Absolute Horse - February 2020 by Absolute Horse Magazine

K ’M C - I E! PI UP RE F E

Absolute

FEBRUARY 2020

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Inside: COUNTRY & EQUESTRIAN BUYER’S GUIDE

FEBRUARY

2020 5

30 24 28 30

REGULARS 4 News 23 Rhea Freeman Asks - What exactly is social media etiquette? 35 Samantha Hardingham Rider Health - get back some winter verve 41 Donna Case Equine Nutritionist - Feeding for sparkle or stamina? 45 Daisy Bayliss’ Herbal Answers - Herbs to help the good doer

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Veteran Hot Fuss victorious at Olympia. See page 60. Photo: Kit Houghton/Horsepower

WHAT’S

INSIDE

Buyer’s Guide Charity Focus Health & Welfare including information about online first aid courses, first aid kits, and how to deal with minor wounds 38 Nutrition - including fast and slow release energy 50 Saddlery & Tack - including saddles for the wider horse 54 Stables, Yard, Arenas and Paddocks 58 Love Dogs 60 Training & Development - Berry SPECIAL Fields Animal Assisted Education READER 61Rider DISCOUNT! Cock Profile - Megan

Inside...

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

ISSUE 341

Event and NKC EQUESTRIAN Reader SEE PAGE 30 Reports COMPETITIONS & 63 Classifieds OFFERS 64 Gladwells-sponsored 7 Ariat Saddle Snaps Showdates Diary 30 Discount from NKC FEATURES Equestrian Training 8 Eventing 2020 - including 31 Robinson Animal details of the horse trials taking Healthcare place in the eastern region; plus 47 Simple System elite rider tips and advice 48 Special offers from 18 Careers, Education and TopSpec and Equerry Training

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NEWS HORSE OF THE YEAR SHOW: 2020 QUALIFIERS ANNOUNCED orse of the Year Show have announced that the showing qualifiers for the 2020 season have been added to www.hoys.co.uk The show will run from 7th11th October with a full timetable of Showing classes in the TopSpec Arena and 29 prestigious Showing Championships to contest.

WIN £1000 FOR YOUR CLUB!

DIARY DATE: BRITISH BREEDING STALLION EVENT 2020

ritish Breeding are delighted to announce their third Stallion Event will take place at Addington Equestrian Centre on Saturday 8th February. London Olympic showjumping gold medallist stallion Big Star will return to the event, alongside a host of top stallions from high profile studs, including Catherston, Caunton Manor, Future Sport Horses, New Priory, Stallions AI and West Kington. The British Breeding Stallion Event, sponsored by Baileys Horse Feeds and in association with Competition Stallions, is a highly popular show, allowing vistors to see some of the best sport horse and pony stallions standing within the UK. www.british-breeding.com/stallion-event

Photo: Julian Porch

egasus Jewellery has launched a brand-new competition that gives UK childrens clubs and teams the chance to win an amazing £1000 prize! This new competition aims to recognise the very best equestrian junior clubs out there, including pony clubs, school teams, vaulting teams, RDA and carriage driving teams, those teams who help those under 16 learn more about horse husbandry, riding and driving, or allow those with disabilities to enjoy equestrianism too. Pegasus will award one of them a £1000 prize to help them continue their amazing work. So if you know of a club that you feel deserves that £1000 prize, all you need to do is nominate them! Entries must be received by 28th February - see website for details. www.pegasusjewellery.net

November Competition Winners: Horseshoe Hearts Sam Douglas - Essex. EG07 Boots Debbie Mace - Suffolk. The Golden Paste Company Danielle Twitchen - Suffolk, Eris Body - Suffolk, H Bradley - Essex, Margaret Rose - Norfolk, Martine Holden - Norfolk, Sharon Cardy - Essex. VetSpec Amy Crosby - Essex, Karen Roadnight - Essex, Lia Sturman, Norfolk, Suzanne Maclaren - Suffolk.

