YOUR HORSE & COUNTRY MAGAZINE by YHC Group Ltd

Spring 2019

Springtime

celebrations Quirky customs in the countryside calendar

Second chances Time to shine for rehomed equines

70 years of

Badminton

and the end of the event’s iconic partnership with Mitsubishi Motors

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WELCOME & CONTENTS

The UK’s largest glossy equestrian and country lifestyle seasonal magazine!

Welcome

Preparing for pastures new?

Song and dance about spring

Looking for a second chance

Photo: Deatonphotos/Shutterstock.com

Issue 21 | SPRING 2019

he first hint of sunshine after winter tends to send us Brits a bit giddy – as if someone has the turned the lights on after months in the dark, colour flooding in to replace the grey. So what a treat we had in February when spring gave us an early glimpse of better weather to come. Perhaps the giddiness caused by the appearance of that bright yellow thing in the sky goes some way to explaining the weird and wonderful celebrations held up and down the country every spring. From bottle-kicking to hobby horses, Kathy Carter looks at some of the traditional events taking place in the coming weeks – see Page 70. Of course, one of the biggest celebrations in the equestrian calendar is fast approaching – the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials are back on May 1, marking the prestigious event’s 70th anniversary. It’s the end of an era, too, as Badminton’s association with Mitsubishi Motors comes to an end after 28 years – Stephanie Bateman takes a look back at the successful partnership on Page 59. Mary King has played a great part in this story too, of course, as the first rider to lift the stunning Mitsubishi Motors Cup back in 1992, and she shares her fond memories. Looking ahead, she and Emily are busy planning their event seasons and both have welcomed new arrivals at their yards after a pre-Christmas shopping spree! See Page 82 to find out more… It’s a time for new beginnings and if you’re hoping to put down roots somewhere new, check out Your Country Property on Page 14. Perhaps you’re staying put but want more space outdoors – we explore smallholdings on Page 50. There are also many equines out there in need of a fresh start this spring as we find out on page 90 – could you give one a home and help them realise their true potential? All that’s left is for us to do is wish you all the joys of spring!

Contents

50 Pastures new

112

New trends ready to bloom

112 Swing into spring

If you fancy your own flock or hanker after a herd, is a smallholding for you?

98 Equine health

122 A smooth ride

Dr Josefin Jansson why we need to change our approach to worming.

How to ensure you get the best performance from your arena surface.

Editor

Daniel Miller

Houghton Photography, Amy LathropeReid/Indy Equine Photography, Adam Fanthorpe and Shutterstock Images

Publishing Co-ordinator

Advertising

Lucy Sperring

Assistant Publishing Co-ordinator Clare Aris

Contributors

With special thanks to Mary King, Emily King, Dr Josefin Jansson of Rowe Equine Ltd, Equestrian Direct, Mitsubishi Motors, J B Promotions and The Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials Team, Kit

Bags are big and beautiful this season – Kathy Carter looks at spring style.

Brick House, 21 Horse Street, Chipping Sodbury, South Gloucestershire, BS37 6DA

Printed by Stephens & George

Hazel Lomas & Alex Williams

Editorial

Kathy Carter

Whilst every care has been taken in compiling this publication YOUR HORSE & COUNTRY MAGAZINE shall not be made liable for any inaccuracies therein. The opinions expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor/Publisher.

Production

Joni Mann & Gary Burt

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 3

Your Spring Checklist Does your horse have these 5 simple things? For our horses to be truly happy and healthy they don’t need the latest designer rug or the cleanest stable; these things just make us happy! They simply ask for us to provide them with the following five things: 1. Water Water is the forgotten but most important nutrient which should always be fresh and clean. A 500kg horse in a temperate climate will need 30 litres a day. Those on a high protein diet which has a diuretic effect or consuming lots of hay will have a higher water requirement. Heating water slightly in cold weather will increase consumption; dehydration in cold weather is the main cause of winter colic.

2. Salt

3. Forage

Salt is required daily regardless of season. Providing salt in the diet during cold weather increases water consumption whereas supplementing with salt in warm weather replaces what is lost from perspiration. A horse needs 2 tablespoons of salt per day, providing about 14g of sodium. It is recommended to use feed and forage analysis results to determine how much salt is available from the diet making it easier to supplement with the correct amount.

This is the part where Devon Haylage can help! Our tasty forage helps encourage fussy eaters to eat, even when distractions are present when away at competitions for example. Horses need a constant flow through the digestive tract 24/7. The chewing of forage produces saliva to help buffer the constant production of acid in the stomach. The acid in an empty stomach can lead to the formation of ulcers anywhere along the gastrointestinal tract.

Granulated salt can be offered ‘free choice’ but try use salt free from anticaking agent (prussic acid) containing cyanide. Mined sea salt contains minute quantities of trace minerals which are not typically available from a nonsupplemented diet. A salt rock can also be offered should your horse want more. Never add electrolytes to the only water supply, these should be fed in addition to salt to replace loses due to perspiration. Watch ratios of iodine (in mineralised salt preparations) and selenium in the diet. Levels need to be similar in order to maintain thyroid health.

Lack of forage can also lead to intestinal impactions. This is because when the cecum is not always full, it struggles to evacuate digested forage because the entrance and exit to the cecum is at the top. Furthermore, a steady flow of forage through the digestive tract helps to exercise muscles. Flabby muscles can twist or intussuscept increasing the risk of colic. And finally, a horse denied enough forage will experience a stressful hormonal response which raises insulin, an inflammatory hormone; cells are told to store fat should this lack of forage be a ‘famine’. This can lead to obesity, a damaged metabolic rate, chronic laminitis, potential leptin resistance and

devonhaylage.co.uk 01404 813100 4 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Claire Burrow

Cushing’s disease due to inflammation of the hypothalamic region of the brain. The key is to feed forage all year round even when there is plenty of grass available. Horses then realise that forage is not a novelty and will learn to self-regulate and not gorge when extra forage really is a necessity during the winter months. Determine what type of forage would suit your horse best and source from a reputable supplier who should be willing to offer feeding advice. Does your horse have a high energy requirement or need a low sugar diet? Or are moulds and fungal spores your concern? Good quality hay can suit many horses, but supply can be inconsistent. At Devon Haylage we have four varieties available to suit all types of horse and pony, all consistently high in quality throughout the year.

4. Replace what forage lacks The importance of testing what nutrition your forage and feed provides cannot be underestimated. Conserved grass is not particularly nutritious in terms of vitamins and fatty acids, but it could contain enough of energy, protein, carbohydrates and minerals when fed in adequate quantities. The quality can vary

enormously however and so knowing what is in your forage is very important. Reputable producers should have this information available so that you can make an informed choice. It might be that if enough quality forage is provided there may not be additional need for large amounts of hard feed. Just fill in nutritional gaps by supplementing with ground flax or chia seed when grass is unavailable and a comprehensive balancer to ensure mineral ratios are in check. Protein quality in hay can be low and so adding extra protein to the diet through additional forage sources such as alfalfa may be necessary.

5. Movement, companionship, shelter Confining a horse to a stable for long periods of time is detrimental to their physical and mental health. Horses have evolved to live in a herd environment, they are animals driven to move to seek out food and to have constant company for protection and behavioural needs such a mutual grooming and ‘playing’. Denying a horse of these things could exacerbate compensatory problems such as weaving, aggression and box walking, increase

the likelihood of physiological health complaints such as poor circulation, obesity and sluggish metabolism and cause other stress related issues such as a lowered immune response. Providing horses have the choice to shelter when they wish with constant access to forage, many will choose to stay outside; my horses for example only really take themselves into the shelter on the hottest of days!

Take home message By providing our horses receive the basics of water, salt, forage, supplementation, movement, companionship and shelter, we can rest assured that we are doing all that we can to help them lead a happy, healthy and contented life. There’s nothing wrong with having the cleanest yard, the best saddle or matching accessories but remember these things put a smile on our faces! Horses are ‘happiest’ when their physiological and behavioural needs are satisfied! For more advice on feeding our haylage or for a free sample please email claire@devonhaylage.co.uk

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 5

explore Rajasthan embrace Tradition experience Marwari PALACE TO PALACE ~ You may have heard of the ‘Golden Triangle’ - well with Horse India you ride the bit in the middle! Travelling by Marwari horse your senses are awash with the colours, sights and sounds of India. Join us to stay in old country palaces, dining on the roof by candlelight and under the stars. DESERT DUNES ~ Chat around the camp fire with shepherds and camel herders, ride over the dunes, see chinkara gazelle and watch 50,000 Demoiselle Cranes come in to feed - a truly awesome sight! Join us and canter along sandy camel tracks, canals, sand dunes and lakes - your Marwari horses await!

“Loved the horses, the fair, the countryside and we saw two leopards! ~ so much in 2 weeks”

6 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

FAIRS & FESTIVALS ~ Take part in the colours and excitement of local gymkhanas, horse shows, processions and festivals, as well as visit the famous horse and camel fairs of Pushkar, Balotra or Nagaur. We have a fabulous range of holidays to suit all budgets, some are date specific but others can be taken at any time. Book now for your holiday of a lifetime! LEOPARDS & LAKES ~ Ride from the magnificent Kumbhalgarh Fort through the shady Ghanerao forest of the Aravalli hills to Jawai reservoir in search of wild and free roaming Leopards!

Horse India offers an informative riding holiday experience, combining history, tradition and culture through our knowledge of the landscape, its people and, of course, its unique indigenous Marwari horses.

photographs copyright Horse India Ltd by Abbigale Richards, Chandra Pal Singh, Ignacio Alvar-Thomas & Caroline Moorey

ride rural Rajasthan with

Horse India

“These beautiful regal horses carried us steady, strong and safe, & never missed a beat” WHAT TO EXPECT ~ A riding holiday with Horse India will find you staying in old Palaces, bespoke haveli Hotels or re-creating the days of the Raj’ by camping in their Maharajah ‘shikar’ tents - erected every night in stunning locations, complete with decorated bedrooms, attached bathrooms and real beds. THE HORSES ~ Marwari horses have curly ‘lyre’ shaped ears that rotate 180 degrees and touch at the tip! They are desert horses, ‘slight’ in build, and stand 15hh - 16hh, spirited but safe, and more importantly, * you cannot ride this breed outside India.*

WHO: solo travellers, couples, friends, clubs & groups all welcome. You should be an intermediate level rider. WHAT: Some rides are date specific, others can be taken at any time of year. We ride on average 25-30km/day or 4-6 hours riding/day with a relaxing picnic lunch stop. WHERE: We are located equidistant between the blue city of Jodhpur, the lake city of Udaipur, and within easy reach of the pink city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, INDIA. WHEN: The best climate is October to March DETAILS: www.horseindia.com e: info@horseindia.com tel: 07726 930231

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 7

GRANARY MEAD COTTAGE Set in a stunning location in the heart of the New Forest, Granary Mead Cottage nestles in the grounds of an old historic hunting lodge.

The cottage offers self catering for up to five people. One large double room, one twin bedroom. A spacious comfortable lounge/dining room with sofa bed. Modern well equipped kitchen. Shower room. Entrance lobby with saddle racks. Dog safe enclosed garden overlooking fields suitable for BBQ etc

Set within a beautifully quiet and picturesque 10 acre setting There are several turnout paddocks. Ample parking for vehicles – undercover area for carriages, bikes etc. Magnificent riding or carriage driving with little or no roadwork. Private yard incorporates four very large stables and one suitable for 14.2 pony A perfect destination to bring your own horses for a truly wonderful New Forest riding holiday

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Photo courtesy of Mozambique Horse Safaris: Teagan Cunniffe.

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8 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Our horses are smart, happy and responsive, inspiring confidence in every rider whatever their ability or experience. You are assured of a warm welcome from our enthusiastic staff who will guide you on your ride through pine trees and ancient oak forests, crossing crystal clear rivers before ascending to the expansive purple heather moorland. Why not make a weekend trip? With a 2 night stay in our 17th century cottage with breakfast available if requested.

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Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 9

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Lucknam Park FIVE-STAR EQUINE ESCAPES Located near the historic city of Bath, Lucknam Park is a magnificent Palladian mansion dating from 1720. Maintained as a family home until 1988, it then opened its doors as one of the UK’s top country house hotels. With 500 acres of beautiful parkland to explore, 35 horses for all capabilities, an outdoor arena and cross country course, Lucknam Park is the perfect location for an indulgent equestrian escape. The distinguished hotel boasts 42 individually styled rooms and suites, Michelin star dining in Restaurant Hywel Jones, casual all day dining in The Brasserie, an award-winning spa, cookery school, family play facility and a three bedroom country cottage. Lucknam Park is truly one of England’s finest hotels, providing 5-star luxury at every turn. To book: call + 44 (0) 1225 742 777 or visit www.lucknampark.co.uk. Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 11

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Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 13

Welcome to the first edition of

Your Country Your Country

Property An important, but often overlooked, aspect Your Horse & Country Magazine is very of buying a property is getting the insurance excited to bring to you a host of luxury right. Richard Kerton, from award-winning properties and estates broker for saleStackhouse across the independent insurance country, with inspiring ideasto forhelp your Poland,coupled shares some useful advice interiors. Whether you home are looking for the you ensure your new is properly perfect fitted kitchen a stylish range to protected, and looks or at common pitfalls. really complete the heart of your home, we aim to tempt you with creativity and style!

I P

f you’ve found your ideal home and instructed your solicitors, you’re probably erhapslooking you areforward looking to to moving upsize into your home andproperty living theordream. fromnew your current However, thisyou dream canthe quickly turn maybe are on lookout into a nightmare if you’re not aware of for the perfect investment opportunity. the need to itinsure correctly Whichever is, youthe areproperty almost certainly from theyourself point ofwhether exchange, asking nownot is the right completion. time to be buying property in the UK. With Althougheconomic this condition sale has uncertain timesofahead, Brexit been in placerates for several years, and interest all on your mind, it can itbe can still come as ayourself surpriseto let your difficult to allow to many. All too buyers heart go and falloften in love with bricks and only become aware this out of the bank mortar, to take your of money when their and solicitor informs or borrow commit it to luxury living. them they must insure Thethat truth is everything is relative; is the the from timeproperty ever right, or exchange do you have to strike of contracts, when you the find your while the ironusually is hot when sellers still in occupation. perfectare property? This to a last-a slump in The often Brexitleads vote caused minute rush to apurchase viasales house prices, large blipinsurance in property aand, comparison site, resulting in a policy of course, a fall in the value of the which unsuitable forofthe period or before pound.is The question whether not it’s

completion and which could be voided in the event of a claim. This can leave buyers and sellers exposed to potentially the right time to buy or sell your house in devastating financial losses. the UK depends on what type of house buyer you are.

The advantages of using an insurance UK housebroker buyers

An broker makeit sure Forinsurance your average UKwill citizen, doesthat seem your insurance thetorisk that now couldisbesuitable a goodfor time getyou on have.ladder, By using an independent the property if you can! Prices insurance will remain strong with thebroker, averageyou house benefit fromthe specialist price only falling 2% since vote. Even and in anhistory during the worstadvice recession independent prices fell 15%, only to quicklyreview, bounce which canThis save you back and continue to rise. might and money. seem to suggest time that prices aren’t going Brokers are not to fall further and waiting longer to get always more onto the property market mayexpensive only cost – at you Stackhouse Poland we you more when eventually can. Also, place in excess of August’s £30 million interest rates are low despite of private premium into the rise. Even if they client do rise further that insurer market yearincrease and benefit from probably won’teach halt the in house significant with insurers. prices, as leverage prices continued to rise at a

14 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Using a broker will give you peace of mind that the policy you are buying is actually going to ago protect you when rates you rapid rate years when interest need Unfortunately, many were itfarto.higher. Essentially, thepeople constant who their insurance race purchase to own property and the online limitedwill not have supply, an insurance policyinthat provides housing particularly urban areas the rightthey protection for theirbuild needs. where can’t possibly more, should continue to push prices up. Five commonit pitfalls In summary, seems it when has always purchasing been the right insurance time to buy aonline house in the UK, if you are able to! The biggest 1. Confusing price with value challenge lies with first-time buyers who Any savings made on your home don’t have the Bank of Mum and Dad to insurance with a standard policy could rely on and face the almost impossible prove to be a false economy if, later on, task of saving a large deposit while living you lose thousands on a claim because in rented accommodation. They must you didn’t have adequate cover. also achieve a sufficient income to meet 2. Underestimating therequirements. value of your loan to equity mortgage home or contents What needs to be highlighted to those Under-insurance is aRent serious among Generation whoproblem, wish to particularly if your homeisisthat worth more become house buyers time is than average.While The many Association of of thethe essence. lenders British Insurers (ABI) that one in have extended their estimates age limits to satisfy

PROMOTION

insurers estimating the cost of replacing the average adult wardrobe to be over Shouldit’s overseas investors £20,000, also important not to buy in the UK? overlook clothing. For the overseas buyer the UK property market has as a safe Insure for long the been rightseen value haven for investment that can provide The rebuilding cost of a home can be very great returns. Many people were different from its market value, so spooked take by the uncertainty exiting care that the value of you insureEurope, reflectsbut the it appears that these fears have cost of rebuilding your home. subsided toAanchartered extent and there are great surveyor willsome be able to reasons why now could be the right time calculate this for you. If you’ve bought to buy a property in the UK: your property with the aid of a mortgage,

1. The value of the pound – The pound the lending company will have carried is ataits lowest rate compared to the out home buyer’s report which will dollar in yearsaafter it fell sharply following the of include recommendation for the level Brexit result and hasn’t really recovered. insurance. AtIfthe timeplanning of writing, exchange rate you’re onthe extending your stood at $1.29 to theimprovements, pound. It could be property, or making a great opportunity buy cheap you should considertowhether yourand sum make a needs substantial from the dollar insured to beprofit increased to take when values have theIfpotential to return account of the work. your property to a similar level tointernal 2014, features when it was has unusual it’s around $1.70 to thetopound, important ensureor theeven sumthe levels seen insured in 2007,takes whenaccount it was over $2 of the to the pound.cost Thatofcould be a profit reinstating these.of 50% to 60% without property prices even increasing. Jewellery

four UK homes may be under-insured. 3. Relying on your insurance to cover you for all eventualities Standard policies are likely to be “perilsbased”. This means you are covered only for loss or damage resulting from specified perils – such as fire, theft, storm, and water damage. 4. Forgetting to check if your insurance policy is “warranty-free” Standard policies are likely to include an alarm clause or “warranty” which invalidates theft cover if, for example, you go out and forget to set the burglar alarm. 5. You may not be able to choose how you replace lost, stolen or damaged items demand for “later-life” borrowing, allowing You maytoprefer to into havetheir cash or to people borrow 70s, 80s and replace a lost item with something slightlya even 90s, if you don’t want to be paying different, particularly if it was one-of-amortgage long into retirement, the earlier kind or had value.ladder the you can getsentimental on the property

Keeping values up to date Once you are settled in your new home, it’s important to ensure that your insurance policy is reviewed regularly to ensure that values are kept up to date. A popular misconception is that in the event of a claim, insurers will pay up to your chosen sum insured. However, this may not be correct for all home insurance policies. If you’re under-insured they may deduct the percentage of underinsurance from the claim payment, leaving you with a financial loss. The contents of your home must also be considered – the general contents should be insured for the cost of replacing them as new. It isn’t enough to just rely on index linking to keep your contents sum insured upmonthly to date;repayments you should as better to keep review the sum insured each year. be to low as possible. Our advice would It may be helpful to compile an talk to your broker, lender or advisor to inventory of items to assist you look at the options available andinfor full arriving at your sum insured. With some terms and conditions.

important that you 2. There are It’s more properties currently insure jewellery for the for sale – Since theyour decision to leave cost of 2% replacing it with EU there arethe currently more homes similar items. I work for sale. At the same time the closely numberwith a numberhas of experienced valuers of transactions fallen, meaning that who provide you with highly detailed therecan is likely to be a number of homes valuations for insurance purposes at a that have been on the market for longer discounted rate. than the seller intended and some opportunities to grab a bargain.

Get in touch 3. There is still a discount available

Ifdue youto are buying a new property, or Brexit – Property prices across would like an independent review your the UK are down 2%. This isn’t a of massive existing arrangements, please get in reduction but it’s small enough to not touch. Call Richard Kerton on 0770market 322 cause concern about the housing 473 or email richardkerton@stackhouse. and a sign that property in the UK should co.uk. Visit for continue to www.stackhouse.co.uk be a safe bet. more information. This article is compiled by Your Country Property. It is not intended as financial n Stackhouse Poland Ltd is authorised or legal advice. Always seek professional and regulated by the Financial Conduct guidance on investments. Authority in respect of General Insurance The firm’s number *business. Your home may be reference repossessed if youis do not keep up repayments on your 309340. mortgage This article, written by Stackhouse is intended as general *Poland, Mortgages are offered subjectinformation to status, and notand as aconditions recommendation terms apply to act. Always seek professional advice before entering into any financial agreement.

