Your Horse & Country Magazine by YHC Group Ltd

Winter 2019

Winter wellness Five essential tips for your horse

Christmas covered For him, her and your horse

Paws4thought…

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WELCOME & CONTENTS

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

Perfect presents

Welcome W

Issue 24 | WINTER 2019

hat kind of Christmas shopper are you? There will be those who’ve had everything wrapped and ready to roll out under the tree since August while for many of us the majority of the doors on our advent calendars will be open before we can say we’re truly finished!

Paws for Thought

Photo: Zoe Hewett

Green Christmas

Whatever stage your festive preparations have reached, our bumper gift guide has it all – treats for her, him and horse! Kathy Carter offers an inspiring round-up of gifts that will all fit in your loved ones’ stockings (Page 14) while a wide range of quality retailers showcase what they have to offer this season – Christmas will be all wrapped up before you’ve even left the house! Our homes will be at the heart of the festivities as we welcome family and friends to celebrate – interior designer Zoe Hewett is dreaming of a green Christmas and looks at ways to add sparkle with some environmentally friendly tips, from bio-glitter to foraged trimmings (Page 42). As ever, Your Country Property is also full to the brim with a selection of stunning homes for sale – perhaps the ultimate gift to yourself! We’ll all be making sure our horses and other pets are part of the celebrations – but some animals will not be so fortunate, which is why in this issue we are asking readers to “paws for thought” and consider the legions of rescue dogs looking for families of their own. Cared for by dedicated charities, there are also many ways we can all help ensure these dogs are safe, happy and healthy even if we can’t rehome one ourselves – find out more on Page 28. There’s plenty more for you to enjoy in this issue, from travel inspiration to planning an arena or new stables to tips for the yard from Team YHC. All that’s left is for me to wish you all a merry Christmas, a wonderful new year and we’ll be back in 2020!

Team YHC’s Yard Talk

Contents

6 Holidays

Near or far, adventure or relaxation, plan your horseback escapes for 2020.

82 Yard Talk Team YHC gets the yard ready for the winter months – and some new arrivals.

Editor

Daniel Miller

Publishing Co-ordinator Lucy Sperring

Assistant Publishing Co-ordinators Lorraine Miller & Clare Aris

Contributors With special thanks to Dr Josefin Jansson of Rowe Equine Ltd, Zoe Hewett, Monarch Equestrian, Judith Norris BSc MSc FRICS IHBC of The Rural Planning Practice and Shutterstock Images

102 Vet’s Advice Dr Josefin Jansson shares five tips, from feed to clipping, for winter wellness.

132 Build It It’s all in the planning when it comes to stables and arenas, say our experts.

Advertising

Hazel Lomas, Alex Williams & Michelle Dovey

Editorial

Printed by Warners Midlands PLC

Kathy Carter

Production

Joni Mann & Gary Burt

01454 318 780 info@yourhorseandcountry.com Brick House, 21 Horse Street, Chipping Sodbury, South Gloucestershire, BS37 6DA

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.

Built on Horsepower

www.owenshorseboxes.co.uk t: 01480 891054

Top tips for winter horsebox care

Expert horsebox manufacturers, Owens Horseboxes, offer ten simple steps to keeping your horsebox, big or small, in tip top condition this winter.

1. ENGINE Check all engine fluids and replace where necessary. 2 .TYRES Make sure all tyres have a minimum of 3mm tread and that the tyre pressures are adequate. Refer to your vehicle handbook if you are unsure. 3. LIGHTS Test all exterior lights are in working order. 4. KEEP IT CLEAN Give a thorough clean, inside and out. Never leave droppings or wet bedding in your horsebox otherwise you risk damaging the flooring over time, and it is also best practice to routinely clean the exterior of your horsebox to prevent any similar damage to your paintwork as road salt and grime can be very corrosive. 5. BATTERY HEALTH Ensure vehicle battery has been checked and serviced if needed, particularly if it’s more than five years old. The colder weather inhibits the chemical reaction needed to make your battery work and extreme temperatures can even reduce the battery’s lifespan. The cold temperatures combined with lack of use means that this is one of the most common causes of breakdown throughout the winter months. If you have them, leave leisure batteries on charge or the lorry hooked up to mains for optimum battery health. 6. WATER / WASTE Drain all water and waste tanks, as well as water heaters for your living and horse showers. This is to prevent bacteria forming in stagnant water plus any

unpleasant odours, as well as to prevent any frost damage as we hit sub-zero temperatures. Frost damage occurs when frozen liquid thaws out it expands and if this happens inside your water / waste system it can crack joints, pipes, seals and even the body of the tank / heater itself. 7. GAS Turn off gas and check to see when next gas safety inspection is due, book an appointment if required. 8. HOUSEKEEPING Empty cupboards, refrigerators and freezers of any food or perishables to deter rodents who can cause no end of damage in their quest to find a nice home for the winter! Chewing electrical cables seems to be their speciality… 9. FUEL Ensure there’s at least a quarter tank of fuel, in case of an emergency. 10. USE IT Many horse owners pack down their horseboxes around November time once the competing season quietens down and apart from the occasional trip do not use it again until March, or even later. Unfortunately, vehicles do not cope well without regular use and engines are designed to be kept moving and working; not using your horsebox for long periods of time can often result in hefty repair bills for seized parts. Even if you don’t need to transport your horses, it’s good practice to run your engine for a minimum of 10 minutes once a week or so to keep the engine parts moving and fluids circulating.

Owens Horseboxes are the UK’s number one choice for British-built, bespoke luxury horseboxes. Owens are best known for exceptionally safe and high quality builds at very reasonable prices. Every aspect of the Owens’ product range has been painstakingly engineered after years of development and investment into cuttingedge processes and materials to ensure that every horsebox stands the test of time – and, more importantly, horses! Visit the website to find out more www.owenshorseboxes.co.uk

Plan your 2020 escape By Kathy Carter

If you’re planning a 2020 break away with family or friends, have you considered tying in your well-earned holiday with spectating at a worldclass equestrian event? Here, we showcase some horsey spectacles that will leave you on the edge of your seat… and you won’t even have to leave the country, for some of them! The event

Longines FEI Jumping World Cup Final and FEI Dressage World Cup Finals. Location Thomas & Mack Center, Las Vegas, Nevada, USA. When? April 15 – 19th. Ones to watch Briton Ben Maher is currently top-five in the showjumping rankings and is our most exciting prospect, with Ireland’s Darragh Kenny in the top-ten. Charlotte Dujardin, Carl Hester and Gareth Hughes are all currently top-thirty in the Longines dressage rankings. What else to do What else to do in Las Vegas?! The location is a hub of activity. The Thomas & Mack Center hosts numerous events

including concerts, music festivals, conventions and sporting events. It is also just 2.5 miles from the Vegas strip, home to many shows and casinos. Do check out the iconic Caesars Palace, and take a trip downtown to see the Las Vegas murals outdoor art gallery. Meanwhile, the Hoover Dam, which dammed the Colorado River and created Lake Mead, is breathtaking and worth a trip. What to wear / take – You will find the temperature pleasing at this time of year, in the mid to late twenties in celsius. Comfy footwear is essential for sight-seeing, as everything in Las Vegas looks closer than it really as, due to the buildings’ vast size! Top tip If you are gambling in Sin City, wait until a cocktail waitress approaches you for a free drink, rather than paying at the casino bar beforehand. Or better still, get outside into the daylight! The Big Bus tour offers a great narrated tour of the city. How to buy event tickets The Longines events recommend the reseller ‘UNLV Tickets’ – visit: https:// ev2.evenue.net.

The event

Badminton Horse Trials. Location The grounds of the Badminton Estate, in South Gloucestershire. When? May 6 – 10th. Ones to watch The world’s greatest eventers flock to this iconic event; 2019’s top-placed riders Piggy French, Oliver Townend, Christopher Burton, Andrew Nicholson and Kristina Cook will surely be aiming to contest the top spots again. What else to do You won’t be short of things to do locally, if you’re taking a break from the eventing action, or travelling with non-horsey family members. There’s shopping at the Mall Cribbs Causeway, Aerospace Bristol (home of the Concorde Alpha Foxtrot), Berkeley Castle and the lovely Avon Valley Railway. What to wear / take Comfy footwear is a must – a long, waterproof country boot would offer protection from the elements and wet grass, and would look smart. Take a waterproof coat too in case of inclement weather, and your camera to capture the action. Top tip Take advantage of the dog creche! Manned by Sherston Dog Grooming and Pyke Boarding Kennels, it’s £10.00 per dog, for two hours. How to buy event tickets The website www.badminton-horse.co.uk/tickets has details of all of the packages and ticket options available (from 13th

Beautiful North Devon the perfect setting to learn to ride or polish up your skills

The event

Polo’s Gold Cup. Location Cowdray Park’s famous lawns in Sussex, UK. When? From July 19th.

Kings Nympton, Umberleigh, Devon, EX37 9TP

01769 572491

info@collacott.co.uk

www.collacott.co.uk H E AV Y H I AN O BR I AN H E AV Y HOR BR I AN H E AV Y HO R BR

Top tip look out for the charity Retraining of Racehorses’ annual ‘Racing to Polo Challenge’ on semi-finals day of the Gold Cup, to cheer on these fabulous second-career equines. And if you don’t know your stuff on Finals day, blame the result on ‘shocking umpiring’; those around you who backed the losing team will surely sympathise.

A beautiful country farm with 8 centrally heated and fully equipped self catering holiday cottages and a BHS Approved Riding School on site. We have a heated outdoor swimming pool in the summer with a tennis court, children’s play area, trampoline room. A lovely family focused holiday for all ages.

S S SE SE ES

Ones to watch With the Gold Cup being played to decide the British Open Polo Championship and being the world’s premier polo tournament at 22-goal level, you’re sure to spot the world’s best players. In 2018, Brits Charlie Hanbury, Ollie Cudmore, James Beim and James Harper, riding for El Remanso, lifted the trophy, so look out for these high-goalers again at the event. What else to do – Cowdray is based in Midhurst in West Sussex, with plenty of lovely local attractions. Check out the National Trust’s Woolbeding Gardens, the ruins of Cowdray Castle, and the charming Weald & Downland Living Museum near Chichester, made famous in TV’s ‘The Repair Shop’. (For anyone interested in barefoot hoofcare, their selection of 19th century hoofboots for horses is impressive!)

Fun for all the family!

C CU CUMUM M

• Cribbs Causeway, Shopping Mall

TH T TTHE L A K E D I S T R I C T HEE CITC I R LLA R T AK K EE DDI SI ST

What to wear / take This is your chance to show off your sartorial flair, so dress smartly; floaty floral dresses are popular for the ladies, while for men, a lightweight classic tailored suit, or a tailored shirt with chinos looks smart. Structured sunhats and sunglasses complete the ‘look’. Top tip Ladies, if you’re joining in with divot stomping, e.g. flattening the grass, wear wedge heels! How to buy event tickets The website www.cowdraypolo.co.uk has details of all of the packages and ticket options available.

 Magnificent ‘Heavy Horses’  Beach Riding Experiences  Fell & Farm Riding Experiences  Instructional Hacks  Well managed small groups  All abilities catered for  Horses to suit everyone!

• Cowdray Park, Midhurst

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 7

Bring your horse on holiday to the Derbyshire Peak District

Ride and discover unique panoramic, enchanting Exmoor An opportunity to be on Horseback in peaceful country amongst wild Exmoor ponies with foals - and also see the shy, majestic Red Deer roaming free. 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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Horses Welcome

• Luxurious self-catering log cabins and pods • Stabling and grazing for six horses Quote • Access to Pennine Bridleway YHC when making • Routes for all abilities your booking • Log-fired hot tub and sauna

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The event

2020 Olympics. Location Japan’s Tokyo Equestrian Park. When? Dressage commences 25th July; eventing commences 31st July; showjumping on 4th August, and paradressage on 27th August. Ones to watch It is too early to say who will be selected to ride for Britain at the Games, however equestrianism’s top athletes Piggy French, Charlotte Dujardin, Ben Maher, and Sophie Wells are sure to be up for contention in their respective disciplines. What else to do Setagaya City, home to the equestrian events, is a district close to central Tokyo. It is known for its restful green spaces and family-friendly neighbourhood. Check out the trendy area of Shimokitazawa, popular with millennials, and famous for its vintage fashion and cool bars, and also the beautiful Kinuta Park, one of the relatively few lush spaces in Tokyo, with its 96 acres of green grass. If retail therapy is your thing, the shopping malls at Futakotamagawa Station will keep you busy spending your Japanese yen. What to wear / take The climate in Tokyo is humid and subtropical, with hot temperatures that generally hit the late twenties, and could get up to thirty degrees celsius. So sun hats and handfans are advised, as well as plenty of water or refillable bottles. Lightweight rainmacs are also advocated, as the region’s rain showers are legendary!

How to buy event tickets Overseas residents such as Britons must purchase tickets from their country’s designated Authorised Ticket Resellers (ATR). Do check the website https://tokyo2020. org/en/games/ticket/olympic which will be adding Britain’s ATRs in due course.

Other notable events in 2020: The Horseball World Championships take place in Saint-Lô, in France, in August; horseball is sometimes described as a mixture of basketball and rugby on horseback. This area of Normandy is renowned for its cider and calvados, so why not stock up on these tipples? The first European Championship in Tent Pegging, an equestrian ‘skill-at-arms’, takes place in Muiderberg in the Netherlands, in September. Visit the local nature parks including Strand Muiderberg, for some relaxation. The Dublin International Show Jumping event takes place in July – explore Dublin’s Viking roots, medieval churches and notable pubs on your downtime.

Top tip While the Olympics will of course see a boost to tourism, spring and autumn are typically busier times to visit Japan – and early booking may secure lower accommodation rates. Japan’s Tokyo Equestrian Park has capacity for 9,300 spectators so the event could be a real spectacle, with a unique atmosphere.

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 9

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.

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

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 & of course, its unique indigenous Marwari horses.

photographs copyright Horse India Ltd by Katya Druz & 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

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 13

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Gifts to knock your socks off

By Kathy Carter

We round up some ideas for the beloved equine, man and woman in your life, with a selection of festive gift ideas that will fit into a Christmas stocking…

For your horse Tasty treats

We all know that hat home-made treats are appreciated for their thoughtfulness and ingenuity – so why not make some for the equine in your life? Essentially, all you need are the key ingredients that your horse enjoys, and that suit his dietary requirements. Some horses do have different ‘tastes’, with some being hooked on too-sweet treats. However, you can make your own Christmas goodies without making the treats too sweet - molasses or honey in small amounts will sweeten the treats and give stickability; but of course they will not be suitable for horses and ponies that are on low-sugar diets. In this case, omit the molasses or honey, or try adding something like cinnamon. Take a couple of cupfuls of suitable grains such as rolled oats (or porridge oats), or your horse’s course mix, and blend with grated vegetables and fruit, such as apples and carrots; add some generous splashes of vegetable oil, and molasses or honey, if you’re adding them. The exact blend should feel tacky and not too wet; add flour from your store-cupboard, if the mixture gets too wet. Roll into small balls or flatten down into cookie sized pieces. Bake in a hot oven, as you would flapjacks or a tray of biscuits, and store in grease-proof paper in a plastic tub, at the yard.

Blingy browband

A blingy browband is a real treat – just as many of us enjoy wearing jewellery, bedecking your horse or pony in something sparkly can give us a sense of pride. Maybe it is a treat for moving up the levels, or for starting a competitive discipline? (Bling looks especially lovely under the arena lights!) There are so many styles to consider, from all-out ‘Look At Me’ mega-bling browbands with rows of sparkling crystals such as Swarovski, to more discreet items with smaller amounts of crystals, and in darker colours for a touch of sparkle.

Guinness Another gastr gastronomic treat for the equine Christmas stocking is a can of Guinness. This stout beer has been used as a treat for horses for many years – it contains yeast strains that are often found as probiotics in supplements, and are said to help horses recover from stress. The hops also contained in the famous stout are said to have an antimicrobial action, and may also help to protect the digestive tract, while Guinness’s malted barley is a good source of vitamins and minerals.

14 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Massage brush

The blingy browband could be considered to be a treat for the owner or rider, but a special brush can be a true treat for the horse. Massage brushes are a fairly new innovation, but are great fun. Try the soft, currycomb versions with magnetic roller balls, that are said to improve blood flow and even reduce pain, or the glove-shaped silicone versions with small pimples to give a massage effect, and remove loose hair. You can even get handheld massagers with soft, rolling prongs to stimulate blood circulation – a lovely bonding opportunity.

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

Team YHC recommends The Horse Trust ‘Our stunning 2020 calendar has captured a selection of our beautiful residents at their finest. Featuring retired horses such as; Police horses Caeser, Phlint, Jack Priday and Reg; Military horses, Goliath and El-Alamein; and some of our popular rescue residents, Walter, Vienna and Perry. This Calendar is 30x30cm square with a hole for hanging’.

For her

Roy French – Idolo The Idolo tether tie is not only perfect for around the yard, but really is the ideal solution for tying to the horsebox or trailer! It can be quite stressful for a horse being tied to the horsebox at a show, with a lot of traffic and horses often moving past, we find that by using the Idolo tie up we are able to relieve the tension of being fixed and tied to the side of the lorry. The Idolo offers a flexible tension that has a little give if the horse pulls pack or looks round Sharply. Generally once the horses know that they have that extra freedom they tend to relax with a hay net. The Idolo also offers protection to the side of the lorry itself, by adding the additional link of the Idolo you are infact protecting the wall of the lorry of excess strain or damage. Team YHC use the Idolo every time we use the horse box and wouldn’t leave home without it now!

Country & Stable

Christmas gifts for one & all!

Eau de parfum Many of us are tired of the sweet, sickly summer fragrances that hit the shelves over the spring and summer, so gifting a winter fragrance to your female loved one can be a lovely chance to pick out a more subtle scent. Look out for spicy or woody scents like patchouli, vanilla and sandalwood, especially in the base notes, which are the heaviest part of the fragrance. Remember that scents fade faster in the colder months because the skin can become dry – so be bold, and choose a stronger fragrance such as an eau de parfum or perfume, instead of eau de cologne.

Scarves Like socks for men, scarves for ladies are the perfect festive gift. There are scarves in all price ranges, and they never go out of fashion as a style accessory. Think carefully about your giftee – does she tend to wear plain tops and shirts (in which case a more patterned scarf will suit), or does she choose bold colours or patterns on her top half (in which case a plain scarf in a complimentary or contrasting colour will suit). As it is Christmas, why not go bold, and pick an ‘opposing’ colour than the one your friend or loved one usually wears? Colours that are opposite on the colour wheel include red and green, violet and yellow, and blue and orange, for example. Otherwise, play it safe with a neutral like beige, 

Bring Christmas outdoors with Country & Stable and shop the vast range of products to meet ALL festive wishes this season! Horse, human and even the family pup, you can find every gift you need to put a smile on everyone’s faces this Christmas. Prices start from £3.50

www.countyandstable.co.uk 0800 054 2205

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CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

grey or navy; if you’re going for a block colour, look for nice touches like an unusual or luxurious material, or discreet pattern. If budget allows, choose luxury fabrics that the giftee maybe wouldn’t have picked for themselves, in case it felt too extravagant.

Jewellery Naturally, jewellery is a go-to festive choice for females. It is a good time to choose something Christmassy, like snowflake shaped pendants, frosted balls in cool silver, or sparkly stars that fit the current penchant for celestial jewellery pieces. Or you could follow the continued fashion trends for 2019, and choose something in gold featuring dark onyx; a piece that includes a coin pendant (this also includes bracelets); or a thick, chain style that harks back to the 1990s. (Horsey ladies often love equestrian-themed pieces, with stirrup or bit charms or motifs).

Beautiful belts Like the sump sumptuous scarf, a luxury belt is a gift that will last for many years, but that the giftee may not have chosen themselves. Western-inspired belts are still widely available, with cowboy influences like large hammered buckles (heart centrepieces have been popular in 2019). Choose a soft, supple leather in a neutral tone that will go with everything. (Another option for someone particularly fashion conscious is the 2019 equivalent of the bum-bag, the belt-bag, which has space for important little items, like keys.)

For him

technique, for an everlasting imprint. Or, the ashes themselves can be included within a gemstone such as Crystarosin™, a transparent material that can be polished to a high gloss shine, like a gem. Resin blends are also available, and can be coloured as required; Crystarosin™ and resin ‘stones’ can also incorporate hair, e.g. tail hair from a beloved horse.