HORSE & COUNTRY TV: LAUNCH NEW FREE STREAMING CHANNEL

orse & Country, the leading international equestrian sports network, has launched a new 24/7 channel. Named H&C Free, the service will be completely free to view worldwide, featuring programmes from H&C’s four core genres: Sport, Training & Learning, Entertainment and Documentary. H&C Free will be distributed through Horse & Country’s own digital platforms, and third-party platforms. The channel will be available at horseandcountry.tv and through H&C’s own iOS and Android apps, as well as a wide range of streaming platforms including Roku, FireTV, Apple TV and AndroidTV. www.horseandcountry.tv

AUSTRALIAN BUSHFIRE EMERGENCY:

INTERNATIONAL EQUESTRIAN COMMUNITY TO SUPPORT FIRE RELIEF

he Equestrian Fire Relief Australia Fund (EFRA) has been established to provide support of the equestrian community affected by the bushfires in Australia. The 2019-2020 summer fires sweeping across Australia have caused unprecedented devastation; at the time of going to press a staggering 10 million hectares have been burned, affecting nearly every state and territory with the loss of both human and animal life, including an estimated loss of 480 million wildlife. Harnessing the passion of equestrians around the world, EFRA’s primary aim is to raise funds for emergency relief but it hopes to also provide moral

support to the Australian equestrian community during such a distressing time. EFRA will dispense funds via local emergency and recovery committees in Australia, supporting the affected equestrian community through emergency aid and existing initiatives, including distributing materials and goods. Top-level International equestrians, Olympic- and World Champions from all disciplines, such as Martin Fuchs, Christian Ahlmann, Patrick Kittel and his wife Lyndal Oatley, Michael Jung, Ingrid Klimke, Edwina Tops-Alexander, Andrew Hoy, Chris Burton, William Fox-Pitt, Sam Watson, David O´Connor, Astier Nicholas, Carl Hester and Charlotte Dujardin – to name just a few - have already come

forward and joined as EFRA Ambassadors to help spread the message and raise the muchneeded funds. Australian native and eventing Olympic gold medallist, Andrew Hoy, said; “To see my home country going up in flames, to see the suffering of people, wildlife and all other animals is just devastating. I have received so many messages from people suffering losses across the affected areas and I am heartbroken for all of them. “The Australian Equestrian Community so urgently needs the help of the international equestrian community – financially, but also morally! I hope with this campaign we will be able to make a difference, show our support and get finances to the people affected.”

BRITISH HORSE FEEDS MAKES DONATION

Following the plight of horses and ponies due to the devastating fires in Australia, British Horse Feeds has made a generous donation to help owners throughout the country. British Horse Feeds’ team has donated 600 bags of Speedi-Beet for retailers to hand out to communities that have been impacted by the fires, particularly Kangaroo Island.

BSAVA AND BEVA DONATE £7,000

The British Small Animal Veterinary Association and the British Equine Veterinary Association have made a donation of £7,000 to the Australian Veterinary Association Benevolent Fund. The donation will help to assist the work of the veterinary profession who are dedicating their lives to the wellbeing of animals caught in the wildfires. Find more information and to donate to the Equestrian Fire Relief Australia Fund visit www.equestrianfirerelief.com.au

Photo: Trevor Meeks

NEWS incredibly hard and certainly deserve this recognition!” In the best Riding for the Disabled (RDA) Riding School category, Cotswold RDA headed off some strong competition to win. A thrilled Claire Jenkins who L to R Dr Frances Henson, Roxanne works as general manager at Carter, Bob OConnor, Gemma Tattersall Cotswold RDA said: “I am and Suzy Middleton absolutely delighted to accept this award on behalf of our amazing volunteers, riders and their families. We are truly lucky to have such wonderful people on our team who do absolutely everything including our new he first ever SEIB the Year Awards back in category, Church House Farm in ‘tea with a pony’ afternoons.” The judging panel of the SEIB Insurance Brokers Livery November. Over 1,400 Essex took top honours. Bob Livery Yard and Riding School Yard and Riding School nominations were received O’Connor has owned and run Awards was made up from of the Year Awards were held at before an expert panel of Judges Church House Farm for representatives of the AHT, NAF, the glamorous British Horse carefully came up with a shortlist seventeen years, and he and his Foundation dinner at the of yards throughout the country. partner Roxanne Carter went up SEIB and Redpin Publishing. The Judges commented on the Leonardo Royal London City Each yard on the shortlist on stage to collect their award. Hotel on the 11th January. received a Judge’s visit before the Bob said: “Winning this means a exceptionally high standard of yards in this competition and the Winners of each of the four panel decided on lot to us all – we positive and inclusive categories in the SEIB Livery Yard the ultimate winner will be having a “I feel very atmosphere of the best yards and Riding School Awards were in each category of celebratory bottle honoured as was widely acknowledged and announced at the dinner and the awards. of champagne for rewarded accordingly. trophies, plaques and certificates Winning the best everyone at the we all work SEIB Marketing Manager were presented to the winners DIY (do it yourself) yard tomorrow. very hard for You are only as Nicolina Mackenzie said: “We and runners-up by British Livery Yard category instigated these awards to find Olympic eventer and NAF brand was Court Bank our liveries...” good as the people the best livery yards and riding ambassador Gemma Tattersall, Farm in around you and schools in Britain and were SEIB’s Suzy Middleton and Dr Staffordshire. Proprietors Adrienne Devonish our yard delighted to see just how much Frances Henson of the Animal Vivienne and Andrew Newton manager is totally committed people wanted to nominate their Health Trust (AHT). proudly accepted their award, and makes sure everything on SEIB has set up these awards to Vivienne said: “We didn’t know the yard is done right. I feel very yard. It was a pleasure to see so many truly outstanding celebrate the best in riding anything about the SEIB awards honoured as we all work very businesses and this has given us schools and livery yards until the Judge phoned to say hard for our liveries who are a an opportunity to celebrate the throughout the UK in they were on the way to do their great bunch of people.” service offered by livery yards and association with horse care and surprise yard visit. The girls on Hampshire based Wellington riding schools in the UK. The supplements company NAF. The the yard had nominated us and Riding won the best Riding skill, commitment and hard work awards are supported by the kept it very quiet! We are thrilled School category. General Animal Health Trust and the to have won this.” Andrew manager, David Sheerin collected of the people that own, run and British Horse Foundation. Newton said: “We work really the award on behalf of the yard. work in these yards is humbling and needs to be applauded.” The general public were invited hard to make sure that everyone He said: “We are delighted to to nominate their favourite livery at the yard enjoys their time here win this inaugural award, we are www.seib.co.uk/awards yard or riding school for the SEIB and has a positive experience.” very proud of both our horses, Livery Yard and Riding School of In the best Full Livery Yard ponies and staff who all work