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YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 15

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Charlton House, Stour Provost, Gillingham, Dorset

A truly exceptional Grade II Listed detached period house with stunning gardens on the edge of this much sought after Blackmore Vale village. Situation: Grade II Listed period village House with 17th Century origins with a wealth of period features including leaded lights, inglenook fireplaces with timber bressummers and chamfered ceiling beams. In recent years the house has been subject to a considerable refurbishment which has included the addition of further accommodation which has brought this fine home into the 21st century whilst not losing its considerable period charm. The homes discreet position on the periphery of the village gives it both a high degree of privacy as well as superb un-interrupted views across the surrounding Blackmore Vale countryside and the River Stour. The stunning gardens are a particular feature of the home with manicured lawns and colourful established shrub borders. There are also terraces for al-fresco entertaining, a heated swimming pool, hidden behind mature hedges, and a wildlife area bordering onto meadows.

Guide Price £950,000 16 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Grade II Listed | Period features | Stunning gardens | Terraces for al-fresco entertaining | Heated swimming pool

This property is available to view on

Hamptons International is a premier estate and letting agent based in London UK with over 140 years experience. www.hamptons.co.uk

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Rookery Cottage, Swallowcliffe, Salisbury, Wiltshire

Rookery Cottage is an attractive, deceptively spacious character home that has been greatly enhanced by the current owners. Situation: This glorious cottage occupies a discreet elevated position, set within over two acres of gardens, grounds and woodland within this much sought after village. The home itself offers a wonderful array of characterful yet sizeable accommodation. The accommodation has been greatly enhanced by more recent additions that blend seamlessly with the original cottage. The vendors have been meticulous in maintaining the charming external facade of this much cherished home. Occupying a glorious sylvan setting, this stunning home is nestled in a lovely elevated position within its ground that extend to over two acres of formal gardens, grounds and woodland in the much desired Nadder Valley village of Swallowcliffe.

Guide Price £850,000 18 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

3 bedroom detached house | Over two acres of formal gardens | Detached double garage | Space to park several vehicles

This property is available to view on

Hamptons International is a premier estate and letting agent based in London UK with over 140 years experience. www.hamptons.co.uk

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St Mary’s Lodge, Chitterne, Warminster, Wiltshire

A stunning character home with gardens and grounds of 1.67 acres Situation: St Mary’s Lodge is a truly exceptional period country residence of great character and space in a stunning setting with grounds just over 1.67 acres in the highly sought after village of Chitterne. The original house has been transformed by later additions yet retains the character and architectural style of the original parts. The arrangement and flow of the accommodation which is south facing thus attracting a lot of sun, is a feature of the rooms, with the majority of them overlooking the beautiful gardens and open countryside beyond. The formal grounds have been beautifully maintained and are thoughtfully landscaped with a sweeping terrace abutting the rear of the home. A wonderful summerhouse provides additional accommodation, a home office or summer dining space. In addition to the formal garden there is the paddock that is grazed during part of the year and is suitable for small livestock.

Guide Price £795,000 22 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Two bedrooms with en-suites | Three further bedrooms | Family bathroom | Gardens and grounds of 1.67 acres | Summer house

This property is available to view on

Hamptons International is a premier estate and letting agent based in London UK with over 140 years experience. www.hamptons.co.uk

COUNTRY PROPERTY – YourCall Horse us & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318SPRING 780 2019 | 23

“a present for life” “Alibaba” ~ the first Marwari ~ orders taken ~ shipping worldwide ~ 24 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

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Mears Farm House, Pillerton Hersey, Warwickshire

Impressive five bedroom farmhouse with stabling, outbuildings and land in a tranquil rural setting Situation: Mears Farm House is Grade II Listed and believed to date from the 18th Century and provides the ideal family home with land. The property is situated in a private rural setting on the edge of the desirable village of Pillerton Hersey. Oxhill Bridle Road is a very quiet no-throughroad. The handsome farmhouse has been sympathetically renovated and then improved by the current owners to present a stylish modern home yet retaining a wealth of period features throughout. These include exposed beams, solid oak floors, wooden shutters and exposed stone floors.

Guide Price £1,100,000 26 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Five double bedrooms | Stabling with Tack room | Well maintained gardens | Adjoining paddocks | Further land available by separate negotiation

This property is available to view on

COUNTRY PROPERTY – YourCall Horse us & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318SPRING 780 2019 | 27

DEVON LIME STONE QUARRY

Timeless good looks and rustic quality Newbridge Stone Co is one of very few working Quarries still operating in the UK today, we work closely with the environmental agency and local authorities and run a sustainable approach to the area we work in.

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28 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

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Blakelow Farm, Winster, Derbyshire

An impressive farmhouse with four cottages and equestrian facilities situated within the Peak District National Park and having fabulous far reaching views Situation: Blakelow Farm is a delightful development which includes a farmhouse and associated buildings which have been converted into four holiday cottages. The property stands in gardens and grounds of about 8 acres, including extensive gravelled driveway and parking area, well stocked and well maintained gardens, grazing land and a good stable block comprising 7 loose boxes, a tack room and store. The property offers considerable character and versatility and presents a number of options for a purchaser to tailor to their own requirements. Two of the cottages are attached to the house and could be easily linked to create a larger main residence if required and subject to consent.

Guide Price £1,450,000 30 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Farmhouse | About 8 acres in all, including grazing land | Well maintained gardens & grounds | Four holiday cottages | Stable block with 7 loose boxes

This property is available to view on

COUNTRY PROPERTY – YourCall Horseus & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318SPRING 780 2019 | 31

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Willowside Farm, Withington, Cheltenham

Willowside Farm is a beautifully appointed country home believed to date back to the 17th Century. Situation: The property occupies a wonderful position overlooking its own 30 acres and enjoying views of the meandering River Coln. The extensive array of outbuildings is well served with twin vehicular entrances. The stone outbuildings are arranged around a courtyard setting with nine loose boxes, feed rooms, tack rooms and storage facilities as well as a double height barn for hay storage. Above the barn is a useful twin loft with huge potential to form groom’s accommodation (STPP). A corrugated and steel barn has a large vehicular entrance and is currently utilised as five loose boxes and storage. There are two further external stables as well as a historic feed hopper. The land is offered with a ring fence of 30 acres of superb pasture land interspersed with a variety of post and rail fencing.

Guide Price £2,950,000 32 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Extensive array of outbuildings | Courtyard setting | Nine loose boxes, feed rooms, tack rooms and storage facilities | 30 acres

This property is available to view on

Hamptons International is a premier estate and letting agent based in London UK with over 140 years experience. www.hamptons.co.uk

COUNTRY PROPERTY – YourCall Horseus & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318SPRING 780 2019 | 33

PROMOTION

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niversal, reliable, robust – those are qualities attributed to 4-cylinder tractors of the PROXIMA model range. The tractors meet demanding requirements for work in farming, breeding and road maintenance. They are available in a power range from 80hp to 120hp. The tractors are equipped with 4-cylinder engines with power from 76hp to 117hp. They are outstanding in low fuel consumption and simple design without unnecessary electronics. Engines are designed and produced in-house at ZETOR in the Czech Republic. Thanks to their original design, they are able to reach required limits without the use of CommonRail, which guarantees high resistance, easy maintenance and service, low fuel consumption, optimum operation requirements and long durability.

Step up a gear Apart from a wide range of power, there is also a choice of different versions of transmission. As standard, PROXIMA CL is equipped with a basic mechanical

transmission with 12 gears forward and 12 reverse. PROXIMA HS brings higher comfort offering modern transmission with 24 gears forward and 24 reverse, 3-stage torque multiplier (PowerShift) and electrohydraulic reverser (PowerShuttle). On top of that, control of the HS model is made easier by PowerClutch, i.e. a button located on the shifting lever that allows the operator to shift without the use of clutch pedal. Both transmissions are 40kph as standard, including front axle braking.

Effectiveness As a standard, PROXIMA tractors are equipped with hydraulics with mechanical or electronic control and two- to foursection distributor. To increase the comfort of work with equipment, PROXIMA HS tractors can be optionally equipped with up to four-section distributor and electrohydraulics (EHR). The effectiveness of the EHR system is based on the unique HitchTronic function, i.e. automatic regulation of the rear three-point hitch during ploughing. The regulation system

measures soil resistance and based on the current values measured, it adjusts the setting of TPH, thus increasing work productivity and reducing fuel consumption by 5-7 %. Cabins of PROXIMA tractors are spacious and comfortable. They have been designed to ensure maximum safety of the operator. Operators will enjoy a suspended ergonomic seat and, especially useful in the summer, air conditioning (as an option). Due to its universality, the tractors are ideal for work with front loaders. ZETOR offers a compatible and robust front loader within the ZETOR SYSTEM, which allows the choice of several options. In short, PROXIMA tractors meet high demands from customers for versatility, comfort, safety and productivity.

For more details of our range of tractors and how they can meet your demands, please visit www.zetor.co.uk

34 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 35

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Stone Throw Cottage, Chobham, Surrey

This lovely property is approached via a long gravelled communal driveway that serves just three properties and has an electronic 5 bar security gate. Situation: Stone Throw Cottage has it’s own drive that leads up to the house as well as another leading to the stables and directly opposite is a large gated parking area that serves the paddocks and ménage. The reception hall here really does ‘set the scene’ as soon as you arrive. The stone floor, beamed ceiling and open fire create a very welcoming atmosphere. The kitchen/breakfast room has a lovely flag stone floor, partially vaulted and beamed ceiling, central island with granite work surface and the large 4 oven Aga is a great feature. Another particularly noteworthy feature of the property is the covered ‘al fresco’ entertaining terrace, just outside the dining/family room. Behind the double garage there are more adaptable rooms that work equally well as a home office, studio, teenage suite, guest accommodation or with the addition of a kitchenette could become a self-contained annex. The gardens are immaculately kept and set at one end there is a very well maintained stable block with 5 stables, tack room and hay store. Directly opposite are the paddocks, ménage and parking area with post and rail fencing.

Guide Price £1,700,000 36 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Gravelled driveway | Paddocks and ménage | ‘Al fresco’ entertaining terrace | Stable block with 5 stables, tack room and hay store

This property is available to view on

Hamptons International is a premier estate and letting agent based in London UK with over 140 years experience. www.hamptons.co.uk

COUNTRY PROPERTY – YourCall Horseus & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318SPRING 780 2019 | 37

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BRYANT ASSOCIATES Wealth Management - Est 1995 www.bryantassociates.co.uk

Meadowbank House, Chipping Camden, Gloucestershire

A stylish modern Cotswold stone country house within walking distance of the high street of Chipping Campden. Situation: A stylish modern Cotswold stone country house, constructed about ten years ago with superb attention to detail. The property is situated in a private position yet within walking distance of the high street of Chipping Campden, offering views over fields and the renown St James’ Church. A barn conversation to provide a three bedroom, 3 en-suite annexe with an open plan living area and kitchen with dining area. Fenced paddocks of 5.3 acres with field Shelter and all weather ménage, indoor stables with two tack rooms.

Guide Price £2,375,000 38 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

This property is available to view on

Hamptons International is a premier estate and letting agent based in London UK with over 140 years experience. www.hamptons.co.uk

COUNTRY PROPERTY – YourCall Horse us & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318SPRING 780 2019 | 39

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40 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Create your dream, live your dream! Monarch Equestrian, bespoke stables and buildings to suit all your requirements. The original Stable manufacturer, Monarch has become a household name, which is renowned for quality, design and customer service. Forever in pursuit of perfection, Monarch constantly challenge the market place offering superior designs and finishes to create your ultimate dream equestrian yard.

Stables Monarch offer a range of stables to suit all requirements, whether a small private or large commercial yard. There are three ranges, The Majestic, The Regal and The Imperial, all of which are made from the finest materials including Hardwood and Recycled Plastic to create a high end stable. Monarch’s choice of exclusive designs can be tailored to suit individual requirements and needs.

Barns Monarch also manufacture a range of barns. The Monarch Barn has become very popular and allows for everything under one roof. In modules of 12’0 bays, Monarch can incorporate tack rooms, feed rooms, wash bays and storage areas, with the choice to extend as your yard grows. Monarch’s knowledgeable sales consultants can advise and work with you to create a layout that works well for the customer. This range has now extended to the Back to Back Barn and external stables where space is premium, but will optimise all space available. With the inclusion of Monarch’s Total Build, they have everything covered. Manufacturing a variety of steel framed equestrian buildings and working with the best of experienced contractors. Monarch can project manage your entire equestrian build, from planning to completion.

Doors and Windows To complement every yard, Monarch manufacture a wide selection of doors and windows for those final touches. All steel framed and galvanized for longevity and durability, they are stylish and practical ranging from Top and Bottom Door Sets, Tack Room/Feed Room Doors, Fully Boarded or Laminated Glass Top Doors, Louvre or Arched windows.

Equine Equipment and Accessories Monarch also manufacture and supply related equestrian equipment such as Horse Exercisers, Lunge Pens, Paddock Pens, Handling Stocks and Solaria. They also have a wide range of accessories available including hi/low hayracks, swivel mangers etc. For more information and to download our brochure, visit www.monarch-equestrian.co.uk. Or call us on 01902 605566.

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YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY – Your Horsewww.monarch-equestrian.co.uk & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 41

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BRYANT ASSOCIATES Wealth Management - Est 1995 www.bryantassociates.co.uk

Chelscombe Farm, Lansdown, Bath

This stunning Grade II Listed farmhouse set within 100 acres. Situation: Marketed for the first time since the early 19th Century, this stunning Grade II Listed farmhouse is situated just on the edge of the city centre and is such a unique opportunity due to its land of 100 acres. Now in need of renovation it also offers extensive ancillary buildings and the most wonderful views.

Guide Price OIEO £2,000,000 42 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Grade II listed farmhouse | five bedrooms | cellar | attached garage and workshop | outbuildings

This property is available to view on

Hamptons International is a premier estate and letting agent based in London UK with over 140 years experience. www.hamptons.co.uk

COUNTRY PROPERTY – YourCall Horse us & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318SPRING 780 2019 | 43

Trees? What’s all the fuss about? Deric Newman, sales manager at Glendale Civic Trees, shares his thoughts on the motivations behind planting semi-mature trees on your property. What are the main reasons clients ask for trees to be moved or planted? When it comes to relocation, in many cases it’s because the tree, or trees, are going to be affected in some way by a development of some sort. However many landowners want to redistribute their existing tree stock. Perhaps the trees are getting too close together as they grow and rather than felling trees to create space move them to a new location. Or they are simply not in the right place and would be more beneficial somewhere else. Relocating trees can be more cost effective than buying new trees. In terms of planting, where we source trees from specialist growers, owners of private estates often request new trees to add interest to a landscape to make it more aesthetically pleasing. Trees add colour, shape and interest to a landscape and large trees can achieve that almost overnight. A driveway can be transformed into an avenue, for instance. Even a few trees

around an entrance can make a huge impact and say “you’ve arrived”.

Why is it best to plant or move trees at this time of year?

We’ve planted many trees as living markers of a significant occasion; a birth, marriage, milestone birthday or in memorial.

For field grown trees, i.e. those not growing above ground in some form of container, it’s important to carry out these projects when trees are dormant. Typically this is between November and the end of March.

On a practical level trees are also used regularly to help screen or diffuse an unsightly view. Not everyone wants to look at the muck heap or the neighbours every day! In any setting trees add structure and form for year round interest as they change with the seasons. In paddocks and parklands, as well as looking lovely, trees also help provide shelter from the elements, creating windbreaks and casting shade. Under the ground the roots take water out of the soil and can be used to help dry out wet ground just choose the right species! The roots also help bind the soil together which can reduce soil erosion. Trees also provide habitats for wildlife and of course they absorb and store carbon dioxide from the atmosphere which in a very small way goes to help the fight against global warming and climate change.

44 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Glendale Civic Trees has 50-years of unrivalled expertise and technical capability. We supply and plant large trees with precision, care and attention from a single feature tree to an entire avenue or arboretum. We can relocate large, delicate trees from one location to another before successfully replanting. Our services: ● Tree sourcing & supply ● Nursery visits for tree selection and inspiration ● Tree planting ● Tree relocation ● Tree care ● Estate management ● Landscape services ● Air spade services For the very best in tree care and technical advice you can count on us.

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*Terms and conditions apply: To participate in this competition you must send an email to sayhello@civictrees.co.uk quoting the code C1VICCHERRY1; entrants must include their full name and contact details to be entered into the draw; the winner will be selected at random on 1st May 2019; the winner will be notified by email as soon as is practicable after the draw; no purchase is necessary; the competition entitles the winner to one medium-sized Ornamental Japanese Cherry 12-14cm girth tree, plus delivery and planting; the competition is open to UK residents only aged 18 or over; for full terms and conditions email info@glendale-services.co.uk.

Visit civictrees.co.uk today or email info@civictrees.co.uk Or phone us on 0208 950 4491

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The success of A M Horseboxes began with A M Welding more than 35 years ago. With continued success in the fabrication market, they began to design and remodel the classic rear loading horse trailer.

We acknowledge the requirements of the rider and the safety alongside well being of the horse when travelling. You can rest assure that no compromise has been made between weight, safety and strength of its construction.

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Prices from £13,250+ Vehicle + VAT The vehicle can be sourced by ourselves or we will accept a donor vehicle.

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A M HORSEBOXES Big enough to cope. Small enough to care. 01945 420103 or 07889 www.amhorseboxes.com 46 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse &866031 Country Magazine

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PROMOTION

How to prevent an equine cough

t’s important to note that a healthy horse shouldn’t cough at all, so a persistent cough should always be investigated with your vet. When you notice a cough and decide to call your vet, try to record when the horse coughs so that together you are able to identify any patterns. Do they always cough after exercise? Or when the yard has been mucked out or when fed their hay? There is a small chance that the cough is caused by a foreign object trapped in their upper respiratory tract or pressure from an internal growth, but the likelihood is that it is due to one of the following:  A viral respiratory tract infection  Pharyngitis  An allergic respiratory disease such as RAO (recurrent airway obstruction)  Pneumonia  IAD (inflammatory airway disease)  EIPH (exercise-induced pulmonary haemorrhage) If the horse isn’t running a fever and there isn’t any visible nasal discharge, it is highly probable that the root cause of the cough is an allergic respiratory disease. Recent research carried out in conjunction with Haygain showed that 84% of horses suffer from an allergic respiratory disease such as RAO, and it can be debilitating.

Allergic respiratory diseases are brought on by chronic exposure to allergens such as mould or dust, which means the stabled horse will be at risk of developing one unless steps are taken to manage the environment. Dust, mould and fungal spores are all found in hay and many types of bedding, and some stables have poor or non-existent ventilation. Ideally, a horse with an allergic respiratory disease that is feared to be triggered by being stabled would be turned out 24/7 – however, this may not always be a possibility.

There are steps owners can take to prevent their horse from being exposed to allergens even if they are stabled, including:  Ensuring the stable is well ventilated – this is essential.  Sourcing low-dust bedding and ensuring the horse isn’t in their stable if other boxes

Haygain Steamer

nearby are being From £695 bedded down with dusty straw or shavings.  Steaming hay to remove dust, spores and mould. Traditionally, soaking was used to remove respirable particles, but research shows that not only does soaking make the hay far less palatable, it also greatly increases the bacteria found in the hay. The Haygain Steamer (from £695) is simple to use and scientifically proven to make the hay more palatable to eat while reducing respirable dust in forage by 99%. A patented steam distribution manifold spike ensures steam penetrates into the very middle of the forage, ensuring an even distribution of steam throughout for perfect results every time.  Explore the Haygain Steamer range and read more about how the products aid equine respiratory health at https://haygain.co.uk/collections/ equine-hay-steamers

Find out more at haygain.co.uk or call us on 0333 2005233 Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 47

AIVER SPORT NEW JUMPING SADDLE The Aiver Sport Boemerang Our all new jumping saddle the Aiver Sport Boemerang is fully adjustable in 60 seconds and ranges from narrow to xx-wide. It’s features our amazing 2 layer shock absorbing panels and our short cut back shoulder irons.

4D-BREECHES 4D-breeches are made of a technical fabric that stretches in four ways to accommodate any body shape. Available in UK sizes 6-22.

FREEDOM FOR YOUR HORSE PERFORMANCE FOR YOU Aiver Sport Ltd

info@aiversport.com www.aiversport.com 48 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

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PROMOTION

Build your dream yard in 2019 A home crafted to your own specification is the ultimate in luxury living, so why would you expect anything less for your horse? your horses’ home to make them the centre of family life, next to a home office, hobby room or garage.