Miniature drinks For many people, Christmas isn’t Christmas without a set of mini-tipples. A nice stocking gift for a male is a luxury Scotch whisky selection, showcasing the single malts from a particular region of Scotland. Or if the man in your life enjoys gin, flavours like raspberry, hibiscus, mulberry, lemongrass, and cinnamon may just get him hooked on a new ‘treat tipple’, and would be a welcome departure from all of the pink, pretty gins that have dominated the supermarket shelves of late. (The Gentleman’s Journal resource reports that by 2020, domestic gin production and sales will have outstripped whisky, in Britain).

Socks OK, so socks ocks are something of a dated joke when it comes to male gifting – so make them special. Cotton is the ideal choice for workwear, especially in a thick gauge; wool is lovely, and in a thinner gauge, will still be comfortable in work shoes. If a more sheer appearance is required, then silk or nylon is nice, while luxurious blends with cashmere or pashmina (from goat fleece) or even alpaca yarn make for a warm and luxurious sock. (For the eco-warrior, consider bamboo socks, made from the world’s most sustainable crop).

Books It is lovely to select a book that your loved one may not have thought about for himself, and memoirs and true stories are often the way forward. Hot in 2019 were titles including: ‘We Few’, about author Nick Brokhausen’s time in the Vietnam War as a US Special Forces soldier - perfect for anyone who enjoys dangerous pastimes from the comfort of their armchair. ‘Unbroken’, about author Louis Zamperini’s war efforts, having formerly been an Olympic runner - ideal for those in need of inspiration. ‘Endurance’, by Alfred Lansing, detailing Ernest Shackleton’s plan to cross Antarctica, and subsequent survival mission – perfect for those wanting leadership examples; and ‘Benjamin Franklin: An American Life’, by Walter Isaacson, which details the life of entrepreneur and statesman Benjamin Franklin, the Founding Father who signed the documents that freed America from Britain; a tome that is ideal for history buffs.

Cufflinks Cufflinks are, like jewellery for women, a chance to show someone you care, with a thoughtful gift to keep. Here’s an idea, if it is pertinent to your loved on – memorial cufflinks. These include ashes from a deceased person or animal. There are several ways of using the ashes – a discreet way is when the ashes are simply imprinted onto the metal using a rolling

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 17

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We want women to not feel excluded by Laflex, because whatever your size, Flexars will make you feel comfortable, confident and beautiful.

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Give a little love Inspired by the farriers nail! For want of a nail the shoe was lost.

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For want of a shoe the horse was lost. For want of a horse the rider was lost. For want of a rider the battle was lost. For want of a battle the kingdom was lost. And all for the want of a horseshoe nail.

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MACWET GLOVES PROVIDE: Incredible touch and feel you won’t realise you’re wearing them! Unrivalled grip in dry, wet or humid conditions The perfect ﬁt - available in 14 sizes A choice of 6 colours, two styles and two cuff lengths Durability - machine washable and long-lasting

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PAWS FOR THOUGHT

Paws4thought... A new pup will steal your heart whatever its cost – but the rewards of rehoming a dog in need of a friend are great, discovers Kathy Carter

f you’re a dog lover, and have the time, space and commitment for a dog in your home and heart, there’s nothing so exciting as getting a new puppy! But before you start dreaming of long walks on the beach and snuggling up on the sofa with your new friend, you should ask yourself the following questions:  Are you around for most of the day? Or could someone else spend time with the puppy during the day?

SANTA PAWS

 Is everyone in your family keen on getting a dog?  If you’re considering a puppy from a breeder, can you afford it? The average pup will set you back anywhere between £400 and £1,400 upfront, according to The Blue Cross.

Buying a puppy from a breeder can cost between £400 and £1,400 upfront, says the Blue Cross – but there are many dogs looking for homes in shelters across the country.

If you have answered “no” to any of the above questions, we have some other ideas for you that will allow you to indulge your love of dogs without buying a new puppy.

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28 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – PAWS FOR THOUGHT

PAWS FOR THOUGHT

Adopting a dog from a rescue organisation There are many wonderful canines looking for a home that are currently being cared for by charities, and this is a very rewarding form of pet ownership. One benefit of charity rehoming is that most dogs will be past the puppy stage and, if they’re ready for rehoming, will have undergone some socialisation and skills training by the charity. This means aspects like toilet training and obedience will probably have been addressed; although, of course, the journey from their original circumstance, to the shelter and then their integration into a new home does involve a transitional time. For national charities with an online presence, the process is typically to search online on the charity’s website to narrow down the search, and complete a rehoming application form that is sent to the shelter in question. Then it is a case of you and all family members visiting the shelter or home to meet the dog (perhaps multiple times), and having a home assessment visit. Or, you could go directly to a local rehoming facility to see what dogs are available. Another benefit of rehoming a dog is that it should be microchipped, spayed or neutered and fully vaccinated, as well as having up-to-date flea and worming treatment, which is generally included in the adoption fee (usually £100£200)

SANTA PAWS

The insurance company Vetsure details in its guide ‘Key points to consider before rehoming a dog’, the following useful points:

Consider whether now is the right time for you to rescue, taking into account aspects like holidays, a house move, a new baby or a new job within the coming months.

Think about what type of dog is right for you. For example, how much exercise you can offer your new dog, what level of doghandling experience you have, and whether you need a dog that is comfortable with other pets or small children. Further advice is to make your home ready for your rescue dog (see our beautiful suggestions for dog beds above!), liaising with the rescue centre regarding what food your new dog has been eating, preparing a safe space for the dog to call its own (like a dog crate), and researching pet insurance. Do explain, to children in particular, that the new dog will be very nervous about coming to a new home, and will need plenty of time and space to settle in.

Puppies are fun... but rehomed dogs often have the benefit of socialisation and skills training.

Other ways to make a differencemaking a charitable donation There are some wonderful organisations supporting canines in the UK, and they all welcome financial donations from individuals, whether it is swapping a birthday or Christmas gift list and requesting donations from family and friends instead, or donating your own money for neutering or dog-care costs. Donations can also be made directly to a charity in memory of a loved one; and in the same vein, many people support charities at occasions such as those big birthdays or even funeral wakes, asking guests to make donations instead of gifting or bringing flowers. Although small donations are of course highly valued, leaving larger amounts via your will would also make the world of difference to a canine charity. The British public is known for their generosity to good causes, although only around six per cent of people are said to leave a gift to charity in their will. It isn’t just a kindness to the charity, of course – by leaving 10% or more of your estate to charity, the rate of Inheritance Tax applicable to the remainder of your estate is reduced to 36%, meaning your family benefits too. 

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29 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country MagazinePAWS – PAWS FOR FOR THOUGHT THOUGHT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 29

PAWS FOR THOUGHT

Sponsoring a dog Sponsoring a dog is a wonderful way to support a canine charity, and feel as if you have a connection to a particular animal. Costs are typically around £1 a week, with supporters often getting newsletters, photos and videos. For example, the small charity Love Under Dogs, which rescues canines from Romania and helps organisations in the country manage its stray dogs, offers supporters photos, a certificate, regular updates and a wristband from £1 a week. A similar concept from the charity Wood Green is for supporters to sponsor a dog pen or enclosure, for £6.50 a month.

Other forms of donations There are lots of other ways to give money to a canine charity – raising money for a sponsored challenge, keeping a ‘spare change’ money box in the home or workplace, or taking leaflets to work, to raise awareness. You could also purchase greetings cards or other merchandise from a charity’s catalogue or gift shop, or buy from a charity shop bearing their name. There’s also a platform called Easyfundraising, whereby when you shop (from a list of around 4,000 online retailers),

the retailer makes a small donation (generally between 0.5% and 10% of the spend) to your chosen charity. An option for realworld shopping is to get a charity credit card, although this option only tends to give around 0.25% of the spend. Other ideas include a cashback card that rewards users with cash every time they spend, sometimes giving as much as £5 for every £100 spent. The card-holder can then donate the ‘cashback’ amount themselves, to their chosen charity. Forever Hounds, which rescues and rehomes unwanted or abandoned greyhounds, lurchers and hounds, advocates payroll giving. This admirable concept allows employees to donate to a charity from their gross-pay salary, before tax is deducted. Each £1 donated costs most individuals 80p, and the donation is taken directly from the salary. Giftaid is of course a great way to donate to a charity – this is a government scheme which allows charities to reclaim just over the basic rate of tax, 20%, on donations from UK taxpayers – e.g. £1.25 for every £1 donation. When you make a donation to a charity, it will give you the opportunity to opt in. This also works when donating goods to a charity shop, an excellent way to raise meaningful amounts of money for charities.

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Time for bed All doggies need a bed, and if your new canine is of older years, consider a specialist dog bed. Berkeley Dog Beds’ luxurious version is made with pocket springs and deep layers of natural fibre, while the George Barclay orthopaedic pillow-style dog bed boasts a comfy base of blended memory foam particles. If your canine companion turns out to be a chewer, there’s always an unchewable dog bed, from Tuffies – these are futon mattresses covered with a robust covering. Scruffs’ thermal dog beds are also ideal for the dog that needs a little luxury – they’re self-heating, with a reflective foilbacked foam layer. Sleepeezee’s lovely comfy memory foam dog beds can be washed at 60ºC; and for every dog bed sold, the company gives a £10 donation to Battersea Cats & Dogs Home.

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30 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – PAWS FOR THOUGHT

Make a rescue dog’s day with a donation, sponsorship or even leaving a gift in your will to a rescue charity

PAWS FOR THOUGHT

Photo: HollyHarry/Shutterstock.com

 Horses at Hillside Shire Horse Sanctuary in Norfolk

STOP! TAKE A ‘PAWS FOR THOUGHT’! Perhaps you already have a dog, sponsor a dog or give a charitable donation to your local small animal rescue centre and you are looking for a different way to help animals in need. Then why not think about giving elsewhere as an additional gift? Did you know there are currently an estimated 7,000-plus horses and ponies in the UK at risk of suffering because of neglect or abuse, not counting the thousands of horses across the country that have already been rescued, rehabilitated and currently await their forever home? Helping that many horses is a massive task for equine charities to undertake, as committed to helping every single one as they are! Why not give a little gift this year and help support these amazing animals that have helped us through so much, be it winning wars, ploughing the fields that we have harvested or providing support through equine therapy, never have they asked for anything in return.

Your small gift can ensure their survival, health and wellbeing. Just stop and give it some ‘PAWS for thought’!

SANTA PAWS

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31 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine PAWS – PAWS FOR FOR THOUGHT THOUGHT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 31

Looking for a unique Christmas gift? Sponsor a rescued horse or pony!

Meet friendly rescued horses and donkeys at our visitor centres in Norfolk, Essex, Warwickshire and Scotland.

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34 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – PAWS FOR THOUGHT

SANTA PAWS

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A gift in your Will could help unlock a better future for a child or adult living with a disability by creating more life-changing partnerships between people and dogs.

To find out more about leaving a life-changing gift, get in touch today 01295 759812 legacy@dogsforgood.org dogsforgood.org/legacy The Frances Hay Centre Blacklocks Hill Banbury Oxon OX17 28S Charity Registration No. England and Wales 1092960 Charity Registration No. Scotland SC039828

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FOREVER HOUNDS TRUST Matching greyhounds and lurchers to happy homes

www.foreverhoundstrust.org 03000 125 125 Registered charity 1131399

THEWORLD’S WORLD’S OLDEST OLDEST HORSE CHARITY THE WORLD’S OLDEST HORSE CHARITY THE HORSE CHARITY THE WORLD’S OLDEST HORSE CHARITY

For over 130 years our Home of Rest for Horses has specialised in providing retirement and respite for working horses and

over 130 years our Homeofequine ofRest Restfor forHorses Horses hasspecialised specialised in providing respite and ForFor over 130 years our Home has providing retirement andArmy respite forworking working horses and ponies. These hard-working public servants have servedin our nation inretirement the Police, and the or for with charitieshorses such as For over 130 hard-working years our Home of Restpublic for Horses has specialised inour providing retirement andthe respite for working horsessuch and as ponies. These equine servants have served nation in the Police, Army or with charities Riding for the Disabled. Weequine also provide sanctuary tohave horses, ponies donkeys who havethe suffered from cruelty or neglect ponies. These hard-working public servants served ourand nation in the Police, Army or with charities such as ponies. hard-working equine public servantstohave served our nation in the Police,have the Army or with charities as Riding forThese theinDisabled. Weneed also provide sanctuary horses, ponies and suffered cruelty such or neglect andfor who are desperate of specialist treatment and care. It is atand our donkeys Home of who Rest for Horses thatfrom we demonstrate best Riding the Disabled. We also provide sanctuary to horses, ponies donkeys who have suffered from cruelty or neglect Riding Disabled. We also sanctuary to horses, ponies and donkeys who have fromwe cruelty or neglect and who for arethe in desperate need ofprovide specialist treatment andand care. It is at our Home of Rest forsuffered Horses demonstrate practice and deliver professional trainingtreatment in horse care welfare equine professionals and thethat emergency services. best and who are desperate ofof specialist and atto our Home Rest Horses demonstrate Forwho overin 130 ourneed Home Rest for Horses has specialised inisis providing retirement and respite forthat working horses and and are inyears desperate need of specialist treatment and care. care. ItIt at our Home ofof Rest forfor Horses that we we demonstrate best best practice and deliver professional training in horse care and welfare to equine professionals and the emergency services. practice and deliver professional training welfare toequine equine professionals and emergency services. ponies. These hard-working equine publicinservants haveand served our nation in the Police, the and Army orthe with charities such as practice and deliver professional training inhorse horsecare care and welfare to professionals the emergency services.

THE WORLD’S OLDEST HORSE CHARITY

From very first dayWe onalso 10th May 1886 we have reliedponies entirely donations the general Ridingour for the Disabled. provide sanctuary to horses, andon donkeys whofrom have suffered frompublic crueltyto orsupport neglect our work. It costs per year to care forentirely each of on ourdonations 140 horses, ponies donkeys. Our From our very first on dayaverage on 10th£5,600 May 1886 we have relied from the and general public to work support and who are in desperate need of specialist treatment and care. It is at our Home of Rest for Horses that we demonstrate best From our first 10th May 1886 we have relied donations from thethe general public toOur support From our very first day on 10th May 1886 have relied entirely on donations from public to support is funded 100% byon public donations and is only possible to thehorses, generosity of general our our work. Itvery costs onday average £5,600 per we year to care forentirely eachthanks ofon our 140 ponies and supporters. donkeys. work work. It costs on average £5,600 per year to care each of our 140 horses, ponies and donkeys. Our work practice and deliver professional training in horse care and welfare to equine professionals and the emergency services. our our work. It costs on average £5,600 per year to care for each of our 140 horses, ponies and donkeys. Our is funded public donations andanimals is only possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters. work With100% yourby help, we can give these the life and retirement that they of truly deserve. is funded 100% by public donations and is only possible thanks to the generosity our supporters. is funded 100% by public donations and is only possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters. With your help, we can give these animals the life and retirement that they truly deserve. With your we can give these animals theentirely life retirement they truly deserve. With your help, can give these the life and and retirement that they truly deserve. From our very first dayhelp, onwe 10th May 1886 we animals have relied on donations that from the general public to support our work. It costs on average £5,600 per year to care for each of our 140 horses, ponies and donkeys. Our work is funded 100% by public donations and is only possible thanks to the generosity of our supporters. With your help, we can give these animals the life and retirement that they truly deserve.

• SPONSOR ONE • O N SPPOO ONN NSSSOO ORRR O ON NEEE • •SSP • SPONSOR ONE

COMMANDO Household Cavalry COMMANDO COMMANDO HouseholdCavalry Cavalry Commando is a gorgeous 17.3hh, black Household

OF O FFF O O

OUR RESIDENTS• OUU O O URRR RRREEESSSI ID IDDEEENNNTTSTS•S• •

OF OUR RESIDENTS•

HAMISH Rescue HAMISH HAMISH Rescueis a miniature Shetland pony who Hamish Rescue

COMMANDO was dumped in a field in agony. After a gelding, born in 1997. He had a long and HAMISH Hamishof is miniature pony who Commando is acareer a gorgeous gorgeous 17.3hh, black couple tinyShetland Hamish was taken Household Cavalry Rescue Hamish is aaweeks, miniature Shetland pony who distinguished in the Blues and Commando is 17.3hh, black COMMANDO HAMISH

BORIS London Met Police BORIS BORIS London Boris wasMet fearless and quickly selected to London MetPolice Police

BORIS take part in all the Royal Escorts, however, Boris was and quickly to heBoris was sofearless strong that only a selected handful of to London Met Police was fearless and quickly selected BORIS ininallall the Royal however, wasthe dumped agony. gelding,regiment borninin1997. 1997. He had aa long long and was officers could ride him. InEscorts, 2014, Boris was to Royal in Veterinary where takepart part the Royal Escorts, however, dumped in aa field fieldininCollege agony.After Afteraa take Royals of theHe Household Cavalry. gelding, born had and Household Rescue Met Police he was so only a handful couple tiny Hamish taken distinguished career atininboth the the Blues and Hamish Boris fearless and quickly selected awarded the PDSAthat Award for his role of in of to isof miniature Shetland pony who London vets discovered that had awas fractured Commando served Golden Commando is aCavalry gorgeous 17.3hh, black he waswas sostrong strong that only a handful couple ofaweeks, weeks, tinyhe Hamish was taken distinguished career the Blues and officers could ride him. In 2014, Boris waswas to the Royal Veterinary College where Royals regiment of the Household Cavalry. the London Riots where his rider described pelvis. The Horse Trust then stepped in to take part in all the Royal Escorts, however, dumped in a field in agony. After a and born Diamond Jubilee parades (2002 and was officers could ride him. In 2014, Boris to the Royal Veterinary College where gelding, in 1997. He had a long and Royals regiment of the Household Cavalry. Boris was the fearless and quickly selected to Hamish is a miniature Shetland pony who awarded Commando is a gorgeous 17.3hh, black pay PDSA Award for hisaarole in vets discovered that he had aveterinary fractured Commando served at the both the in Golden him “as brave as they come with lovely for emergency 2012) as well as the Royal Wedding 2011. couple heas was that only ofHamish’s weeks, tiny Hamish taken take awarded the PDSA Award for however, hishandful role in of vets discovered that awas fractured distinguished career in Blues and Commando served at both the Golden part inso all strong the Royal Escorts, was dumped in aTrust fieldhe inhad agony. After gelding, born inJubilee 1997. He had a(2002 long and London Riots where his rider described pelvis. Thepledged Horse then stepped in toa the and Diamond parades and topelvis. calm nature and willingness to work”. We are care and to provide him with Described by Officers as “a perfect Cavalry officers could ride him. Inarider 2014, Boris the The Royal Veterinary College where London Riots where his described Horse Trust then stepped in to hethe Royals regiment the Household Cavalry. and Diamond of Jubilee parades and was sobrave strong that only handful of was weeks, tiny Hamish was taken distinguished in Wedding the (2002 Blues and acouple as “as as this they come with a lovely pay for ofHamish’s emergency 2012) as well ascareer theretired Royal in 2011. honoured retire horse after all of his safe for that the rest of hisaveterinary life. He is him Black”, to The Trust vets him ascould “astobrave as they come with awas lovely pay forhome Hamish’s emergency veterinary awarded the PDSA Award for his role in discovered he had fractured 2012) asCommando well asOfficers theofat Royal Wedding inCavalry. 2011. Commando served both theHorse Golden officers ride him. In 2014, Boris to the Royal Veterinary College where Royals regiment the Household calm nature and willingness to work”. We are care and pledged to provide him with Described by as “a perfect Cavalry years serving our country. a huge character and has captured the in 2012. byJubilee calm nature and willingness torider work”. We care and pledged to provide himHewith the London Riots where his described pelvis. The Horse Trust then stepped in to Officers as “a perfect Cavalry andDescribed Diamond parades (2002 and awarded the PDSA Award for his role inare vets discovered that he had a fractured Commando served at both the Golden honoured to retire this horse after all of his a safe home for the rest of his life. is Black”, Commando retired to The Horse Trust hearts of many. honoured to retire this horse after all of his apelvis. safe home for the rest of his life. He is him as “as brave as they come with a lovely Black”, Commando retired to The Horse Trust pay for Hamish’s emergency veterinary the London Riots where his rider described The Horse Trust then stepped in to 2012) as well as the Royal Wedding in 2011. and Diamond Jubilee parades (2002 and a huge character and has captured the years serving our country. in 2012. years serving our country. apay huge and has captured the him in2012) 2012.as as “as braveand as they come with a lovely forofcharacter Hamish’s veterinary calm nature willingness to work”. We are and pledgedemergency to provide him with as theas Royal WeddingCavalry in 2011. care Described bywell Officers “a perfect hearts many. of many. nature and to work”. Weall areof his care pledged provide honoured to willingness retire this horse after safe and home for thetorest of hishim life.with He is calm Described by Officers Black”, Commando retired as to “a Theperfect HorseCavalry Trust ahearts to retire horse after all of his a safe home for the resthas of his life. He the is honoured Black”, Commando retired to The Horse Trust years serving ourthis country. a huge character and captured in 2012. info@horsetrust.org.uk 01494 488464 Instagram @thehorsetrust and Facebook @horsetrust a huge in 2012. hearts ofcharacter many. and has captured the years serving our country. hearts of many. The Horse Trust, Slad Lane, Speen, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire HP27 @horsetrust 0PP info@horsetrust.org.uk 01494 488464 Instagram @thehorsetrust and Facebook

Visit www.horsetrust.org.uk to sponsor today! Visit www.horsetrust.org.uk www.horsetrust.org.uk to Visit to sponsor sponsortoday! today!

info@horsetrust.org.uk 01494 488464 Instagram @thehorsetrust and Facebook @horsetrust Visit www.horsetrust.org.uk toBuckinghamshire sponsor today! The Horse Trust, Slad Lane, Speen, Princes Risborough, HP27 0PP Visit www.horsetrust.org.uk to sponsor today! The Horse Trust, Slad Lane, Speen, Princes Risborough, Buckinghamshire HP27 0PP info@horsetrust.org.uk @thehorsetrust and Facebook @horsetrust info@horsetrust.org.uk 01494 01494488464 488464 Instagram Instagram @thehorsetrust and Facebook @horsetrust TheThe Horse Trust, Slad Risborough,Buckinghamshire Buckinghamshire HP27 Horse Trust, SladLane, Lane,Speen, Speen, Princes Princes Risborough, HP27 0PP0PP

PAWS FOR THOUGHT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 39

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Sponsor a pony and help with day-to-day costs such as feed, worming and visits from the farrier. Located in West Wales, Lluest has been rescuing horses, ponies and donkeys for over 34 years. The Trust cares for up to 30 equines on site and has another 140 in loan homes around the UK.