ESSEX YARD SCOOPS TOP PRIZE: BEST OF BRITISH CELEBRATED IN THE SEIB LIVERY YARD AND RIDING SCHOOL OF THE YEAR AWARDS

COMPETITION

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EVENTING 2020

ELITE RIDERS SHARE TOP TIPS AND ADVICE: ENSURE YOU ARE READY By Sarah Skillin

ith the British Eventing season fast approaching its time to make that mental checklist of ‘am I ready?’ You may have done the flatwork and jumping homework, the cross-country schooling and some gallop work, but does that mean you’ve ticked all of the boxes?

Professional event rider Imogen Murray

To Event!

Do your homework Doing your homework ahead of your first event, and the start of the season, is one of the most important things. International event rider Alexander Whewall offered his expert advice on the subject. “The more you prepare at home, the more you’ll be prepared at

the actual event. Doing your homework over the winter can be everything from reading the latest rule changes to working on the first dressage tests of the season. “When it comes to the practical side of things, it’s always good to practice skinnies, corners and the more difficult lines in the school before you go out to a cross-country course. Once you’re both confident and fit, I recommend cross-country schooling once a week on the run up to the start of the season.” With the wetter weather affecting many riders plans it is worth researching which schooling facilities are open, what their ground conditions are like and what availability they have. The East of England benefits from some super schooling facilities with Poplar Park having sandy and free

Alexander Whewall

draining soil that enables them to open early. Ely Eventing offers a wide selection of fences including a range of water and ditch combinations, with Stratford Hills offering a more challenging terrain that will add fitness benefits. Try not to rely on all-weather schooling facilities as horses and riders need to remember how to ride on grass. Imogen Murray is fast becoming one of the country’s leading event riders following much 5* success. For Imogen doing her homework is more about mental preparation than just perfecting her physical performance. “Reflect on last season and remind yourself of how you completed your last events. Look at each discipline to help guide your training plan and competition expectations. “You can use this information to make a plan. Know what you’re aiming at for this season and set some short and long-term goals. You can then make a plan on how to achieve them.”

Fitness You want to ensure that you and your horse will finish the crosscountry course happy, full of running and hopefully clear. A little bit of extra fitness work is the name of the game. For those heading out at 80-90cm level,

Alex advises that general flatwork, jumping and hacking should suffice, but make sure you have plenty of canter work in your sessions. For those moving up the levels, interval training and an increased level of canter and gallop work would be well advised. Those eventing for pleasure and working in a sedentary role could consider adding some additional fitness work to their weekly schedule. We should never forget that the horse and rider are a partnership and need to be as equally fit in order to

tackle the courses together.

