Pony Discovery / 90cm Open 1 Amber Lawrence – Supersonic Sadie; 2 India Fincham – Phantom Dream Maker; 3 Rebecca Alcoe – Sledgers GXL. Newcomers / 1m Open 1 Sarah Mackmin – Sweet Lily; 2 Brooke Hunter – Flash Jack II; 3 Fredericha Driscoll – Our Glory; 4 Beau Otley – Bubble Pop Elgrim.

Intermediate Championship 1 Charlotte Meikle – Jozefin R; 2 Sarah Mackmin – Sweet Lily; 3 Shannon Smith – Pretty Mate; 4 Fredericha Driscoll – Our Glory. Pony Foxhunter / 1.10m Open 1 Ward Otley - Ronja III. Grand Prix 1 Ward Otley – Ronja III; 2 Adele Rand – Issy Go; 3 Charlotte Meikle – Sprite II.

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22nd November The College of West Anglia: Unaffiliated Showjumping 60cm 1 Alicia Sclater – Sparkle; 2 Iona Schlater – Murphy; 3 Hetty Sclater – Ullord Charley; 4 Millie Fitzsimons – Twiggy. 65cm 1 Sarah Lummis – Jazz; 2 Kara Cowell – Captain Oats; 3 Sarah Lummis – Charlie Spot; 4 Santana Hall – DLS Poppy. 70cm 1 Polly Kempster – Daichristu That’s My Boy; 2 Alana Bailey – Silver Sprite; 3 Sarah Lummis – Jazz; 4 Lara Sclater – Skylo. Horses 1 Lona Woods – Silver Pearl; 2 Sam Diver – Sultan; 3 Santana Hall – DLS Poppy; 4 Lucy Tinkler – Cloondoolagh Cowboy. 75cm 1 Christine Bunford – Clauida; 2 Lara Sclater – Skylo; 3 Sam Diver – Sultan; 4 Catriona Paterson – Meres Just a Mo. 80cm 1 Polly Kempster – Daichristu That’s My Boy; 2 Lara Sclater – Skylo; 3 Gabrielle Gadsby – Gareth; 4 Alana Bailey – Silver Sprite. Horses 1 Lona Woods – Silver Pearl; 2 Annunziata Shephard – Gromit; 3 Penelope Dampier – Tigger; 4 Sam Gould – Lackira.

Alana Bailey riding Silver Sprite

Gabrielle Gadsby riding Gareth

28th November Forest Edge Arena: Senior British Showjumping British Novice 1 Tracey Hedges – Roley X; 2 Caroline Casburn – Ace IV; 3 Lorna Crook – Galleons Lap. Discovery 1 Laura Newson – Kilfrush Flash; 2 Amy Turner – Fortino; 3 Ruby Pointer – Prekoclous Scarlette. 1.05m Open 1 Kerry Sumner – Cariano Jackpot; 2 Caroline Casburn – Topspin. Newcomers 1 Victoria Jones – Right Hand Man; 2 Leanne Holmes – Chippe BFZ; 3 Sam Ward – Didante; 4 Tori Twite – Dakota VIII. 1.15m Open 1 Chloe Winchester – Sports Field Silver Fox; 2 Amy Turner – Ecamorka.

Foxhunter 1 Anna Peruzzi-Smith – Hello Vegas; 2 Amy Turner – It’s Neyo; 3 Sam Ward – Wish. 1.30m Open 1 Chloe Winchester – Zandokan H; 2 Amy Turner – It’s Neyo.

Millie Fitzsimons riding Twiggy

Sam Diver riding Sultan

Iona Woods riding Silver Pearl

Photos: Rob Morris Photography

Christine Bunford riding Claudia

Lara Sclater riding Skylo

Polly Kempster riding Daichristu Thats My Boy

Hetty Sclater riding Ullord Charley

26th November Wix EC: Novice Evening Showjumping 18” Amelia Themistocleous – HRA Jasper; 2 Lauren Mallett – HRA Connie; 3 Zoe Atkinson – Lindell; 4 Alison Parrish – Charlie. 2’ 1 Lauren Mallett – HRA Connie; 2 Melissa Palmer – Frisko Ferrero; 3 Rebecca Raymond – Standcombe Midnight Surprise; 4 Halle Rainer – HRA Arrandin. 2’3 1 Sarah Endean – Fly; 2 Rebecca Raymond – Standcombe Midnight Surprise; 3 Alfie Bennett – Teddy. 2’6 1 Sarah Endean – Fly; 2 Abi Taylor – Nina; 3 Tilly Stiff – Red Letter Day. 2’9 1 Abi Taylor – Nina; 2 Alex Watson – Hot Chocolate.