Sponsoring a rescue pony like orphan Gwen Tel: 01550 740 661 Reg. Charity No. 1150948 (pictured here during her rescue) or her stable All Lluest sponsorship gifts is the gift that keeps on come with a personal gift pack containing a rosette and a giving long after the certificate for your recipient. Christmas cake is To buy, visit our web shop: www.lluest.org finished! FOR sponsorship, cards & gifts visit: www.lluest.org

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40 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – PAWS FOR THOUGHT

Brooke is a UK based international charity that protects and improves the lives of the working horses, donkeys and mules that give people in the developing world the opportunity to work their way out of poverty.

very proud ”Itoamprovide these

ﬁrst aid boxes. I know that a hundred animals could be saved because I’ve helped people access these medicines

”

Equine fairs One area that Brooke works in is India’s equine fairs. Thousands of horses, donkeys and mules are bought and sold for work across the country. There is a huge risk of Illness and injury to these animals in the transport to and from the fair, in cramped trucks, and at the fair too with a lack of shade, food and water. Brooke India regularly set up camp in these fairs to train and upskill owners in good welfare practices. Their teams train people like Bundan, who makes up ﬁrst aid boxes that he sells to owners.

You’re invited Join Brooke for our ﬁrst ever Spring Soirée at The Highbullen Hotel Golf and Country Club, for an evening of live music, entertainment, dinner and dancing. The event will celebrate our work and raise vital funds to ease the suffering of hardworking horses, donkeys and mules as well as the people who depend on them. Every guest will enjoy: A glass of prosecco/canapes reception on arrival Three course dinner, plus tea/coffee Inspirational 'spotlight' moments from Brooke supporters Live performers and entertainment from the lazy river band Fundraising fun – including a silent auction and table raﬄe Plus some closely guarded surprises Tickets available at £85pp or £800 for a table of 10

To book your place or for further information call 020 7470 9393 email community@thebrooke.org or visit www.thebrooke.org/springsoiree Brooke is a registered charity in England and Wales (1085760) and Company limited by guarantee registered in England and Wales (4119581). Photos: © Brooke, Freya Dowson, Atul Loke and Panos Pictures

house prices, a large blip in property sales and, of course, a fall in the value of the pound. The question of whether or not it’s

rise. Even if they do rise further that probably won’t halt the increase in house prices, as prices continued to rise at a

Welcome to the first edition of

Your DREAMING Country OF A

Property CHRISTMAS?

Your Horse & Country Magazine is very excited bring to you a host more of luxury Making yourtofestive celebrations sustainable properties and estates for sale across the writes this year doesn’t mean losing the sparkle, country, coupled inspiring for your interior with designer Zoeideas Hewett interiors. Whether you are looking for the perfect fitted kitchen or a stylish range to t this extraordinary time of climate emergency more of us than ever are focusing the really complete the on heart of your home, we environment when choosing how to decorate aimThattomight tempt withbutcreativity and style! for winter. sound a you bit depressing, fear

not! Although Christmas and sustainability are not likely bedfellows there are plenty of ways to decorate withouterhaps costingyou theare Earth and, crucially, rapid rate years ago when interest rates looking to upsizewithout the right time to buy or sell your house in dampening spirits. the UK depends on what type of house were far higher. Essentially, the constant from your current property or For many, only a Christmas tree will do. Although exact and samethe tree year buyer you are. race to own property limited maybe you are on the lookout there is a case for fir farming, because younger trees year, which can areas housing supply, after particularly in urban for the perfect investment opportunity. absorb greater amounts of carbon dioxide more gopossibly on for around seven where they can’t build more, Whichever it is, you are almost certainly UK house buyers quickly, the chopping down of trees to bring Christmases. Some to push prices up.families asking yourself whether now is the right For your average UK citizen, it does seem should continue indoors for a fortnight before dumping have been known to grow In summary, it seems it has always time to be buying property in the UK. With that now could be a good time to get on them on the pavement does seem particularly attached and been the right time to buy a house ineven uncertain economic times ahead, Brexit the property ladder, if you can! Prices increasingly absurd. name To the UK, if give you aare abletoto!their Thetree! biggest and interest rates allOne on innovative your mind,solution it can is a remain strong with the average house hire hire yourself a living tree, simply log challenge lies with first-time buyers who be difficult to allowservice yourself your price only falling 2% since the vote. Even runtobyletthe Cotswold Fir on to www.rentalclaus.com or, if you don’t have the Bank of Mum and Dad to heart go and fall inChristmas love with bricks and during the worst recession in history Tree Shop. They rent are further afield, research what is available and if  Natural decorations rely on and face the almost impossible mortar, to take yourout money of thetrees bankand prices 15%, only to quickly bounce living,out potted even fellare perfect for the necessary approach your local farm shops. task of saving a large deposit while living or borrow and commit it to luxury living. back and continue to rise. This might country home so allow returning customers to Artificial trees do share with potted real trees a get foraging; in rented accommodation. They must The truth is everything is relative; is the the seem to suggest thatonce prices aren’t going borrow long repeat-use lifespan, but of course their synthetic

time ever right, or do you have to strike while the iron is hot when you find your perfect property? The Brexit vote caused a slump in house prices, a large blip in property sales and, of course, a fall in the value of the pound. The question of whether or not it’s

the baking is done, also achieve a sufficient income to meet to fall further and waiting longer to get materials do not imbue them with parity of charm. make those cookie loan to equity onto the property marketasmay only cost cutters multitask Natural decorations aremortgage a far morerequirements. sympathetic above; What needs to bethe highlighted toanyway. those you moredecorations, when you eventually can.match Also, for homes situated in countryside add some sparkle with among Generation Rent who wish interest rates are low despite August’s Real-life greenery is perpetually delightful, and to Eco Stardust’s biobecome house buyers is that time is rise. Evenglitter, if theytop do rise further thatauthentically traditional. Nature’s trimmings are the of the essence. While many lenders probably won’t halt the increase in ultimate house winter frippery for swagging over mantles and have extended their age limits to satisfy prices, as prices continued to rise at a

42 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

b o h

become house buyers is that time is of the essence. While many lenders have extended their age limits to satisfy

even 90s, if you don’t want to be payin YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY mortgage long into retirement, the earli you can get on the property ladder the Should overseas investors buy

 Colourful paper rosettes create a beautiful and

biodegradable display – there are lots of guides to making them online; below, dig out those vintage decorations

bannisters. Pick a few locally foraged fronds to dangle from a ceiling or door frame and you’ll certainly impress your guests with a warm welcome while earning yourself planet-preserving points in the process. White lights and red ribbon bows are the classic way to embellish foliage garlands, but there is nothing to stop you experimenting with more unusual colour schemes. For a contemporary take on the red and green theme, try using hot pink and turquoise decorations or homemade bows of crepe paper or ribbon. Purple with a touch of gold is decadent, luxurious and richly festive, while plenty of white with a helping of red is reminiscent of pared-back Scandinavian style.

demand for “later-life” borrowing, allowing people to borrow into their 70s, 80s and GET CREATIVE even 90s, you don’t want to be paying a Plastic hasifbecome a dirty word mortgage long into retirement, the earlier of late but the silly season and indeed you can get on the property ladder the

UK?to go through without at life itself arein farthe too short least a littleFor sparkle. Fortunately therethe areUK other more the overseas buyer property environmentally friendly waysbeen to introduce market has long seen asshimmer a safe and shine. Metal cutters shaped likeprovide stars, havencookie for investment that can trees, hearts and returns. so on areMany brilliant for hanging up great people were spooked on attractive or even plain string. Europe, They arebut byribbons the uncertainty of exiting inexpensive, reusable, that possess andsubsided will catch it appears thesecharacter fears have the light with their muted spangle. to an extent and there are some great For fans reasons of Christmas and be setting whycrafting now could the creative right time activities toto keep children busy, there is now plenty of buy a property in the UK: choice available when it comes to plastic-free glitter. 1. The value of the pound – The pound Biodegradable, plant-based, vegan bio-glitters are is at its lowest rate compared to the dollar becoming increasingly available and one company, Eco years after itanfell sharplyon following the Stardust, isineven running amnesty conventional Brexit result glitter. Simply send themand yourhasn’t micro really plasticrecovered. glitter Attransform the time it, of with writing, the exchange and they will upcycled resin fromrate stood at $1.29 to the It could be surfboard manufacture waste, intopound. jewellery. a greatmy opportunity to buy for cheap and Paper remains favourite material homemade make a substantial profit from the most dollar festive folderol. From the simplest chain to the when stars, valuesthere haveare thea potential return complex origami million andtoone to a similar to 2014, it was ways with paper and it level can always be when enlivened with a sprinkling ofaround bio-glitter. $1.70 to the pound, or even the Pinterestlevels is full of tutorials on how to itmake manner seen in 2007, when wasall over $2 of origami stars and pinwheels in varying degrees of to the pound. That could be a profit of difficulty. To50% make gold circle stars pictured left, tothe 60% without property prices even I used leftover blinds fabric sourced from the local increasing. Scrapstore and spray painted them gold. Paper 2. There are more properties currently works just as well, so you can easily make for sale – Since the decision to leave the your own in the colour and pattern of your EU there are currently 2% more homes choice. Simply fold a piece of paper like for sale. At the same time the number a concertina, then bring the two ends of transactions has fallen, meaning that of one edge together and staple or glue therethem is likely to be a number of homes in place to make a semi-circle fan thatshape. have been on this the process market for longer Repeat so there thanare the seller intended and some two fans, then glue or staple them opportunities to grab a bargain. together to make a whole circle star. 3. There is still a discount available Use a punch or bradawl to make a hole so they cantobeBrexit strung–and suspended any due Property pricesfrom across available hooks or balustrades for cheap very the UK are down 2%. This isn’t aand massive cheerful hall decking. reduction but it’s small enough to not If time is too limited about for DIY,the raid the loft market for cause concern housing vintage decorations and toy collections that and a sign that property in the UK should might have been about, to make continue to beforgotten a safe bet. a unique and delightfully nostalgic display. This article is compiled by Yourdecorations Country Taking the box of old Christmas Property. It is not intended as financial out of the loft was a staple yule tradition in my or as legal advice. Alwayslittle seek professional household a child. Charming wooden people guidance investments. on toboggans and on other winter-loving characters adorned the tree and would be joined by one or Your home repossessed you two new *danglies eachmay year.be Adding graduallyif to do not keep up repayments on your the family collection over time and passing it down mortgage through the generations is a wonderful tradition.

* Mortgages are offered subject to status, better to keep monthly repayments as terms and conditions apply JANUARY low as possible. Our advice would beJOYFUL to After Twelfth Night when all the decorations talk to your broker, lender or advisor to come down and are reconsigned to the loft  look at the options available and for full terms and conditions.

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YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 43

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

YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Welcome to the first edition of

(perhaps with the exception of one stray piece of tinsel that is just out of reach and will have to remain in situ for the rest of the year) the contrast can seem stark and barren, just like the coldest and most miserable months of the year. Some relish the fresh start that January represents but many feel the blues at this time, which can be avoided by embracing the spirit of hygge, the Danish concept for which we have no direct translation but which approximately means “cosy”. Blankets and candles create an inviting space while creating memories of special shared experiences, like intimate dinners with friends and family. Interior design and styling can be used to influence our behaviour in a positive way, so why not rearrange the furniture to promote conversation and connection? A pair of armchairs flanking a fireplace is always perfectly inviting, but the key to setting the right mood is to simply distract attention away from the television. Hide it with a freestanding screen, inside a cabinet, behind an art canvas, or paint the wall behind it a dark colour to help it “disappear”, and play music instead. Passing the quiet months with a good book

Your Country

Should overseas investors buy in the UK? For the overseas buyer the UK property market has long been seen as a safe haven for investment that can provide great returns. Many people were spooked by the uncertainty of exiting Europe, but it appears that these fears have subsided to an extent and there are some great reasons why now could be the right time to buy a property in the UK:

Property

1. The value of the pound – The pound is at its lowest rate compared to the dollar in years after fell sharply the  Brighten up itJanuary with afollowing beautiful candlelit dinner result or create reading left Brexit anda cosy hasn’t reallycorner, recovered. At the time of writing, the exchange rate can at be$1.29 made to more creating stood the appealing pound. It by could be a cosy and comfortable book nook a great opportunity to buy cheap andin a corner, or updating armchair with make a substantial profitanfrom the dollar different soft furnishings. Really go to when values have the potential to return town on decorative place settings for to a similar level to 2014, when it was a candle-lit dinner and dress the whole around $1.70 to the pound, or even the surface, transforming it into a tablescape, levels seen in 2007, when it was over $2 as they say in the States. Your guests will to the pound. That could be a profit of want to stay there enjoying one another’s 50% to 60% without property prices even company all night – very hyggelig indeed.  increasing.

Your Horse & Country Magazine is very excited to bring to you a host of luxury properties and estates for sale across the country, coupled with inspiring ideas for your 2. There are more properties currently interiors. Whether you are looking for the for sale – Since the decision to leave the EU there are currently 2% more homes perfect YCP fitted kitchen or a stylish range to Some favourites for the home... for sale. At the same time the number really complete the heart of your home, we of transactions has fallen, meaning that there is likely to be a number of homes aim to tempt you with creativity and style!

that have been on the market for longer than the seller intended and some opportunities to grab a bargain. the right time to buy or sell your house in rapid rate years ago when interest rates erhaps you are looking to upsize 3. There is still a discount available the UK depends on what type of house were far higher. Essentially, the constant from your current property or due to Brexit – Property prices across These cute pheasant buyer you are. race to own property and the limited maybe you are on the lookout the UK decorations are perfect for are down 2%. This isn’t a massive housing supply, particularly in urban areas for the perfect investment opportunity. the country home –reduction they’re but it’s small enough to not where they can’t possibly build more, Whichever it is, you are almost certainly UK house buyers made by a Fair Trade supplier cause concern about the housing market asking yourself whether now is the right For your average UK citizen, it does seem should continue to push prices up. from recycled wooland andacost sign that property in the UK should In summary, it seems it has always time to be buying property in the UK. With that now could be a good time to get on and Rose £9.95 from Indigo continueatto be a safe bet. been the right time to buy a house in uncertain economic times ahead, Brexit the property ladder, if youwww.indigoandrose.co.uk can! Prices Thisthe article compiled by to! Your Country UK, is if you are able The biggest and interest rates all on your mind, it can remain strong with the average house It is lies not with intended as financial challenge first-time buyers who be difficult to allow yourself to let your price only falling 2% since the vote. Even Property. Gallop Guru a and Dad to or legal Always seek professional don’tadvice. have the Bank of has Mum heart go and fall in love with bricks and during the worst recession in history wonderful, eclectic choice investments. rely onon and face the almost impossible mortar, to take your money out of the bank prices fell 15%, only to quickly bounce guidance of equestrian countrytask of saving a largeand deposit while living or borrow and commit it to luxury living. back and continue to rise. This might Indian fire bowls are the perfect addition to your garden themed gifts for every if you * Your home may be repossessed in rented accommodation. They must The– as truth is everything is relative; is the seem to suggest that prices aren’t going the evenings get chillier, gather around its roaring do not keep up repayments your member of the familyon – from also achieve a sufficient income to time ever right, or do you have to strike to fall further and waiting longer to get mortgage stirrup-inspired jewellery, meet fire with family and friends. It’s also great to use as a loan to equity mortgage requirements. while the iron is hot when you find your onto the property market may only cost barbecue, or even heat up mulled wine with the left,offered to cushions andto status, * Mortgages are subject demand forproperty? “later-life” borrowing, allowing better to keep monthly repayments as What needs to be highlighted to those perfect you more when you eventually can. Also, Indian Fire Bowl Company’s tripod and Kadai set. crockery. A one-stop shop! terms and conditions apply people to Brexit borrowvote into their 70s, 80s and low as possible. Our advice would be to among Generation Rent who wish to The caused a slump in interest rates are low despite August’s The perfect gift this Christmas – visit Visit www.gallopguru.com even 90s, prices, if you don’t want payingsales a talkrise. to your advisor to become house buyers is that time is house awww.indianfirebowlcompany.co.uk large bliptoinbe property Evenbroker, if they lender do riseorfurther that mortgage intoaretirement, the earlier at the options available and for in fullhouse of the essence. While many lenders and, of long course, fall in the value of the lookprobably won’t halt the increase youpound. can getThe on question the property ladder the and as conditions. have extended their age limits to satisfy of whether or not it’sterms prices, prices continued to rise at a

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YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 45

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Hobbema House, Dyrham

A handsome village home, attached to its neighbour by just a few feet. Situation: The interior design of this striking Grade II Listed period home has a smart contemporary style enhancing the retained period features. The central hall leads into the principal sitting room. The kitchen also benefits from opening out to the terrace providing a wonderful flow for entertaining. Adjacent is the recently constructed garden room. On the first floor the master bedroom is a charming room with views. The adjacent bathroom has a free-standing bath and separate shower. There is a further bedroom on this floor and up to the top floor landing with a fireplace; a great study area. There are two bedrooms, plus a shower room. Set in pretty gardens including a detached Gardener’s Cottage it is located in the village of Dyrham and adjacent to the National Trust’s Dyrham Park House and Parkland.

Guide Price £1,100,000 46 | WINTER 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

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Wildcross House, South Wraxall

This double fronted house has the perfect four room layout with additions over the decades to create a very comfortable family home. Situation: The heart of the home is the superb kitchen and dining area. Over 29 ft. Adjacent to the kitchen is a dining room with a bow window with window seats and open fireplace. The impressive drawing room with a central stone fireplace and open fire also benefits from a bay window allowing the light to flood in. There is an additional sitting/tv room plus a study/play room. The first floor houses the master bedroom suite, there are two further double bedrooms plus the family bathroom on this floor whilst the second floor houses two more pretty bedrooms. Enclosed level gardens of just under two acres including a tennis court, a swimming pool and a summer house comprising open plan sitting room/kitchen, double bedroom and a bathroom.

Guide Price £1,250,000 48 | WINTER 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 318WINTER 780 2019 | 49

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The Gables, Dyrham

The Gables stands in a beautiful setting in the historical and picturesque village of Dyrham which is within a designated Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and famous for The Dyrham Park Estate, one of England’s most beautiful country estates now owned by the National Trust. Situation: This charming country home was built to exacting standards in 1991 including many traditional features such as a gabled roof and stone mullion windows. It stands in large gardens of half an acre and enjoys wonderful far reaching views. The well-presented interior offers versatile accommodation across two principal split levels. The grounds wrap around the house on three sides and the expansive lawn with terraces running the length of the house face south and are bordered by a delightful flowing stream that flows down from a natural spring in the neighbouring Dyrham Park.