Plan

Site Scotts of Thrapston, leading timber stabling manufacturer, has nearly 100 years of experience and knows the best stable yard is all about location. Zoe Dolan of Scotts says: “The location has a major impact on planning permission as well as the working efficiency of the yard. It’s essential to take into account whether the horse can enjoy any sunshine, is sheltered from direct winds and can see what’s going on.” It has also become popular to integrate

All plans must be accepted by the local planning authority, so it pays to have plans drawn up by a specialist designer such as Scotts of Thrapston. Timber stables are usually considered by planners to be more aesthetically pleasing than brick, so are often the best option for a domestic environment. However, if you are building in brick or refurbishing existing stables, Scotts offers a range of accessories such as doors and windows, which can be manufactured to bespoke specifications. Zoe suggests: “Look at other stables built in your area to give you an idea of what your local authority likes in terms of a particular type of roof tile or a colour for the wooden cladding.” Attention to detail can make a significant

difference to the planning process and help the yard blend with its environment. You could specify the pitch of a roof or use special materials like pantiles or cedar shingles to match existing buildings.

Build A common pitfall when planning a build is not taking all the potential figures into account such as ground works, drainage, electricity supply and fittings. The specification of your stables will depend on your budget, but it’s best to invest in a quality structure with a lower specification of extras. Cutting corners on the quality of the building will prove to be a false economy. As a family business, Scotts recognises the importance of personal service and Scotts’ staff are always prepared to pass on the benefit of their experience in stabling.

www.scottsofthrapston.co.uk Tel: 01832 732366

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 49

new

Pastures

igs, sheep, goats, chickens, horses and ponies – the list of animals we want to keep is endless. But where to accommodate them? Some 45% of us Brits own an animal, according to a recent survey by Statista, whether it’s a dog or a cat or something much larger. I, for one, believe that this percentage is probably even bigger but either way it is evident that we truly are a nation of animal lovers! Now common pets such as a dog or cat are of course relatively easy to keep – they can live in your home and utilise your garden or local parks for exercise. But what if your dreams extend beyond caring for a household pet? What if you wish to

A smallholding can present some big challenges for newcomers – but the rewards are endless, writes Hazel Lomas keep a menagerie of livestock, to rear your own food supply, or harvest pure llama wool perhaps? Animals such as these require much more space and, to some, simply belong on a farm. But a large farm of hundreds or even thousands of acres is not just a full-time job but a lifestyle, one that requires experience, often handed down through the generations. Farming is not cheap and that’s before you

PROMOTION

Happy, healthy hens with Gastro Grit Gastro Grit is the grit your hens will love to eat. Unlike ordinary grit which is unpalatable and often left uneaten, Gastro Grit includes tasty and nutritious ingredients which your hens will love. Grit is important for all poultry as it helps them to digest their food and provides essential calcium for strong egg shells and a healthy plumage. As well as providing soluble and insoluble grits, Gastro Grit also provides seaweed, brewers yeast and herbs to support a healthy digestive system. The Little Feed Company tries to

reduce its use of packaging in all products. The 1kg Gastro Grit is packed in a biodegradable bag, and the 5kg is packed in a sturdy pouch instead of using a plastic bucket. Try Gastro Grit for yourself by requesting a free sample by emailing info@thelittlefeedcompany.co.uk www.thelittlefeedcompany.co.uk 1kg Gastro Grit RRP £6.95 5kg RRP £18.95

50 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine - SMALLHOLDINGS

even consider the machinery it takes to run one! Instead, more and more of us wishing to keep livestock are settling for something much more intimate, a smallholding. Generally speaking, a smallholding is larger than an allotment but not greater than 50 acres. Whether buying or renting a smallholding there is much to think about in terms of planning before introducing your chosen herd or selection of animals. You need to think about the ground – how will larger animals affect it as the weather changes, are there natural water sources for animals like “mudrolling” pigs? Are the fences barbed and if so could they be dangerous to your horse or pony? Will sheep wire cause problems with animals getting stuck and, furthermore, do you have the right equipment to hand for “unsticking” animals? Do you have water troughs in each paddock or will you need to carry buckets to each field? These are all things that can be overlooked at the point of taking on such a responsibility. It is, in fairness, easy to forget these

SMALLHOLDINGS

factors if we’ve had the luxury of keeping our horse or pony on a well-maintained livery yard where all these things are catered for. A smallholding is as much a way of life as running a farm but the likelihood is you will have fewer hours in the day to manage it, as you may have other commitments to factor in, such as work. However, running your own smallholding can be hugely rewarding, from enjoying your own free-range eggs for breakfast and harvesting your own hay, to wearing jumpers and scarves produced by the wool from your very own flock or simply watching your animals live happy, healthy lives. Driving a tractor from paddock to paddock, rolling fields, harrowing ground ready for a new crop – the joys are simply endless, even more so when working as a team with your partner, I find. There is no better feeling than to sit together on an evening and enjoy the rewards of all your hard work on your own little piece of paradise! If you are considering buying or renting a smallholding it would be my advice to pop in and introduce yourself to neighbouring farmers – you will no doubt be requiring their help or advice at some point. What they don’t know about farming or keeping animals, in my experience, is not worth knowing! Oh, and their collection of tractors and machinery will likely be much bigger and more advanced than yours (as I found out when my two-wheel drive tractor needed pulling out of some very soft ground!).

How much space will my animals need? Alpacas Up to six alpacas per acre. Sheep Most estimates are about 10 sheep per acre. Chickens For chickens that free range, you only need a coop/run area that measures about four feet by four feet (16 square ft).

Horses A good rule of thumb is two acres of open intensely managed land per horse. (The same rule applies for cows for a 12-month period.) Goats Up to four goats per acre. Pigs 25 pigs per acre is classed as a good rule of thumb.

Good paddock maintenance will help when keeping healthy animals. Topping Cutting or topping a pasture is an essential part of managing your grassland, particularly if horses are the only species grazing. Regular topping helps to maintain a good quality grass sward, which has many benefits for both your land and your animals. Rolling Grass is compressed during paddock rolling, which makes it spread out, creating a thicker sward and preventing weeds from growing. We usually carry out paddock rolling after harrowing, which helps push any stones back into the ground that have been pulled up by the harrows. Equally, rolling is great for compressing dug-up areas of soft ground caused by animal movements. SMALLHOLDINGS - Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 51

SMALLHOLDINGS

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PROMOTION

Put a spring into your spring clean Make a tractor your workhorse as you clear the mess left by winter, says Helen Noble from Siromer Tractors

inter weather can cause utter disarray to a smallholding, resulting in many hours spent straightening out and getting ready for the impending season. As the days become dryer and the chill not so bitter it is a great opportunity to get things in order. As with a typical household spring clean, this means looking at the whole space and cleaning and organising every area. This predominately outdoors work can be very labour intensive, and farm machinery can take the weight out of it. Making sure your tractor is ready is a priority. The tractor will pull the trailer and power the loader and can be your main workhorse throughout the spring clean. After hopefully undergoing a good winter maintenance care regime, your tractor may have been tucked away for the deep freeze and is now ready to be uncovered – do the filters need replacing? Are there any leaks or loose fittings that need your attention? You could flush

Trailers and tipping boxes can be very helpful in transporting the wreckage left over from winter, such as trees and branches blown down or the debris brought in from the outside area. Have the fences survived the winter? Using a trailer to transport the wood and fence panels for repair or to the log splitter can save time and energy, helping to make an easier task of traveling around and clearing as you go.

Tips for a successful spring clean  Maintain your workforce. Spend time on the tractor, the loader, the log splitter. Make sure any equipment you have is in good working order.  Do you have everything that you need? Would the addition of a timber trailer or a transport box save you time?

the fuel pump with thin hydraulic oil and the tractor must be thoroughly greased. Give those tyres a look over too – have they lost pressure over the winter? Now is the time to replace rather than in the coming months when the days are full and speeding by. A 4in1 front loader bucket is a great choice, helping to make the clearing of old bedding and debris a much easier task. Adding pallet forks is also a smart move – when it comes to needing an extra pair of hands, they are excellent for shifting bales and hauling fence posts.

 Tree damage can be brutal in some parts of the country, so walk all fence lines to ensure that they are safe and in working order.  Check posts for rot.  Gutters and downspouts. Remove old leaves and other clutter to allow rainwater to ﬂow easily. Install wire covers to limit future build-ups.  Replace expired items and update the ﬁrst aid box.  Inspect wires for rodent damage.  Before re-bedding, make sure everything has air dried.

For more advice or information, please contact Siromer Tractors Email: tractors@siromer.co.uk Call: 01253 799029 Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 53

B RYA N T A S S O C I AT E S Est. 1995

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54 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

PROMOTION

All in good time... Beautiful personalised pieces from Tarrag Naegel help one couple capture the moment – forever

s we all know not everything in life runs to time as you can see from our beautiful bride Christine! We were thrilled towards the end of last year to be asked to make a bespoke piece for our beautiful bride alongside gifts for all the members of the bridal party. It is always particularly special when we are asked to make something bespoke for a big life event. Christine chose our With a Twist collection for her big day including a sapphire set in our With a Twist Pendant scaled up to make statement piece for her “something blue” – and something to remember their special day. Christine wore the pendant with our With a Twist Drop earrings and T-bar bracelet. The groom, Colin, chose our silver double nail head ring scaled up to suit his hand and even their son Jake had his Tarrag Naegel kilt pin. Each of the bridesmaids had a bracelet that matched the bride’s but whch incorporated their own birthstones to make them their own. Both the bride’s mother and mother-in-law received pieces from our Classic and Farriers Loop collections, which were chosen as very personal gifts. When choosing from our range for a special occasion we do need a little time – the designing, casting, polishing, stone setting and finishing we can control; the assay office we cannot! It is not a simple process – ideally three months before the big day gives us enough time to make last-minute alterations and reduces stress, too! On the day of the wedding, due to unforeseen circumstances the bride arrived rather late, tales were told of forgotten veils, and the bride’s father being driven home to collect said veil in a rally car at full throttle – all part of an eventful but very happy, memorable day. Thank you to Andrew Robertson Photography for allowing us to use his lovely images of their moment in time.

Special offer Speaking of time, this brings us to some exciting news for 2019. It is at this time of year we bring out our latest collection. This year we decided to run a competition at Kelso Races to name this year’s spur-inspired design. We had many great suggestions, from “Tally Ho” to “Impulsion”, but by far the most popular was “Spur of the Moment”. Here is a glimpse of the very first pair of earrings. To cheer up an otherwise muddy, cold time of year we thought we would offer readers a 10% discount on all orders from our new collection – please use the coupon code Spur 2019 when you place you order online. If you would like to pre-order before the release date on 20 March, 2019 please contact us on tarragnaegel@btinternet. com to receive a further 5% discount.  To see Tarrag Naegel’s full jewellery ranges, visit www.tarragnaegel.com

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Pollitt Limited is a credit broker and not a lender. , EX2 8PN r, EX2 8PN New Car SurveyWarranty 2017 New comprises Car Survey of a standard 2017 New 3 Car Survey 2017 New Car Survey †Every vehicle marketed byGreen Subaru (UK)Road, Ltd, excluding WRX STI, Barton, is covered by a 5Exeter, Year/100,000 mile (whichever sooner) Limited which Year/60,000 mile (whichever is sooner) Manufacturer’s (bumper to bumper, excluding clutch 37 Marsh Marsh EX2 8PNcomes2017 2017 New Car SurveyWarranty 2017 New Car Survey 2017 New Car Survey driven plate) and an Extended Warranty (applies to powertrain only) provided by the importer. Vehicles shown are an XV 2.0i SE Premium Lineartronic OTR price of £29,060, a Forester 2.0i XE Lineartronic OTR price of £30,550 and an Outback 2.5i SE Premium Lineartronic OTR price d not lender.All prices C S G Pollitt Limited 01392 339455 www.csgpollitt-subaru.co.uk of a£33,560. include optional special paint finish at £550. OTR price incl. VAT, delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee. Prices correct at time of going to print. C S G Pollitt Limited, trading as C S G Pollitt Limited is a credit broker and not a lender. Ride & Handling

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esults (WLTP37 excl. XV 2.0L): 32.2-35.3mpg, Marsh GreenCombined Road, Exeter, EX2 8PN CO2 emissions 157-168g/km. There is a new WLTP test used for fuel consumption & CO2 figures. CO2 figure shown is based on the lculate vehicle tax on first registration. Fuel consumption achieved in real life conditions & CO2 produced depends on a number of factors including accessories fitted (post-registration), 20527 Subaru Q1 2019 Range-PP_1.indd 1 04/01/2019 14:48 SUBARU SUV RANGE fuel economy and CO2 results excl. XV 2.0L): Combined 32.2-35.3mpg, CO2 emissions 157-168g/km.155g/km. There is a new WLTP test used for official fuel consumption figures. figure shown is purposes based on the& may oad. SUBARU XV 2.0L RANGE fuel economy and(WLTP CO2 results (NEDC): Combined 40.9mpg, CO2 emissions Mpg figures are EU test& CO2 figures forCO2 comparative NEDC test cycle & will be testing used to calculate vehicle taxcompare on first registration. Fuel consumption in real life conditions CO2 produced depends on a number of factors including accessories fitted (post-registration), en testedoutgoing using the outgoing NEDC method. Only fuel consumption andachieved CO2 figures with other &cars tested to the same technical standard. variations in weather, driving styles & vehicle load. SUBARU XV 2.0L RANGE fuel economy and CO2 results (NEDC): Combined 40.9mpg, CO2 emissions 155g/km. Mpg figures are official EU test figures for comparative purposes & may

not reflect real results. 2.0L XV (whichever has been tested usingsooner) the outgoing NEDC testing method. compareoffuel consumption and CO2 figures other carsistested to the same technical Warranty standard. (bumper to bumper, excluding clutch WRX STI, is covered by adriving 5 Year/100,000 mile comes Limited Warranty which Only comprises a standard 3 Year/60,000 milewith (whichever sooner) Manufacturer’s ertrain only) provided by the importer. Vehicles shown XV 2.0i SE Premiummile Lineartronic OTRsooner) priceLimited of £29,060, a which Forester 2.0iofXE Lineartronic OTRmile price of £30,550 and an Outback 2.5i SE Premium Lineartronic OTR price †Every vehicle marketed by Subaru (UK) Ltd, excluding WRXare STI, an is covered by a 5 Year/100,000 (whichever comes Warranty comprises a standard 3 Year/60,000 (whichever is sooner) Manufacturer’s Warranty (bumper to bumper, excluding clutch driven plate) and anDealer Extended Warrantynumber (applies toplates, powertrain provided by the importer. Vehicles shown an XV 2.0i SE Premium Lineartronic OTRat price of £29,060, a Forester 2.0i XE Lineartronic OTR price of £30,550 and an Outback 2.5i SE Premium Lineartronic OTR price 19418 2018 Subaru Press-PricePoint-Range_AW.indd 1 road h at £550.Q3 OTR price incl. VAT, delivery, 12only) months fund licence and firstare registration fee. Prices correct time of going to print. of £33,560. All prices include optional special paint finish at £550. OTR price incl. VAT, delivery, number plates, 12 months road fund licence and first registration fee. Prices correct at time of going to print.

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We’ve got sweet itch covered The Boett Blanket was designed in Sweden 25 years ago. Having been continuously developed it is still at the forefront of the market. Vets highly recommend it as one of the most effective treatments for sweet-itch and some insurance companies will pay for them as an alternative therapy. They are also recommended for the protection of horses with sarcoids and more widely used as a very effective fly rug. The blanket is used worldwide and is made from a unique light but strong breathable fabric which midges cannot bite through. The fabric has a “parasol effect” that keeps the horse cool in full sun so overheating does not occur. It has water and grease repellent properties. If you have any questions on the management and treatment of sweet itch, call our National Sweet Itch helpline on 01352 840333.

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MITSUBISHI MOTORS BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS

era

End of an

This year not only sees the Badminton Horse Trials celebrate its 70th anniversary, it will also ring the changes as long-term title sponsor Mitsubishi Motors concludes its sponsorship. Stephanie Bateman looks back at the 28-year relationship, as this iconic association draws to a close.

ne of the most famous events in the world, the Badminton Horse Trials was the brainchild of the 10th Duke of Beaufort, whose idea it was to hold an event on his Gloucestershire estate so that riders could train for future international competitions. The first competition was held in 1949. The event grew and in 1953 Badminton hosted the very first European championships. Three years later, it was televised for the first time and by 2011,

there were no fewer than 15 cameras covering the event for programmes transmitted by the BBC in both the UK and overseas. In 1961, brewery specialists Messrs. Whitbread took over the sponsorship of the event – one of the longest sponsorships for any sport – and Badminton became synonymous with the brand until, in 1992, the event welcomed a new sponsor – Mitsubishi Motors. “Whitbread had been involved ever

since I was a little girl and knew about Badminton, so it was all a major change when Mitsubishi Motors came on board,” says two-time Badminton winner and Mitsubishi Motors brand ambassador Mary King. “The course changed hugely, but it freshened the event up and brought it very much more up to date. They have been a fantastic support for many years.” Eventing stalwart and four-time Badminton winner Sir Mark Todd agrees: “When Whitbread pulled out, they had u

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 59

 Sir Mark Todd and NZB Land Vision, winners in 2011, tackle the famous Mitsubishi Motors L200 jump

been sponsoring for a long time, and there is always that worry that you’re not going to find somebody as good. So, everybody was very relieved when such a large company as Mitsubishi Motors took on the role of headline sponsor. Together, with Hugh Thomas, they have made the event a real showpiece and done wonders for our sport.” Cirencester-based Mitsubishi Motors, importers of Mitsubishi vehicles to the UK, took over the sponsorship in 1992, initially for three years, and the riders competed for the stunning silver Mitsubishi Motors Trophy, designed and produced by the Wiltshire-based sculptor Judy Boyt. The trophy’s design is based on three famous event horses – the dressage horse is modelled on Lorna Clarke’s Kings Jester; the cross-country horse depicts Ian Stark’s Murphy Himself and the show jumping horse is Mary King’s King William. In fact, it was Mary King and King

William who won the famous trophy the first year that Mitsubishi Motors sponsored the event. “It was very special to win the event in

60 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

the first year that Mitsubishi sponsored it,” Mary says. “It was a fantastic new trophy that Mitsubishi had made specifically, so to be the first winner with King William and

“

MITSUBISHI MOTORS BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS

To be the first winner with King William and have our name on that trophy, especially as one of the horses was designed on King William, who is one of my famous older horses, was very special Mary King

 Mary King, riding King William, was the first ever winner of the Mitsubishi Motors Trophy in 1992, above have our name on that trophy, especially as one of the horses was designed on King William, who is one of my famous older horses, was very special.” As one of the oldest riders to win at Badminton (aged 55 in 2011), Sir Mark Todd has seen many changes to the event over the years. “I won the event three times under the Mitsubishi Motors sponsorship and will aim to win again on this, their last year,” says Mark, whose Badminton wins include in 1980 on Southern Comfort III, 1994 on Horton Point, 1996 on Bertie Blunt, and in 2011 with NZB Land Vision. “They’ve been a huge part of the sport and we’ve got to know quite a few people in the company over the years. It’s been a really nice relationship and for us as riders, the event is synonymous with Mitsubishi. A lot of riders have grown up only knowing it as Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials.”

The L200 trucks at the lake in particular will always stick in Mark’s memory. “Funnily enough, I have postcards that I sign for people, and one has a photo of Land Vision and I jumping the L200 trucks in 2011, the year we won,” he said.

“They came to us with experience of being involved with the Round Britain Rally, which in terms of communicating results from far-flung places and providing media facilities was far advanced of anything in the horse world at the time. They brought contacts from that expertise, transforming the view of what a media centre and media operation should be. They were the very big and immediate changes that were hugely obvious and very appreciated by everybody.” Before the invention of laptops, for the first few years Mitsubishi Motors hired in and provided computers. “Nowadays everybody brings their own laptops, but back then, they actually provided proper word-processing computers, which at the time were not readily available,” adds Hugh. “At a similar sort of time, proper closed circuit television facilities were introduced so the media could see what was going on, which again didn’t exist before.” Mitsubishi Motors was also responsible for the results service. “They brought in a gentleman called Keith Ashman who is still helping us today, to run the computerised 

Award-winning brand Mitsubishi Motors became well known for its huge involvement in eventing, and in 2011 it was awarded the Animal Health Trust Eventing Award for its contribution to Badminton and the sport. So what other impacts did the brand have on the event? “Initially, their main and very obvious contribution was to bring our media centre, and the technology relating to it, into the 21st century,” says Badminton Horse Trials director Hugh Thomas.  Badminton Horse Trials director Hugh Thomas

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MITSUBISHI MOTORS BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS

live scoring system,” explains Hugh. “Until the introduction of all of that, particularly on the cross country course and for the dressage, you’d wait some time before you found out by a Pony Club runner and score sheet exactly what had gone on. In terms of everybody following the competition, the benefits of this were rolled out quickly to the whole organisation of the event. It raised our awareness of what we could do and gradually we started to bring in big screens to be able to put results up all over the site. All of this developed from public and media relations work by Mitsubishi Motors when they first arrived.” Working together with joint goals and aspirations were key to such a long and prosperous relationship. “The whole point of being title sponsor of such a prestigious event is to develop brand awareness, get people to respect your brand, think of it in a good light and, in terms of Mitsubishi, be likely to buy a car,” muses Hugh. “In doing that, we’ve had an extremely happy and co-operative relationship with managers and directors at Mitsubishi Motors. Without exception, what was in their interest was also in ours. There was never a problem or conflict. They wanted to continue to raise the status of the event to make the event with their name better known worldwide to extend its reach during the year, all of which was good for us.” Each year, Mitsubishi Motors has provided Badminton with a huge fleet of courtesy vehicles used by the media, officials, the police and as a way of providing on-course transport for less mobile visitors. “One of the much appreciated things was that they provide cars and drivers for disabled people to have a look round the course on Thursday and Friday,” says Hugh. “It’s marvellous to be able to offer disabled people a really good view of the course.” When it comes to course design, Hugh, having been course builder up until six years ago, has followed the introduction of the L200 trucks into the course design very closely. “Right from the beginning of the sponsorship, we jumped the two pickups, now the L200 jump, which was my idea,” he says. “They are very different vehicles to what were being sold years ago, but they still have opened backs and lent themselves to being jumpable.”