29th November The College of West Anglia: NSEA Showjumping 60cm Ind 1 Lauren Caley – Mr Magner; 2 Eloise Squibb – Smartie Pants; 3 Eloise Squibb – Tycron Chymrococh; 4 Grace Hull – Honeycomb.

Team 1 Brentwood School: Eloise Squibb – Tycron Chymrococh, Tia Squibb – Callinton Flight, Eloise Squibb – Smartie Pants; 2 St Johns College School: George Hull – Bazil, Charlie Wombwell, Grace Hull – Honeycomb; 3 Kings College: Ben Dollar – Bumble Bee, Alicia Sclater – Sparkle, Iona Sclater – Murmoids Mirah, Millie Fitzsimons – Twiggy; 4 Heath Mount: Jenny Hamshere – Tinkerbell, Lottie Johns – Happy as Harry, Isabella Renwick – Sandy Man Can. 70cm Ind 1 Katie Jackson – Heyho Habibi; 2 Lauren Caley – Mr Magner; 3 Poppy Buckenham – Puffin; 4 Charlie Stanton Stock – Foxy Brown. Team 1 St Johns College: George Hull, Bazil, Grace Hull – Honeycomb, Rose Permberton – Cloud, Lucy Shrimpton – Goldie; 2 Felsted Prep: Poppy Buckenham – Puffin, Eloise Barber – Mosstown Action Man, Natasha Worsick – Skye, Phoebe Prideaux – Flashy Lad; 3 Stephen Perse Foundation: Lauren Caley – Mr Magner, Ella Zatouroff – Foxi, Sam Gould – Lady Lackira Z, Lydia Law – Andy; 4 Heath Mount: Jenny Hamshere – Tinkerbell, Lottie Johns – Happy as Harry, Isabella Renwick – Sandy Man Can. 80cm Ind 1 Katie Jackson – Heyho Habibi; 2 Josie Ando – Kenny; 3 Thomas Philpot – Prince of Donard; 4 Clara Bailey – Silver Sprite. Team 1 Kimbolton School: Katie Jackson – Heyho Habibi, Claudia Lumbers – Dunbay Clover, Jenna Stairs – Tisso, Josie Ando – Kenny; 2 Kings College: Lara Sclater – Skylo, Daisy Dollar – Mix Master, Iona Sclater – Todley Hall Noah; 3 Bottisham Village College: Emily How – Molly’s Hero, Imogen Trump – Tatiff, Matilda Manning – Solo, Mia Biggs – Murphy; 4 St Johns College: Grace Hull – Honeycomb, Lucy Shrimpton – Goldie, Jemima Pemberton – Ben. 90cm Ind 1 Daisy McKinley – Cranford Jack; 2 Sebastian Bishop – Bonny Duchess; 3 Daisy McKinley – Spot the Gojo; 4 Daisy McKinley – Minnie. Team 1 Kimbolton School: William Anthony – Zozo, Sophia Farrington – Knocken Power Rebel, Minnie Jackson – Eye Catcher II, Daisy McKinley – Cranford Jack; 2 Stephen Perse Foundation: Daisy Bathe, Anna Czylok – Curolea Mika, Maggie Tyrrell – Bella; 3 Bottisham Village College: Emily How – Molly’s Hero, Imogen Trump – Tatiff, Matilda Manning – Elaphanie Murphy; 4 Kings School Ely: Rachel Attwood – Flo Flying Fantasy, Katie Cameron – Maylands Delight, Sebastian Bishop – Bonny Duchess. 1m Ind 1 Daisy Bathe – Millie; 2 Daisy McKinley – Cranford Jack; 3 Daisy McKinley – Spot the Gojo; 4 Jack Cooke – Iceford Jigsaw.1.10m Ind 1 Daisy McKinley – Spot the Gojo; 2 Jack Cooke – Torbert Eiffel; 3 Stella Stearn – Kissemmie Rebel; 4 Jack CooKe – Kestrel Flight.

Images overleaf....