Guide Price £1,250,000 50 | WINTER 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

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Memories to last a lifetime.

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“a present for life” “Alibaba” ~ the first Marwari ~ orders taken ~ shipping worldwide ~ 52 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

www.horseindia.com/bespoke photographs by Kyle Stevenson for Horse India Ltd

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 UKâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s most prestigious 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 including 13 suites, Michelin star dining in Restaurant Hywel Jones, casual all day dining in The Brasserie, an awardwinning spa, cookery school, family play facility and two stylish country cottages. Lucknam Park is truly one of Englandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s finest hotels, providing 5-star luxury at every turn. To book: call + 44 (0) 1225 742 777 or visit www.lucknampark.co.uk.

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Elm Barn, Wingfield

A beautifully designed and crafted barn conversion situated at the end of a pretty lane within an active village benefitting from a country pub, primary school and church. Situation: The original proportions and features are enhanced by a modern style creating a versatile and impressive family home. The barn was converted by the current owners within the last decade. The attention to detail regarding the design and style was paramount and the use of original materials such as the oak frames and stone walls fuse effortlessly with contemporary glass and the use of slate and stone. Of note is the energy efficient ground source heat pump providing under floor heating and hot water. The gardens cover 2.5 acres including a large level lawn, terrace with artist’s studio, wonderful pond and an enclosed paddock with an open view.

Guide Price £1,250,000 54 | WINTER 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

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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 56 | WINTER 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 – Your Call Horse us & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318WINTER 780 2019 | 57

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58 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

KILIM IS OUR PASSION Quality handmade furniture and accessories Each piece is an individual and no two are ever the same the ancient weaving method of Kilim produces pieces of quality and beauty in perfect harmony.

KILIM FENDER SEATS Constantly in demand, our kilim Fender Seats are the ultimate finishing touch to your fireplace. We can offer the design shown, or variations to suit, in this burnished steel finish. The uprights can be plain or twisted, and the opening curved or square. They can be covered in any of our kilim range, or indeed any upholstery material supplied by you. We can make a Fender Seat to any size you choose, priced according to size– please contact us for more information. 168CM (5’6”) FENDER SEAT £1900 183CM (6FT) FENDER SEAT

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Wincotts Hill Farm, Whichford, Shipston on Stour, Warwickshire

Wincotts Hill Farm is situated close to the northen edge of the Cotswolds in a fabulous rural location on the edge of the tranquil village of Whichford. The local market towns of Shipston-on-Stour, Chipping Norton and Moreton-in-Marsh are all under 10 miles distant and offer a comprehensive range of facilities. Situation: Wincotts Hill Farmhouse, which is accessed via a long private drive, has been extensively renovated and extended from the original barn by the current owners. It now provides flexible and high-quality accommodation with some lovely period features. Located across from the main residence is a substantial courtyard of stone outbuildings. The courtyard is designed for equestrian purposes with three stables and additional store/foaling box but adjoining this is an office/tack room together with further garaging and storage buildings. A 40m x 20m drained sand manège is located close to Wincotts Barn bungalow together with a useful partly enclosed machinery store.

Guide Price £2,750,000 60 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

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Coombe Farm, Cradley, Malvern

Coombe Farm, an impressive Grade II listed country house, stands in a commanding location, on the edge of the hill with the most wonderful southerly views to the Malvern Hills. Situation: Coombe Farm is an extremely well presented period country home. The earliest part of the building dates from the 17th Century and in recent years the adjacent barn, which is listed Grade II in its own right, was linked by the present owners to the main house further extending the property. The accommodation extends to 4,790 sq ft, and there is the potential to create a self-contained annexe at the rear of the ground floor. At the top of the drive, a gate leads onto a separate driveway leading through to the stable block, located adjacent to the lane and formed of three timber stables, tack room and store. The lawn slopes down to the principal paddock enclosed by a combination of post and rail fence and mature hedgerows and gently descends the hill through to the main focal point being the large pond. The land extends to 4.7 acres (1.9 hectares) Further land could be available by separate negotiation.

Guide Price £1,600,000 62 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

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64 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Whatever your Groundworks or Equestrian needs from drainage works, concreting and retaining walls to stables, yards and horse arenas

BMD are a highly respected independent groundworks contractor, providing quality workmanship, and practical solutions for commercial and domestic clients. Based on the outskirts of Newton Abbot in Devon we have been involved in building, equestrian and groundworks projects in Torquay, Paignton, Brixham, Kingswear, Plymouth, across the South Hams, Dartmoor, Teignmouth, Dawlish, throughout the Teignbridge area and around Exeter. These groundworks projects have included concrete yards, horse arenas, new sand school surfaces, new build foundations, drainage systems, block driveways, concrete driveways, drop kerbs, patios, extensions, retaining walls, gabion basket walls and much more.

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YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 65

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Elm Hill Estate, Hallow, Worcestershire

Elm Hill Estate, as its name suggests, occupies a spectacular elevated position with far reaching views over the undulating landscape of the Severn Valley within Worcestershire. Situation: The Estate extends to circa 40 acres (not verified) and encompasses an exquisitely renovated Grade II Listed Country Home, set in manicured mature gardens, in addition to a recently constructed Equestrian Centre. The main residence, approached via a gated Walnut tree-lined avenue, lies at the centre of the Estate with additional garaging and outbuildings, extensive pastures and boundary woodland completing the picture. Outside the Barn is utilised as garaging Wood Store with Garden WC Wooden stables with 5 Loose Boxes, Tack Room and Feed Store Equestrian Centre (21,067 Sq. Ft/1958 Sq. M) incorporating the main Arena, 14 Loose Boxes, 1 Foaling Stable, Running Room, Tack Room, Staff Room, Rug Room, Shower Room with WC, and first floor galleried accommodation.

£POA 66 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

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COUNTRY PROPERTY – YourCall Horse us & Country Magazine ThinkingYOUR of selling your property? on 01454 318WINTER 780 2019 | 67

THE GIFT THAT GIVES BACK FOR

GENERATIONS Special, unexpected and truly memorable... what greater gift is there than a tree? “A single act of kindness throws out roots in all directions, and the roots spring up and make new trees.” Amelia Earhart

Visit civictrees.co.uk today or email info@civictrees.co.uk 68 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

Supply | Plant | Relocate

Treat your loved one to a tree this festive season Christmas is, among many things, a time for giving and receiving. But once the festivities are over for another year, a lot of people head to the high street to return unwanted presents. While it’s said to be the thought that counts, we’d all like to believe our efforts will be treasured for years to come. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case. So, for something special, unexpected and truly memorable, what greater gift is there than a tree? They make fantastic presents for many reasons, leaving a lasting impact long after the Christmas decorations have come down, and offer a number of benefits. For the landowner in your life, trees are highly effective in preventing flood damage and combating soil erosion, can provide habitats for wildlife and perfectly enhance landscapes.

Visit civictrees.co.uk today or email info@civictrees.co.uk

They’re also excellent sources of shelter for horses and livestock, and when leaves shed in Autumn they help to improve the soil fertility of the pasture, resulting in better nutrient uptake. In addition, trees maintain water clarity and absorb nitrates from manure. So you’re not only bestowing a thoughtful gift on a loved one, their horses will thank you for it too. It’s also widely known that trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and are proven to have numerous health benefits, including helping to alleviate stress.

You’ll also need to bear in mind the space available, and take into consideration the kind of tree your loved one would appreciate the most too; do they have a penchant for stunning, colourful blossoms, or would they prefer a functional, nonflowering species? At Civic Trees, our team of experts specialise in selecting, sourcing and planting semi-mature specimens, using bespoke systems and implementing aftercare programmes essential for optimum tree health. We’ve been doing it for over 50 years.

When it comes to choosing a tree, it’s best to enlist the help of an expert because you’ll need to consider several factors. For example, certain types of species should be avoided because they contain toxins which can be harmful to horses.

Supply | Plant | Relocate

YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 69

Photo: Mark Benham / Shutterstock.com

Buy or THE BIG QUESTION:

In uncertain economic times, many individuals are wondering whether to buy or rent a yard or equestrian property – so what’s best for now, asks Kathy Carter WHY BUY? Despite a slump in the last quarter of 2019 (and significant regional variations), house prices have retained their value recently, with the property market showing resilience, despite political uncertainty. The Bank of England suggests that compared to the same period in 2018, the watchword for the 2019-2020 property market is “caution”. The last quarter of 2019 saw the annual rate of house price inflation rise to 1.8%; this and other factors means that pricing has remained fairly stable. When buying a countryside property, a key benefit over renting is that you’re potentially earning a substantial amount of money upon the property’s eventual sale that you wouldn’t achieve when renting, due to the eventual price rises that are likely to occur. Or, if you keep the property long-term, after your mortgage term ends you and your family can live in it without the outgoings of monthly payments.

LOOKING TO THE LONG TERM It is important if you’re considering buying an equestrian property, essentially a very high-value investment, to understand your outlook on risk, and take advice on the long-term possibilities for your investment. Yes, interest rates have started to rise, and mortgage affordability rules remain tight; however, if you understand the risks against your investment, it means competition from other buyers could be more scarce. There are also fewer overseas purchasers looking for UK homes, currently so vendors may be open to deals and lower offers. It is important to look a long way forward, to see long-term gain – the Bank of England’s Mark Carney warned that house prices could dip by as much as 35% in the event of a no-deal Brexit; however, future values could still be favourable, despite this not inconsiderable ‘blip’.

Given the country’s political uncertainty, there is great reason to be cautious when purchasing. But there are factors that could make the decision to buy an equestrian property less risky, in terms of how ‘sellable’ it will be, if it’s sold on. For example, is there capacity to expand the property further, or add outbuildings, or an arena? Think about how the land or outbuildings could add long-term value to your purchase, even if house values do dip in the coming few years. If you’re considering buying over renting, it is important to try to get more ‘bang for your buck’; buyers are, for example, currently more inclined to drive for price reductions and buying incentives when purchasing. Vendors expect purchasers to take longer than usual to commit in the current market; use this to your advantage, as a buyer.

WHY RENT? Some consumers craving certainty and stability are holding off moving until they know the state of the economy, under potential new Brexit conditions – meaning that for the risk-averse individuals who want to change properties, but are unsure about buying, renting is a viable option. There are always multiple parties involved in a property sale and currently a high number of vendors are backing out of sales, causing collapsed chains and failed property transactions. So renting could be an easier and less stressful proposition. Essentially, the private rental sector is growing amid market uncertainty, meaning that renting can be a less risky option. This of course goes hand in hand with the potential changes brought about by a so-called hard Brexit; e.g. rising mortgage interest rates and stressed affordability in the market. A really influential factor when considering renting a yard is that you may be able to rent a bigger property (e.g. with more land and stables) than you could afford to buy for the same monthly outgoings on a mortgage.

70 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

rent? Renting a yard – the pros

Buying a yard – the pros  Your mortgage repayments go towards buying your own property.  After the end of the mortgage’s term, you can live rent free; if renting, you will continue to pay out a rental fee.  You could make a proﬁt if the property value rises, and you sell.  You can make big changes to the property, such as installing a manege.  You won’t be asked to leave by a landlord, for example if they want to sell up.  You have control over what to do with the property (notably where energy efﬁciency is concerned).

 There are generally fewer upfront costs, although deposits will be required.  Your monthly rental payments should stay fairly stable, unlike non-ﬁxed-rate mortgage payments.  The landlord generally pays for repairs.  Renting can be faster than buying if you want to move to a property quickly – perhaps if your horse’s livery yard has closed down, for example.  If the property’s value goes down, there’s no risk of losing your investment.  You may be able to rent a bigger property (e.g. with land and stables) than you could afford to buy.

YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 71

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SUBARU OUTBACK RANGE fuel economy (WLTP) and CO2 (NEDC Correlated): Combined CO2 emissions 166g/km. Fuel consumption figurestax areondetermined according to the WLTP test cycle. Mpg figures are official figures for comparative purposes & may not reflect realresults driving results. CO2 figure shown is based 33.0mpg, on the outgoing NEDC test cycle & will be used to calculate vehicle first registration. Only compare fuel consumption & CO2 figures with other EU test figures cars for comparative & maystandard. not reflect real driving results. CO2in figure shown is based on the outgoing NEDCon test cycle & of will be used to calculate vehiclefitted tax on first registration.variations Only compare fuel consumption figures tested to thepurposes same technical Fuel consumption achieved real life conditions & CO2 produced depends a number factors including accessories (post-registration), in weather, driving styles& &CO2 vehicle load.with other cars tested to the same technical standard. Fuel consumption achieved in real life conditions & CO2 produced depends on a number of factors including accessories fitted (post-registration), variations in weather, driving styles & vehicle load. †Every vehicle marketed by Subaru (UK) Ltd, excluding WRX STI, is covered by a 5 Year/100,000 mile (whichever comes sooner). Vehicle shown is a Subaru Outback 2.5i SE Premium Lineartronic with optional special paint finish (£550). OTR price of £33,575.00. OTR price incl. VAT,

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37 MARSH GREEN ROAD, MARSH BARTON, EXETER, EX2 8PN, 01392 496900, WWW.POLLITTS.CO.UK Fuel consumption figures in mpg, Urban 30.2 – 47.1, Extra Urban 44.1 – 65.7, Combined 37.7 – 56.5. CO2 emissions in g/km: 185-130. Models featured are Korando LE Manual RRP £20,995 offered for £17,995, and Tivoli Ultimate Petrol Manual RRP £18,995 offered for £15,995 with optional metallic paint at £550. *Offer applies to all Tivoli and Fuel consumption figures in mpg, Urban 30.2 – 47.1, Extra Urban 44.1 – 65.7, Combined 37.7 – 56.5. CO2 emissions in g/km: 185-130. Korando models - excluding new Korando (MY20) - registered before December 31st 2019 at participating dealers only. Offer may be amended or withdrawn at any time. Prices are correct at the time of going to are Korando LE Manual RRP Warranty £20,995 offered £17,995, and Tivolimiles. Ultimate Petrol Manual RRP £18,995 offered for £15,995 with optional metallic paint at £550. *Offer applies to all Tivoli and print, Models but mayfeatured be modified or changed at any time. coversfor 7 years or 150,000 Korando models - excluding new Korando (MY20) - registered before December 31st 2019 at participating dealers only. Offer may be amended or withdrawn at any time. Prices are correct at the time of going to print, but may be modified or changed at any time. Warranty covers 7 years or 150,000 miles.

72 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

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Winter healthcare As the days are shorter the nights are colder and the ground is wetter our pets may need different assistance through the winter months.

Mobility

Immunity

Colder weather effects your pets the same as it does to us humans. Any joint pain stiffness we have can be heightened as the damp and cold sets in. It goes without saying that if your pet has just started to go lame or suddenly got a lot worse, then it is a trip to the vet for investigations. However, once diagnosed there are herbal options that may work for your pet long term. An old favourite for assisting dogs, horses (we even have an elephant using our supplement) is Devils claw. This root native to Africa has been used for centuries for a remedy for joint pain. In my opinion a liquid supplement works best as is easier to digest then the raw root itself. In the last few years there has also been an increase in the feeding or Turmeric to ease joint pain in animals and people. It is thought that the active ingredient, curcumin helps to relieve stiffness in the joints, help with skin conditions & aid the digestive system.

Animals that are run down, stressed, older or the very young can suffer from a reduced immunity making them more susceptible to viruses or bacterial infections. There are a few things that you can add to your pets diet that may help to boost their system naturally. Echinacea is a plant native to North America that has been used for centuries to boost the immune system. Vitamin c is also a popular supplement through the winter months.

Digestion Many pets as they get older can suffer from a less effective digestive system, meaning they may not be getting as much benefit out food we give them. This can show with increased weight loss in the colder months. You can assist with any of the following natural supplements, probiotics to get good bacteria into the gut flora and a Vitamin B supplement.

You can also add some additional fibre to your horses and dogs diet, which help keep their guts working for longer. For horses giving them extra hay on a cold day can help to keep them warmer, as the act of digesting generates heat, ensure they always have access to water. Try adding a small amount of good quality oils to their diet too, this increases the essential fatty acids in their diet.

Activity For active dogs the shorter days mean walks in the dark which are probably going to be on-lead only as oppose to the lovely light evening walks and runs in the summer months. This may lead to build up of energy from your dog. Try some indoor games with your pets to stimulate their brains which will also tire them out. Teaching new tricks, and yes you can teach an old dog new tricks, is also a great way of bonding with your pets more.

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 75 Free delivery on orders containing any NoBute product. Please note there are new FEI rules regarding Devil’s Claw

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WINTER WONDERS

Playing it Winter has its challenges, but there are plenty of reasons to get outside. Kathy Carter has it all wrapped up.

t may not be a winter wonderland outside just yet, but the crisper mornings are just around the corner. Based on our meteorological seasons, the winter season runs from December 1 to February 28; the winter solstice on December 21 is the shortest day, when the sun rises latest and sets earliest. For equestrian enthusiasts, it is perhaps the most challenging season, with the prospect of frozen arenas and water troughs, reduced competition opportunities and chilly mornings! However, winter is also one of the most beautiful seasons, if we choose to relish its wonder.

Warming up Although the average daily winter temperature in Britain is just 3.7°C, there

are ways to warm up so that we don’t feel the cold so much. If we get to the point of shivering, our muscles have quickly contracted, and we are too cold – in an attempt to bring the body’s temperature back up, the body’s muscles and organs start to shake. The colder our surrounding environment, the more energy the body needs to generate, and the more vigorously we shiver. So, why not do some gentle arm, head and ankle rotations and some careful leg swings before leaving the house, to ease your body into the day and raise your body temperature? If you want to warm yourself from the inside, start your day with an invigorating ginger tea, a generous slice of root ginger with hot water. Ginger is said to raise body temperature and increase blood circulation. Adding it to soup is a lovely

way to warm up at lunchtime, and if you’re feeling brave, any spicy pepper will also fire you up, thanks to the chemical capsaicin, found in all peppers. Surprisingly, peanuts are also good for kick starting your metabolism; with healthy fats and plenty of protein, they’re ideal sprinkled onto a warming brown rice dish.

Myth busting Have you heard that going out in cold weather with wet hair means you will catch a cold? Not true; it’s just an old wives’ tale. Going out in cold weather is not going to give you a virus like the common cold, even if you have wet hair 

WINTER WONDERS

 Keep the cold out with a woolly hat or

keep warm with some gentle exercise

However, cold weather can provide a more hospitable environment for a virus that you’ve already contracted. And it is harder to fight off a virus if our core body temperature is a few degrees cooler than normal. There’s nothing cosier than a woolly hat that covers your ears when the temperatures are cooler, so adopting a smart “titfer” will certainly make you feel more ready to face the day; many countryside and equestrian manufacturers also produce lovely warm headbands, snoods and scarves, so you can coordinate your look.

Wildlife watching Winter can be a good time to look for tracks and signs left by animals – look for the “double slot” tracks of our native deer, or the prints of foxes, badgers and even otters. With plenty of muddy areas and damp soft ground, you will have plenty of opportunities to practise your tracking skills; a lovely pastime for young children and an opportunity to get some fresh air. Winter in general is a lovely time to watch wildlife; birds also become much easier to spot. There are large numbers of

migratory ducks redwings and

fieldfares. Redwings and fieldfares often travel and feed together on fields and hedgerows, sometimes in flocks that are hundreds-strong. Visiting a nature reserve on the British coastline or on wetland and heathland affords the chance to spot winged beauties such as hen harriers, marsh harriers and merlins flying. Roosting birds are also prevalent in winter – look out for murmurations of starlings, twisting and turning in the air at sunset, before diving into cover, where they will roost for the night. According to he RSPB, these mass aerial stunts involve thousands of birds swooping and diving in unison, predominantly to ward off larger predatory birds. The number of starlings in a roost can swell to around 100,000 in some places, and early evening just before dusk is the best time to see them across the UK. In some places around Britain you may also spot rooks, jackdaws, carrion crows and even ravens gathering at communal roosts, while woodpeckers drumming in late winter and tawny

78 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

owls hooting from

December onwards (the mating season!) are wonderful sounds to listen out for. In the garden, you may see woodpigeons and other birds feeding on the black berries of ivy in late winter.