“Check you have everything you need. Make a list of everything Don’t leave everything you need for the start of the until last minute season in terms of kit, feed, Try to get out showjumping and supplements, vaccinations etc, cross-country schooling as early and make sure you have as possible. Getting the right everything you need and within amount of practice is key and the right time frames. You want sometimes we need a little to prevent last minute panic reminder as to what we are ordering the day before an actually doing. event.” You may be on top of your game Alex takes this advice one step when it comes to dressage, further with a planning session. showjumping and cross“When you are planning your country, but Imogen advises early season competitions don’t doing a little more admin early forget to add your training to on as well. the plan and supplementary

hatever your goal, seeing it through is all about making sure they are achievable in the first place. This is not to say that you shouldn’t push yourself out of your comfort zone but in equestrianism, ambition can sometimes outweigh ability. Your goals should also be defined by your horse’s ability as well as your own. Pushing a horse too far out of his comfort zone will only damage his confidence and set you back in your progress. Effective goal setting must be specific, measurable, attainable, relevant and time bound. This means no vague fantasies like ‘I’d love to win an event’ it needs to be more refined, such as ‘by the end of the 2020 season, my goal is to finish on a sub thirty score’. This goal might then create a series of smaller (minor) goals that are needed in order for you to achieve the bigger goal. For example, improve the dressage by five marks, eliminate the four faults or be able to go ten seconds faster cross-country in order to make the time. If you’re being super analytical then it can be taken a step further and broken down into micro goals, such as improve the free walk by one to two marks, or set off from

competitions, like dressage and showjumping. Once you have your plan you need to add in all of the essential extras like booking the vet for vaccinations, the farrier for stud holes, ensuring the lorry is serviced and MOT’d correctly – all of the little things that we sometimes forget.” Above all remember that it is supposed to be fun! For the majority eventing is a hobby, so don’t put too much pressure on yourself to become the next Piggy French or Oliver Townend. Go and enjoy the experience.

ACHIEVABLE GOALS!

the start box more effectively. Often to make an improvement to EXPLAINS EVENTER achieve a goal it is & TRAINER HARRIET about improving ten MORRIS-BAUMBER things by 1% rather than improving one thing by 10%. Once you have your goal – write it down! This is the single most valuable thing to do as the process of writing it down why you want to achieve this goal. When makes it feel real. You can keep it in your you feel demotivated or you lose purse, on your bedside table or pin it up on confidence you can look back on your your desk. ‘Misson Statement’ and this should help to Tell your circle about your goal, your inspire you to keep going. friends, your family, your trainer, anyone Goal setting is much more than simply who supports you and has an interest in stating you wish something to happen. you. They will be able to help and Unless you clearly define exactly what you encourage you and keep you on track. want, why you want it and how you can Because you are now a savvy goal setter, accomplish it, your odds of success are you have set a time scale on your goal, so greatly reduced. you have the present date and an end goal. By setting smart goals with a timeline you You now need to add in some key dates in can set goals with confidence and enjoy the your timeline to assess, review and repeat. satisfaction that comes with knowing you If things don’t go to plan, for example we achieved what you set out to do. have heavy snow for two weeks in February; Remember a dream without a goal is just a you may have to adjust your plans. wish! Sometimes it can be good to write down www.harriet-morris-baumber.co.uk

EVENTING 2020

AN EVENTFUL SEASON AHEAD FOR

Emily King

ll the horses are back in full work now after enjoying their welldeserved winter breaks. “They are turned out in the field from mid-October to December with shoes off and rugs on in a lovely large field to have some quality downtime. They get checked and fed every day and given Horsehage once the grass starts to go, as it’s so important that they come back in from their holidays nicely conditioned. They all become chubby and extremely fluffy and

Emily King with 3year-old Bunny

just get the chance to be natural horses again, which they absolutely love!“ “Whilst the older horses are resting, Sam and I concentrate on the new generation of babies, breaking in the 3-yearolds and furthering the 4-yearolds’ education. I have two new 3-year-olds called Bunny and Mellow, purchased by owners from the Monart and Go For Gold horse sales in Ireland. They arrived on the yard at the end of November and are both absolutely lovely characters and were sweethearts to break in which made my life much easier!

IN THIS ARTICLE WE HAVE TEAMED UP WITH HORSEHAGE, SPONSOR OF EVENT RIDER, EMILY KING, TO FIND OUT WHAT HER PLANS ARE FOR THE COMING EVENTING SEASON Marco enjoying his winter 2019 holiday

3-year-old Mellow

It definitely helps their confidence having been handled a lot throughout the sales, but they’re still obviously right at the beginning of their careers and learning all the other basics completely from scratch, so taking my time and keeping them confident is key. I played around with them, getting them used to having tack on, lungeing, then slowly proceeded to them having me on their