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 47

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LOCAL SHOWS Daisy Mckinley riding Spot the Gojo

Grace Hull riding Honeycomb

Katie Jackson riding Heyho Habibi

Charlie Stanton Stock riding Foxy Brown

3rd December Forest Edge Arena: Unaffiliated Dressage

Eloise Squibb riding Tycron Chymrococh

Lauren Caley riding Mr Magner Clara Bailey riding Silver Sprite

Photos: Rob Morris Photography

NSEA Showjumping (results on previous page)

W&T B 1 Rachel King – Cilsane Cymro Du; 2 S Owen – Spartacus; 3 Emma Gascoine – Bronko-Svit; 4 Gina Mallett – Corrall.

Prelim 7 1 Annie Borrett – Skye; 2 Donna Linney – Lily; 3 H Ong – La Pilo; 4 Sharon Savory – Oxnead Appleby. Prelim 13 1 Gina Mallett – Miles of Smiles; 2 Anna Bostrand-Daly – Luca; 3 Anne Stuart – Mister Dexter; 4 Sharon Savory – Oxnead Appleby. Novice 28 1 Gina Mallett – Emperor Archibald; 2 Anna Bostrand-Daly – Luca; 3 Frances Vos – Heritage Geminii; 4 Della Skoulding – Dancing Giselle. Novice 34 1 Judith Loversidge – Life O’Reilly.

Elemenatry 44 1 Jenny Brown – Rockwell Star; 2 Judith Loversidge – Life O’Reilly.

4th December Wix EC: Dressage

6th December The College of West Anglia: Unaffiliated Dressage Intro A 1 Ruth Eberhardt – Castle Hill Flash III; 2 Olivia Cook – Battlecry; 3 Gillian Riviere – Legs. Intro B 1 Olivia Cook – Battlecry; 2 Ruth Eberhardt – Castle Hill Flash III; 3 Laura Creek – Freddie; 4 Gillian Riviere – Legs. Prelim 4 1 Laura Kitson – Spider; 2 Sarah Lummis – Barney; 3 Nikki Skipp – Tisco; 4 Janette Wight – Bonnie. Prelim 12 1 Emily Dickson – Indy; 2 Tia McCrindle – Orson; 3 Rachel Cawley – Prime Number; 4 Rosie Ellis – Tom Thumb. PC Novice Dressage 1 Anna Czylok – Curolea Mika; =2 Amelia Peak – Disco Dancer III; =2 Isabella Stagg – Quite A Compliment; 4 Ellie Smallwood – Kippure Buccaneer. Novice 27 1 Rachel Cawley – Prime Number; 2 Rachel Keaveney – The Only Way is Higher. Novice 28 1 Rachel Keaveney – The Only way is Higher; 2 Shirley Stagg – Possibilities. PC Intermediate Dressage 1 Claire Wood – Boomerang Blue; 2 Ellie Smallwood – Kippure Buccaneer; 3 Isabella Stagg – Quite A Compliment; 4 Shirley Stagg – Possibilities.

Isabella Stagg riding Quite a Compliment

Laura Kitson riding Spider

Intro B 1 J Gentle – Ballingdown Jack; 2 A Black – Joey; =3 A Bissett – Bella; =3 D Vearey-Hiney – Blodwyn. Prelim 4 1 L Allinson – Pearl; 2 J Gentle – Ballingdown Jack; 3 J Allinson – Forell; 4 A Ramsey – Super Zar. Prelim 14 1 D Dew – Murphy; 2 R Chisnell – Murphy; 3 N Flewitt – Patch; 4 G Williamson – Cruiser. Novice 24 1 P Baker – Ronnie; 2 R Chisnell – Murphy; 3 S Dickinson – Woodland Dancer. % Class 1 E Bradshaw – Barney; 2 E Bradshaw – Barney; 3 P Baker – Ronnie.