Christmas spirit We can’t talk about winter without waxing lyrical about Christmas. The Victorians brought us the Christmas we know and love today, introducing festive traditions such as the tree, the card, the cracker, the decorations, the feast, the carols and the gifts. Many people believe that it was Queen Victoria’s marriage to German-born Prince Albert that helped introduce many of the Christmas traditions that are still celebrated today. In 1848, the Illustrated London News published a drawing of the royal family celebrating around a decorated Christmas tree, which Prince Albert often did as a child. British households were then awash with decorated trees! Christmas dinner had been eaten since before the Middle Ages, but the Victorians introduced the turkey and the family values that Christmas held. They believed that Christmas was for the

WINTER WONDERS

Winter weather stats • The coldest winter to date has been 1963, when temperatures averaged a chilly minus -2°C. • The Eighties witnessed the warmest winter in 1989, when we enjoyed balmy temperatures in the daytime averaging 5.8°C. • Just five years ago, we experienced the wettest winter on record – in 2014, we saw 544.9mm of rain. • 2001 saw the sunniest winter weather, with a total of 189.2 hours of lovely sunshine. courtesy of the MET office

What’s the difference between celsius and centigrade? There’s little difference! The centigrade scale actually precedes ‘celcius’. The word centigrade comes from centi for 100, and grade for gradients. Centigrade remained the general scale until 1948, although many people still use the older term today. (If you want to convert to fahrenheit, double the centigrade or celcius temperature; subtract the first digit of the result from the figure, and then add 32. For example, 20°C doubled is 40°C; minus four is 36°C; and added with 32°C is 68°F. Simple!

 Murmurations of starlings are one of winter’s natural wonders, top; identifying

animal tracks such as those left by deer is a great activitity for families family to share together, so a large dinner was essential to the celebrations. Winter evergreens will always be associated with this season, as holly berries have been traditionally used in Christmas decorations for many years. (Only the female holly tree has red berries, however!) Mistletoe is another winter favourite – many people see it as a magical plant and a symbol of fertility, and today it is still brought into homes around Christmas time, for people to kiss under! It certainly provides a welcome touch of

green in mid-winter. Talking of Christmas, if you are an equestrian enthusiast, we can’t recommend a trip to the London Olympia Horse Show highly enough! Held just before Christmas, it is the only UK horse show to host all three FEI World Cup Qualifiers in dressage, show jumping and driving, and is the perfect way to end 2017 on a high. 

“

Woodpeckers drumming in late winter and tawny owls hooting from December onwards are wonderful sounds to listen out for

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 79

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WINTER WONDERS

seasonal treats

1. Go on a snowdrop walk – your local arboretum or garden may run organised walks in woodland areas, which are often carpeted with snowdrops. 2. If you aren’t lucky enough to see them close to home, visit a wetland nature reserve to spot ducks, geese and swans in winter. 3. Build and put up a nestbox for birds like blue tits and great tits. Look out for National Nest Box Week from February 14-21. It aims to promote and enhance

biodiversity and conservation of breeding birds and wildlife. 4. Bake a bird-cake! You will need bacon fat and birdseed – melt the bacon fat and mix with the birdseed, and leave to cool slightly. Make a small hole in the base of a paper drink cup, and thread through some string, leaving a few inches either side of the cup. Now pour the mix into the cup, making sure the string comes out of the middle of the cup. Leave to cool, remove the cup and you’ll have a bird-cake on a string to tie up in the garden! 5. Collect pine cones and make a festive table decoration with the family.

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) Some people suffer from SAD in winter, commonly recognised to be caused by chemical shifts in the brain. Melatonin is produced by the brain’s pineal gland, which is triggered by the onset of darkness; it’s designed to prepare you for sleep. During winter, melatonin levels are high.

Serotonin is a neurotransmitter in the brain – it’s widely linked to improved mood, and when it gets darker, serotonin production decreases, potentially resulting in low moods. To combat SAD, try to get as much exercise and natural daylight as possible, and consider using a SAD therapy light box.  Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 81

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| 83

YARD TALK WITH TEAM YHC

Bring As well as making the most of autumn with a beautiful day at Badminton, Team YHC has been hard at work getting the yard ready for the colder months – and for a new resident

 A glorious day out at Badminton – happy horses and riders!

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ow, the transition from summer to autumn wasn’t quite what we were expecting this year! It was as if someone turned the thermostat down and the taps on; it seems to have just rained, rained and rained again for the last month or so! In the blink of an eye we have been digging out the medium-weight turnout rugs and sending clipper blades off to be sharpened ready to clip. With both Calmsden and Aston Le Walls one-day events rained off, our final runs were cancelled. But with horses all plaited up and ready to go, we decided to box up to Badminton and go for a lovely hack through the prestigious grounds. The horses loved it, cantering the leafy tracks in the woodlands, galloping through the large puddles and popping any fallen trees we could find. It was a really good day out for them and a chance to put schooling, dressage and show jumping to the back of their minds. Upon our return it was evident that the horses were indeed fluffy enough for their first clip and, with our blades now back and nicely sharpened, we set about what has to be our least favourite job. The fine clipped hair really does have a habit of getting everywhere, and staying there for the days to come! Fortunately we are very lucky on the yard to have a lovely wash-down and drying area – we like to call it our “pamper pen” – where the horses can be cross-tied underneath our Equi-Therm Solarium. We have thick rubber matted flooring in here to make the footing a little safer for the

@ Ride aw ayEque s trian O nlin e

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YARD TALK

on winter!  Cleaning out the

cobwebs and plaiting up in the solarium

horses if it gets wet, but in this instance it made for a lovely warm, dry, safe haven for clipping, with the horses almost nodding off as the quiet vibration from the clippers ran across their bodies as they basked under the warmth. I think some of them quite liked it and could have stayed there all day given the chance! With the horses clipped and all looking rather smart, our attention was turned to the barn itself. It’s amazing how many cobwebs we collect through the spring and summer months, and while we almost welcome them during the “fly season” as they are a great way of managing flies and other insects, they are not so welcome as the horses start to come in. They can both 

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YARD TALK - Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 85

Team YHC tried and tested... SOLARIUM HAS BECOME OUR STABLEYARD FAVOURITE

p YHC’s Miss Mollie enjoying the Equi-Therm Solarium

The Equi-Therm Solarium is quite literally my favourite piece on the yard. It is used every single day, for warming the horses’ muscles prior to exercise and then again after every session. The heat has become essential when warming our horses’ muscles down after exercise after the recommendation was made by our vet, meaning you get to pop a stable quilt on a relaxed, supple horse who feels fit and well! It has also been a blessing for both bathing and clipping this year and I can quite honestly say we would be lost without this item on the yard! Daniel – Team YHC

hold and create a lot of dust. They also seem to collect around light fittings and fixtures and with the darker nights drawing in and the lights being used more we feel they could become a fire hazard, so they have to come down. So with long-handled brooms everything gets a brush-down, sweeping every nook and cranny making sure not to leave any trail of webbing behind. We find this can be quite a messy job with mountains of cobwebs and dust falling into the beds in the stables, so we use this opportunity to take up the beds, give the barn floors a good going over with Jeyes Fluid and put all new beds in. This year we have changed the bedding we use and I must be honest it has been a welcome change. Having always preferred a traditional wood shaving bed, we decided to follow the trend for the wood pellet bedding that everyone has been talking about. We chose a product from White Horse Bedding and must say what an easy-to-handle, clean, no-fuss bedding it is! With very little movement underfoot it offers great support for the horses and has saved us a fortune every week replenishing wet shavings. With the stables now ready for the dark, wet winter

THE END TO ONE MUDDY TOE! This is the Ultimate Boot Jack with boot scraper, stiff brushes and long handle to aid balance when removing footwear. It’s handmade in Taunton, Somerset, from plated heavy gauge steel and top quality materials, and is available in a range of colours. One for £60/two for £107 incl p&p from Dub’l-Lif. Call 01823 333568 or visit dubl-lif.co.uk/3in1 for more information.

p Team YHC’s David the Donkey all warm and dry in his nice clean stable

months ahead, it was time to pack away the no-longerrequired fly rugs and light-weight turn turnout rugs and replace them with the thicker, warmer rugs we’ll soon find ourselves using. Unfortunately, a couple of these had been damaged by burrowing mice who had rather frustratingly found their way into our storage containers, so they had to be replaced. We stumbled across a lovely little tack shop in Somerset called Pophams Saddlery – not somewhere we had visited before, but a hidden treasure trove of quite literally everything both horse and rider could want! A really lovely surprise with helpful staff who talked us through quite possibly the largest selection of turnout rugs we’ve ever come across, and affordable too! With the winter wardrobes now complete, barns tidied and horses clipped, we could relax….or not! We next needed to move the horse lorry, which we do this every winter. In the summer and spring months we are able to park this just outside the stable on the gravel hard standing, keeping it conveniently outside the stables ready to load and unload horses. In the winter we tend to move the lorry to a concrete base, to

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YARD TALK

prevent any moisture held in the ground getting into the chassis and rotting the tyres. Right, that really was it – time to relax. With all this “free time” we now found on our hands, what else could we do but get another horse, of course! Introducing Team YHC’s newest member the Fabulous Flash. With an empty stable becoming available we decided that we would quite like a winter project to bring on ready for the spring. We decided we wanted to give a retired thoroughbred a new home, so got in touch with our local racing yard, which had just the horse we were looking for. Flash is a 16’2 bright chestnut gelding, who has a really gentle, outgoing nature, plenty of bone and a kind eye. So for now we have been working on the ground and in hand, just familiarising him with his new surroundings both in the arena and out and about in the village. Long reining and a little light lunging just to keep him ticking over until the saddle fitter comes to fit his saddle. Having had new shoes and a dental check we should be ready to get on board in the next few days! For now, though, he is enjoying getting to know his new friends in the field and has been safely taken under the wing of our Lovely Louis. n

STYLE AND SAFETY IN ONE NECK STRAP The Click & Connect Neck Strap, left, from www.SaluteEquestrian.com was designed to comply with FEI XC rules for international riders. But the UK-registered design also avoids rotation, slipping, is easier to hold and comes in three sizes and nine styles to suit all! Top quality for safety, it’s priced from £84.95.

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Comfort Leather Work Gloves New from world-famous Somerset based leather maker Pittards, a range of work gloves designed for comfort, ranging from barely-there lightweight style to rugged, warm-lined durability. World class leather, world class comfort.

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Twenty Years of Siromer Tractors T MD Louise Howard reflects

here is nothing permanent except for change and as we celebrate twenty years of Siromer Tractors this is especially true. As I look back to what we as a family started in December 1999, to the thriving company we now are, it is a fitting time to acknowledge the achievement of not only Siromer but the agricultural community as a whole. I am especially proud of the service we have consistently provided; proud of the twenty-year-old tractors that are still working hard in the fields and the returning customers that continue to come back to Siromer for extra pieces of equipment and upgrades. It is wonderful to hear back from our customers as their needs change and their own companies and small holdings grow.

Unquestionably manufacturing has updated over the years, as have our tractors. Our compact tractors are all 4wd with power steering, they have a fully opening bonnet for ease of maintenance, individual dash gauges have been replaced with a complete instrument panel, a foldable rollbar for more convenient storage and 4 in 1 buckets for all loaders, we class these as necessary requirements for our tractors. Our range has grown to cover 25hp to 75hp, with fully airconditioned Cabs for the tractors 40hp and above.

around risk-taking, ensuring that the next generation of farmers are resilient and equipped with smart strategies and specific skills to live well and farm well, here at Siromer we couldn’t agree more.

We have so much in store for our 20th Birthday and intend to celebrate this accolade all year long, and why not; you only turn twenty once. For the twelve months of our twentieth year we will be supporting Farm Safety Foundation. There will be a whole host of fundraising events and opportunities to raise funds for this amazing charity.

Raffle tickets are available to buy for £5 each. All proceeds will go directly to Farm Safety Foundation. The raffle will be drawn at the end of our birthday year and our lucky winner will be awarded a voucher for a whopping £500 to put towards any Siromer product.

FSF support the physical and mental health of the UK’s farmers through national campaigns such as Farm Safety Week, Yellow Wellies-Who Would Fill Your Boots? And Mind Your Head. Founded by the NFU they tackle the stigma

Contact us directly or check out our Just Giving page to donate to this amazing charity and to become our lucky Siromer raffle winner.

Please call 01253 799029 or find us on

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 99

“His feed plays a vital role in his success” Charlie always gets comments wherever he goes about his coat shine, condition and topline. His feed plays a vital role in his success! Charlie is 32 years old now and has been fed Veteran Vitality for many years, he loves it! – Laura Oughton-Auker & Hot Fuss (Charlie)

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Now that winter has arrived, many of our horses are stabled for the winter but how can we ensure winter is made easier even through the coldest of temperatures? Telissa Blowers BSc (Hons) Equine Nutritionist at Allen & Page Quality Horse Feeds provides some timely winter feeding tips. 1. Little and Often – feeding little and often will mimic a horses natural grazing behaviour. Even providing hay in one or two haynets around the stable will allow him to graze between them and he won’t get bored.

2. Energy – with colder temperatures and brisk winds, horses can become excitable, sharp or fizzy. Choosing to provide your horse with a feed which uses fibre and oil sources such as sugarbeet and linseed to supply slow-release, stamina energy may be better through the winter instead of a quick-release energy feed containing cereal grains and high starch levels.

4. Don’t Let Your Soaked Feeds Freeze – Be sure to leave soaked feeds covered and off the floor to stop it from freezing.

5. Forage – horses are naturally grazing animals and will thrive on a high fibre diet from eating long forage such as hay and haylage. Fibre will fuel a fermentation process within the hind gut, helping to maintain a healthy digestive system but also helping to keep the horse warm. If your horse struggles with long forage it may be beneficial to provide him with an easy to eat, forage replacement to ensure he still get enough fibre in the diet.

8. Extend His Eating Time – If your horse is a quick eater and can bolt his feed, it can be beneficial to pop in a short chopped forage such as chaff to help slow him down. For horses that cannot manage a chaff, placing a large stone in the middle of the feed bucket with the feed can be another way of slowing them down.

9. Laminitis - it is commonly thought that laminitis will only occur during the summer months, but sadly, this isn’t the case. Laminitis is still common in the winter and turning out on frosty pasture should be avoided as this is when the sugar will be at its highest. If it isn’t practical to leave your horse in and turn him out later on, then providing hay out in the field will minimise the risk of him eating the frosty grass.

10. Good-Doers – If you have a good doer who is holding weight too well, minimising the amount of concentrates fed and not over-rugging can help to lose those few extra pounds!

6. Hydration – providing a soaked feed is a great way to make sure the horse is taking in water. During cold temperatures, horses are likely to drink less so we want to make sure they are keeping hydrated to avoid an episode of colic.

3. Make Feed Changes Slowly – Ideally, making any changes to the horses’ diet should be done gradually, over a period of 7 to 10 days, this helps to reduce the risk of digestive upsets or colic.

7. Warm Water – Use warm water during the winter to tempt the horse to tuck in and can be particularly nice for veterans. Unsweetened blackcurrant or apple juice can also be really useful for the fussy feeders!

For further information about feeding the veteran endurance horse, contact the award winning Allen & Page nutrition team on 01362 822 902 or email them at helpline@allenandpage.co.uk

VET’S ADVICE with Dr Joseﬁn Jansson DrMedVet MRCVS

 Horses cope very well in cold climates if the winter hair coat is left untouched and there is forage to eat

wellness WINTER

Our expert shares ﬁve tips to help your horse stay healthy this winter, whatever the weather throws at us!

FEEDING It is natural for horses to carry a little bit more weight after the summer. Spring and summer grass is packed with nutrients and most horses can thrive very well on grazing alone during the warmer season. The fat deposits acquired during that time are meant to serve as an energy source during the winter when there is less grazing available and come the end of the winter the horse will look a little slimmer, ready for the spring. This seasonal weight fluctuation is normal and should be taken advantage of to achieve weight loss in overweight horses. Although winter grazing is commonly regarded as less nutritious, grass keeps growing throughout the winter if the temperature is above 4°C. Be aware that laminitis is not a summer-only disease – it occurs all year around. Horses with a higher risk of laminitis (i.e. those with equine metabolic syndrome, equine Cushing’s disease or previous sufferers) should even in the winter have a strict management plan, including a low-sugar diet, grazing restriction and daily exercise. If the horse’s vitamin and mineral requirement is not met by a hard feed, the horse should have an additional feed balancer. This applies especially to horses on a weight loss plan that are fed just soaked hay. Dietary

oils such as linseed oil are often added to the feed to maintain a lustrous and shiny coat, but it must be remembered that they also add extra calories. New feedstuff such as hay, haylage and supplements should be introduced carefully, to not upset the gut.

TURN OUT All horses benefit from turn out all year around. Daily movement is good for stiff joints and it keeps life interesting with social interaction and exploring. It is ideal to have separate winter and summer turnout paddocks as a few months of rest will give the ground an opportunity to recover. Boggy areas of the paddock should be fenced off and ensure there is good drainage around gateways and water troughs to prevent the horses standing in mud and water, as it predisposes them to mud fever. The water trough must be inspected daily for water cleanliness and when the temperature is below 0°C the surface ice must be broken and removed. During the autumn to winter season, vets see an increased number of equine atypical myopathy cases. It is an often-fatal muscle disease caused by ingestion of toxic seeds and leaves from the sycamore tree. The

102 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

EQUINE HEALTH

 Muddy areas of the turnout paddock should be fenced off to prevent development of mud fever

disease can affect any horse, but it is often seen when the paddock is very sparse of grazing and the horses scavenge on seeds and leaves fallen to the ground. If the grazing is minimal, offering a hay net or a hay rack (off the ground) can prevent ingestion of toxic plants. Other preventative measures are raking up the leaves and seeds, pulling seedlings in the spring and fencing off more affected areas of the paddock or, more drastically, felling the trees.

CLIPPING AND RUGS If the winter coat is left unclipped, horses can often be turned out in the winter with no rug; the thick natural hair coat and the fat layer under the skin is an excellent thermal insulator. However, horses cope less well with strong wind and heavy rain as a wet hair coat will lose the capacity to thermoregulate and the wind will increase heat loss. A field shelter is a good solution to break the wind and provide some escape from the rain. However, when temperatures dip below zero, the unclipped horse may need additional help to stay warm. There are many types of rugs on the market and the rug must be chosen carefully to fit the horse  PROMOTION

MINI GLUSHUS FOR SHETLANDS AND SMALL PONIES

Glushu are proud to announce the latest addition to their groundbreaking range of glue-on horseshoes. Available in three small sizes, the Mini Glushus offer:  Comfort – cushion sore feet.  Easy application.  Non-invasive – no nails required.  All terrain, including snow and mud. Visit www.glushu.com to find out more.

EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 103

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Team YHC favourites for the yard... 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. The organic horse shampoo from Whilst being high speed and delivering 2,500 blade GoodBye Flys is so much more than strokes per minute, the intelligent design of Liberty just a horse shampoo! Firstly, it Lithium makes the clipper extremely smooth running smells great! It has been a great coat and prevents overheating. Weighing only 800g, the conditioner for our horses, leaving expertly balanced and ergonomically designed clipper the coat, mane and tail feeling glossy is exceptionally comfortable to use. and healthy. We especially found that The slim Lithium battery has been designed to it gave us a really close clip – when fit stylishly onto a belt that can be worn around the clipping the horses that are in heavy waist of the user, which allows the clipper to be much work through the winter months, smaller and lighter for an easier clip every time. we found that the clippers didn’t The battery features a helpful LED display that heat up as much and it was a much indicates the current level of charge, which has proven smoother, kinder experience for the extremely beneficial to those who have more than horses, avoiding any hair pull. We will one horse to clip and have to manage their schedules definitely be using this one again! preparing for shows. Lisa, Team YHC Head Groom  For more information, visit lister-global.com

104 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

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EQUINE HEALTH

and it must not be too warm. An unnecessarily heavyweight rug can cause discomfort from excessive sweating, rubbing, skin disease and, in the most severe cases, colic or overheating! The rugged horse must be checked daily to ensure that there are no broken straps or pressure sores. To check whether the rug is too warm for the horse, place a hand under the rug by the shoulder. If the rug is too warm the horse will be damp from sweat. Many horses are clipped during the winter to ease grooming, help with thermoregulation and comfort during exercise and aid in cooling off after training. What type of clip to do depends on the horse’s level of work and, to some extent, personal preference. It is important to clip the horse using clean, sharp blades, allocate plenty of time to do it and put safety first by wearing a hard hat and proper footwear. If the horse does not tolerate being clipped, sedation may be required. It is suitable to clip the first time in late autumn. If the horse must be clipped several times, the last clip should not be later than early February.