 Mitsubishi Motors Cup 2018 winners Lauren Burton and Lois Teal

Sponsor initiatives The hugely successful and popular Mitsubishi Motors Cup, an amateur event run at Badminton, was in fact the brainchild of Mitsubishi Motors. “The invention of the Mitsubishi Motors Cup should not be ignored in terms of what it has brought to the sport,” says Hugh. “Before that, there was a grassroots competition which attracted almost no attention from anybody, and it was Mitsubishi’s inspiration that you could run a modestlevel, in terms of difficulty, amateur weekend competition at Badminton and that Badminton would give it a status and make it into a highly desirable competition that people wanted to take part in. I was very sceptical, and although it took a few years to really get off the ground, there is no doubt that it has actually added to Badminton rather than in any way detracted from it. It is a sponsor initiative within the sport that has really benefited it.” Mary King strongly agrees: “The Mitsubishi Motors Cup has really taken off and is such a fantastic opportunity for the amateur rider to aim for, it’s fitted in very well with the event. We have a lot to thank them for, for all they have done for our sport.”

Photo: Adam Fanthorpe

It is surely the end of an era, but one that will be remembered fondly for years to come. “On a human level, as much as on a business level, successions of people at all levels of my team have become good friends, and it’s been great fun and productive working together,” finishes Hugh. “The parting of the ways is absolutely tinged with some sadness, but we can look forward to new times.” Rob Lindley, managing director of Mitsubishi Motors, added: “Mitsubishi Motors in the UK has benefited in so many ways over the 28 years of our partnership with Badminton Horse Trials. It has played a very important role in raising awareness of the brand and our vehicles across the UK. “The teams on both sides have worked hard to ensure that Badminton maintains its position as the premier 3-day event in the world and have delivered some wonderful top-class sport and amazing experiences for spectators and competitors alike. “We feel privileged to have been a part of the Badminton Horse Trials for so long and look forward to our final year of partnership in May.” 

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 63

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‘Cars suited to our sport’ Mitsubishi Motors Brand Ambassador Mary King drives a Mitsubishi Outlander which she says is perfectly suited to her lifestyle. “The first year I won Badminton under the Mitsubishi Motors sponsorship, they let me have use of one of their vehicles for a year, which was fantastic,” she says. “After a few years driving other brands, I found myself drawn back to Mitsubishi and in 2013 I became a brand ambassador. Mitsubishi has been very supportive and I love driving their cars. “The Outlanders have nice big, spacious boots to put all our equipment and feed in the back, which is especially useful when I’m feeding the horses in the morning. They also drive so smoothly and beautifully when we are driving up the motorway and go equally well off-road, which suits our sport very well.”

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 Danny Dunn riding Zocarla BLH in 2018

MITSUBISHI MOTORS BADMINTON HORSE TRIALS

A winning partnership Give us an overview of how the relationship began. You have to take yourself back to the early Nineties. We were a young, ambitious company with an exciting new product in the shape of the second-generation Shogun – the first modern SUV that offered comfort and luxury as well as ruggedness and reliability. As a brand building a name for itself on 4X4 expertise, we not only wanted to promote our vehicles in the right environment to the right audience, we also wanted to associate it with the prestige and authenticity of the Badminton Horse Trials. The fact that it was on our doorstep only made the association even more natural. It was so successful that with each subsequent new model we found Badminton was the perfect launch platform – a great place to host guests and strike deals, while also putting our vehicles in front of millions of people in the beautiful surroundings of the Badminton Estate. How valuable has this sponsorship been to Mitsubishi Motors? It’s impossible to understate the value that the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials has brought to the company and the brand over the years. We became part of the fabric of one of the most prestigious and aspirational of outdoor pursuits and that was mostly through our association with the pinnacle of the sport, Badminton. You can see the value of that in the sheer number of Shoguns, Shogun Sports and L200s being used in stables, estates and farms not only in the region but around the country. With the beautiful Cotswolds as a backdrop, you couldn’t have asked for a more perfect setting to showcase our range of rugged 4X4s. As a brand, it helped grow our appeal and shift perceptions and the halo effect has a positive effect across the board – even if someone didn’t need a full-size Shogun but there was a range of other cars that

Photo: Adam Fanthorpe

We caught up with Mitsubishi Motors in the UK to look behind the scenes of the company’s 28-year partnership with Badminton

 Alexandra Farrar-Fry riding Grey Finnsky, Mitsubishi Motors Cup winners in 2015

still carried that same brand aura, and we made sure we leveraged that as the brand matured through the Nineties and Noughties. What has being involved with such a prestigious event been like? Being the headline sponsor for as long as we have been means we have become deeply involved in many aspects of the event and we have extraordinary access to what goes on behind the scenes as well as the athletes, the horses and the people who pull it all together. There’s an energy and vibrancy around professionals and athletes – both equestrian and human – at the top of their game. What might surprise people to learn is that while it might be the most prestigious event of its kind in the world, the people we deal with are not just hard-working, diligent and professional, as you’d expect, they’re also generous and warm and deeply passionate too. They’re a joy to work with. Being there with the athletes at the moment they achieve their life’s ambition is also an extraordinary and irreplaceable privilege – these are just some of the things which everyone in the company involved in Badminton will miss greatly. Tell us about some of the challenges over the last 28 years. Behind the scenes, there are a couple of super-challenges to which we’ve risen over the years.

We deliver almost 120 Mitsubishi vehicles in the month of April to support the event, including providing vehicles to cross country fence judges, vets, arena decorators, campsite managers and media team. These cars vary from pickup trucks to luxury SUVs depending on an individual’s requirements. It takes at least 13 transporters to move them all on and off site. The winner’s trophy was commissioned by Mitsubishi Motors and is locked away in a secret location throughout the year. It is guarded by a security guard and protected by a specially-made glass case when on display on our stand during the show. It’s always a bit of a mad dash to get it to the arena for the final presentation on a Sunday but fortunately it’s always looked seamless as far as the audience is concerned. Smaller brass replicas, usually produced by Judy Boyt, are presented to the main winners each year. Over 80 Mitsubishi staff are involved at Badminton each year. Directors, GMs and managers host clients, dealers, media and prospects in the hospitality suite while training, IT, product, security, parts and customer service teams all get involved to help Mitsubishi Motors build and run the media centre with the Badminton media operation, staff the vehicle stand, help in moving vehicles and people about and facilitate the smooth running of the whole event.   All photos by Kit Houghton Photography unless otherwise indicated

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 65

PROMOTION

Plenty of promise for Tessa’s West Kington Stud near Chippenham is known globally as a centre for equine reproductive excellence and particularly as a world leader in equine artiﬁcial insemination. As she begins her “silver jubilee” stud season at WKS, Stud Manager Tessa Clarke shares some of the knowledge gained and reﬂects on some of the changes she has seen over her long career.

essa Clarke began her career at Catherston Stud in 1980, where she assisted renowned expert Jennie Lorriston-Clarke in pioneering the use of artificial insemination (AI) in the UK. Catherston became the first commercial AI operation in the UK, and as such set quality standards for the entire industry. It was at Catherston that Tessa first met Olympic gold medallist and Badminton winner Jane HoldernessRoddam and her husband Tim, and in 1995 Tessa moved to WKS to join their fledging frozen equine semen export business. As one of only two Defra-approved collection centres in the UK for the worldwide export of frozen semen, WKS produces chilled and frozen semen from the best of British stallions for national and international use. Since its inception it has enjoyed a special relationship with the Rare Breeds Survival Trust, assisting with its vital work in preserving native breeds and holding half of their UK National Equine Gene Bank. WKS’s aim is to breed top competition horses and provide an excellent service in a relaxed atmosphere where the traditional values of quality, integrity and welfare are

could put a competition mare out of work for some time. To avoid infection/risk to health All horses are required to undergo testing for CEM, EIA, EVA and strangles before arrival at stud, ensuring they are in the best reproductive health. To avoid unnecessary transportation The ability to ship out chilled or frozen semen negates an anxious journey to stud for a mare with a foal at foot.

 Tessa Clarke joined WKS in 1995 of paramount importance. It is for these reasons that WKS champions the use of AI over natural covering, but there are many other benefits, including: Avoidance of injury There is an inherent risk to natural covering – an unreceptive mare might kick an eager stallion; similarly an overzealous stallion

To differentiate between “stud” work and “competition” work Stallions have become increasingly prevalent on the eventing circuit over the years and sending them away to stud for collection helps them differentiate between stud and home. This has worked particularly well with both Catherston’s Timolin and Nick Gauntlett’s Party Trick, frequent visitors to WKS and who know what is expected as soon they come down the drive. Once their “little holiday” is over they settle easily back into life on their home yard. To ensure quality bloodlines through exposure to a larger gene pool The ability to export quality chilled semen

Contact Tessa Clarke on 01249 782050, email manager@westkingtonstud.co.uk 66 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

PROMOTION

‘silver jubilee’ stud season throughout the UK and frozen semen worldwide has been fundamental in allowing clients access to better breeding regardless of location. Some of WKS’s first projects were to supply New Forest semen to Australia, Suffolk semen to Uruguay and Shires semen to Cuba, in all cases to third generation families looking to ensure and build on existing traditional bloodlines. To accommodate changing fashions and assist bloodline longevity We have recently seen foals on the ground by It’s the Business, whose semen was frozen back in 1996. While some stallions may be out of favour for a time, discerning breeders will always return to good jumping horses to upgrade their own breeding and bring quality back. Another advantage of freezing semen for storage is that it allows for continued strengthening of heritage bloodlines – most of the frozen semen used in our work with native breeds uses our more historic stock. For increased wellbeing and guaranteed quality When using fresh or chilled semen for AI, one collection could theoretically be used to serve six to 10 mares, without any loss in quality. One collection is also obviously less tiring for the stallion. When covering naturally, a popular TB stallion might cover four mares in one day, with an inevitable drop off in quality as the stallion tires. We have been very fortunate to maintain

along with Shadwell’s Handassa, a a long-standing relationship with William successful racing Arab. Welton Double and Pippa Funnell and Donal Barnwell of Cracker and Windsor Heights complete the Billy Stud, who have been sending the line-up to ensure both excellence their stallions to us for 20 years, including and choice for breeders interested in all the ever-popular Cevin Z, who will be disciplines – all in all, it promises 1to20/02/2019 be a standing again this season. WKSBadminton Horse & Country 90x130 PRINT+Keyline.qxp_Layout 16:2 very interesting season. winner Chilli Morning will also be returning  Above: Jane HoldernessRoddam riding Windsor Heights, Martin Mullins riding Welton Double Cracker and Gemma Wells riding Cevin Z, all standing at WKS this season

STALLIONS STANDING

2019

Welton Double Cracker

Handassa Cevin Z

Chilli Morning

Stud Service: 24 hour supervision, CCTV, foaling down, post-natal care & assessment, mare prepara�on, insemina�ons & scanning. Stallion Centre: DEFRA approved collec�on centre, fully equipped laboratory, chilled/frozen semen evalua�ons, semen collected & frozen for UK/EU/Worldwide, semen storage & distribu�on service. Compe��on Yard: Horses compe�ng at all levels, backing & schooling, full livery, NVQ & rider training Visit our searchable Frozen Semen Database on the website For full details & informa�on pack, please call Tessa Clarke, Stud Manager

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Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 67

Do you know your payload before you drive to an event?

It is very easy to overload a 3500kg horsebox, and even a 7500kg one, as most people don’t take into account passengers, tack, water, hay, and these add to the payload considerably. For example, an empty 3500kg horsebox normally weighs about 2500kg, leaving 1000kg for the driver and passenger, horse, tack, etc. Many of these horseboxes are stalled for two horses, and that can be a big problem. If you are overloaded and have an accident, your insurance will be invalidated and you could be facing a number of offences, both overloading and licence ones. In recent years, the DVSA has found that more than 80% of LCV’s stopped on the roadside on suspicion of overloading, are in fact overweight.

Why Uprating You have a limited payload capacity and wish to carry an extra horse or equipment. You don’t want to buy a newer, bigger horsebox so you can save money by converting your current vehicle. You want to avoid a large fine by DVSA.

What to do if you are overloaded. The first thing is to weigh your horsebox FULLY LOADED with your horse(s), tack, water, food, and passengers so that you know where you stand. Remember to weigh each axle individually as you may find that whilst you may be under the Gross Vehicle Weight, you have actually overloaded the rear axle. This is very common in lightweight horseboxes. Fortunately SvTech can help, and is keen to promote its uprating service for lightweight horseboxes (3500kg), whereby the horsebox can gain an extra 200-300kg in payload. This provides vital payload capability when carrying an extra horse and/ or tack and offers peace of mind for the owner.

SvTech has carried out extensive work and testing on lightweight models and has covered uprates for most lightweight vehicles. It is worth noting that some uprates require modifications or changes to the vehicle’s braking, tyres and/or suspension, for which SvTech provides a simple purpose-built suspension assister kit. This will take between 1-2 hours for you to fit. Your horsebox will then go for a formal inspection to bring it into the ‘Goods’ category, and, depending on the vehicle’s age, may also require fitment of a speed limiter, for which there are one or two options. Most importantly, vehicles registered after May 2002 must be fitted with manufacturer’s ABS, if going above 3500kg.

We can start the ball rolling by asking customers to fill in an enquiry form and send it back with photos of the Horsebox plate, the weight ticket and Registration Document.

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68 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

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You need to tow a horse box?

Have you checked your driving license to see if you are legally entitled to hitch up your horse box? If you passed your driving test after 1st Jan 1997 you will not have the ’E’ next too your car picture the ’E’ is the trailer entitlement. The government have not made it very easy to understand what you can and cannot tow, but simply put, once a trailer has brakes and the carrying capacity is over 750kg (apart from a single horse box) almost all horse box trailers you can purchase will fall into this category, this means you will need to take a driving test B+E to be able to have the correct license and be insured. Please see our page www.bubbletowing.co.uk/faq

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Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 69

Springtime

celebrations As spring dawns once again, Kathy Carter discovers the season brings with it more quirky British traditions to mark its arrival than you can shake a stick at

ritain is a fantastically diverse nation, in terms of its heritage, traditions and quirky sense of celebration! Here, we look at some of the ancient springtime customs in the countryside calendar that we Brits love to uphold and keep alive.

WHUPPITY SCOORIE This wonderfully-named festival based in Lanark, Strathclyde, marks the approach of spring. At 6pm on March 1 during Whuppity Scoorie, the children of Lanark run three times anti-clockwise around St Nicholas’ Church, swinging balls of paper on string around their heads. Afterwards, there is a noisy scramble. The origins of this event are cheerfully obscure, with some locals citing the chasing of bad spirits down to Kirkfieldbank village. A more unsavoury explanation is that Whuppity Scoorie dates from a time when local miscreants were whipped at the town cross, then “scoored” (cleansed) in the nearby River Clyde.

PENNY LOAF DAY

Photo: Paul Rushton/ Shutterstock.com

On March 11 in Newark, Nottinghamshire, the locals commemorate Penny Loaf Day. A Penny Loaf was a common size (not cost) of a loaf of bread in England, set down by the Assize of Bread Act in 1226. In 1644 during the English Civil War, a man named Hercules Clay had three

consecutive premonitions, culminating on March 11, that his house would burn down; terrified, he evacuated his family. His house did burn down that night, hit by stray bombing from Roundhead soldiers. In gratitude for the premonition, he created a fund of £100, to provide Penny Loaves of bread for the poor each year on March 11. A local Penny Loaf Day church service celebration continues to this day.

TICHBORNE DOLE This is a quirky, Hampshire-based spring tradition that dates

SPRINGTIME CELEBRATIONS

origin is thought to be much older, linked to the sacrifice of the hare in the Dark Age worship of the goddess Eastre. Modern-day proceedings start with the parading of a giant hare pie, blessed by Hallaton’s vicar. Messy handfuls of pie are thrown into the scrambling crowd, before the bottle-kicking contest between the village teams of Hallaton and Medbourne commences at Hare Pie Bank. The teams fight over three small, ribbon-bedecked beer barrels, attempting to roll or carry the casks to their village boundary, sharing any beer contained within the final cask. The bottle-kicking chairman described the competition as like a very ferocious rugby scrum – “There aren’t any rules; however, there is no murder, no gouging, and no riding on horseback with a bottle.”

 Whitby Abbey and hazel catkins

PLANTING THE PENNY HEDGE

back to the 12th century; on March 25, Tichborne Dole celebrates the life of the strong-willed, altruistic Lady Maybela. On her deathbed, suffering from a wasting disease, she is said to have made her husband, Sir Roger de Tichborne, promise to give generously to local poor families, and hand out a gift (or dole) of bread in her memory for those who arrived in Tichborne for the annual Feast of the Annunciation. Bizarrely and cruelly, Sir Roger agreed to provide the corn from the land on which his dying wife could crawl around, while holding a blazing torch,

before it went out. She managed to crawl around 23 acres; an area known locally today as The Crawls.

BOTTLE-KICKING AND HARE PIE SCRAMBLE On April 22, Easter Monday, local residents in Hallaton, Leicestershire, celebrate the Bottlekicking and Hare Pie Scramble. Bottlekicking is recorded as early as 1770, but its

Forty days after Easter, in Whitby, Yorkshire, an ancient festival sees wooden hazel stakes cut and carried through the town at sunrise to the shore, before being woven into a strong hedge before the tide turns. The name Penny Hedge is thought to derive from Penance Hedge, dating back to 1159, when the Abbott of Whitby imposed a penance on three hunters and their descendants for murdering a hermit with wooden staves, or stakes; the brave hermit was protecting a boar the hunters were chasing. To save themselves from execution, they had to agree to construct a stake hedge strong enough to withstand three high tides every year, until their descendants had died out.  Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 71

SPRINGTIME CELEBRATIONS

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SPRINGTIME CELEBRATIONS

May Day Festivals There are many regional variants of the traditional May Day Festival, a pre-Christian spring tradition predominantly dating back to Floralia, an ancient festival honouring the Roman goddess of flowers. It was also a festival to celebrate the richness of the soil, the people of the region, and fertility of livestock. The traditional Festival of Beltane, for example, introduced the custom of lighting huge fires in celebration of the sunnon May Day. The current Scottish Beltane Fire Festival traces its roots back to this Celtic celebration.

Photo: Oscar Johns/Shutterstock.com

 Schoolchildren dancing around the maypole in Ashover, Derbyshire, above

Knutsford in Cheshire hosts Royal May Day on the Saturday closest to May Day. A May Queen is crowned, and the custom of “Sanding the Streets” commences; decorating the pavements with coloured sand. The practice recalls an event in 1017, when King Canute gained victory over the Scots. After fording a stream, the King paused to shake the sand from his shoes, and blessed a passing, newlymarried couple, wishing them as many children as grains of sand at their feet.

maypole dancing was kept alive by British schoolchildren, who would put on displays and practice skipping around a sturdy pole bedecked with ribbons, before putting on a May Day show on the village green to continue the tradition of ancient pagan tree worship, and to celebrate the start of the milder weather. With skill, the ribbons create beautiful plaited patterns, or “cat's cradles”. The tallest maypole reportedly stood over 143ft high in London, but was felled in 1717 and used by Isaac Newton to support Huygen's new reflecting telescope.

MAYPOLE DANCING

MORRIS DANCING

Various regions celebrate May Day with maypole dancing. English historian Ronald Hutton states that maypoles were erected as signs that the happy season of warmth and comfort had returned; they were first seen in the British Isles between 1350 and 1400 and are also prominent at European festivals. The tradition of

At various dates throughout the year and notably in springtime, Morris dancers perform their shows and dances. The website themorrisring.org explains that this ritual celebrates 500 years of the evolution of a dance: “Morris dancing was well known in England before the Spanish Armada, the Gunpowder Plot and even

ROYAL MAY DAY FESTIVAL

the Wars of the Roses. It is probable the term ‘Morris’ developed from the French word Morisque (meaning a dance), which became ‘Morisch’ in Flemish, and then the English ‘Moryssh’, ‘Moris’ and finally ‘Morris’.” There are many regional variations.