7th December Wix EC: Pasada Showjumping

Photos: Rob Morris Photography

Rosie Ellis riding Tom Thumb

Shirley Stagg riding Possibilities

Tia McCrindle riding Orson

Amelia Peak riding Disco Dancer III

Ellie Smallwood riding Kippure Buccaneer

Gillian Riviere riding Legs

Novice Horse 2’6 1 Kate Perrott – Halle; 2 Christine Wannacott – Burnt Sienna; 3 Sarah Endean – Fly; 4 Isabella Gray – Casper. Intermediate Horse 2’9 1 Niamh Healy – Marco; 2 Lizzie Clay – Henry; 3 Sarah Endean – Fly; 4 Danielle Bennett – Mac. Small Open Horse 3’ 1 Niamh Healy – Marco; 2 Chloe Ann May – Mr Noah Lot; 3 Danielle Bennett – Mac; 4 Lucy Watson – Sam. Open Horse 3’3 1 Frankie Power – Spider. Novice Pony 2’ 1 Lola Miller – Gypsy; 2 Megan Leggett – Ellie; 3 Tilly Stiff – Red Letter Day. Intermediate Pony 2’3 1 Aoife Rew – Willow; 2 Lucy Hinde – Miss Molly; 3 Aoife Rew – Molly; 4 Lilli Highs – Ozzie. Small Open Pony 2’6 1 Eliza Tribe – Murphy; 2 Jessica Simpson – Splash. Open Pony 2’9 1 Nadine Gibson – Nyton Moonshine; 2 Jessica Simpson – Splash; 3 Aoife Rew – Willow; 4 Eliza Tribe – Murphy.

10th December Wix EC: Open Evening Showjumping 2’3 1 Maggie Crathern – Belle; 2 Lucy Hinde – Miss Molly. 2’6 1 Julia O’Brien – Tyler; 2 Kayleigh Mead – Last Man Standing; 3 Lucy Hinde – Miss Molly. 2’9 1 Kayleigh Mead – Last Man Standing; 2 Tash Piper – Moscow.

3’ 1 Tash Piper – Rocky. 3’3 1 Chloe-ann May – Mr Noah Lot.

48 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

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7th December A large number of prep and Junior school riders from all over East Anglia competed at the NSEA Grass Roots Regional Championships at Norton Heath, 7th December.

Riders jumped at 40-70cm team and Individual classes and had lots of fun. The emphasis at this level as always was fun! There was a Christmas theme and therefore tons of tinsel was involved! Everything was topped off with children going home laden with rosettes, sashes and prizes. Smiles all round.

40cm Teams Langley School: Izzie Turner – Reagon; Kate Joyce – Dizzy; Lily Spruce – Prince; Charlie Turner – Pogo. 40cm Individual Unassisited Isabelle Parr – Sunshine. 40cm Individual Assisted Daisy Twin – Buttons. 50cm Teams St Louis: Cain Murphy – William, Lily Wittich - Kelso Dancer & Moletry Fan Blackout, Scarlett Burgoyne - Fitchetts Mount Polo. 2 St Cedes; 3 Woodbridge; 4 Manningtree High. 50cm Individual Unassisted Fleur Ludgrove Bradmore Tomkin. 50cm Individual Assisted Amelia Tredinnick – Cookie. 60cm Team Ashfold: Gracie Catling - Silver Button and Betty Boo; Chymme Reynolds - In the Spotlight; Gini Hope - Go with the Flo; 2 Bedford Girls; 3 Langley; 4 Woodbridge. 60cm Individual Fleur Ludgrove - Bradmore Tomkin. 70cm Individual 1 Ashfold Gini Hope - Athreny Cliff; 2 Ashfold Gracie Catling - Silver Buttons; 3 Ashfold Gracie Catling - Betty Boo.

“Could you please pass on to your whole team from all of us at Manningtree High School our thanks for not only Norton Heath Championships, but a lovely first year.

The students have thoroughly enjoyed themselves, and what was nice for the ones that went to Norton Heath was that they have now felt included in something more special.

We look forward to next year.”

ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 49

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EQUINE DENTISTS

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING TO ADVERTISE CALL 01473 731222

RACHEL BURTON EQUINE DENTAL TECHNICIAN COVERING NORFOLK & SUFFOLK British Equine Veterinary Association qualified and approved member of the British Association of Equine Dental Technicians.

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Tel : 07968 445509 www.theukequinedentist.com

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Most ranges of saddles in stock or we can order.

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Fakenham (01328) 851351

WIX

EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

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Horse wormers now available Delivery Service.

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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

January 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 16/12/2014 17:37 Page 51

SURFACE S

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by SIMON PEACOCK

Full construction of manège including site excavation and ground works, drainage structure, surface installation and fencing.

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Your pet’s health and happiness depends on you and the food you choose Ooops! The premium ultra absorbent wood pellet litter with may benefits: no additives; no silica; no chemicals; no perfume; no clay; no bentonite and definitely - No Fuss!