TRIMMING THE WHISKERS The whiskers, or vibrissae, are highly sensitive sensory hairs around the horse’s muzzle and eyes. The whiskers play an important role in the horse’s ability to gather information from the blind spot right in front of the muzzle and help protect against traumatic injuries to the eyes. Trimming of the whiskers is controversial and it is banned in several countries.

AVOID EQUINE ASTHMA Equine asthma (previously called IAD, RAO or COPD) is a common reason for veterinary visits in the winter. It is an airway disease that develops when the horse breathes in dust, endotoxins and other harmful particles from the environment. An inflammatory response is triggered in the airways and the horse exhibits symptoms like coughing, nasal discharge and increased respiratory rate. During an acute episode the horse will need medical treatment, but management and environmental changes are as important. Reducing harmful particles in the air and maximising turn out is key. Haylage is the best forage to manage or prevent equine asthma, although for overweight horses steamed or soaked hay is a healthier alternative from a nutritional point of view. All feed should be offered from the ground

SYMPTOMS OF EQUINE INFLUENZA:  Lethargy/poor performance  Loss of appetite  Coughing  Fever (>38.5°C)  Nasal discharge

PROMOTION

TURMERAID™ – WINTER MOBILITY

Carefully formulated to optimise the bio-availability of key functional ingredients, which include turmeric (5.1% curcumin), linseed oil, black pepper, apple cider vinegar and yucca. Ideal for use over winter when many horses require additional support in the cold weather to maintain healthy joints and support the body’s natural inflammation process. Also aids digestion and promotes a healthy skin and coat. Visit www. goldenpastecompany.com or call 01423 503319 to find out more.

2kg tub £18.99 (RRP)

or in a hay net that hangs outside the stable as it minimises dust in the horse’s immediate breathing space. Straw bedding is closely associated with equine asthma and should not be used – a dustextracted shaving is preferred. Deep litter systems must be avoided. The stable or barn should be well ventilated and must not share air space with forage storage and free dust particles in the air can be reduced by mucking out and sweeping when the horses are turned out.

EQUINE INFLUENZA The equine influenza outbreak is still (at the time of writing) ongoing and every horse owner should know the common symptoms (see above). Ensuring that all horses in the yard are vaccinated against the flu is paramount as well as quarantine of new arrivals and good general hygiene. If a horse is suspected to have flu, the vet should be called immediately so isolation, testing and treatment can be done quickly to avoid infecting other horses.   The lovely winter photographs are courtesy of Carolina Määttä, Ray Stables in Sweden.

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

Power through winter with TURMERAID™ • Supports healthy joints • Aids digestion and promotes a healthy skin and coat • Formulated for maximum absorption and bio-availability • Complete turmeric pellet Turmeric (5.1% curcumin)

Yucca

Linseed

Apple Cider Vinegar

Black Pepper

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www.goldenpastecompany.com 106 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

Specialist producer of quality horse haylage Nominated for a “Rural Oscar” Countryside Alliance Award

A horse’s diet should always be based on forage as it is a major part of their nutrition. Here at Yeoman Haylage we produce haylage specifically for horses and recognise the benefits that our haylage has over hay. Our haylage is dust-free making it ideal forage for horses who need to be at peak performance with full lung capacity and horses who have respiratory problems such as COPD.

eoman Haylage is a family run business in rural Devon who put their customers first at all times. We pride ourselves on the top quality haylage we produce and also on the gold star level of customer service we give. We put the utmost care and attention into our product from planting to harvest. This begins with the soil, working closely with our agronomist who tests the soil for nutritional content including PH levels and advises us on what to do to get the soil to the best possible growing environment for our ryegrass seed. Correct soil PH levels and fertility are critical for the best nutritional balance in the haylage. Our fields are reseeded every 2 or 3 years ensuring the quality we strive for isn’t lost.

 Olympic hopeful and Eventing coach Fred Scala

small bales. The small but generous sized 30kg (approx) bales are also great value for money as price per kilogram is typically lower than the average 20kg bale. The large bales are excellent value for money for customers with several horses or livery yards where the cost can be shared. All of our haylage bales can be stored outside and are mess free if they are to be stored inside. The small bales are the perfect size to take away to competitions.

We are very lucky to have such a hard-working and loyal team especially in the Summer months when the days are very long. We individually wrap each and every bale straight from the field so there is no rebaling or rewrapping which keeps the freshness and nutrition in the bale. For this reason we don’t use any additives or preservatives.

Easy to feed wafers

Feeding haylage can reduce feed costs as the amount of hard feed needed alongside the haylage is less. Yeoman Haylage is a naturally high fibre feed which comes in either small, conventionally baled 30kg (approx) bales or large 4-string bales which are the equivalent of approximately 6.5

No job is too big or small for us when it comes to our customers and stockists. We have stockists in the South-East, South, West Midlands, Wales, Devon and Cornwall. We offer free delivery and guarantee every bale so if there is ever a problem our stockists and customers know we will rectify it fuss-free and quickly.

You will find us at

Stand 89

Proud sponsors of Kitty King

Find us at www.yeomanhaylage.uk or follow us on Facebook and Instagram. Photo: One of the ryegrass fields at Yeoman Haylage

Planning a diagnostic-led worm control programme By Dr Corrine Austin (Austin Davis Biologics) and Prof Jacqui Matthews (Roslin Technologies)

ll horses are exposed to worms while grazing, but how we control these parasites is essential to horse health and performance. Most horse owners are aware of testing to determine whether their horse needs deworming. The tests comprise faecal worm egg counts (FEC) for redworm/roundworm detection and EquiSal Tapeworm saliva testing to detect tapeworm infections (standard FEC methods are unreliable for tapeworm). Until now encysted small redworm larvae have remained undetectable as FEC only determines the presence of egg laying adult worms. This has meant that routine winter moxidectin treatment has become recommended practice to target potentially life-threatening burdens of small redworm encysted larvae. Excitingly a new small redworm blood test is being commercialised* which detects all stages of the small redworm life cycle, including the all-important encysted larval phase. Together, these tests offer a complete worm control programme for common horse worms using diagnostic information, this is known as ‘diagnostic-led worm control’ (see Figure 1 for common worms in horses). Essentially, testing is used to tell you whether your horse needs deworming or not. Figure 1. Common horse worms in the UK

“Treatment should only be administered to adult horses in response to positive serum or salivary antibody testing.” Figure 2 highlights that testing should be carried out every six months, preferably during spring and autumn. The saliva test provides a low, borderline or moderate/high diagnosis and deworming is recommended for horses diagnosed as borderline or moderate/high.

Redworm and roundworm programme FEC analysis should be carried out for measuring worm egg shedding throughout March to October (Figure 2) for detection of adult redworm (strongyles, including small redworm) and roundworm (ascarids). It is recommended that at least three FEC tests should be conducted to monitor for egg shedding in spring and summer periods. Horses with high egg shedding (for example, those excreting >200 eggs per gram of dung) should be treated with a dewormer, ideally effective against adult strongyles. The new small redworm blood test can now be used to detect the presence of small redworm (including encysted larval stages) at a time when previously an annual treatment with moxidectin was recommended. The optimum testing period for these small redworm stages is September to December, but if this is missed, testing should still be considered until April the following year (Figure 2). Before the small redworm blood test can be carried out, your veterinarian will assess each horse’s risk of small redworm infection. If signs of active infection are evident, such as previous and consistent high FEC results, or is in a high-risk environment (for example, high herd turnover, high exposure levels and poor paddock management), they may recommend treating with moxidectin without testing. To get your horse blood tested, contact your veterinary practice for advice. They can sign up for the testing service by contacting info@austindavis.co.uk. Figure 2 Seasonal diagnostic-led worm control programme

Why should you use testing to determine whether you should use dewormers or not? Gone are the days of routinely administering dewormers to every horse and hoping for the best. That strategy is out-dated as it has caused widespread drug resistance in worms - meaning that worms are able to survive the killing effects of dewormers and remain in place after treatment, which can lead to disease and in worst cases, death. To reduce the risk of further resistance occurring, we need to ensure that dewormers are only used when they are genuinely needed – when testing detects that horses have a worm burden requiring treatment. Regular testing also helps identify horses likely to be more susceptible to infection and thus at risk of disease in the future.

How to plan your horse’s worm control programme Figure 2 illustrates a seasonal diagnostic-led worm control programme that can be put in place for most adult horses in the UK.

Tapeworm programme Recently published UK Vet deworming guidelines states that blood or EquiSal Tapeworm saliva testing should be conducted to detect tapeworm burdens. The publication states, “The traditional approach, to routinely treat for tapeworms annually or six-monthly without diagnostic testing, is obsolete.”

Visit www.equisal.com or www.austindavis.co.uk for more information. Note: Moxidectin is the only licenced drug to effectively kill encysted stages. Although 5-day fenbendazole treatment is licensed to kill encysted stages, there is widespread resistance to this product so without knowing the worm population sensitivity status to this type of dewormer, its use would not be recommended. *Commercialised by Austin Davis Biologics Ltd, providers of EquiSal Tapeworm testing, and developed by Prof. Jacqui Matthews’ group at Moredun Research Institute (funded by The Horse Trust).

108 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

www.thehealthyhorsecompany.co.uk

WE SPECIALISE IN CLIPPER BLADE SHARPENING, SCISSOR/INSTRUMENT SHARPENING AND CLIPPER SERVICE & REPAIR We offer a completely unique approach to equine nutrition based on scientific forage and soil analysis, and the creation of bespoke feed plans using mineral balancing ratios, NRC guidelines and the latest equine research data. We are also suppliers of a wide variety of supplemental vitamins, minerals, amino acids, equine balancers and bespoke paddock dressings through our online shop.

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NEW mini GLUSHU

MINI GLUSHUS have overcome the challenges in finding a small shoe for Laminitic Shetland Ponies GLUSHU uses a lightweight aluminium shoe, over moulded with a flexible cuff and using the most advanced Acrylic glue provides a completely nail free horse shoeing solution that will last 6 to 12 weeks when applied professionally to a well prepared dust free, clean hoof. These non-invasive, lightweight shoes have an inside cushion which take any shock absorption and eliminate stress or damage to the horse's hoof.

“

Mini Glushus working great. Huge diﬀerence in my customer’s Shetland Pony, Kitty. Not walking stiﬄy anymore and her feet look 100% better Andrew Ireland DWFC FARRIER

For more information and testimonials from independent horse owners and farriers visit www.glushu.com or our Glushu community on Facebook www.facebook.com/glushu/ EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 109

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The great new horse products that are an absolute alternative to Fly Repellents! GoodBye Flys Products Combines Six Grooming Aids : It’s a show shine that smells divine and conditioner for a horse’s coat. It helps with hair growth, wound healing and aids clipping and skin conditions. Midges, feather mites and horse flys don’t like it! It can be used on: Horses with sweet itch, Mud fever and Rain scald. The shampoo can aid calmness to itchy skin including gently removing flaky skin – the two products work really well together also the shampoo works very well on whites, greys and coloured horses

Order your GoodBye Flys today! Call us on 01837 871329 / 07756 000632 or email us at info@goodbyeflys.com www.goodbyeflys.com 110 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

Your Local Specialists in Equine Veterinary Care

n independent, family-run equine practice with ambulatory Services & Facilities and clinic based services run by Nelson and Thomasia Rowe  24hr emergency cover within practice based at The Equine Clinic, Bradley Green, near Wotton-under Routine Health care such as vaccinations, Edge. Our vets, visiting referral specialists and support staff offer worming advice & general health checks compassion, care and a personal approach combined with modern  Routine dental work medicine and professional customer service.  Equine Health Plan For horses and ponies who require a stay at the practice, our  2 Yard days with free callout per month bespoke yard and facilities offer a stress-free and peaceful  Pre-purchase examinations environment for them and our experienced staff provide the  Lameness investigations highest level of care during their stay.  General anaesthetic facilities for routine surgeries Working with The Equine Eye Clinic, Rowe Equine also provides the  Portable digital x-ray, ultrasound & Endoscope expertise of two specialist equine ophthalmologists for referrals  Stud work and state-of-the-art surgical procedures.  Specialist Equine Eye Clinic

For more information call us on 01453 844337

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Alan Talbot Clippers Ltd

All types of clippers sharpened and serviced

Is your horse’s mouth ﬁt for winter? The old expression “no teeth – no horse” couldn’t be truer

Specialist sharpening of clipper blades and scissors to manufacturers specification for: ■ ■ ■

Horse Sheep Veterinary

■ Cattle ■ Small Pets ■ Hairdressing

Fast turnaround of sharpening work received Servicing all types of clipper machines by qualified technicians with 25 years hands on experience Tel: 01298 22638 Mobile: 07843931870 info@alantalbotclippers.co.uk www.alantalbotclippers.co.uk

Oral health is essential to the general health of all horses, ponies and donkeys. Horses have evolved to hide pain and as a consequence often show little or no symptoms of even quite severe dental problems. Many horses have undiagnosed dental pathology which can develop into painful conditions if left. It is advisable to have an annual oral examination and preparing for winter is the perfect time to ensure all well in your horse’s mouth. The whole team carries the equipment needed to carry out a detailed inspection of your horse’s mouth. Stuart Altoft specialises in Equine dentistry and accepts referral work as well as seeing our own clients.

Summerleaze Vets

Modern Vets, Traditional Values

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Providing a 24hr Service in East Devon, West Dorset and Somerset

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New improved recipe…. Same great taste but lower in Sugar & Calories

Used this way for unshod/ unbooted horses and ponies

Suitable for horses and ponies at rest or in light work

NIBBLEZE

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Helping your horse to eat slowly Patented design

Nibbleze Haynets are the original patented designed ﬂoor feeding haynets in the UK

●Suitable for laminitics, those on a calorie controlled diet & those prone to fizzy behaviour

Being a knotless mesh it's kinder to your horses muzzle and feedback over the years is that horses eat less aggressively from a Nibbleze Knotless mesh haynet than a traditional knotted mesh.

●Can be added to the existing diet to increase fibre intake

The mesh is made from woven Polypropylene which is tough, ﬁne to be soaked or used in a steamer, UV resistant, a rot proof mesh which is also fully recyclable.

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The patented design of the closure allows the net to be used tied up at a higher more traditional height or to be used on the ﬂoor for unshod and unbooted horses/ponies only.

A nibbleze 25mm Knotless mesh Haynet will prolong eating time which is crucial for a healthy gut and a trim waistline!

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t: 07749048199 e: rachael@nibbleze.net 112 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

Contact

to request a Free Sample

01782 791260 / 209 or email info@youngsanimalfeeds.co.uk

Mollichaff HoofKind Complete can help good doers too! Mollichaff HoofKind Complete is ideal for good doers as well as horses and ponies prone to laminitis, as it is a complete low energy, low starch, low sugar, high fibre feed. It contains a balanced blend of oat straw, alfalfa, fibre pellets, soya oil, vitamins, minerals, biotin, trace elements and when fed at the recommended levels, it can be used as the sole bucket feed alongside good quality forage. It provides a low level, but high quality protein and restricted calories to give limited, controlled energy from high quality, digestible fibre and oil-based ingredients. Mollichaff HoofKind Complete is the ideal choice for horses and ponies that are in moderate to light work, resting, convalescing or prone to laminitis.

Top Tips from HorseHage & Mollichaff for feeding good doers

For further information telephone the HorseHage Helpline on 01803 527274 or visit www.horsehage.co.uk

• Never starve an overweight horse. Not only can this cause serious digestive upsets, but it can also put your horse at risk of a condition called hyperlipaemia. • Prevention is better than cure; be very vigilant at high risk times and restrict your horse’s access to spring grass before it causes a problem. • Feed the correct amount of a low calorie feed rather than a reduced amount of a maintenance/competition feed.

• Choose your forage carefully. This will be the bulk of your horse’s diet so ensure it is appropriate for his dietary needs. • Don’t forget vitamins and minerals - many a horse branded lazy has developed a new lease of life once they receive a fully balanced diet!

Complete Peace of Mind

· Complete feeds in one bag · High in fibre · A more natural way of feeding · Varieties for calming, conditioning & low calorie HorseHage & Mollichaff Helpline: 01803 527274

www.horsehage.co.uk BY APPOINTMENT TO HER MAJESTY THE QUEEN MARK WESTAWAY AND SON MANUFACTURERS OF HORSE FORAGE

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EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 113

Harness the power of magnets - for your horse

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 PadfieldKrala, 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

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

Customer feedback 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:

Pulse Magnetics’ Fetlock Band is easy to fit and hard-wearing; top right, a bracelet from our Elegance range

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 overheating. Customers have used them on horses suffering from arthritis, tendon injuries, laminitis, and general lameness 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 – or spread evenly to provide a relaxing magnetic massage.

 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 exracehorse. He’s now completely sound and drug free, can’t recommend these bands enough.  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.

To find out more about the power of magnets and to see our full range for pets and people, including our stylish Elegance bracelet range incorporating precious metals, our selection of Titanium bracelets and our practical, colourful wristbands, please visit www.pulsemagnetics.co.uk

PULSE MAGNETICS Made entirely in the UK by Pulsemagnetics (MAGNETiC)

PROMOTION

Team YHC tried and tested...

t came as no surprise that the new horses on the yard this winter have suffered with a little mud fever. Both the new horses, Louis and Flash, were typically stabled throughout the winter months at previous homes. At Team YHC we try to keep our horses out in the day as much as possible, even in the winter months. So with a bit of mud creeping up the leg it really wasn’t unexpected to find a little mud fever on them both. Botanica’s wide range of natural skin care products, especially the Cleansing Wash and the Natural Herbal Cream, really have played a crucial part in the management of this condition. Within just three or four days the scabs had loosened and come away, making way for new, healthy skin growth, keeping the rest of the skin healthy and supple. This means no unplanned break in the exercise schedules for either of the horses. Botanica gets a huge thumbs-up from not only our grooms and riders for ease of application and results, but from the team’s horses, too!

A Unique blend of natural ingredients which is EXCELLENT for the Promotion and Maintenance of Healthy Skin - Naturally

A natural product. That works… • Sweet-Itch • Sore Shins • War wounds • Over Reach Wounds • Sun Burn • Mud Rash • Rain Scald • Cuts and Grazes • Cracked Heels • Sore Tendons

Botanica succeeds where all others have failed!!! Used by top trainers, studs and riders worldwide

 Team YHC’s Lovely

Louis Jumping at Pontispool Equestrian Centre 2019

LCH Laboratory Paris tested. Can be used before, during and after competition

Botanica International Ltd

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116 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

“Loving the Fusion” Addie Goff of AG Clipping and Dog Grooming reviews Lister’s new Fusion Clipper.

“I recently got the chance to try

out the new heavy-duty clipper from Lister, the Fusion, and I have to say it didn’t disappoint…”

The new body design is very ergonomic; I have very small hands and sometimes the wider bodied machines are too big for me, but these are great! It’s also quite lightweight so my arms don’t feel heavy at the end of the day! The new tension nut is easy to adjust too, and after a full day of clipping, other versions would dig into my fingers a little (which I didn’t notice until I used these) but this is much bigger and easier to turn. When in use, the clipper is noisy, as all clippers are to a degree, though not as loud as I had expected given the power of the machine, and having the 2-speed option is great as it allows me to slow it down, which reduces the noise when coming up the neck behind and behind the ears of more cautious or noise sensitive horses. The 2-speed also allows me to introduce the clippers to the horse on the lower setting and then increase to the faster higher setting once it has relaxed, which is a bonus. The machine cuts through the coat quickly with ease, leaving a lovely finish.

• Photo by AG Clipping and Dog Grooming

Note: I did use the A2F/AC (Fine) blade on the grey and greys are notorious for leaving lines when using these, but the owner prefers the closer finish. I’ve found that when going quickly with less powerful machines, they struggle and can jam if moving too quickly as if the blades are blunt, but I didn’t have that issue with these at all.

To summarise, I think the Lister Fusion Clipper is a great heavy-duty product, ideal for those clipping multiple horses. I myself can’t wait to get stuck in with it this clipping season and hope it continues to cope under the pressure where previous machines have struggled. It is expensive, but you get what you pay for - in my line of work it’s well worth the money!