JACK IN THE GREEN FESTIVAL Hastings in Sussex hosts the Jack In The Green Festival during the May Bank Holiday. Jack has been an important character in May Day celebrations since medieval times; some claim he is even older than that, a relic from the days of ancient tree worship. Local website hastingsjitg.co.uk explains: “This fourday event has been described as the celebration of Morris dancing and traditional merriment, centring on Jack in the Green, and culminating in a wild, costumed parade. The festival culminates with the slaying of Jack, to release the spirit of summer.”  Photo: Deatonphotos/Shutterstock.com

Photo: Dave Smith 1965/Shutterstock.com

 The Jack in the Green procession, Hastings, left; Morris dancers in Shropshire, right Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 73

SPRINGTIME CELEBRATIONS

Hobby horse celebrations

MINEHEAD HOBBY HORSES The ancient Minehead Hobby Horse Festival originated as a way of warding off marauding Danes, who when confronted with the charging Hobby Horse, hastily retreated back to sea. The festival was first recorded in 1792. On May 1, the Somerset town of Minehead is woken by the beating of a drum; the Hobby Horse, an eight-feet-long canvas-covered frame with swinging rope tails, carried by masked men, dances its way around Minehead and up to Dunster Castle. The

Photo: PJ Photography/Shutterstock.com

May 1 brings some wonderful hobby horse celebrations. Padstow in Cornwall is home to Hobby Horse Day, a Celtic ritual thought to be connected with the aforementioned lunar calendar Festival Of Beltane. The “Obby ‘Oss”, with its horse-shaped head and curtained body, starts its dance through the winding streets of Padstow, at 10am. C S Gilbert wrote 200 years ago of Hobby Horse Day: “The [Padstow] inhabitants dress up a man in a horse’s skin; this odd-looking animal amuses, by many whimsical exploits, the crowd.”

 Crowds surround the ‘Obby ‘Oss’ at Padstow’s annual celebration festival culminates two days later, when spectators can be laid down in front of the horse, escaping before the horse turns his tail on them.

HOODENED HORSES Similarly in Charing, Kent, a “Hoodened Horse” tradition is chronicled. It entails a pole-mounted, wooden hobby horse carried by an individual beneath a sackcloth. A regular spring celebration was instigated in the mid-20th century; however, the celebratory church service is seemingly now on sabbatical.

CHEESE ROLLING

 Gloucestershire Morris dance with a hobby horse in Painswick

74 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Cooper’s Hill in Brockworth, Gloucestershire, celebrates this quirky tradition dating to the early 1800s, on May 27. In this centuries-old custom, competitors chase a rolling cheese down a three-in-one slope to celebrate the turn of winter, and spring crops. A feat of strength, it welcomes scores of hopeful athletes attempting to conquer the incline, and chase a rolling, nine-pound wheel of double Gloucester, which can reach speeds of over 70mph. The first runner to get to the bottom of the hill wins! 

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SPRINGTIME CELEBRATIONS

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PROMOTION

Give your horse a spring gleam from the inside out It’s time to shine with The Animal Health Company’s O-Mega Shine supplement

et your horse in tip-top condition for the season and outshine the competition this spring. Their winter coats will now be moulting out but instead of just treating the surface, by grooming and shampooing, why not think of supplementing their diet too? After all, we are what we eat! Our O-Mega Shine supplement is a 100% cold pressed hemp seed oil. This supplement boasts 87% omega oils, containing Omega 3, 6 and 9. Our customers simply love this product; once they’ve seen the results they are amazed. Unlike most oil supplements on the market where you have to feed it in high quantities to see a difference, O-Mega Shine’s high quality means as little as 15ml per day per horse gets results.

Time to shine It is a 100% vegetarian source of omega oils, which is also packed with essential fatty acids. One of our customers says: “Not only did my horse’s coat start to shine, but his mane growth and general condition also amazed me and my instructor. Just a groom, even on show days, gets him shiny. I also noticed his hoof condition has improved and all with only 15ml a day.” O-Mega Shine is currently on special offer, so get stocked up and get your horses and ponies shining brightly this year.

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01787 476400 Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 81

KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

Getting ready to spring into action Over the winter holidays, Mary and Emily King have both welcomed some new arrivals to their yards after a “shopping spree” and are preparing for new challenges as competition calls again.

A happy new year to everyone The horses have had a wonderful winter holiday with such mild weather in the main, and the grass continuing to grow. It is the first time that I haven’t had to feed any Marksway HorseHage to the outside horses until Christmas. Usually I start at the beginning of December or, in some years, in November. Just a small Baileys feed of Conditioning Cubes for the older horses, and Yearling Cubes for the youngstock, plus balancer, sufficed. The yearlings (actually, I need to call them two-year-olds now!) are fluffing out beautifully in preparation for the possible cold weather to come. I keep them unrugged while the older horses have Bucas lightweight waterproof rugs on until they are clipped. I still keep the

five-year-old horses out 24/7 even when they have been clipped. Bucas does fantastic warm, heavyweight rugs, with extra quilts if it becomes really cold and wet. I made the sad decision to sell Joey (Kings Ginger) in the autumn. He had reached advanced level, but wasn’t going to be a winner at the top. A friend, who wanted a smart horse to compete at a lower level, bought him, so hopefully they will have huge fun together. I sadly sell all my homebred horses - either, as with Joey, to someone who is less competitive than either Emily or I or, if I think they are potentially top-class, find an owner who would like to get involved with an event horse but is happy to let either Emily or I keep the ride.

Shopping lists

At the end of the season I went out to the

82 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Monart Horse Sales in Ireland. Emily and Sam were going with some owners, and I was interested to attend this sale I had heard so much about. It was a lovely excuse to spend some time with Emily and, having just sold Joey, I had a bit of money to go shopping! I had studied all the horses’ online footage before the sale and had earmarked a handful. On arrival, looking at the horses in the flesh and watching them loose jump again, there were three that I especially liked. The auction was held in the beautiful Monart Spa Hotel that evening - and I ended up buying Seamus! He is an athletic three-year-old (now four!) with plenty of thoroughbred blood and a sweet temperament, so fingers crossed for his future. He was unbroken, so when he arrived in Devon I spent a few weeks backing and riding him. I’m very happy with my purchase! He will run alongside Cyrus, who is the same age.

KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

November was busy month for me, with Your Horse Live, three lectures and two horse sales. Before a sale, the horses go through a five-stage vetting before their entry into the catalogues, which are released a few weeks before the sale. Each horse not only has an entry in the paper catalogue, there are also videos of each horse on the sale’s website. All of the three-year-old horses are videoed trotting loose around an arena and loose jumped over a fence to show their movement and athleticism. Four and five-year-olds are videoed loose and under saddle. It takes quite a bit of time to go through the catalogue marking the horses you like and then watching the videos… but it’s very interesting! Once you have your shortlist, you then ask for copies of all the vetting certificates and X-rays to send to your vet at home to check, before making a decision as to whether to make a bid.

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As well as Sam and Mum, I went to Monart with friends and one of my sponsors – Zebra Products. Each of us had done our homework and had our own list of potential horses. It was a lovely evening with a delicious meal and entertainment before the sale. Unfortunately, the horse I would have loved went for way above my owner’s budget (and was bought by Michael Jung!) so only Mum and my friends came back with horses to add to their teams. Shortly after, Sam and I headed to the Goresbridge Go for Gold Sale. Again we had done a lot of preparation and there was a huge choice of top young horses, but one five-year-old in particular had caught my eye. It then seemed a long wait until he came into the ring for the auction. He was even lovelier in the flesh and after an exciting and breathtaking few minutes my owner placed the highest bid and secured the horse! He is called Penguin and Arctic Emperor in the ring - my owner had been watching a David Attenborough programme about emperor penguins! He’s by Emperor Augustus, a very famous American thoroughbred stallion out of a Ballingtogher Leo (ISH) mare. He has turned out to be a sensitive, lovely-natured horse and I am extremely excited to start competing him this year. We returned home and eagerly awaited the arrival of Penguin and Sam’s two new horses. All three arrived at 3am and settled in very quickly once they got to their Nedzbedz stables, wrapped up in their cosy Bucas rugs having filled their tummies with Baileys feed.

Shows and demos

Emily and I performed together at Your Horse Live, doing two demos each day. Emily drove down from her new home in North Wales with a nice young horse, and I persuaded the lady who had bought Joey to let me borrow him for the weekend. I surprised the crowds by finishing off our demos by coming into the arena riding Hovis, the wonderful Clydesdale who is a mascot for Bransby, the equine welfare charity.

Yet again, Your Horse Live put on an amazing weekend - I really enjoy going there and meeting some of my fans. It was Izzy’s (Infinity Z) first outing in front of such a big audience. She was foot perfect and totally unfazed by the clapping of the crowd. I was very pleased with her and hopefully it is a sign that she will cope well with the pressures of eventing. Next was a long trip down to Devon to the Mare and Foal

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KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

Sanctuary where I was to give a talk about my experiences and horses, followed by a ridden demo. I loaded up Izzy, started my journey down the motorway… and got as far as the M5 when all of a sudden I suffered a blow-out and had to pull onto the hard shoulder, where I was stuck for the next five hours. This unfortunately made the demo evening a no-go – I can only apologise to all those who had purchased tickets and made the effort to come and watch. We are planning to reschedule, so I really hope you will be able to attend the next one! I then had two days of lessons back at Mum’s yard. It was lovely to be back home and spend some time with my family. I arrived back in North Wales to do my first joint demo evening with Sam, held at Coleg Cambria in Northop. It was a great evening and I took two young horses - Izzy and Hugo. It was Hugo’s first appearance at an event of this kind and I was so proud of him. We covered exercises for training both young and more experienced horses at home, showing that getting the basics right, the quality of the canter and managing the difficulty of the questions you ask your horse is so important no matter what level they are at.

Family fun

I’ve enjoyed going to a number of race meetings recently with David, who is a keen follower. We had a fun weekend in France going to the Prix De L’Arc De Triomphe with friends, and staying with my cousin who lives near Paris. We have also been to Chepstow, Haydock Park (thanks to The Jockey Club), and Newbury race meetings. I do tend to eye up all the lovely rangy thoroughbred horses in the paddock, trying to decide which would make top event horses! I was also asked to be the after dinner speaker for Quest RDA’s Christmas Ball (Riding for the Disabled Association’s group in Surrey), which was a fun evening.

In December, Hugo and Izzy were turned out for their field holiday while Sam and I went a little further to Brazil with my mum, brother and dad for ten days. It was so beautiful and relaxing, listening to the sea, and the white beaches were stunning! We went on a fishing day trip and caught some huge fish, which we then took back to the hotel where they kindly prepared and cooked them for our lunch. I’m very grateful to Sam’s team for looking after my horses - without them it wouldn’t have been possible to have the time away! During my Christmas shopping I must admit I got slightly distracted and, as you may have seen from my social media, I bought myself a new puppy! As a family we had always had farm dogs that lived outside but never as pets. Arthur (also known as Squidge and Piglet) is so adorable and so funny! He makes the funniest human-like noises and has fitted into the family like he was always a part of it.

Back to work

Tilly (a homebred five-year-old) is progressing well. I’ve started to ask her to work in more of an outline, and teaching her to maintain correct length bend through corners. Serpentines at trot are helpful to teach her to change her bend, and encourage her to become more supple. She is happy and keen working, so I have to remind her to contain her forward impulsion

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KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

by asking for half halts when she increases her speed. I am starting to work on smooth, obedient transitions from walk to trot, trot to walk, trying to be clear with my aids, rewarding her with my voice and/or a pat when she works correctly. I repeat the question when she makes a mistake, making it completely clear what is right and what is wrong. I school her two or three times a week, and only for about 20 minutes maximum. Because she is keen by nature, I usually take her for a hack before I school her to help her to be in more of a settled frame of mind before I start asking her questions. Her jumping technique is improving. She has started to work up a line of fences, and trotting and cantering around a small course of fences. I will start to introduce her to different show jumping courses by taking her in the lorry to Bicton and other venues, initially with a companion and then on her own. During January I get all the horses’ flu and tetanus boosters up to date. I worm them with Equest and get our horse dentist, Keith Evans, to rasp their teeth. It is also time to clip the working horses and Clippersharp support me with various trimming products, which is fantastic.

In the new year, my new team members Jess and Rhiannon started work. Jess is very experienced, having competed up to Advanced level herself and groomed for 4* event rider Sonja Johnson. Rhiannon’s a Devon girl at heart and used to help us out a lot on the yard in Devon. She’s only 17, but made the big move away from home to do a work-based apprenticeship through Northop College. They are great girls and straight away I can feel what a strong team we will be. Every yard works differently and so I was grateful to have Becca Nicholson, my head girl from last year, come down for a week to help train Jess and Rhiannon in the yard systems and ways of working. All the horses have been brought in from their winter holidays now and are looking really well after their time off. The January fitness programme started straight

away and one by one the horses have been bathed and clipped using my new Liveryman Black Beauty Clippers, turning them from the fluffy mud monsters that came in from the field, into the smart-looking event horses they are supposed to be! All horses are hacked out nearly every day, at a marching walk and the overall hack length gets longer every three or four days. We have been hacking in all weather, including a snow storm, during which our Bucas riding rugs kept the horses warm throughout. Dre has now finished his medication following his heart fibrillation last year and will be undergoing tests beginning of February to ensure his recovery is complete and he is ready to start his event season.

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KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

Competition calls King Robert (Bobby), who is nine years old now, is looking much more mature this year. He has been quite a slow developer and I feel is only just reaching full maturity. I am looking forward to his competition season when hopefully he will be getting established at advanced level and aiming for his first CCI-L4* (the new CCI3*). The FEI has brought in a change of name for the International events. All events have moved up a star and CICs are now classed as ‘S’, and CCIs are classed as ‘L’. Changes are always hard to get used to, but hopefully everyone will understand the new class system soon!

I have also been planning my event season for each horse and getting to grips with the new international class. My plan is to start with some one-day events in March, Oasby, Stafford and/or Lincoln, with my half-year aim to go to Tattersalls U25 Internationals with some of the younger horses, including Rosie and Quinn, Houghton with Hobby, ERMs with Brook and possibly a CCI-L5* with Dre. I have a new ride for this year, Georgie Girl, owned by Sam’s mum Penny, which brings my competing string to 10. It is going to be a busy year!

This is my provisional spring programme:

MARCH: 3rd Moreton 7th Tweseldown 16th-17th Pontispool 29th-31st Belton CCI-S4*

APRIL: 2nd Portman 13th-14th Burnham Market CCI-S4* 19th-20th Bicton 27th Withington

MAY: 10th-12th Chatsworth either 29th-June 2nd Tattersalls CCI-L4* or

JUNE: 6th-9th BRAMHAM CCI-L4*

Emily riding The Your Horse & Country Magazine 'Hobnob' Syndicate's Hobby

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KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

Competition of another kind As I am eventing fewer horses this year, I have time to indulge in other things that I have not had time for in the past. This year’s planned adventure is to take part in the Clipper Round the World yacht race! I have been for an interview and have been accepted for Leg 3, the Southern Ocean, sailing from South Africa to Western Australia. This is in November, which fits in perfectly in between event seasons! I have to attend four weeks of training during the year, and then I’m hoping to do a two-day clinic near Cape Town before I join the boat, and another two-day clinic when I arrive in Australia.

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Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 89

WELFARE & REHOMING

Could a rehomed equine be your next competition horse, asks Kathy Carter

A second

chance Jane Girling and Redwings Milky Way Now 15, 12.3hh Redwings Milky Way was just a foal when he was rescued as part of a large group of feral ponies into Redwings’ care. He was later rehomed in 2011 to his Guardian Jane Girling, and was originally intended as a family pony – however, when Jane’s grandchildren asked to join her at endurance competitions, Milky Way came along too. He has since competed in various stages of endurance (including advanced level) with all three of Jane’s grandchildren, Keighley, Maddie and Ella. Milky Way has now achieved the incredible feat of being crowned National Junior Endurance Champion three times, as well as Reserve Champion once, and just last year became the Pony Club Endurance Champion in a 56km ride at Euston Park, Suffolk.

ehoming a horse or pony is not only an altruistic and rewarding thing to do, but can bring enormous benefits to the rehomer, in terms of the support and education offered by equine charities. While stories abound of unscrupulous horse-sellers, rehoming an equine also guarantees complete honesty and transparency about the horse or pony. Many people are under the impression that rehomed horses and ponies are best-suited as companions; but that’s simply not the case, as Stephanie Callen of Redwings Horse Sanctuary explains. “The UK remains in the grip of a horse crisis; there are still simply too many horses, and not enough responsible homes,” she tells us. Hence, rehoming is a very positive way to help charities support as many horses and ponies as possible, to make room for more rescue cases. Stephanie adds: “There are very many rehomed horses and ponies living active, competitive lives. Charities are always seeking loving loan homes for healthy horses that have been successfully rehabilitated; importantly, the equines are still owned by the charity.” HorseWorld’s managing director, Mark Owen, agrees. “Since the introduction of the Control of Horses Act 2015, and with the new microchipping laws coming

Emma Hopkinson and WHW Elvis Emma Hopkinson took on Elvis, both pictured above, as a “project horse” from World Horse Welfare in 2017. “My other half spotted Elvis on the rehoming website, and was instantly drawn to his kind eyes. We met him and fell in love! Following our home check, he came to live with us,” Emma explains. “It quickly became clear that Elvis had great potential, so we started doing some dressage, showjumping and cross country training – last year we contested BE80 affiliated eventing, and he absolutely loves it. As long as Elvis is happy doing what we do together, I’m happy. There are so many horses out there that deserve a second chance. Don’t just look at the horses as they are now, but imagine what they could become in the future!” into effect, charities are in a much better position to rescue horses,” he says. “But there’s now an even greater need for healthy horses to find homes.” Sam Adams rehomed Blue Cross Dougie as a yearling from the charity Blue Cross (see next page), and would

WELFARE & REHOMING

HorseWorld Ernie HorseWorld’s Keeley Mitson says Ernie, formerly an extremely neglected equine, is now a champion show cob. “Ernie was rescued along with his companion Bert. The most shocking thing was the condition of Ernie’s hooves (pictured below right). Hidden under his thick feather they were untrimmed, and had grown into completely the wrong shape. This would have been causing him severe pain; his hooves were also infested with maggots. recommend a rescue horse or pony to anyone. She said: “It doesn’t always take thousands of pounds to create a competition horse. With a little bit of love and care, even a little cob like Dougie who had a terrible start in life can be a terrific competition pony,” World Horse Welfare’s rehoming coordinator, Sophie Hughes, also recommends rehoming a young horse. “We do find that youngsters are the most difficult category of horses to rehome, and yet these make up almost a third of all the horses in our care,” she says. “Many of our youngsters have lots of future potential.” But what if you are unable to offer a home to an equine? Keeley Mitson, of HorseWorld, says there are many ways to help a charity. “It can be as simple as signing up to a campaign – for example, we are campaigning to end long-term tethering of horses, at breakthechain.horseworld.org. uk. Joining an animal adoption scheme is a fantastic, low-cost way to support an equine charity.” Sophie Hughes, from World Horse Welfare, says fundraising and volunteering are always welcome. “It is also helpful to follow rehoming charities’ social media accounts, and share news of equines seeking homes across social media,” she adds. Redwings’ Stephanie Callen says that making regular monetary gifts and donating tack and goods are encouraged by charities. She adds that volunteering at charity visitor centres and attending open days are also great ways to support equine causes.

www.redwings.org.uk/get-involved https://rehoming.worldhorsewelfare.org www.bluecross.org.uk/giving-horse-home www.horseworld.org.uk/rehoming www.thebrooke.org/get-involved 

hand at the Midlands Show and Reserve Champion at the World Championship of Colour. After all his hard work, Ernie is now with a new loaner who is giving him a little bit of a holiday from the show ring.”

Sam Adams and Blue Cross Dougie

 Dougie shows off his jumping skills, left; with his group after their rescue, right Sam Adams met Dougie at the Rolleston Blue Cross centre in September 2012. “He was approximately eight months old and had arrived in the centre as a neglected young foal, terrified and wild,” she recalls. “We went on to temporarily foster him, to help him gain strength to go on to be rehomed. But we fell in love with him and rehomed him! “We spent many hours building up Dougie’s strength, and took him to lots of in-hand shows. When he turned four,

he was 14.1hh and we decided to back him; my daughter Hannah and I lost weight to be lighter for him, and he was a dream to break in. “We began to do dressage and ridden showing on him, very successfully. He’s also a talented jumper, and really enjoys it! “He isn’t your typical cob, he’s very forward-going, with scope to burn. We feel so privileged to own such a fantastic pony.”

Aiding equines abroad, with Brooke Brooke is dedicated to improving the lives of working horses, donkeys and mules. Through their work with governments, communities, owners and policy makers, the charity is strengthening existing animal health services, increasing demand from owners for high-quality farriery, fodder and harnesses, and supporting local businesses to meet this growing demand. Supporters will find many ways to get involved and support this international animal welfare charity.