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ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 51

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Vets in the SPOTLIGHT Cambridge Equine Hospital

Equine and Farm Animal Isle Veterinary Group Ltd West Fen Road, Ely, Cambs. CB6 2BZ

Tel: 01353 658241

Veterinary Group Limited

Our experienced team of vets continue to offer a comprehensive service including: Dentistry, Mobile Scanning, X-ray, Shockwave, Endoscope, BEVA accredited AI practice, Acupuncture, routine treatments, lameness investigations, vettings, Purpose built facilities for both day and inpatients.

24 hour emergency service Half price visit days E: islevets@googlemail.com www.islevetgroup.co.uk

Cambridge Equine Hospital comprises a first opinion practice and equine referral hospital, offering a complete veterinary service for all your equine needs.

CEH is part of the Cambridge University Veterinary School, which means that our clients also benefit from additional expertise provided by specialists in the fields of anaesthesia, diagnostic imaging, neurology, clinical pathology and oncology. We are an RCVSaccredited Equine Veterinary Hospital, fully equipped with the latest diagnostic equipment, offering innovative treatments for horses referred with any surgical, orthopaedic or medical condition.

• Fully equipped hospital and surgical facilities • Poor performance and orthopaedic referral evaluation • Video endoscopy and gastroscopy • Routine and preventative healthcare, including advanced dentistry • 24-hour local equine ambulatory service •Pre-purchase examination and export certificates • Official height measurement for JMB • Reproductive Services including AI and embryo transfer

Cambridge Equine Hospital University of Cambridge Madingley Road, Cambridge CB3 0ES www.ceh.qvsh.co.uk cambridgeequine@vet.cam.ac.uk Tel: 01223 760535/746571

Ryder-Davies & Partners

Essex based mobile veterinary practice

VETERINARY SURGEONS

Advanced dentistry, lameness, vettings, reproduction and routine work carried out in the comfort of your horse's home.

Digital X-ray, ultrasound, power tools.

Local ambulatory and out of hours cover.

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 52 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

07860651714 www.fullerequine.co.uk www.facebook.com/fullerequine

Winter Special Offer £35 Routine Dentistry £55 Endoscope Dentistry incl routine power tool work, oral images & sedation.

Enquire for group discounts.

We aim to provide a friendly comprehensive service for all your equine needs within a 40 mile radius of Cambridge • 24 hour equine ambulatory service.

• Routine and preventative healthcare including advanced dentistry.

• Full hospital and surgical facilities.

• Video gastroscopy/endoscopy.

• Full lameness evaluation including scintigraphy.

• Reproductive Services including AI Services and Embryo transfer.

• Pre-purchase examinations and export certificates.

Tel: 01223 760535 www.ceh.qvsh.co.uk email: cambridgeequine@vet.cam.ac.uk

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

January 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 16/12/2014 17:37 Page 53

SHOWDATE DIRECTORY JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2015 Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01328 878282 EVENTER TRIAL Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Indoor Eventer Trial. Tel: 07785 521436 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping Development Classic. Tel: 01234 708400 THURSDAY 8TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 687312 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Evening Dressage. Tel: 01480 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Harolds Park Farm; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 700236 01279 414310 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Senior (Intro - Ad Med). Tel: 01255 870744 British Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton FRIDAY 9TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; College; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01493 393223 British Showjumping Development SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Classic. Tel: 01234 708400 Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm 01760 722616 Stud; NSEA Showjumping. Tel: 01953 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Open Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 714911 521436 TUESDAY 13TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; SATURDAY 10TH JANUARY Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; KRC British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 Evening Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Indoor Evening Showjumping. Tel: DRESSAGE Essex: Longwood EC; 01708 687312 Unaffiliated Dressage (1pm start). Tel: 01702 202520 WEDNESDAY 14TH JANUARY SHOW Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Working DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Hunter Show. Tel: 07785 521436 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping Development Evening Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 Classic. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; 708400 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn EC; British Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 Dressage. Tel: 07785 521436 000029 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton College; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 01493 393223 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Open SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Easton Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01255 College; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 870744 01493 393223 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: THURSDAY 15TH JANUARY 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SUNDAY 11TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping.

British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Evening Dressage. Tel: 01480 FRIDAY 16TH JANUARY 700236 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 THURSDAY 1ST JANUARY HAPPY NEW YEAR! SATURDAY 3RD JANUARY ARENA EVENTING Essex: Wix EC; Arena Eventing. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; X Pole competition. Tel: 07785 521436 SUNDAY 4TH JANUARY CARRIAGE DRIVING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Indoor Carriage Driving. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping for Pasada Trophies. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Unaffiliated Showjumping for cash.