• Photo by AG Clipping and Dog Grooming

Tel: +44 (0) 1453 826692 Email: info@lister-shearing.co.uk Website: www.lister-global.com

@listerclipping

PROMOTION

BORON: WHY IS IT SO VITAL FOR GOOD HORSE HEALTH? From bone density to alertness, boron plays a diverse role in body function – for us and our horses. Jonathan Holmes from Lordington Park looks at how low levels in your soil could be having a big impact on your equine.

have recently been encountering more and more horses that have problems that appear to be associated with a lack of boron in their diet. This is especially relevant in unshod animals, as well as older animals or those suffering from laminitis. Soil analysis has confirmed the low levels of this nutrient. The role of boron in humans and animals has long been known to be diverse. An animal’s inability to access boron from their diet will: 1 Lower the horse’s ability to reduce inflammation – horses with laminitis will be especially prone to an inability to reduce inflammation. 2 Swollen joints will subside very slowly. This is associated with the animal’s inability to synthesise lipoxygenase, an enzyme that helps control inflammation. 3 General movement will be restricted due to the collective effect of the inflammation. 4 Old and young animals will display an inability to maintain bone density and be slow to recover from injury. 5 Sensitive feet, or poor hoof health, is often a problem associated with a lack of boron. This will obviously be exacerbated if the horse is suffering from laminitis. 6 Boron and magnesium are both required to enable

a horse to metabolise calcium. Without adequate access to both elements, bone loss will steadily accelerate, which often stimulates the development of osteoporosis. 7 If your horse is lacking “mental alertness” and underperforming, then a lack of boron can often be the problem. Boron often combines with the hydroxyl groups and forms corticosteroids, which are known to alleviate symptoms associated with rheumatoid arthritis and joint inflammation. Boron is rapidly absorbed and then excreted in the urine, so its potential for toxicity is minimal. Feeding a proprietary supplement rarely causes a problem, but if your horse has a known kidney issue, then boron intake should be carefully monitored as impaired kidney function could reduce excretion, resulting in boron accumulation.

BORON SUPPLY

 Create a soil that

has plenty of organic matter and good structure to enable air and water to liberate the boron for grass growth

118 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

Boron naturally exists in the soil organic matter and micro-organism residue. So, creating a soil that has plenty of organic matter and a good structure to allow air and water to enter the soil and break down the residue is important for liberating boron for the grass to utilise. Aerate the soil twice yearly with a chain-harrow or similar. Needless to say, the grassland needs to be firm and dry enough to travel on without damaging the sward. This activity will always be the most costeffective sward management strategy ever undertaken as it removes some of the dead thatch and allows air back into the topsoil. The other benefit of the harrow tines scratching the

PROMOTION

soil surface is that a chemical reaction occurs, resulting in a small quantity of nitrogen being extracted from the atmosphere and placed directly into the root zone, stimulating grass growth. A healthy plant with a correspondingly high calcium content (calcium is an essential constituent of all plant cells, and therefore growth) will require more boron to generate a nutritious plant. This is especially important with hay or haylage production as the taller plant, compared to grazing grass, will inevitably have a higher calcium content and requirement for growth. Care should be taken to consider the potassium content of the soil. If levels are high (which will generate hyperactive horses) then this will exacerbate the negative effect of a low soil boron level and promote the symptoms I have already highlighted. Boron has a negative charge, which means that it is easily leached out of the soil during periods of high rainfall. Therefore, even if your soil has an adequate supply, heavy rain may mean that a supplement is still required to ensure horse health.

CONCLUSION Boron is as important as calcium and vitamin D as one of the essential minerals involved in horse bone and joint health. Boron can reduce inflammation, increase mental alertness and has positive effects on many aspects of health but is often overlooked. Find out what is happening in your soil and what your horse’s behaviour is telling you. Let Lordington Park Agronomy help you generate happy horses.

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

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www.lordingtonparkagronomy.co.uk EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 119

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120 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

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.

01772 621800

www.svtech.co.uk

Chandler House, Talbot Road, Leyland, Lancashire, PR25 2ZF, United Kingdom.

COUNTRY FASHION

Winter country fashion Today’s ‘essential’ countryside look often features jeans, wellies and a waxed or puffer jacket. But this practical wardrobe choice wasn’t always de rigueur. Here, we look back at some of the countryside styles across the decades.

Wonderful wellies

Hunting & shooting gear

The mainstay of the country wardrobe is the wellington boot, so let’s start here. A fantastic short film called The Evolution Of The Wellington (Ref 1) is a useful cinematic resource. The British Pathe film firstly features a woman wearing short wellingtons with side loops in 1896; by 1913 the boots were a little higher, and by the 1920s, they were at full height. In the late 1920s, ‘wellies’ were definitely a style statement, with a more polished rubber. They were also being teamed with fashionable rain coats, rather than tweedy skirt suits, if the old Pathe footage is to be believed. Wellies, popularised by the first Duke of Wellington in the early 19th century, were initially favoured by the British aristocracy and middle classes. They were made from rubber, and the long-standing company Aigle pioneered the early models in the midnineteenth century. The North British Rubber Company (now Hunter Boot Ltd) was asked by the War Office to make boots suitable for the conditions in both world wars, supplying vast numbers to the troops. After the war, whole families began to embrace the welly, which had lost its early links to the aristocracy, and became essential for labourers, being relatively low-cost. Hunter’s green wellies, introduced in 1955, became synonymous with the countryside, and Diana Spencer was pictured wearing a pair during her courtship with Prince Charles in 1980, helping welly sales skyrocket.

Countryside fashion is often still rooted in hunting and shooting; to get a picture of traditional men’s countryside styles of the 20th century, TV’s Downton Abbey is a good resource, as many styles haven’t changed much since the time that the show depicts. Many fashions originate from hunting on one’s sprawling country estate, when hunting was a measurement of one’s class. The ‘wardrobe’ for men of long shooting stockings, tweed breeks (breeches), checked shirt, braces, ties, flat caps, waistcoats, wellies and a tweed field coat hasn’t changed much in a century.

Ref 1 - https://youtu.be/gM7I1SHLDEo

COUNTRY FASHION

Dynamic denim

The every-day woman

Jeans, another modern countryside staple, have been around for many years (Levis Strauss & Co. made their first denim overalls in 1873, and their first jeans in the 1890s. Wrangler (1905) and Lee (1911) later followed suit. However, these represented workwear, not fashion! It wasn’t until the 1940s, when American GIs brought their denim overseas, and later, when the end of British rationing meant that more clothes could be purchased, that jeans became more internationally available. Jeans with zippers arrived in the 1950s, and a few daring female style icons like Marilyn Monroe began wearing them. However, in general, at this time jeans represented rebellion (worn by motorcycle riders and juvenile delinquents), not countryside fashion. Although slim-fit jeans have been coming in and out of fashion for decades, their resurgence for most of us was not until the mid 2000s; they’re now a country wardrobe staple, usually worn with long boots in colder weather.

Noble women involved in the shooting scene in the early to mid twentieth century tended to wear longer, tweed skirts with long boots. But what did the ‘every-day’ woman wear? During the second world war (and until 1949), clothes were rationed to a scale that’s unthinkable today; at one point, the purchase of a coat constituted almost an entire year’s clothing allowance. Consequently, female fashions were plain, due to a lack of chemicals for dyeing, and materials were practical, thanks to a lack of materials like nylon, elastic and even metal for clasps. Women with no link to the countryside were frequently wearing skirts, but postwar, with austerity still in place, women began to embrace ‘slacks’ for practicality (movie star Katharine Hepburn had been wearing hers since the 1930s, however!) These trousers were often high-waisted with wide legs. Meanwhile, men’s sports jackets became more casual, along with tank tops and pullovers. Military styles were naturally influential for the every-day man or woman, such as re-purposed trench coats, and women were embracing that fabulous British staple, the headscarf, as a fashion statement (following on from the wartime turban). The conservative twin set (a cardigan and top duo), ideally worn with pearls, was a popular option that gave one warmth! Originally conceived in the 1930s by Pringle of Scotland, it gained prominence in the 1950s and 1960s. Meanwhile, men rocked tweed suits with aplomb.

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COUNTRY FASHION

Ride astride We know that forward-thinking women were already embracing the wellington boot, and from the 1930s onwards, women who rode horses began to ride astride in (loose fitting) jodhpurs, garments popularised by the sport of polo. The British ‘land girls’ that worked with horses as part of the war effort would also have worn them. But these items were for riding in, rather than being seen as ‘country fashion’.

Pioneering Puffa

Wicked waxed jackets

Another famou famous jacket, the ‘Puffa jacket’ (after the brand) or the Puffer jacket (in fashion circles), is synonymous with the countryside. The ‘sleeping bag’ style horsey jacket peaked in popularity in the 1980s and 1990s, again attracting high-profile fans such as Diana, Princess of Wales; although Puffa now been incorporated into Global Brands.

Another countryside staple is the waxed jacket. Mass production of waxed material began in the late 18th century in Scotland by Francis Webster Ltd, who infused fabrics with linseed oil. J. Barbour & Sons famously started producing waxed jackets from a mass clothing point of view, notably for farmers, gamekeepers and motorcyclists, starting to import oil-cloth in the late nineteenth century. Their waxed sailing jackets were produced at the turn of the century, and waxed motorbike suits in the 1930s. It wasn’t until the 1970s and 1980s however that the much-loved riding and countryside jackets gained prominence, notably by the royal family.

Today, as we have said, wellies and jeans predominantly form the basis of our countryside wardrobe, with a waterproof coat (waxed are still favoured) and a stylish scarf for ladies finishing off the look. Tweed of course remains popular for men, and ‘colours of nature’ prevail.

COUNTRY FASHION – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 125

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Team Tristar (UK) Ltd specialises in manufacturing horseboxes particularly suited to carriage driving, from one horse to six plus carriages. We are a family-run business based in West Wales, that prides itself on its customer service, before and after sales. We also carry out refurbishments, accident repairs, servicing and annual testing. Our workforce of 35 skilled and semi-skilled men and women make us a business big enough to cope with your requirements and small enough to care.

Team Tristar (UK) Ltd specialises in manufacturing horseboxes particularly suited to carriage driving, from one horse to six plus carriages. Phone or visit our workshop

www.tristarhorseboxes.co.uk

We are a family-run business based in West Wales, that prides itself on its 01570 422 250 sales@tristarhorseboxes.co.uk Ffarmers, Llanwrda, Carms, SA19 8QL customer service, before and afterEsgairgoch, sales. We also carry out refurbishments, accident repairs, servicing and annual testing. Our workforce 35 Horse skilled&and semi-skilled men and women make us a business 126 | WINTER 2019 of Your Country Magazine big enough to cope with your requirements and small enough to care.

CoolStance

ReMove Toxin Binder

CoolStance is premium quality coconut (copra) meal, made from the white part of the coconut, which is dried, baked and ground. It is totally natural and is chemical and GMO free. It is assured quality and routinely tested for Aflatoxins.

ReMove has been formulated from specific ingredients that may bind harmful mycotoxins in the horse’s digestive tract during periods of high mycotoxin contamination. ReMove is designed to bind to the polar and non-polar mycotoxins.

The oil in CoolStance (coconut oil) is saturated and rich in Medium Chain Fatty Acids (MCT). This means it is highly stable (not prone to rancidity) and can provide your horse with ready, non-glucose energy. Most horses love the taste of CoolStance. It is rich in quality protein, and the oil assists with coat condition. CoolStance contains only 11% NSC (sugar and starch) and has a high content of digestible energy. CoolStance may support horses with metabolic disorders including tying up, laminitis or excitable behaviour.

PowerStance Coconut Oil

 May bind large range of harmful mycotoxins (including polar and non-polar mycotoxins)  Contains Mycosorb that is beneficial in alleviating reduced feed intake and metabolic changes in mature horses  Contains prebiotic to support gut health

PowerStance is a high energy feed supplement containing 70% natural coconut oil and is a rich source of Medium Chain Triglycerides (MTCs) It may be used as a non-grain source of energy.  Conditioning supplement for all classes of horses.  May assist coat condition, digestive health and stamina.  GMO and sugar free  Easy to feed, no mess no fuss

Turmericle Turmericle is a blend of two varieties of turmeric, black pepper and resveratrol, which may assist joint inflammation and skin conditions.  For Horses and Dogs

Mycotoxins can be found in the fungi that grow on some grasses, mainly paspalum, rye, some weeds and clover. More than 500 mycotoxins have been identified to date. They are more prevalent in hot and humid conditions (spring and summer) and can also be found in some commercial feeds and hays.

 Fast acting non medicated  Assists the absorption of essential nutrients  May prevent negative impact of Fusarium mycotoxins on feed intake and metabolic changes in horses

UlcaBuf UlcaBuf is an all-natural, non-medicated, supplement with specifically curated ingredients designed to support long term digestive function. It is formulated specifically to support the stomach and the hindgut. UlcaBuf can be used as a long term supplement for stomach and digestive maintenance support. UlcaBuf can also be used short term as a 21 days course for times of stress.

 Supports normal inflammation response

 Supports proper pH under occasional gastric distress

 Supports healthy joint function

 Helps support protective layer in the bowel

 May assist skin health

 Contains prebiotics and live probiotic for intestinal health

 Contains Curcuma xanthorrhiza

Stand 138

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OUR BEST SELLERS IN THE UK: Disc Cultivators, Balers, Front Loaders, Feeder Wagons, Manure Spreaders, Farming Trailers. These products are true flagships of Metal–Fach with proven Durability, Reliability and Quality. Metal–Fach has earned trust with UK farmers in last 5 years with products proving themselves at the UK farms working day in – day out. In the UK Metal-Fach have been present more than 5 years through its Exclusive Distributor company Pacific Blue Ltd and cooperation with Zetor and its Dealers. Brand has been established with help of different marketing channels as Advertisement in print and on-line, trade shows as Royal Highland Show, Royal Welsh Show, LAMMA and local shows as well. With wellestablished Service and Spare Parts Supplies, now is the time to expand our Metal-Fach Distribution Network in the UK and that is why we are looking for NEW DEALERS

128 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine

The story of the Metal-Fach brand reaches back to 1989. Since 1998, the Company has been a major player in the production and sales of agricultural machinery, as all products are characterized by durability, ease of use, and modern design. The dynamic development of the Metalâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Fach brand was greatly influenced by EU fundingThanks to this, the machine park was enhanced and developed. Today, Metal-Fach boasts fully equipped production halls, a modern paint shop with cata-phoresis, an innovative research centre, and laboratories for production-quality control. Over the years, Metal-Fach has expanded its business, investing in dynamic growth, and has thus gained the trust of farmers. Year 2009 was important in the history of Metal-Fach. It was then, after the purchase of the Nova brand, that the production of semi-trailers began. Four years later, the Metal-Fach team succeeded in launching a production line for rims. The dynamic growth and interest of foreign contractors led the Company to open branches in Sweden, Kazakhstan, Belarus and Russia. Our Metalâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;Fach Agricultural Machinery is being sold on all continents around the world, and about 70% of production is exported. Today, the Companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s area covers 16.5 ha, including 4.3 ha of roofed halls. The Company currently employs around 800 people, and is one of the major employers in the region. Metal-Fach cooperates with top brands which are renowned the world over. The group includes John Deere, Zetor, Farmtrac, Faraboli, Ursus, Bonnel, Talex and Samasz. In recent years Metal-Fach has once again focused on investments in the machine park. From 2017 to 2018, a total of PLN 40 million was spent on the improvement and modernization of the production line. During this time, as many as 9 welding robots, 7 lasers, and 31 numerical machines (turning and milling centres) were purchased.

New dealers please contact us at PACIFIC BLUE LTD t: +44 771 853 7413 e: sales@metalfach.co.uk www.metalfach.co.uk

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To beat the wait list call 07711 543114 | info@bloomfieldssouth.co.uk 130 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT www.bloomfi elds.co

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STABLES AND ARENAS

IT’S ALL IN THE PLANNING W

hen choosing what building or barn to incorporate into your build project, space and the surrounding buildings play a big part. Planning permission will be needed for all permanent equestrian builds such as a barn or external stable block. What will need to be taken into consideration is the style of the build, the space surrounding it and access, as well as the impact on the area in which it will sit. Normally, looking at buildings near your plot of land can give you some indication of what is more likely to be accepted. There is no specific build or barn for certain equestrian disciplines as such, rather what is right for you, your land and your horses. For instance barns, like American barns, can have everything under one roof with a variety of layout options. You can have all your facilities incorporated into one building, such as stables, feed room, tack room, wash bay, solarium, etc. This is a neat and efficient way of keeping horses and having everything within arm’s reach. When space is at a premium or planning guidelines need to be adhered to then external stable blocks may be the answer, as they generally have a smaller footprint. Again, you can normally design these to your needs and still have all your facilities under one roof, the only downside being there won’t be an undercover walkway like a barn, but they do give you more freedom in terms of the shape of building you can have, such as an ‘L’ shape. Doing research into the company you will be buying from is key. We recommend going for the best you can afford and not buy cheap, to ensure you are getting the best materials and build for your money. Cheaper products will not last as long and may also not be strong enough to withstand certain equine behaviour, such as kicking through the boards. When opting for a new-build such as a barn this normally gives you the luxury of having standard-sized stables, therefore saving you money, but existing builds will normally need a knowledgeable and experienced company to design to your specific measurements.  For more information, contact Monarch Equestrian on 01902 633556, email sales@monarch-equestrian.co.uk or visit www.monarch-equestrian.co.uk

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ď ´ A spacious Monarch Equestrian barn with Regal Regency interior stables

PLANNING YOUR NEW ARENA

rguably one of the biggest equestrian planning challenges is that of all-weather riding surfaces. Equestrian development does not come under permitted developments and any works to take place on private land outside the curtilage of a house will require a full planning application to be made to the local council. This can be a rigorous task and the road to achieving the equestrian facilities of your dreams can be a lengthy one which

should be approached with due care and consideration. Traditionally, development within the countryside is limited and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) focuses on sustainable development which encompasses an economic, social and environmental role. There is little in the way of policy relating to equestrian development and large-scale schemes can be seen as a blot on the natural environment. Equestrian use does not come under the ď ľ

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umbrella of agriculture; however, there is significant guidance under section 3 of the NPPF ‘Supporting a prosperous rural economy’ where equestrian businesses are concerned. Arenas that are located close to existing buildings will be considered favourable over standalone sites and careful consideration should be taken when choosing the location and siting. Generally, designated areas which include green belt, national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONBs), sites of special scientific interest (SSSIs) and conservation areas will be more problematic in terms of gaining planning permission. One of the primary decisions to be made is whether to go for an indoor or outdoor arena. Inevitably the decision will come down to a number of factors, which include the location, the size and the required use. Generally outdoor arenas will be seen as favourable, and the size and scale of these will need to be considered when making the application. For private, use the local council will generally see 20x40m as an acceptable facility for all-weather riding. It provides a suitable alternative to grass, which can become too wet in the winter months or too hard in the summer. For a commercial or business use, larger arenas such as 20x60m may be more applicable on the basis that a higher standard of training is required for the horses. Indoor arenas may be seen as more appropriate where

p Arenas close to existing buildings may be looked upon more favourably than standalone sites

the UK weather would have a detrimental impact on the financial viability of the equestrian business. The Rural Planning Practice has extensive experience in dealing with planning applications for arenas with much success. With a varied catalogue of work from small-scale arenas for private use to large-scale indoor arenas with associated viewing galleries and facilities, we are able to provide guidance throughout the whole process. We are able to help assist in preparing all of the necessary documentation, including environmental statements, proposed method of construction, crosssection drawings which deal with depth and earth works, drainage management plans and managing objections. n Judith Norris BSc MSc FRICS IHBC The Rural Planning Practice

INITIAL CONSIDERATIONS WHEN THINKING OF A NEW ARENA • Access to the proposed site and ground conditions • Location and siting of the proposal in relation to designation areas • Landscaping and site levelling • Drainage issues including banking, ditching and mitigating run-off issues • Consideration of trees, hedges and the surrounding topography • Maintenance and monitoring once the surface has been implemented • The size, type and proposed surface, including boundaries • Archaeology

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 135

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 137

Perry James

Equestrian Arenas Whether you are looking for a new build manage or a complete refurbishment, Perry James Arenas offers a one stop bespoke tailored service from conception to completion. Perry James Arenas are a highly run professional business dedicated to creating bespoke indoor and all weather outdoor arenas and other finest equestrian facilities that will be built to last and guaranteed to stand the test of time. Please don’t hesitate to contact us with any questions. We are always happy to visit and offer advice and provide you with a price for your project. We look forward to your call.

www.jacksonarenas.com

We offer a full equestrian construction service, turning virtually any site into impressive equestrian facilities.  Indoor and Outdoor riding arenas  Gallops  Resurfacing  Repairs and refurbishments  Supply Materials  Top ups

 Walkers and lunge pens  Stables and bases  Barns and buildings  Turn out areas  Paddock fencing

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Horse Mat rubber The UK’s leading supplier of horse stable matting.