Photo: Freya Dawson

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“With care from an expert farrier, Ernie’s hooves recovered and stopped causing him any pain. Once back to health, Ernie began training, and was backed. Eventually, he found a loaner who nurtured his talents as a show pony, and he was soon winning rosettes all around the UK (top right). “He won over 20 first places, including at the TGCA (Traditional Gypsy Cob Society) and CHAPS (Coloured Horse and Pony Society). He was Champion in

WELFARE & REHOMING – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 91

WELFARE & REHOMING

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What to expect when rehoming from World Horse Welfare Benefits of rehoming:

Simple steps to rehoming:

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Honest information about the horse

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Choose a suitable horse online

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Ongoing support and advice

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Answer a few questions on your equine experience

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If your circumstances change you can return the horse to us

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A World Horse Welfare Field Officer will check the proposed home for safety and suitability

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Your horse will be given a final check by our vet before heading home with you

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Visit our website for more details

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Not only are you offering a horse who may have had a poor start in life a loving home, but you free space at our Rescue and Rehoming Centres for more horses or ponies in need

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WELFARE & REHOMING PROMOTION

Going the extra mile for working animals Charity calls on riders to sign up to join MyHackathon 2019

rooke, Action for Working Horses and Donkeys is calling on supporters to take part in this year’s MyHackathon challenge. Now in its third year, the challenge urges riders to get in the saddle and ride 100 miles in 100 days and raise £100 through sponsorship to help working horses, donkeys and mules around the world. The challenge is free to sign up to, and supporters can either take part alone or share the distance with friends. Riders are encouraged to complete their challenge by October 31, with all participants receiving a certificate or rosette to thank them for their support. For £100, Brooke could provide a community with a permanent water trough for its animals, train two farriers to trim and balance hooves properly, or support women’s groups that give female owners the skills that will benefit them and their animals for a lifetime. Riders can join the official MyHackathon Facebook group and share their progress and support others taking part. Brooke supporter Lex Whitby took part in the challenge last year as a way of regaining her confidence after a nasty fall in 2016. She said: “I’m honest when I say that without this challenge I would have just carried on taking tiny little baby steps, but having a goal to work towards has given

 Lex Whitby said the goal of riding 100 miles in 100 days helped her to regain her confidence after an accident

me an immense amount of determination and motivation to get out and ride. With the time frame of 100 days I am literally counting down the days and adding up the miles.” Brooke works across Africa, Asia, the Middle East and Latin America to bring lasting change to the lives of horses, donkeys and mules working in some of the

world’s most punishing environments. By riding just three or four miles each week, you can hit the 100-mile target and know that you are helping to transform the lives of working animals and the families who depend on them.  Visit www.thebrooke.org/ myhackathon to register and ﬁnd out more.

United Kingdom registered charity in England and Wales (1085760)

WELFARE & REHOMING – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 95

96 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – WELFARE & REHOMING

PROUDLY PREPARING HORSES FOR TOP COMPETITIONS Lister Shearing Equipment Ltd is one of the most recognised, trusted and worldrenowned manufacturers in large animal clipping, which is why it’s the brand of choice for the grooms at Badminton stables. Established more than 100 years ago, Lister has set the standard for reliability and quality through engineering innovation, which is proudly reflected by Lister’s receipt of a Royal Warrant. For horses that are exercised regularly and compete, year-round clipping is a must and when you’re travelling between shows, it’s important to have a set of versatile and reliable clippers with you. Offering the ultimate in portability, Lister’s Liberty Lithium is exceptionally versatile and is available in a variety of packs which include either a powerful Lithium battery, mains adaptor or vehicle leads as optional accessories, the ideal solution no matter where you are clipping. With the use of the powerful Lithium battery, Liberty Lithium provides up to 180 minutes of uninterrupted clipping time while the smooth motor ensures a quiet clip. Whilst being high speed and delivering 2500 blade strokes per minute, the intelligent design of Liberty Lithium makes the clipper extremely smooth running and prevents overheating. Weighing only 800g, the expertly balanced and ergonomically designed clipper is exceptionally comfortable to use, ensuring effortless results. Boasting flexibility and freedom in movement, the slim Lithium battery has been designed to fit stylishly onto a belt that can be worn around the waist of the user, which allows the clipper to be much smaller and lighter for an easier clip every time. The battery features a helpful LED display that indicates the current level of charge which has proven extremely beneficial to those who have more than one horse to clip and have to manage their schedules, preparing for shows.

Lister stock photograph

When looking at a clipper for the competition horse I would like a clipper that works quietly and efficiently. As often when you are preparing horses for top competition you want them to look their best and be able to perform to their best ability. To be able to clip them quickly when needed for cross country or just a change in the weather you want a clipper that a fit horse will tolerate. I find that Lister clippers can fulfil all my clipping needs, whether you are clipping a pony, hunter or 4* eventer. You can choose a model that will suit every horse and can be sure they will work to a high standard and will enable you to give a professional clip. Margaret Hopkins, Yard Manager and Stud Groom at Badminton stables, reflects upon what she requires in a clipper and why she chooses Lister.

■ For more information, visit lister-global.com

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+44 (0) 1453 826692 | info@lister-shearing.co.uk | www.lister-global.com

WELFARE & REHOMING – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 97

VET’S ADVICE with Dr Joseﬁn Jansson DrMedVet MRCVS

Worming made

easy

hen chatting to clients there appears, more often than not, to be confusion around how parasite control should be implemented. Which product to use, when to give it and how is not always clear and this can unfortunately lead to random worming routines. In the veterinary practice where I work, we aim to spread good knowledge to our clients and a targeted worm control programme is a cornerstone in our preventative medicine. But first let me make it clear, if you are hoping to read about a one-fix-all product or which wormer is the “strongest”, I’m afraid you will be disappointed! What I do hope you take from this article are insights take back to the yard on how to implement targeted worm control for your horse. As a bonus you might save a bit of money in the process! However, there will not be much information on parasite control in foals and young stock as this requires a different

approach to that for adults and it could be a whole article on its own. If you have any questions about worm control in young horses, ask your veterinary practice. To begin with, and most importantly, the practice of routinely de-worming all adult horses every couple of weeks or months throughout the year is a method of the past, it should no longer be done. This is for the safety of our horses as well as to protect the drugs’ efficacy. If there is only one thing you should take from this article, it is this above statement. Highlight it, memorise it and tell everyone you know! More will be explained further down.

Why do we have to change our perspective? Our attitude to endoparasites has changed over the years. In the 1960s when anthelmintics, or wormers, were first introduced, they were used with the goal

Completely cared for High fibre, low starch mashes for optimum gut health 98 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

of preventing all parasitic egg production and to eliminate the endoparasite completely. Fast forward to 2019 – the endoparasites are still an issue as well as having developed resistance mechanisms to many common wormers licensed to kill them. Veterinarians are now faced with cases where horses are suffering from weight loss, colic or diarrhoea caused by such endoparasites. Therefore, for the welfare of our horses, we must change the way we think about endoparasites and use the products available in a responsible way.

Refugia, 80:20 rule and targeted worming strategy Instead of killing all endoparasites we now want to keep a small population in continuity. We call this group the refugia. This pool of endoparasites is small enough so as not to cause disease in the horse

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and thus by not having to treat them with wormers the development of drug resistance will slow down in the horse population at large. Interestingly, the worm burden is not equally shared across a typical group of horses. In an assemblage of adult horses, 80% of the endoparasite eggs are excreted by 20% of the animals. That is, out of ten horses, only two will excrete most of the eggs. How to find those two individuals in the group is achieved by collecting a faecal sample from each horse and sending it into your veterinary practice. There, or at specific veterinary labs, a faecal worm egg count (FWEC) using a microscope will be performed. A high FWEC result will indicate that the horse needs treatment, a low FWEC result does not need treatment. This should be repeated throughout the grazing season every two to three months – e.g. in March, 

 The small strongyle (cyathostomins) and ascarid (Parascaris equorum) are parasitic worms found in horses and have been linked with disease symptoms such as diarrhoea. Pictures courtesy of Emma Chedgey and Sarah Gayer.

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100 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

EQUINE HEALTH VET’S ADVICE

June and September. If the pasture management is good there might be very few horses needing treatment. During the winter there is less egg shedding and horses are stabled more so FWEC is not very useful at that time. If the pasture management is poor and/or the FWEC results during the grazing season were high, the horses may need a wormer in the autumn/winter against the encysted larval stage of the small red worm. The FWEC test is much cheaper than the cost of a wormer, so over a year, if your pasture management is good, you will save money. In a study from 2013 it was found that targeted worming programs saved yards between £57 and £568.

The tapeworm FWEC is not a very good test to detect tapeworm eggs. However, antibodies can be detected in blood or saliva and this should be done once or twice a year. Foals can get antibodies from the mare’s milk so testing foals before weaning is not useful. Treatment for tapeworm should only be done if the test comes back highly positive.

Pasture management and quarantine for new horses Poo picking, as much as we hate doing it, is half the battle won. When you remove the poo from the pasture you instantly lower the risk of your horse being reinfected with worms. It should be done at least twice weekly. Gold star if you do it more! The collected poo should be discarded on the muck heap, which should be at a considerable distance from the nearest turnout field as endoparasites can migrate several metres on pasture. Foals and young horses have a lower immunity to endoparasites, so it is important to prioritise poo picking in their paddock and to not forget to do a FWEC on them too. Harrowing the fields does not equal poo picking: you only send the eggs and larvae flying across the pasture in all directions, facilitating reinfection. Rotating pasture is good practice to keep worm burden down. Endoparasites as eggs or larvae can survive the winter outdoors on pasture. Therefore, resting a field over the winter to reduce parasite burden will not be effective, it is better to rest a pasture in hot and dry weather.

p Regular poo picking across the pasture is the half the battle won New horses introduced should, at arrival, have an antiparasitic treatment containing moxidectin and praziquantel followed by stabling for three days so that eggs will not be excreted onto the pasture but can be collected and put on the muck heap.

How to give the wormer You have done the FWEC or tapeworm antibody test and the result came back high so now you must worm your horse. You cannot just get any wormer, it must be a product that will be efficient in treating the specific endoparasites your horse has. You can get the correct product from your veterinary practice or they may tell you which product to get. The wormer must be administrated into your horse’s mouth at the right dosage. Most wormers come with a weight dose indicated on the syringe. If you do not know the weight of your horse, you can estimate the weight using a weight

tape. Do not guess the weight! This can cause under-dosing where you encourage parasitic drug resistance, or you can overdose which can cause toxicity in your horse. Do not put the wormer on your horse’s feed as it is very unlikely that the horse will eat all, if any, of the drug leading to wasted money and inadequate worm treatment. If you struggle to give oral medication there are ways to retrain your horse in a positive way. For example, there is an excellent YouTube video called “Don’t Break Your Vet – Worry-Free Worming”, created by equine vet and behaviourist Gemma Pearson for the British Equine Veterinary Association. If you have any questions about worms or worming, the best place to start is to contact your veterinary practice. We are more than happy to help you and we can create a targeted worm control programme for your horse or yard. n

Take-home messages l Routinely de-worming all horses should no longer be practiced l 20% of the horses excrete 80% of the eggs l Do FWEC in March, June and September. Do the tapeworm antibody test once or twice per year l Treat the horses with high test results with a product recommended by your veterinarian l If indicated, treat against

encysted red worm larvae in winter l Estimate the weight of your horse using a weight tape to not over- or under-dose l Poo pick the pasture at least twice weekly l Rest and rotate pasture. Prioritise rest in hot, dry weather l Endoparasites can survive the winter outdoors l Endoparasites can migrate over the pasture

Completely cared for High fibre, low starch mashes for optimum gut health EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 101

Why Immun-Ocean Gastro should be part of your horse’s everyday diet. KSB Equine believes that nutrition and maintaining a balanced gut is one of the largest and most important pieces of the jigsaw when it comes to having a healthy horse. It is now widely acknowledged in humans that the gut is a ’second brain,’ with a healthy gut leading to improved overall health and happiness. Why would horses be any different? KSB Equine formulates Immun-Ocean products which are 100% natural Irish feed supplements, comprising Ascophyllunm Nodosum and Lithothamnium Corrallioides macro algae. Created specifically with different disciplines in mind, Immun-Ocean comes in seven different unique macro algae blends; PURE, PLUS, BREEDERS BLEND, START RIGHT, GASTRO, GASTRO RACE and PRO-GLOBIN. Each individual blend provides a balanced mix of minerals, vitamins, amino acids and antioxidants which, when supplemented to horses really boost and promote a healthy immune system and gut environment.

The Immun-Ocean Gastro product is particularly popular in the Eventing world. Its macro algae combination is rich in calcium and magnesium in addition to over 70 minerals. International Event Rider, Lydia Hannon who has her entire yard on Immun-Ocean Gastro said; ‘we expect our horses to be athletes and so we must treat them as such. When it comes to the healthy condition of a horse it is vital to get the basics right; you then have a strong foundation to build on. A daily dose of Gastro has without doubt helped to keep my horses free from colds, bad tummies and skin problems. They maintain their weight well, look bright in the eye and their coats look fantastic all year round.’ The nutritional benefits that Gastro provides has proved to have the following results: - Reduced stress. - Improved digestion, intestinal functions and immunity through its prebiotic and pro-biotic qualities.

- Reduced inflammation and joint support, due to the naturally produced MSM in the macro algae. - Improved brain health and concentration levels. - Gastric buffering properties that aid horses suffering from gastric ulcers. The sponge like structure of the Lithothamnium Corrallioides helps maintain the gastric mucosa membrane of the stomach. This membrane can be easily depleted, particularly in horses fed on high levels of concentrates. - Increased bone turnover, thanks to organically high levels of calcium. Immun-Ocean products are hand harvested from sustainable beds off the North Atlantic coastline. Backed by science, the macro algae is slow dried at low temperatures so that the algae can retain its bioactivity and all the valuable nutrients naturally found in the fresh product. Excess iodine is extracted to ensure that the correct daily dietary levels for the average horse are maintained.

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For further information go to: Website: www.ksbequine.com 102 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH Email: info@ksbequine.com Office: 01327 860892

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oes your horse have behavioural issues when tacking up, being ridden or in the stable? Do they have a lack of condition, poor performance, loose droppings or weight loss? If your horse has any of these symptoms then they could potentially have poor gut health and digestive function. In today’s competitive world of equine sport, horses need to sustain high energy levels in order to consistently perform at their best. To achieve this many horses are fed high-cereal, starch-rich rations, have limited turnout – especially in winter – and have long periods of time standing on the lorry travelling to events. This environment can be highly stressful for the horse and with the addition of a high-energy diet it really can adversely affect the digestive system and the horse’s overall performance. That is why Hickstead Horse Feeds designed Gastric Activ+, a complementary supplement that can contribute to good equine gut health and digestive function, helping to balance out the modern diet. Owners that use Gastric Activ+ have seen increase in performance, shiny coat, weight gain, firmer droppings and an overall happier horse in just four weeks.

So, what does Gastric Activ+ do? Maintains a healthy pattern of fermentation in the stomach by reducing the accumulation of lactic acid. It also reduces the amount of time that the gastric mucosa is exposed to a high level of gastric acidity through its buffering action. It forms a physical barrier between the gastric mucosa and acidic gastric juices.

What are the ingredients? Live yeast (Saccharomyces Cerevisae) – Helps to maintain a healthy balance of microflora within the stomach and general digestive tract. Live yeast can also help to maintain normal levels of acidity by supporting the growth of bacteria known as lactate utilisers.

Pectin and lecithin – Forms a physical barrier between the gastric juices and the sensitive non glandular region of the stomach in a similar way to the presence of food within the stomach. Acid Buff – provides a slow release form of calcium carbonate, which has a buffering action within the stomach and digestive tract as a whole to counteract dietary-induced acidity. Zeolite – has the ability to absorb undesirable substances such as mycotoxins, which may be present in feed.

and competing on a regular basic, then use Gastric Activ+ to help support and maintain your horse’s digestive system.  For more advice, visit www. hicksteadhorsefeeds.com – our team are always happy to answer your questions.

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Try it… If your horse is on a high-energy diet EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 103

EQUINE HEALTH

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magine your own body with stiff, painful muscles or a sore back or stomach. There is no way you would be able to run as fast, turn quickly or jump as high, nor would you want to and the same is true for our horses. No wonder then, that performance and behaviour in all types of horses decline with ulcers. Each horse is an individual and, as such, symptoms can be specific to the individual. They may show a range of the symptoms below, which may vary at any one point in time, depending upon the cause of the ulcers.

‘It is commonly known that 86% of horses show signs of ulcers – the other 14% have got them’

How can Ron Fields Nutrition help your horse or pony? We make a range of scientifically formulated Ayurvedic herbal products to alleviate symptoms shown by horses with gut issues. All are fast-acting liquids and results can be seen within five days. We have successfully worked with vets, horse trainers, physios and owners using our products to improve the health and wellbeing of horses or ponies. For more information on ingredients and for testimonials, see www. ronfieldsnutrition.co.uk or our Facebook page – Ron Fields Nutrition.

Ulc30Ex+ Currently our fastest-selling product, it is designed for horses and ponies with signs

appetite and improving digestion. of muscle soreness or irritability when being brushed, saddled or ridden, or which show undesirable behaviours that are out of character; for any horse or pony that lacks a muscled top line or displays stable vices such as cribbing, weaving or wind sucking; for any horse or pony that has a reduced appetite or just appears dull and miserable. The herbs are very effective and fast-acting. They assist in reducing inflammation, relieving pain, boosting

Signs of ulcers A lot of horses present symptoms that are often overlooked and not linked to gut pain. These include:  Muscle pain  Back and vertebral pain  Bloated abdomen (may be more indicative of hind gut ulcers)  Dull, dry coat  Emotionally “shut down”, dull eyed and disinterested  Anxious behaviour  Shying away from their handler  Irritability and mouthiness  Slow and picky eating  Sensitivity in many areas of the body  Biting  Kicking  Not liking the saddle or problems with fit  Problems girthing

 Stopping going forward  Dislikes picking up hooves  Dislikes the front limbs being stretched forward or the hind limbs being stretched backwards  Swollen sheath or mammary glands  Refusal of mares to nurse a foal  Reluctance of stallions to mount a mare  Horses which stand base narrow showing reverse palmar angles and crushed heels on hind feet and dished toes with high heels on front feet  Poor quality hooves – ulcers compromise the metabolism which in turn impacts the integrity of the hoof wall, laminae attachment, integrity of the wall, frog and sole There are many more symptoms of ulcers in the fore and hind gut.

Remount Remount is a very popular purchase – it is an excellent general tonic that helps horses to maintain health and vitality for longer and assists in recovery from poor general health or from an illness. It is designed to support normal liver function and assist with detoxification. For case studies and veterinary test results about this product, please contact us.

Silent 4 Pain associated with gut issues can often lead to stress and anxiety. It can be difficult to break such cycles and memories associated with pain-related issues. Silent 4 assists the body to adapt against stress by maintaining the functions of the adrenal gland and supporting its non-specific resistance to combat any environmental variations and various untoward influences. It therefore helps the horse to cope more easily with the situation, without impairing their performance. All of these products can be safely given together and will work in synergy with each other.  For more information about how these can help your horse or pony, please call Ron Fields on 01452 851111.

EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 105

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Call us on 01908 226626 or visit www.spillers-feeds.com *UK 106Feed | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

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 Pulse Magnetics’ Fetlock Band is easy to fit and hard-wearing; top right, a bracelet from our Elegance range ex P a op cha rt tio ng n e

ust like their riders, aches, pains, stiffness and swelling can severely affect our horses’ quality of life, limiting their enjoyment of being out on a ride, causing discomfort when resting up at home in the stable and even stopping you getting out and about together at all. These issues might have developed from injury or from age but, whatever their cause, the effect is the same – an unhappy horse and a long search for a solution that offers some relief. But now a growing number of horse owners have discovered a simple, completely natural approach can put a spring back into their companion’s step – harnessing the deep power of magnets to aid the healing process and restore balance in the body. Pulse Magnetics has developed a range to help both people and pets over 20 years, with many clients who have found themselves pain-free after trying our products keen to get the same results for their animals. Magnetic therapy has been practised for thousands of years, says Pulse Magnetics’ founder Ray Padfield-Krala, who explains: “Magnetism is the very foundation of life on earth. Our bodies are ‘electric’, resonating within a frequency range and constantly being altered by poor diet, injury, illness, accidents and the effects of electromagnetic fields so it makes sense to use magnetic therapy to re-balance the body’s natural healing mechanism. “Magnetic therapy products can help to readdress this imbalance by allowing

the body to repair itself from within by either applying powerful magnetic fields to a problem area or by exposing the iron atoms in blood to aid and improve oxygen delivery throughout the whole body.” Using high-grade magnets, Pulse Magnetics’ unique animal bands are designed and made here in the UK. The durable Fetlock Band is easy to fit and can be worn day and night as it doesn’t cause Horse Magnetic overheating. Customers have used them Fetlock Band single - £35 on horses suffering from arthritis, tendon pack of 2 - £65 injuries, laminitis, and general lameness

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Here are just some of the comments we have received from customers delighted at the improvements they have seen in their horses with Pulse Magnetics:  I can’t speak highly enough for the horse/pony band. It's a quality product with a simple, unfussy design which is easy to fit and stands up to the wear and tear. Most importantly, it is effective and has been a key part in improving my pony’s fitness.  I purchased an equine magnetic Fetlock Band at Hickstead 2017 for my arthritic 17-year-old ex-racehorse. He’s now completely sound and drug free, can’t recommend these bands enough.