Tel: 01953 714911 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; New Years Showjumping Show. Tel: 07785 521436 TUESDAY 6TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Indoor Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 WEDNESDAY 7TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC;

Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 SATURDAY 17TH JANUARY CARRIAGE DRIVING Essex: Wix EC; Indoor Carriage Driving. Tel: 01473 735732 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01760 722616 FUN SHOW Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Showjumping and Showing Fun Show.

Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC; Minimus Showjumping (1pm start). Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01953 714911 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 SUNDAY 18TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; High Fen RC Dressage. Tel: 01206 211681 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07785 521436 EVENTER TRIAL Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Eventer Trial. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWING Essex: Longwood EC; In Hand and Ridden Showing. Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Winter Woolies Showing Show. Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01953 714911 CONTINUED OVER PAGE ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015 53

January 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 16/12/2014 17:37 Page 54

SHOWDATE DIRECTORY JANUARY-FEBRUARY 2015 CONTINUED FROM PREVIOUS PAGE TUESDAY 20TH JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Indoor Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 WEDNESDAY 21ST JANUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 THURSDAY 22ND JANUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage (Intro - Ad Medium). Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 FRIDAY 23RD JANUARY SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC; Evening Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SATURDAY 24TH JANUARY AUCTION Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Horse Auction, saddlery jumps etc. Tel: 01953 714911 DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Longwood EC; Unaffiliated Dressage (1pm start). Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 54 ABSOLUTE HORSE JANUARY 2015

SUNDAY 25TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 DRESSAGE Essex: Finchingfield EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07738 000029 DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; High Fen RC Dressage.

DRESSAGE Norfolk: Overa Farm Stud; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01953 714911 EVENTER TRIAL Beds: The College EC; Eventer Trial. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWING Essex: Harolds Park Farm; Winter Showing Show. Tel: 01279 414310 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: The Jays; NSEA Showjumping. Tel: 01284 386014 TUESDAY 27TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Unaffiliated and Affiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Indoor Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 WEDNESDAY 28TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Evening Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 THURSDAY 29TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07785 521436 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping.

Tel: 01480 700236

FRIDAY 30TH JANUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Novice Evening Showjumping.

Tel: 01328 878282 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; Novice Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436 SATURDAY 31ST JANUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Cambs: Fenning Farm EC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01353 727109 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 000029 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC; Minimus Showjumping (1pm start). Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Senior British Showjumping.

Tel: 01328 878282

WEDNESDAY 4TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 THURSDAY 5TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; Dressage (Intro - Ad Med). Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Evening Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01480 700236 FRIDAY 6TH FEBRUARY SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC; Evening Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01702 202520 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616

SATURDAY 7TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Cambs: Houghton Hall EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01480 700236 SUNDAY 1ST FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; CARRIAGE DRIVING Norfolk: Forest Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 Edge Arena; Indoor Carriage Driving. Tel: DRESSAGE Essex: Wix EC; THRC 01760 722616 Dressage.

DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Cambs: Houghton Hall SHOWJUMPING Essex: Finchingfield EC; EC; Junior British Showjumping. Tel: Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 07738 01480 700236 000029 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Longwood EC; SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 01702 Arena; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 202520 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping for Pasada SUNDAY 8TH FEBRUARY Trophies. Tel: 01255 870744 DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; British SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Dressage. Tel: 01708 687312 Farm EC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: DRESSAGE Essex: Harolds Park Farm; 01328 878282 Unaffiliated Dressage inc Team Quest.

Tel: 01279 414310 TUESDAY 3RD FEBRUARY EVENTER TRIAL Essex: Finchingfield EC; SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Eventer Trial. Tel: 07738 000029 Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01234 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Senior 708400 British Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Indoor Evening Showjumping. Tel: Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687312 01760 722616 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 07785 521436

January 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 16/12/2014 17:37 Page 55

January 2015 pages 28 to 56_Layout 1 16/12/2014 17:37 Page 56

LEASE FOR SALE: LONG ESTABLISHED EQUESTRIAN RETAIL BUSINESS SITUATED ON SUFFOLK/NORFOLK BORDERS

Eva Kemplay, owner of the Ride n Drive Equestrian business is retiring after 50 years of trading.

The lease of the building is up for sale which includes fixtures and fittings, IT system and fully functioning office.

Saddlery, country clothing everything except the horse!

“I would love to hand the keys over to somebody to enable them to start with all the tools to function as a retailer.”

Eva Kemplay

Come and look around and see the potential call Eva on 01502 740771 for more information.