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.

From eva rubber stable matting to solid rubber stable matting, we have the rubber stable mats for sale that you need. QUOTE: EQUEST19 on orders placed.

Contact our sales team for further information on 01778 345609

www.bardomidlands.com

equestrian@bardomidlands.com

138 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

t: 01392 209 394

e: info@ark-rubberandresin.co.uk

www.arkmat.co.uk

STABLES , FIELD SHELTERS AND AM ERICAN BARNS

Our equestrian buildings are uniquely designed just for you, using carefully selected, treated and FSC certified timber; we only build with the best. BESP OKE EQUESTRIAN BUILDINGS C RAF TED IN THE KENT COUNTRYSIDE

Made Just for You

We take the same pride in constructing a field shelter as an American Barn with twenty boxes, feed room and wash bay. FREE TAC K ROOM W HEN YOU ORD ER OT B 2 OR OT B 3 SPEC STA B LES W IT H T HREE OR M ORE B OX ES B U ILD A QU OT E ON LIN E OR C A LL U S A N D SPEA K TO T HE OLSON T EA M .

01 227 6 9 61 1 1 OLSON T IM B ERB U ILD IN G S.C O.U K

 Equine Construction  Land clearance  Lake construction  Sports fields  Estate Maintenance

Info@we-plant.co.uk

07800 585 604

www.we-plant.co.uk

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 139

Guide to Surviving a Horsey Winter

Winter has truly arrived and with it comes the joy of rainy days, wet rugs, mud-caked horses, slippery field gates, bigger bedding and feed bills, sub-zero temperatures and those short, short days.

For many people, it’s time to head inside – to the cinema, the pub, the sofa… anywhere that isn’t a yard, in the dark, while sleety rain falls from the sky. Sadly, the outdoor lifestyle doesn’t stop for horse owners when the winter arrives! In fact, for followers of some equestrian disciplines it can get considerably busier in spite of the shorter days. Winter presents a challenge for all horse riders, but particularly those who work full time and need to keep their horses fit. It’s not implausible that you won’t see your home in daylight from Monday to Friday thanks to dark mornings and attempting to utilise every sliver of useful light. Professional riders and grooms with a whole day to squeeze in all ridden and stable management chores still need to juggle the early dusk and disruption from mud, ice and snow. Surfaces slick with leaves or frost can rule out roadwork, and bridleways can become a sea of shoe-loosening mud. Our expertise might well be in arena and gallop surfaces, but we’ve been around the (mounting) block a few times and lived through the worst a winter can throw at you. Here are our top tips for coping with horsey life in winter - in the arena and beyond!

140 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

 Vary your riding routine in the school – if you only ever stick to the outside track and change the rein in the same place every time, the school will get uneven and boggy. Vary your circles and track to help the surface stay in good nick - plus, it’ll keep your horse more interested.  Get into meal prepping! Not just for healthy types on Instagram and their chia porridge, it can save you valuable time. Why not fill enough hay nets and mix up dry feeds for the week on a Sunday to save a few minutes here and there on a Monday morning?  Impaction colics are more common in the winter, especially in older horses. Their teeth can be sensitive, making them unwilling to drink very cold water. Add a bit of hot water from the kettle to buckets or troughs on a cold night to make the water more palatable.  Have a plastic sledge tucked somewhere on the yard – you’ll find it much easier to move stable waste, feed buckets and hay on a sledge than you will on a wheelbarrow if we get any snow!  Dark mornings and evenings might mean the school is the only option during the week, which can be dull for you both. Drop in the occasional loose jumping session or learn to long rein. The latter has an additional benefit – keeping up at a smart trot will shed any Christmas weight!

In case you hadn’t noticed, we think a riding arena is invaluable in the winter months if you need to keep horses fit and healthy. A stable, shock absorbing surface which remains rideable even when the temperatures drop below freezing is so useful, and the addition of floodlights means people can still ride before or after work. For yard owners the idea of putting in a ménage may seem totally out of reach. They envisage enormous disruption, great expense and long-winded maintenance. The TopRide arena surface takes all the headache out of the process. We are both the manufacturer and the supplier of our carpet fibre riding surface, so there are no middleman costs bumping our prices up. Provided there is sufficient drainage, the TopRide surface can be placed directly onto concrete surfaces, mitigating the need for complicated groundworks, and it doesn’t freeze in cold weather. Finally, busy yard owners will be delighted to hear it doesn’t need harrowing or raking - just rolling every now and then. You can try TopRide before you buy at our Gloucestershire base. We’re a family run business and we know how important it is that you and your horse are comfortable and happy working on a surface before you commit to installing it at your premises.

 Winter normally means more time in the stable for horses when turnout is restricted. That means horses are exposed to stable dust for long periods of time which can impact their health. Why not make a rota to also turn them out in the ménage when it’s not in use?

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 141 www.topridesurfaces.co.uk | www.facebook.com/toprideequestriansurfaces/ | 07966 393984

W.S. HODGSON ESTABLISHED 1906

& Co Limited

A family firm with over 100 years experience built on a reputation for quality which gives your horse a good home

We Build: Equestrian Buildings, Timber Garages, Poultry Houses, Garden Sheds, Kennels, Playhouses, Timber Workshops, Summerhouses and many more ranges of timber buildings. You are more than welcome to browse and discuss your requirements with our knowledgeable, friendly staff. Visit our display centre: Featherstone Works, Cotherstone, Barnard Castle, Co Durham, DL12 9PS Call now for a FREE brochure Telephone: 01833 650274 or visit our website: www.hodgsontimberbuildings.co.uk

New arenas • Refurbishments • Lunge rings All Weather Gallops • Choice of surfaces Equestrian Groundworks and Fencing Free no obligation site visit and consultation is available throughout the UK

For a friendly efficent service Tel 01420 562441 Mob 07702 260788 Email info@tjarenas.co.uk

www.tjarenas.co.uk 142 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

Rubber Chipping From only £69.00 per tonne

Plus Delivery

Professional Rubber Surfaces 99.9% Wire Free Frost Free Soft Underfoot Low Maintenance Sample Available 20mm Chipping

Bespoke Timber Buildings for all your equestrian needs. Get in contact for a quote

www.professionalrubbersurfaces.com

01837 83756

01782 867254

www.devonshirestables.co.uk

Cecil Road, Gillow Heath, STAFFORDSHIRE ST8 6QG

Equestrian arena construction …and much more

West Country Arenas is an established family run business where service and quality still count

Whether it’s a brand new ménage, gallop or a refurbishment, West Country Arenas is on hand to ensure your project runs smoothly and exceeds your expectations. No project is too big or too small Contact us now to discuss your dream project

Where Service & Quality Still Count Phone: 01278

641797 Mobile: 07778 165662

Mark, Nr Highbridge, Somerset TA9 4QF

144 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

Stabling of

Distinction Specialising in the design, manufacture and build of Timber Stables and Bespoke Buildings

www.harlowbros.co.uk | stabling@harlowbros.co.uk | 01509 274184

Equestrian buildings expertly crafted for you “Complete project solutions by British craftsmen”

Jon William Stables

quality equestrian buildings built by British craftsmen

We want you to be proud of your purchase. We are proud to create it for you.

Call us now and select which product is perfect for you and your horse

As well as our robust and beautifully designed ranges we also provide a design through to completion service. From the initial design right through to completion we will deliver you a custom crafted and tailored building that totally fulfills your needs.

www.jonwilliamstables.co.uk | 01380 850 965 BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 145

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

146 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

· 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

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 WINTER 2019 | 147

SPRINGRIDE SURFACES Our reputation is riding on our rubber

PROJECTS We offer the complete package. Design, Demolition, groundworks, construction. End to end project management. Internal stalls, field shelters, steel framed buildings and entire bespoke stable complexes. We supply fully CE marked steel portal frame buildings to cover your arena! All aspects carried out!

We make people’s ideas come to life NO JOB IS TOO BIG

Please contact us to discuss your requirements and to get a quote

Tel: 01225 684522

Matthew Sawyer - 07854 304646 email: Matthew@solsticeequestrianprojects.com

www.solsticeequestrianprojects.com www.facebook.com/solsticeequestrianprojects/

148 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

Leading manufacturers of Equestrian & Recreational Surfaces Springride products are manufactured using the latest technology from the highest quality rubber and fibre composites, producing the best quality surfaces available today.

Beat the escalating costs of sand

NEW with our new all in one surface!

Our new product Shredtex Pro is easy to lay and

No need maintain, rides well and makes a great and economic for sand! surface. Contact us for our introductory offers.

Arena Graders

3 point linkage or towed type for ATV’s and 4x4. Available now

✔ Highest quality rubber and fibre composites ✔ Easy to lay & maintain ✔ Eliminate tracking & kickback ✔ Retains moisture ✔ Unique size & shape ✔ Won’t freeze ✔ Improves drainage ✔ Adds spring ✔ Delivered across the UK & Europe ✔ Uniquely designed to be more stable

www.springride.com 0845 6021524 | info@springride.com

Over 30 years experience of building and erecting stables

Static and Mobile Timber Stable Manufacturers, Field Shelters, Workshops and Animal Housing

3 x Ranges of stabling and field shelters to suit your budget

Cozee Homes Equestrian Building Ltd

American Barns from 4 boxes and larger

Tel: 01424 215222/ 01580 881231 www.cozeehomes.co.uk Units 1&2 Redlands Barn, Redlands Lane, TN32 5NG

The Complete Construction Package Suppliers and erectors of high quality Farm & industrial Buildings including groundworks, erection and internal fitments. Whatever your needs RT Farm & Industrial Buildings, with over 30 year of experience and in-depth knowledge of the farming and industrial industry, can accommodate you. Whether it be livestock, storage, workshop areas or equestrian buildings From simple to complex, we deliver a high level of service and construction.

If you have a problem, we will have the solution. Telephone: 01548 550003 E-mail: rtfarmbuildings@gmail.com www.rtfarmbuildings.co.uk BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 149

Specialist suppliers of Equestrian Rubber for over 20 years

Call 0800 4701371 www.niramaxrubberproducts.co.uk

        

Stable Mats Horsebox Matting Moulded Rubber Ramp Mats Partition Rubber & Clear PVC Griptop Ramp Rubber One Piece Floor Matting Rolls of Rubber Matting Stable Mat Fitting Service Nationwide Next Day Delivery

150 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

CJ Arenas will construct or build either block stables or wooden stables to meet your requirement (subject to correct planning permission)

• Post and rail fencing in either straight or half rounded finish • Any size sand school can be constructed to meet your requirements

If you are looking for a West Country based company to construct a quality riding arena or horse stabling, then look no further

• All riding surfaces are available, Refurbishments to existing sand schools • All site work undertaken and completed by CJ Arenas in the Devon and Cornwall area

Visit www.cjarenas.co.uk

or call 07813 574160 for more information or a no obligation quote

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

 Specialising in robust designs ideal for large

establishments, professional arenas and gallops

 Models also available for Quads, compact tractors and garden tractors

 All come with Side Grader Blade for pulling in track  Easy to operate  Fully adjustable tines for depth



5ft wide super leveller towing/tractor mounted—Prices starting at £1400



5ft wide towing models for fibre/sand—Prices starting at £810



6ft wide tractor mounted models for fibre/sand—Prices starting at £935



All prices exc. Delivery & VAT

Call 07703 110132 / 01225 891014 BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 151

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY SERVICES

CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENCE

Your guide to the best horse and country products and services

ALDERSHOT EQUESTRIAN LEADING SUPPLIERS OF EQUESTRIAN PENS, TREADMILLS, EXCERCISES AND MORE

Advertise your business to over 120,000 readers nationwide.

Call us now: 01454 318 780

Our customers represent the complete spectrum of the equestrian world, from large professional yards with over sixty horses to individuals with two to three horses. As well as supplying equipment for all sizes of sports horses, we design and make pens, horse walkers and treadmills for ponies and miniature horses. For customers who have specific requirements, a difficult site or need to make use of an existing building, we will design a product that meets their needs.

HORSE WALKERS • EQUESTRIAN TREADMILLS LUNGE PENS • MESHED FIELD PENS • AMERICAN PENS

email horsetech@btconnect.com telephone 07799264060

www.aldershotequestrian.co.uk HEALTHCARE

TRANSPORT

STRINGER EQUINE

VETERINARY SURGEONS

Progressive equine veterinary practice with 5 experienced vets and fully mobile equipment Lameness investigation with wireless digital radiography and ultrasound Poor performance workup using in-house laboratory equipment, gastroscopy, video endoscopy. Laser surgery including sarcoid removal Shockwave, acupuncture and therapeutic laser BEVA accredited AI Practice Reproduction and stud medicine All first opinion work and dentistry 24 hour emergency cover

For all your Equine Transport Needs Horse show transport, racehorse transport or just a horsebox with driver and groom, we are here to be flexible and assist you with your transport needs.  Nationwide Service  Professionally built box with travel comfort & safety in mind  Fully insured, trained and DEFRA registered  Box will be cleaned & disinfected with Steri-7 after every journey  We will always drive your horse like it is one of our own! Exeter, Okehampton, Newton Abbot

01647 231246 • 01392 468804 www.devon-equine-vets.com

152 | WINTER 2019 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

Call us on 07866 369705

www.completehorsetransport.co.uk

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE sustainable materials

affordable

eco friendly

Paynetts Farm, Cranbrook Road, Goudhurst, Kent, TN17 1DY bespoke design

Tel: 01580 212141 Mob: 07710 480259 Email: info@timberspecs.com

Mobile homes, holiday chalets, log homes. All built to your requirements, delivered and erected anywhere, we offer builds in round, square, cavity and random log up to 360mm thick. Houses supplied to meet building control regulations.

• • • • •

Sectional Timber Buildings Timber Built Garages Log Cabins Flood Proof Cabins Planning Help Available

• • • •

Suppliers and installers of all types of

equestrian fencing, post and rails, schools and arenas

Mobile Homes Club Houses Country Parks Garden, Studio & Office Buildings



Richard Jones Fencing contractors

Bespoke Design Service And Technical Data

The Natural Way To Build For more information on all the buildings please visit our website..

Web: www.timberspecs.co.uk Email: info@timberspecs.com Tel: 01580 212141 Mob: 07710 480259

For FREE advice and estimates Tel 0800 032 5595 Mob 07778 628 205 rjonesfencing@aol.com

www.richardjonesfencing.co.uk

CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

EQUIPMENT, MACHINERY & TOOLS

SJ H

MACHINERY

Premier Horse Walkers

Hand selecting the best products the European market has to offer and always representing unbeatable value for money

Heavy Duty Hydraulic Folding Chain Harrows 4m, 5m and 6m in stock and available for immediate dispatch prices from £1095 + VAT. Superior strength in the frame, rings and casting. Premium quality finish and welding. Unbeatable prices and results on UK grassland.

WHY INVEST IN A PREMIER HORSE WALKER ? Direct drive system (No belts, chains or pulleys) Minimal maintenance No hydraulics, eliminating oil warm up time in winter Super silent Forward / reverse with auto turn at 10 minute intervals 6ft wide paddles as standard Electrified paddles as standard 4, 6 or 8 horse with a choice of surrounds 2 year warranty Premier Horse Walkers Premier Horse Walkers

www.premierhorsewalkers.co.uk 01405 704172

Twin Drum Land Roller manufactured by Beaco. Features hardwood bearings for durability with easily accessible grease nipples. 10mm thick drum wall with 75mm solid spindles for strength. Water ballast can be added for extra weight and it is supplied as standard with a scraper blade. This model also has a 3-point linkage mounting option for easy transport as well as the standard hitch eye and shoe stand. Also available without the 3-point linkage and in a 10ft width Prices from £1350 + VAT

Twin Drum Flat Roll

VSteel Buckets are premium quality at extremely competitive prices. They are available from 1.2m to 2.4m and are manufactured to our exacting standards in Poland using 355 steels and genuine Hardox cutting edges to ensure long lasting strength and reliability. Prices start from £345 + VAT

Current stock: Heavy Duty Buckets, Heavy Duty Muck Grabs, Bale Grabs, Skid Steer Attachments, Telehandler Attachments, Pressure Washers, Steam Cleaners, Tedders & Rakes, Mowers and Toppers, Pan Mixers, Quad trailers, Sheep Snackers and much more..

01544231114 | 07551 412398 kingtonsales@sjhmachinery.co.uk

Visit our website for more details or call for any inquiries www.sjhmachinery.co.uk Made in

Britain

The Mere, Chickward Kington HR5 3EU

Free delivery within a 20 mile radius of Kington with this advert, quote ‘YOUR HORSE’ to claim your discount

BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2019 | 153

There is cat overpopulation in inner cities all across England and Wales and too many kittens are born to too CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY few good homes. The future for feral or very timid cats can be bleak as most charities don’t have the resources to find FEED & BEDDING farm homes and deliver and set up release pens, so SNIP specialise in finding homes outside the city for them. SNIP ferals are from various charities including RSPCA, Cats Protection and Battersea Dogs & Cats Home. They are neutered, healthy and ready to start life again as working cats enjoying the countryside.

■ Contact SNIP on 07830 387130 visit www.snipcats.org or follow SNIPcats on facebook ■ Carol’s Farm Club is in St Ives, Cambs www.farmclub. co.uk

ANIMAL WELFARE

Fed up with Rodents Ruining Your Tack & Feed? facebook.com/

SMALL BALE MEADOW HAY

Carol Bailey, manager of Farm Club, has taken in 11 ferals from SNIP over the last two years on her two-acre site in St Ives, Cambs. There are horses, dogs, goats, sheep, chickens, pigs, rabbits, ducklings and guinea pigs on the site, where families can experience farm life, learn skills and enjoy the Delivered animals. Farm Club hasby professional nationally the singlevermin pallet control but Carol has – great for noted smallholders, limited storage a significant decrease in rodents locating and perfect tosince travel with! the cats around the separate plots, planting areas and stables around the farm in a well-managed release pattern. Carol first heard of SNIP from a poster in her local feed merchant and had been thinking about getting some cats to deal with rodent control.

We also sell

“When I called SNIP they made it easy to understand their process, what to expect, how to feed, release and introduce them onto a farm with lots of other animals. You are bound to have questions about bringing ferals into stables and farms but we received great advice and service from the start. What really impressed when the cats were delivered was that the cats were in excellent health and had been fully vet-checked and had all their flea and worm treatments and jabs. The rehoming team brought lots of equipment – cages, food and beds etc. – they took all the worry out of setting small bale haylage and horse bedding them up and it’s easy from there, just feeding and changing by the single pallet. litter for two weeks until release. The cats are real characters, some we see more of than others but they are all playing their part on the farm and doing a great job!”

Call for a sample t: 01837 849222 /849200 m: 07871 609345

Fight Back with a Feral!

Feral cat charity SNIP urgently needs homes on stables and farms for healthy, neutered feral cats. They are rescued from London’s meanest streets and make perfect mousers for your stables!

Free service. Release pen and starter pack. We deliver up to four hours drive from London. CALL US TODAY ON

SNIP cats are delivered with a full starter pack (large release pen, comfy bed, food and litter tray) to give them the best possible start in their new home. A barn or stable that is dry and comfortable where the cats can see and smell

07830 387130

Colehay, The Croft, South Zeal, Devon EX20 2NX

www.colehay.co.uk e: info@colehay.co.uk SERVICES

44 | YOUR HORSE & COUNTRY Stablecare South West

Rug Washing, Re-Proofing and Repair Service Guaranteed weekly turnaround, including repairs Fair price, including collection and delivery All areas covered Telephone 0117 9611 515 Mobile 07778 369 334 Email stablecaresouthwest@gmail.com

www.horserugcare.co.uk

SNIP registered charity no. 299258

SERVICES

No painting, cracking, fading, warping or splintering the choice is easy! With a 30 Year Warranty, Horserail has unmatched durability. Unlike traditional wooden post and rail Horserail won’t fade, warp or become brittle in extreme weather conditions. No painting, cracking or splintering to repair. We all know that owning a Horse is an investment in money, patience and dedication. That is why Horserail pay special attention to all that goes into our products to provide a long lasting, attractive fence that requires little to no maintenance. When selecting a horse fence, compare the cost of any rigid fence, with its added maintenance, repairs and possible vet bills from injuries, to the cost of horserail fence…

and the choice is easy! Contact us now

For the highest standards of form, function, durability and most importantly safety

w: www.horserail.co.uk e: horserail@mmg.ie t: 0808 2344766 | m: 07785 986645

SAFE • STRONG • ELECTRIFIABLE