 Pulse Magnetics’ Fetlock Band uses the strongest magnets on the market and has the strength to hold three two pence coins

and stiffness with great feedback on the benefits. With flexibility and value in mind, our magnetic horse rug pads have been designed to attach to customers’ existing horse rugs and blankets, allowing the horse owner to choose where to put each pad for the greatest benefit to their animal, unlike many products on the market. The handy, powerful pads can be moved to focus on specific areas such as shoulders, back and hips – and can be used by the rider for the same problems NEW – or spread evenly to provide a relaxing Fetlock B oost magnetic massage. An even str magnetionger force! c of  To ﬁnd out more about the power Designed to help reduce swelling and general stiffness in the joints, magnets and to see our full range for to speed up healing and general wellbeing to the whole body. pets and people, No need including for Boots or Wrapsour stylish  The unique design and hard wearing material are unlike similar products on the market, Elegance bracelet range incorporating  Generates no heat, so can be worn 24/7 in or out and in all weathers,  Even when riding out or competing. precious metals, our selection of The high powered magnetic field covers a large area and penetrates deep through the fetlock into both muscle and tissue and into the main artery which then carries the benefit throughout the whole body by stimulating and and improving overall bloodpractical, flow. Titanium bracelets our Check out the coin test on the website and see if your product colourful wristbands, please visit has the same magnetic strength. Contact us now to find out more about relieving pain and soothing aching joints in your horse. www.pulsemagnetics.co.uk www.pulsemagnetics.co.uk

 I bought a magnetic band for my 20-year-old thoroughbred in December as being stood in a stable over winter

made his legs fill up with fluid and he was obviously uncomfortably stiff. I had tried various supplements and boots to no effect. I placed the band around his near fore fetlock and within days he was like a different animal. He could keep the band on 24 hours a day, he was happier in himself, the swelling completely disappeared and never returned and he is no longer stiff! It gave him a spring back in his step and I can’t thank you enough!  l now have the rug magnets set which l use on my horse when l am grooming. l leave them under his fleece rug and he stays calm and relaxed. I have also tried them on before and after riding, which has improved his stiffness. I am hooked and believe if you suffer from any aches and pains you should try them for yourself.

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 107

PROMOTION

Planting to save the planet Lordington Park Agronomy’s Jonathan Holmes looks at how our land can be used to grow productive grasses while helping to reduce greenhouse gases

n May 2018 the Earth’s atmospheric concentration of the greenhouse gas carbon dioxide (CO₂) exceeded 410 parts per million (ppm) for the first time ever in our history, according to CO₂ Earth. This is a sad indictment of our inadvertent abuse of the planet that has developed since Britain’s first Industrial Revolution from 1760 to 1830. As farmers and growers, we can readily make a considerable contribution to the reduction of CO₂ in the atmosphere and generate a highly productive farming environment in the process. Don’t think short-term profit – think planet! The long-term benefits to both the environment and the generation of costeffective yields will be invaluable. Think back to school when we learnt about photosynthesis – water and light energy combine with CO₂ from the atmosphere to produce carbohydrate energy (glucose) in the plant and oxygen, which is voided back into the atmosphere as a by-product of the chemical reaction. A plant is rarely able to utilise all the CO₂ that it absorbs because that rate of absorption is influenced by many inter-related environmental factors. For example, a change in temperature after absorption, adverse weather, a shortage of a nutrient such as manganese, or overcast weather reducing the availability of sunlight to name but a few. A soil “works” as a growing medium as a consequence of the interaction between plant photosynthesis, plant and microbial respiration and, crucially, plant and root decay, which is regulated both by time and soil bacteria and fungi. These inter-dependent processes create organic matter, which is made from organic compounds that contain significant quantities of carbon. Soil organic carbon (SOC) levels are then directly related to this resulting organic matter. Therefore, the more efficiently a plant is allowed to function, the greater

that the SOC that will be created over time. Much like humans who consume more than we can effectively process, the plant has a similar problem with the excess CO₂ that it absorbs, and what to do with it. The solution is both elegant and confers significant benefits to crop profitability, the environment and the soil organic carbon levels. This solution is enhanced in efficacy and capability by a plant with a prolific root-mass and a soil containing a high density of arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). Most UK soils are significantly overworked which destroys the AMF colonisation, and the predominating cereal varieties that lack a highly developed root mass as a result. For a soil to effectively operate it requires 25 per cent water and 25 per cent air. The air and water allow the microbes and bacteria to breathe and flourish. Crucially, the air pockets provide an easy space for plant roots to grow through, which then creates the essential dense root mass, and ensures that the plant isn’t wasting energy trying to force roots through the soil. This is where the clever part comes in! The plants generate an exudate (slime trail) on the outside of the roots that enables the roots to slide more efficiently through the soil air pockets. The exudate

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contains amino-acids and sugars that provide the mycorrhizae with essential carbon-based energy. In return the mycorrhizae generate hydrogen ions that break the chemical bonds that hold nutrients in the soil, making them available for the root hairs to absorb by osmosis. The higher the microbial level in the soil, then more of the organic matter is broken down into humus. Humus is highly carbon-rich and also gives soil its indicative dark colour. The decomposition of the soil ecology by the mycorrhizae and bacterial respiration will inevitably result in some CO₂ release directly from the soil. But the more humus that can be generated will ensure that as much as possible of the carbon is stored in the soil both in the humus its self and as a result of formation of bicarbonate in the soil, and its storage in conjunction with soil calcium as calcium carbonate. Use Albrecht soil analysis to ensure that there is enough calcium in your soil! Calcium isn’t just a requirement for acidic soils. If carbon generation from photosynthesis is higher than the carbon losses from the soil, then soil organic carbon will increase. To quantify the financial viability and validate these benefits to the soil and

 A cover crop of rye, fodder radish and crimson clover

PROMOTION

the environment, one of my enlightened farmers has planted 20 hectares with a cover crop mixture of rye, fodder radish, and crimson clover. This mixture was also inoculated at drilling with arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The clover struggled to establish as the weather after drilling stayed frustratingly dry. The rye has established fantastically well, and the fodder radish is generating a great root mass, too. The fodder radish and the deep-rooted rye have already started to produce significant benefits for soil structure and friability, which bodes well for the following crop of spring oats. It was noticeable just how easy a spade was pushed into the soil, without the aid of a foot. A significantly different result compared to the field last year when it was winter wheat. Soil temperature on December 11 was an unexpected 5.4°C. This was because the rye and radish are helping to open the soil out and allow air in. What I found fascinating was the 16-hectare field of winter wheat that adjoined the cover-crop fields. Albrecht analysis has indicated a broadly similar soil type.

 The soil is already seeing the benefits of deep-rooted rye and fodder radish The wheat was drilled as soon as significant moisture materialised on October 15. I had to kick the spade into the soil after the first 25mm, and the soil smelt and felt cold and uninspiring. What was indicative was the soil temperature, which had already dropped to 3.5°C. The wheat will be slow to develop in the spring, and yield will be compromised if we get another cold wet winter and spring, as the soil is already struggling to live.

If we extrapolate the overall perspective of soil-crop interaction demonstrated above into grassland, the results are even more exciting! I am currently working with some open-minded Timothy hay producers to improve quality and productivity. Timothy hay will stay in the ground for four years, which ensures that the AMF can fully interact with the crop as it has time to proliferate in the soil. Consequently, crop quality and durability improve, and the carbon capture levels are increasing annually. That is a great situation for all of us. With a little thought and application, this scenario can easily be replicated in any grazing environment. If you look at the comparison between the rye and the wheat crops above, and then substitute cocksfoot (1.5 metre rooting depth) and Timothy (one metre rooting depth) for the rye, exciting things will happen in your soil! The grass will be significantly more palatable and nutritious, too.  Contact Lordington Park Agronomy to ﬁnd out how you can generate productive grass and save the planet!

Release the potential in your grass! Customise your soil’s fertility and grass species to satisfy the optimum nutritional requirements of your animals. ■ ■ ■

■

Release essential trace elements and minerals - especially magnesium and calcium Reduce stress and hyperactivity Maintain joint health, bone strength and development Improve muscle recovery after exercise

Just read what satisfied customers say: Explained how soil works and how I can manage it to benefit my horses

Given me a clear understanding of what I need to do and how to achieve it

Bespoke five-year plan for my pasture. Boundless enthusiasm and knowledge!

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Call now to find out how we can help you get more from your grass to benefit your horses.

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www.lordingtonparkagronomy.co.uk COUNTRY FASHION – Your Horse & Country Magazine AUTUMN 2018 | 109

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110 | AUTUMN 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – COUNTRY FASHION

Diet control – laminitis

With spring just around the corner, Joanna Palmer, nutritionist at Allen & Page offers top tips on management and feeding to help prevent laminitis in our horses and ponies. This is particularly important for our population of veteran equines who are sadly at an increased risk of laminitis, often due to metabolic problems more common in their later years. Limit starch and sugar in the diet

When choosing a bucket feed ensure it is one which is suitable for your horse’s specific nutritional needs. Horse and ponies at risk of laminitis should ideally be fed feeds which have a combined starch and sugar level of 10% or less and are free from whole cereal grains and molasses. Veteran Light and Fast Fibre are two feeds from the Barley & Molasses Free Range that are suitable for laminitics. As well as being fully balanced with vitamins and minerals, both feeds are high in fibre and low in starch and sugar, making them more natural for the horse than traditional cereal based mixes and cubes. Not only can a high starch diet cause fizzy and excitable behaviour, but it is also more difficult to digest and can make the horse more susceptible to developing laminitis or colic. lnstead of starchy cereals, Veteran Light and Fast Fibre use fibre and oil as energy sources.

The importance of fibre

Fibre should form the basis of every horse’s diet to keep the digestive system healthy and functioning efficiently. For those that are overweight or prone to laminitis, feed hay that has been soaked for 12-16 hours. Soaking hay removes water soluble carbohydrates, making it much lower in sugar and calories than unsoaked hay. Being lower in sugar means more can be fed to satisfy the horse’s need for a near constant supply of fibre, particularly when grazing is restricted.

Keep horses at ideal bodyweights

It is well recognised that overweight and obese horses and ponies are more at risk of developing laminitis. By maintaining your horse at a healthy weight and body condition score, the risk of laminitis developing or recurring in the future can be lessened. You should be able to feel your horse’s ribs easily when you run your hand lightly across the ribcage and there should be no fat deposits or signs of a crest developing on the neck. Providing illness or unsoundness aren’t a problem, increasing exercise will help to burn calories and keep waistlines in check!

Avoid frosted grass

Be vigilant for late season frosts as laminitis isn’t just a spring and summer problem. Ingesting frosted grass can induce an attack, so avoid turnout on days when it is very cold but bright and sunny as the fructan (sugar) content of the grass will be at its highest. Wait until the temperature has risen and the frost has melted before turning out.

Restrict grazing

Be ready for the first flush of spring grass growth that is often the prime culprit in inducing a laminitis attack! Unproductive, poor quality grazing is best for laminitis prone horses and ponies but as this isn’t often available, avoiding lush pasture and restricting grass intakes is very important. Strip grazing, implementing a tracked grazing system and the use of a grazing muzzle can all significantly reduce a horse’s grass intake whilst helping to maintain natural grazing behaviour.

For further advice on feeding your laminitis prone horse or pony contact our friendly, award winning nutrition team on

email us at or visit our website

Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 111

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Time to

bloom From lace-up boots to giant bags, Kathy Carter looks at how to carry off this season’s trends

e were all ready to reach for our cut-off jeans, espadrilles and denim jackets in February, with that lovely warm spell; now, with horses shedding their winter woollies and the bluebell season not far away, we can be sure that spring has finally sprung. We’re set for a nice mild spring in 2019, with temperatures in the teens (providing we don’t get any more unexpected “beasts from the east”!), so now’s the perfect time to re-examine your spring wardrobe, and make some nice new additions.

The perfect spring hues

The 2019 Pantone Spring Fashion Colour Trend Report has showcased a few beautiful shades that it believes will be hitting the catwalks and wardrobes this season. Our favourites from the “lively” colour palette are: Living Coral, a pinky coral, with a more golden undertone than is usually seen; Pepper Stem, a zesty, yellowy-olive shade; Jester Red, a rich and elegant maroon shade; Sweet Lilac, which is described as an endearing pink-infused lavender hue; and Turmeric, a more-orange-than-yellow shade that is described as enlivening. (Many horse

and animal owners have already taken on this fashion trend, finding their hands and fingernails a splendidly enlivening shade of turmeric if they’re adding it to their animals’ feeds!). From Pantone’s neutral recommendations, the colours navy,

“

Tie-dye, crochet, animal print, fringing, platform shoes and (the trend that no one asked to return) long cycling shorts are all set for a comeback granite-brown and beige stand out. These are perennial favourites for equestrian and countryside fans anyway.

A conservative palette

Thankfully, the equestrian and countryside manufacturers haven’t taken a leaf from the fashion designers’ current look-books, as neon and fluorescent numbers are set to be coming to a high street near you very soon. In addition, tie-dye, crochet, animal print, fringing, platform shoes and (the

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trend that no one asked to return) long cycling shorts are all set for a comeback. But a look around the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) and SPOGAhorse spring trade shows revealed a fairly conservative colour palette; maroon, red, navy and pink are the colours to be wearing around the yard this season, with enlivening orange-hued items few and far between. Style-wise, we know what we like, and we are sticking to it – plain or stripy polo tops, sporty riding tights and form-fitting polo tops and soft-shell jackets in neutral, block colours, will be bedecking a livery yard near you in 2019.

Bag it up

If you carry a bag when you’re out and about, make sure it’s voluminous – Vogue magazine says 2019’s bags are “big, really big; almost parachute big, which when full, thrown over your shoulder, are akin to a work out”. This is great news for busy equestrian enthusiasts; plenty of room for your horse’s treats, that spare piece of baler twine, your own expansive water bottle, and your children’s baby wipes and halfeaten snacks. 

COUNTRY FASHION

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COUNTRY FASHION

It’s a wrap

If scarves are your thing, look out for checks and tartan designs this season (they’re not just a winter pattern – shades like navy, grey and lilac are all popping up in stores.) While the last few seasons have seen a penchant for animal-related patterns, fauna is definitely the big trend this spring in scarves – a pretty flowery scarf can really make an outfit “pop”.

 Aiver Sport 4D Gel Full Seat Breeches in Royal Blue

A tight ﬁt

If you’re a horse rider you can’t have escaped the trend for riding tights. The name doesn’t do these items of apparel justice – think sports wear, akin to leggings for the gym. Starting in price from as little as around £30, riding tights are a great way to find form-fitting riding wear that can double up as gym-wear too. They tend to be made from a blend of compounds like nylon, polyester, elastane and spandex, which give a good degree of stretch. You can get versions with silicon knee patches and full seats, and the more costly versions, retailing at around £80-£100, may also boast aspects like compression or insulation. There are some wacky patterns and shades available, including leatherlook, but also a lovely array of neutrals like grey and navy, and competition shades like white and beige.

Lovely laced boots

The country boot has seemingly had a make-over, and some of this year’s long leather boots feature rather beautiful lacing. It’s a smart detail that takes a work boot

 HV Polo Jessica Polo Shirt in Bright Coral from Country and Stable; Tatworth Canvas Tote Bag from Rupert and Buckley

from stable to school to shops. Paired with jeans, a laced country boot adds a touch of class to a casual outfit; a simple shirt or polo top and a tailored jacket takes the outfit up a notch, so there’s no need to get changed or feel embarrassed about your horsey clothing. We love Tredstep’s Country Boot range – there are six styles to choose from which include styles that are fully size adjustable, with stretch panels for a sleek silhouette. These are boots you can ride in, with a heeled sole and a robust upper that is engineered to prevent pinching when riding. The collection is fully waterproof, and short boot versions

are also available. The Tredstep Country Boot range is handcrafted from soft, luxurious leathers, with a waterproof and breathable construction. The boots incorporate the refinement and elegance of the Renaissance Riding Collection, which features discreet lacing at the front of the ankle, along with the robust and rugged nature of weatherproof, outdoor boots. Country boots like these in a chocolate brown shade always look good with slimfitting jeans in a dark indigo hue. A quick wipe with a leather-care product (which most horse owners have lurking in their cars!), and your boots are good to go, putting a swing in your step.

Stay prepared Our top tip for spring? Take advantage of the great big totes that will be hitting the high street shelves, and fill the bag with “just in case” items. Bag yourself a cheerful, lightweight, packable waterproof – today’s versions are a million miles away from the sweaty cagoules and pac-a-macs of yesteryear – a cheeky and colourful compact umbrella, and a snazzy floral scarf. Your indigo jeans, paired with those brown country boots and a polo or rugby top in Living Coral, Jester Red or Sweet Lilac, will see you through the day from stables to store, to school to home.   Horse Print Rain Mac from Horses With Attitude

COUNTRY FASHION – Your Horse & Country Magazine AUTUMN 2018 | 115

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COUNTRY FASHION

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BUILD IT

BETA-RIDE® PRO-EQUESTRIAN SURFACES DISCUSS

Constructing an Outdoor Arena WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW BEFORE DECIDING WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU

Sighting your outdoor arena If possible choose a sheltered level location with good natural drainage, access to water is also important. If like most of us these three requirements are not readily available then ... · If exposure is your problem, think about including a good hedge or tree barrier in your construction plans. An alternative to these is an earth bank, probably the easiest and fastest means of protecting the arena from the prevailing weather. · If drainage is your problem, pay more attention to your drainage plans consider not only the footing drainage consider water ingress into the Arena and away from the immediate boundary of the arena. Remember the final surface is the icing on the cake, however good the final surface is, if you have not paid particular attention to the drainage you will be plagued with problems, remember to check local bylaws before diverting water into a water cause. · Access to water, remember you will have to water your surface, a ditch that you are draining into can also be a good source of water, or maybe even a nearby stream or spring, if none of these are an option include a water pipeline in your construction plans.

Constructing your arena Having chosen the most level area available mark out your arena leaving a good margin around the proposed arena consider the access for construction vehicles and lorries delivering your aggregates and other materials. · Remove the top soil from the marked out area and store for landscaping after construction. · If your chosen site is located on a slope the next stage is to level this chosen area by a process known as cut and fill. This means having removed the topsoil the sub-soil is excavated from the higher side of the site and deposited on the low side to create a level surface.

Sand grains magnified Angular

Sub-Angular

Rounded

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· The next stage is to construct the drainage and the footings. There are several considerations for drainage the most popular being the herringbone method. Before undertaking this stage Beta-Ride® recommend you consult a drainage engineer, or those of you who have been confident enough to undertake the construction to this stage should read the many available downloads or publications detailing the various drainage methods before continuing. · Next stage is to fence the arena using 3-bar post and ‘D’ rail fencing with bottom boards known as gravel boards. These are to retain the sub-base and finished surface. Rails should be installed on the inside to ensure the posts do not obstruct the rider, posts cut flush with the top rail to prevent accidental injury to the horse or rider. · With the first woven membrane positioned ideally into the drainage channels as well, drainage laid and back filled with 2 inch clean stone. The entire site is then covered with a 4–6 inch layer of clean aggregates such as ¾ to 2 inches. Limestone or granite using a laser level to ensure accuracy. It is essential that the aggregates are free of dust to prevent drainage channels blocking. · The sub-base should be compacted in layers using a vibrating roller to give a solid base. · The next stage is the upper membrane, Beta-Ride® recommend a 200gsm non-woven membrane this type of membrane feels and looks like felt. The laying of this membrane is most critical it should be turned up at the outside edge and attached to the gravel boards using an industrial staple gun. The seams should be over lapping and sealed this can be achieved with tape or careful use of a blowtorch, it is imperative that the seams and gravel board fixings are sound, this prevents the membrane from coming up to the surface and the sand filtering down to the sub-base and drainage.

The final stage choosing your sand and stabilising ingredient Sand Grains vary from angular to round. The rounder the grain the less tightly the grains fit together. The more round the sand grain the more it will move and give less traction. Sub-Angular Grains compact less than angular grains yet still allow good traction and drainage. When selecting natural sand, you need to request magnified pictures of the sand and select the most sub-angular available. Whilst fine Silica sand with particles ranging between # 60 sieve and #200 sieve is the most

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PROMOTION

desirable, cost and supplier location often exclude this option. Sand promoted as arena sand needs to have a graded range size of between #60 sieve and #200 sieve particles with about 7 per cent below #200, to ensure this percentage use an unwashed sub-angler sand, some sands have a clay content this type of sand, with a small clay content can be an advantage in areas of low rain fall as the clay helps to retain moisture.

Manufactured sand Crushed quarry stone called Fines or Duff usually ranging between angular to sub-angular in shape with sizes #10 sieve to #50 sieve, the particles are sharp and will compact tightly. If used alone, being softer they break down into dust sooner and should be avoided if at all possible.

Fibre Regional sands need a fibre best suited to their particle sizes and range of particle size, Beta-Ride® Pro-Equestrian Surfaces offer an affordable fibre solution for different regional sub-angler sand types. Cofibre® (Polypropylene) Beta-Ride® (a mix of polypropylene, nylon and polyester) Beta-Ride® + (a mix of polypropylene, nylon, polyester and lycra) Whether your sand is from Sandbach, Mansfield, Cardigan, Leighton Buzzard or even fine-dredged estuary sand Beta-Ride® have a fibre to suit. For years fine silica sand was the recommended sand to use when constructing an arena and polypropylene fibre was the essential

Properties of fibres used

stabilising ingredient. Now the specialised art of mixing the different synthetic 100 per cent new material types together with fibre sizing perfected by Cojarec® and Beta-Ride® has made the dream of owning a quality arena a reality, no longer do you have to transport hundreds of tons of fine silica sand hundreds of miles at great expense. Less expensive cheaper to transport regional sub-angler sands are the answer. The days of having to pay high sand prices and compromise by using recycled dirty shredded carpet and other materials probably with a large proportion of organic material (wool and other household nasties) are over, Cojarec® and Beta-Ride® fibres being OVAM certified are well-ahead of the Paris Agreement on waste disposal, (prohibiting the depositing of rubber, organic material, etc. into the ground). Guidance number of bales required: • 40 × 20 metre 9 bales • 60 × 20 metre 12 bales (bales approx. 300kg)

Installation We recommend that your sand riding surface be a minimum of 15cm (6” depth) before installation of the fibre.

Mixing ratio The ratio of fibres to be mixed into the top 10cm (4”) depth of your sand surface depend on the type of sand used in the riding surface and the riding discipline for which the surface will primarily be used, as a guide we recommend the following; Racing gallops: 2½-4kg per m2 surface area of sand. Showjumping/dressage: 4-5kg per m2 surface area of sand.

Maintenance The sand and fibre surface is best maintained by a maintenance harrow, (consisting of harrow tynes and compacting rollers), operated on the ball-hitch of a ATV/UTV or the 3-point link of a tractor. A cost-effective sub-angler regional sand and the correctly matched fibre all add up to a quality arena giving years of pleasure at a sensible price. Cojarec® bvba and Beta-Ride® Pro-Equestrian Services Ltd working together to secure a safer environment. ■ Call Beta-Ride® Equestrian Services Ltd on 01269 595064 or email info@beta-ride.co.uk

Working for a Safer Environment

The Rural Planning Practice are experienced and knowledgeable rural planners. Not only are they riders themselves; so they understand a martingale versus a farthingale, but they also have a good understanding of design for equestrian businesses, competition yards, or for leisure.

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 123

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Surfaces that

perform

hether a private yard, busy livery yard or competition venue, we are using our arenas more than ever, expecting the surface to suit a range of different disciplines and be ready to use whatever the weather. The soggy, waterlogged and frozen arenas we have avoided all winter can soon be replaced with dry, deep and dusty surfaces come spring. A

surface that isn’t performing is at best annoying and disruptive, and at worst has the potential to cause injury. Poor surfaces can damage soft tissue, joints, muscles and hooves, as well as respiratory and vascular systems. A quality riding surface is necessary to maintain a horse’s safety, longevity and performance.

Choosing a surface

WOOD CHIP/WOOD FIBRE

A natural surface, wood fibre which has been produced especially for equestrian surfaces consists of smaller wood particles, whereas woodchip can be anything out of a timber yard’s chipper. Environmentally friendly and economical, wood surfaces are however the least durable and have the shortest lifespan of all the different types of surfaces currently available.

PROS • Eco-friendly if the wood is not treated with chemicals or colourings. However, avoid using recycled wood which may contain nails, wire or staples. Cheap offcuts will breakdown quickly and may block drainage, splinter or become slippery. • Versatile. Can be used indoors and outdoors, as well as for gallops, lunge pens and turn-out paddocks.

CONS • Ground works are needed. Like traditional sand and rubber schools, a drainage system and membrane are required. • Slippery. Wood surfaces can become very slippery when wet, and deep when the wood begins to rot. • Lifespan is roughly two to six years depending on use.

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RUBBER

Economical, suitable for all equestrian disciplines, rot-proof and highly shock absorbent, rubber is still a popular surface choice. PROS • Long-lasting alternative to woodchip. Pretty much indestructible if properly maintained. • Low maintenance. Once a week with a flat back leveller will ensure an even rubber coverage; however, regular topups will be need. • Weather resistant. Less likely than woodchip to dry out, become waterlogged or freeze. • Good for jumping on as horses are less likely to skid on landing and the “spring” of the rubber reduces the risk of concussion injuries.

CONS • Not the eco-friendly choice. Traditional rubber surfaces can take more than 50 years to decompose. Good news for the longevity of the rubber in the arena; however, rubber crumb migrates easily. • Regular top-ups needed. Once the rubber topping has dwindled, the sand beneath may freeze in winter and become deep in summer. Without the “spring” of the rubber, the sand will also start to “ride dead”, taking the energy out of the horse’s stride. Deep, dry sand will cause horses to travel through the surface rather than over it, increasing risk of injury. • Rubber needs a sand base and drainage system to make sure it doesn’t puddle during the wetter months. • Disposal. Bear in mind that as rubber is not biodegradable, it can be expensive to get rid of.

SAND (WAXED SILICA SAND WITH FIBRES)

Sand combination such as sand with a rubber topping or waxed sand with fibres mixed through are popular choices. High-quality, waxed silica sand mixed with fibres is currently the surface of choice for most competition venues and professional yards. PROS • Secure footing. By replicating the natural qualities of turf by mimicking the binding ability of top soil, sand and fibres minimise kickback and provide a secure footing, which allows horses to travel over the top of the surface rather than through it. • Problem-solving top-up. Sand with fibres can transform most types of poorly performing surfaces, rejuvenating loose surfaces which dry out easily and ride deep. • Versatile. Top-up or complete surface, sand with fibres can be used for outdoor arenas and on gallops. Ideal for indoor use as it’s dust-free, the natural light colouring also visually brightens enclosed arenas.

CARPET

Carpet surfaces are versatile and suitable for most disciplines, in all weather conditions. PROS • Environmentally friendly. Most carpet surfaces are recycled from surplus and waste carpets, saving large amounts of carpet fibre ending up in landfill • All-weather. High-quality carpet

CONS • Abrasive. Sand, as soon as it is laid, will begin a natural process of grinding against itself. Through the action of the hooves, it will gradually become finer and the surface progressively deeper. Adding fibres will prevent movement in the surface and slow down this process. • Not a complete solution. Sand without the fibres can freeze in winter and, if unwaxed, sand will also need to be watered in dry weather for optimum performance. surfaces will not freeze, rot or blow. • Versatile. Carpet can be used on both indoor and outdoor surfaces, added to most types of existing surface as a top-up or, if you are building your arena from scratch, laid directly on top of a simple, stone drainage layer, negating the need for additional materials and labour costs. • ‘Cushioning’ ride. Carpet surfaces offer a springy, forgiving feel, making them ideal for most disciplines. 

• Adding ﬁbres means moisture is retained, reducing surface movement and required maintenance. • Clever membranes. New products, such as Equitex-Drain System Membrane, allow arenas to be constructed without the need to dig drainage ditches. Made from multiple layers which contain an internal band of drains, the system provides a costeffective option for well-draining land. International event rider Ben Way, pictured below, uses a synthetic rubber crumb and silica sand surface, on top of an Equitex-Drain System Membrane. He says: “The membrane was put down over eight years ago – directly onto a mown grass area, with silica sand and synthetic rubber placed directly on top. We work at least 12 horses a day on it, including jumping, lunging and loose jumping. I am very pleased with the surface and how well the horses move and perform it.”

Photo: Simon Bratt/Shutterstock.com

• Minimal maintenance. Silica sand and fibres move less, meaning less maintenance is needed.

NEXT GENERATION A new generation of synthetic rubber crumb, containing fibre, and laid on top of silica sand has removed some of the downsides of choosing a rubber surface. It is still rot proof, shock absorbent and all-weather – but with the addition of the fibres, which prevent the surface from drying out.

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 125

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With over 20 years’ experience, we understand the importance of assisting our customers in making the correct decisions We offer a full range of materials for the construction of a perfect, all-weather horse arena, together with other aggregates for roads or building work.

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From a full brand new arena to refurbing your existing school Equestrian Arenas Limited are national installers of quality horse riding arenas, lunging pens and gallops. It is run and owned by just two directors, with a combined experience of over 20 years in the arena building industry. Nationwide company providing a turn-key service to the exact specification of the client. With our vast experience in the equine industry we are able to give you a bespoke product for you to be proud of. We can also provide you with friendly independent advice, incorporating your needs into any project. Thoroughly recommend Equestrian Arenas LTD - these guys have done a great job restoring the arenas at Gadlas.

I couldn’t have chosen a better company to carry out my project.

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Mr Martin Clunes OBE, President of The British Horse Society (January 2019)

Contact us now to discuss how we can help with your next project: Office: 01554 820448, Mobile: 07771 750057 or email: info@equestrianarenasltd.co.uk

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126 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

BUILD IT

CARPET CONTINUED

• Low maintenance. Surfaces made from carpet require very little maintenance to remain in peak condition. A weekly harrow to ensure even coverage is often more than sufficient. CONS • Lifespan. The lifespan of carpet surfaces can differ depending on their original use. While they may look similar, a surface recycled from industrial sources will last significantly longer than domestic carpet. Surfaces made from

Problem solving an existing arena Reconstructing an arena is a costly business, but there are other options available for improving what you already have. A short-term solution to a deep, sandbased surface is to level and water the arena, replacing the moisture which has been lost due to the warmer weather. However, the beneficial effects will only be temporary. Surface top-ups are a quick and cost-effective solution. A top-up of a sand and fibre surface works by rotating additional fibres into the existing surface, meaning more moisture will be retained, as well as vastly improving the top “riding” layer. A top-up of a multi-purpose surface can be used to improve footing and retain moisture on the majority of existing surfaces. The carpet-based surface also works as an insulating layer preventing the surface from drying out in the summer and freezing in winter.

Choosing a surface provider Purchasing new or topping up an arena surface can be a high-cost investment – however, choosing the cheapest option could prove costly down the line. • Years of experience. Look for a company which has been around for a while, and likely to still be in business in the next few years, should you need them. • Social media reviews are a great

virgin material (surplus clean, industrial quality carpet) also offer UV protection, for even greater longevity. • Quality. Surfaces made from used, domestic carpets may be contaminated with unwanted extras such as carpet grippers and wire. Poor quality carpet can also become dusty when used in indoor schools, whereas larger pieces of carpet will not lay correctly, giving an uneven surface. • Foam. Beware of carpet surfaces which contain high quantities of foam. The foam will quickly break down,

place to start when researching a surface company. • Customer service. Give the office a call to discuss what they would recommend for your specific circumstances. Some will send out surface samples if requested. • Try before you buy service. Most good manufacturers or suppliers will offer the option of going to see or even riding on one of their previously constructed arenas. However, this cannot always be expected so it is a question well worth asking.

meaning a surface top-up will be required just a few years after installation. • Can be costly. Surfaces made of carpet offer a wide range of benefits, but only if they are good quality and if you have enough surface to cover your arena. Beware of companies offering cheap carpet surfaces. If something looks too good to be true, it usually is. Poor quality carpet will break down quickly, and too sparse a covering will not give you the benefits listed above. Making an investment now will pay off in the long run.

n Editorial content supplied by Equestrian Direct Ltd – visit www. equestriandirectltd.co.uk or call 01564 794020. n

“

Purchasing new or topping up an arena surface can be a high-cost investment – however, choosing the cheapest option could prove costly down the line

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 127

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20mm Rubber Crumb The low maintenance all weather surface

20MM RUBBER CRUMB is the most economic and versatile surface available in the market.

RUBBER CRUMB does not freeze easily and is an excellent all weather surface that will not rot or blow away. It is ideal for turnouts, horse arenas and gallops. RUBBER CRUMB is environmentally friendly, extremely cost effective and is virtually maintenance free. It provides exceptional cushioning qualities to help reduce the risk of potential injury or lameness.

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128 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

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BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 129

BUILD IT

www.mayfield-engineering.co.uk  Manufacturing a range of Arena Levellers for all surfaces

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130 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

PROMOTION

Stables expertly crafted to J suit you on William Stables supply a huge range of equestrian and timber products, including American barns, wooden stables, mobile field shelters, mobile stables, static field shelters; plus unique bespoke American barns, stables, and utility and timber buildings. We understand that choosing the right stable for you and your horse takes time. We are confident that at Jon William Stables you have come to the right place. We are a family company that cares about the timber buildings we produce. Every single one is an advertisement for us, so we make sure we get it right. We have been manufacturing stables since 1983. Over the subsequent years our original designs have been continuously improved in consultation with vets, horse trainers, equestrian champions and many of our customers. This has resulted in our current portfolio of informed and thoughtfully designed buildings: the Intro, Ideal and Elite ranges. Whether you need one or two stables or a commercial complex, including tack rooms, storage barns and offices, we are able to meet your requirements with quality products.

Intro Range Stables Our Intro range provides a robust stable, manufactured using the same high quality materials used in the Ideal and Elite ranges. It is a range that provides a starting

point for your stabling at an affordable price, while still providing peace of mind for years to come.

Ideal Range Stables The Ideal range includes many features that are considered as optional extras by other manufacturers. The range offers a high specification at exceptional value. While the Ideal range design provides a practical solution to your stabling, we are able to include bespoke additions as required.

Elite Range Stables Creating a premier stable yard is easily achieved with our Elite range. Manufactured to the highest of design specification providing extra style, creativity and practicality to satisfy the most discerning of customer. Our exceptionally strong steel framed doors will withstand the test of time. Together with the 100mm x 50mm (4” x 2”) framework, 2.4m (8’) eaves height and the optional feature of a felt shingle roof. The Elite range is a substantial build, looks fantastic and will be the envy of your equestrian neighbours.  For more information and to download our brochure, visit www.jonwilliamstables.co.uk. Call us on 01380 850 965 or visit our main ofﬁce at Netherstreet, Bromham, Chippenham, Wiltshire, SN15 2DW

“

Jon William Stables was an obvious choice for us as we were seeking a substantial field shelter with all the hallmarks of top quality craftsmanship

“

A balance between cost and quality... Jon William Stables met both criteria for us, and did so with excellent service

Jon William Stables – Expertise  Quality  Design  Service www.jonwilliamstables.co.uk  01380 850 965 13 | | SPRING 131 SPRING 2017 2019 Your YourHorse Horse&&Country CountryMagazine Magazine – BUILD IT

£195 per bale +VAT Approximately 3 bales per tonne

Frequently asked questions you need to know Beta-Ride® Pro Equestrian Services UK Distributors of Cojarec Fibres Cofibre® (Polypropylene) Beta-Ride® (Polypropylene, Polyester and Nylon) Beta-Ride® Plus (Polypropylene, Polyester, Nylon and Lycra)

Beta-Ride® Pro Equestrian Services exclusive distributor of Cojarec produced Beta-Ride®, a mix of Polypropylene, Polyester and Nylon, Beta-Ride® Plus, a mix of Polypropylene, Polyester, Nylon and Lycra developed by Cojarec and Beta-Ride® Pro–Equestrian surfaces, offering a wider range of fibre size than Cofibre® (Polypropylene). Beta-Ride® fibres benefits include better moisture retention, wider range of fibre size improving the finished surface when using different regional Sub-Angular Sands.

Only those manufacturers with a passion for the sport looking to improve the performance, consistency and safety of arena’s, are investing in understanding how to contribute to providing an arena for all disciplines at all levels. Beta-Ride® Pro-Equestrian Surfaces are going the extra mile to offer a fibre suitable for all discipline’s capable of being mixed with sensibly priced Regional Sub–Angular Sand to a quality not compromised by cost.

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a. Cojarec Fibres are 100% new product manufactured to the highest standards in Belgium meeting OVAM Standards

Are Cojarec Fibres Shredded? Cojarec Fibres are cut to ensure consistency in the various Fibres sizes they produce Cofibre®, Beta-Ride® and Beta-Ride® +

What is different about Cojarec fibres from cheaper fibres available? Cojarec fibres use no organic materials in their products, neither do they contain any unknown materials, this enables Cojarec to control the correct amount of Polypropylene, Polyester, Nylon and Lycra in their different products.

Cojarec Fibres Cofibre® are widely distributed across the UK, often being offered by installers as their own brand of fibres. With the ever increasing participation in horse sports, the demand for artificial surfaces has increased dramatically, this consumer-led market has increased the number of manufacturers offering arena surfaces ten fold, sadly there are currently no regulations or guidelines on materials offered for sale, with performance and safety not featuring very highly with a large number of these manufacturers.

Are Cojarec Fibres recycled materials?

Why does it matter about the different mix and size of fibres in Cojarec Products? It matters because the properties in these fibres work in different ways when mixed with differing sand types, also if these fibre mixes contained any organic matter, in a very short time these organic materials would rot, break down and destroy the balance of your Arena.

www.beta-ride.co.uk

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 132

Pro-Equestrian Surfaces unrivalled performance

As Installers of our fibres Beta-Ride® has been particularly busy with refurbishing Arena’s this summer, our service includes identifying your sand type, sourcing suitable Regional Sub-Angular sand for your project whether that be a full construction or refurbish.

How would I know which Cojarec Fibre to use in my Arena?

When you have decided which sand type you are using or what sand you have in your Arena, Beta-Ride Pro-Equestrian Surfaces will advise which Fibre mix is best suited for your Arena.

How can I find out what sand is in my existing Arena? Send a small sample of your sand in an envelope to Beta-Ride Pro-Equestrian Surfaces who will check this for you.

How are Cojarec Fibres delivered? Cojarec Fibres are delivered in circa 300 kg bales on pallets, if you do not have access to mechanical handling equipment, and if requested fibre can be delivered by a lorry equipped with a tail lift. However you will require help positioning the bales onto the arena before spreading and mixing into the sand.

Do Beta-Ride Pro – Equestrian Surfaces carry out full Arena Construction?

Do I need specialist equipment to install Cojarec Fibres?

Beta-Ride Pro- Equestrian Surfaces do not construct Arena’s, however we are happy to install fibre into a prepared sand surface, we also work with our Associate Equestrian Installers whom we are happy to recommend.

Cojarec Fibres can be installed using equipment hired from a DIY hire shop, Beta-Ride Pro-Equestrian Surfaces are happy to give advice and useful tips in installing fibre into your Arena.

Are Beta-Ride® Associate Equestrian Installers reliable?

Beta-Ride® only recommend Equestrian Installers who are true professionals with years of experience installing quality fibre Surfaces.

Cojarec Bvba and Beta-Ride® Pro-Equestrian Services Ltd working together to secure a safer environment.

133 | SPRING 2019 Your HorseLtd, & Country MagazineGarage, – BUILD Beta-Ride® Pro-Equestrian Surfaces Unit 1, Penpound HeolITY Felin Betws, Ammanford, SA18 2HL

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY OUTDOOR PURSUITS

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Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 134

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY SERVICES

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Stablecare South West We are working for excellence in animal We are working for therapy through our excellence in animal registered animal therapy through our registered therapistsanimal therapists IAAT exists to provide vets, owners and insurance companies a register trainedand professionals IAAT existswith to provide vets,ofowners insurance a register of trained professionals incompanies a numberwith of disciplines: in a number of disciplines:  Physiotherapy Physiotherapy  Osteopathy Osteopathy  Animal Manipulation Animal Manipulation  Massage Massage  Hydrotherapy  Hydrotherapy IAAT is run by its members, for its members and IAAT is run by its members, for its members and is committed to providing a professional and is committed to providing a professional and proactive association. It is a high profile proactive association. It is a high profile organisation that boasts a large number of organisation that boasts a large number of international members. international members.

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07912974653 | info@equinepaddockcare.co.uk Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 135 Equine Paddock Care 130x90.indd 1

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136 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

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www.county-equestrian.co.uk 137 | SPRING 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

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New and Used Horse Trailer Specialists Service, Repair and Spare Parts Tally Ho Trailers is the main UK importer and stockist for Vans Fautras and Cheval Liberte horse trailers.

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Your Horse & Country Magazine SPRING 2019 | 138

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