America Biats

Valmy Biats

Hobby enjoying his HorseHage

backs and learning the basic aids. They can now trot and canter around the school (in a very wobbly fashion!), trot over poles on the floor and hack around the farm with other horses. This is all I tend to do with them as 3-year-olds. They’ve now been turned back out into the field and will rest until the summer when they will then be brought back in. I will briefly repeat the breaking in process and then further their education throughout the summer with the aim to get them to some small training shows over the winter. “They’ve got lovely temperaments, good attitudes and from what we’ve seen so far, lots of ability, so it will be exciting to see what the future holds for them both. “The rest of the horses have all done a month of road work, tightening and strengthening their bodies from their holidays and are now schooling and jumping and gradually becoming fitter. They’ll start going to jumping shows and cross-country schooling and then start their galloping working beginning of February. “I’ve got a couple of new rides joining my team of horses for this year which is very exciting Valmy Biats and America Biats, owned by Philippe Brivois and have come over from France. “The main competition aims for this year are Tattersalls U25 Champs; Bramham; Boekelo; the Young Horse World Championships, and the Nations Cup Series.” www.horsehage.co.uk

increases. Continuing to push a tired horse to go faster, particularly in deep holding ground also massively increases TO SOFT, TOO HARD, HOW DO YOU KNOW the chances of an injury. WHEN THE GROUND CONDITIONS ARE GOOD Another factor to take into ENOUGH TO COMPETE AND WHEN YOU account when considering the ground conditions is that the SHOULD SAVE YOUR HORSE FOR ANOTHER horse’s hoof is designed to slide DAY? HERE EVENT RIDER AND TRAINER, very slightly as it hits the HARRIET MORRIS-BAUMBER, HELPS US ground. In wetter conditions UNDERSTAND THE EFFECTS OF RIDING ON this slide can become too much GROUND THAT COULD BE CONSIDERED and so the use of studs can DETRIMENTAL TO YOUR HORSE. really help to aid the horse’s ‘traction control’. Hard, rutty and uneven ground causes the hoof to over-pivot on the end of the leg, putting extra stress on the joints and soft tissue of the lower limbs as they attempt to keep themselves and s the eventing season horse can propel themselves the upper limbs stable. spans spring, summer through the mud, which can Hard ground has the added and early autumn and have an effect on their traction negative of causing a concussive the changing weather that control system, but not effect on the joints. This is these seasons can bring, necessarily cause an injury where the shock absorption ground conditions can vary directly. system is struggling to tremendously. Wet, holding ground however counteract the repetitive So, how do we know when wet has a sucking action and the pounding of working on hard is too wet and hard ground is too horse has to work harder to pull ground. hard, forcing a rider to make the their legs out of the ground with Some work on hard ground can difficult decision not to each stride. This repetitive be a good thing. Working at compete? action can cause strains to the slower speeds, such as hacking Whatever the ground soft tissues of the lower limbs in walk and gently trotting on conditions, the fitter a horse is and will fatigue the muscles the road can strengthen bones and the better the condition of quicker resulting in a reduced and build condition in soft the muscles, the less likely an ability to balance, turn, and tissues. injury is to occur. As the muscles change pace. Bone is constantly being broken fatigue with work they lose the Wet or deep ground, while being down and remodelled, hence ability to contract and release as much kinder to the joints than why a break can heal very quickly, making it more difficult hard ground can cause stress to efficiently in a relatively short to instantly compensate for any the soft tissues. timescale and can adapt to the loss of balance caused when One competition in muddy forces it’s subjected to, so they lose their footing. conditions in unlikely to result in working on a harder surface can It is also worth considering that an injury but if your horse has have a positive effect by horses can easily lose their previously had tendon or increasing the bone density. confidence if the going doesn’t ligament issues, and/or Soft tissue doesn’t have this suit them. excessive speed is used, the same ability hence why soft Continued overleaf... On very wet, sloppy ground a likelihood of an injury greatly

ON SOLID GROUND

EVENTING 2020

EMMA AND KEVIN MCNAB:

OUR 2019 HIGHLIGHTS &

PREPARING FOR 2020

tissue injuries take longer to heal and have a less successful prognosis. Also, if a bone has healed well, there is little or no weakness in the structure of it, whereas soft tissue will always carry a degree of weakness as the fibres do not always heal in the correct fibre pattern. As a result the reoccurrence of an injury in the same area is more likely. Good grass cover is important as the grass roots hold the soil together and the grass on the surface has a cushioning effect as well as giving the hooves something to ‘bite’ into. Consistency of the going is fundamental for reducing the risk of injury. Travelling at speed and a sudden change from hard to very soft ground gives the horse no time to compensate and will unbalance the horse. In that split second when the horse compensates for the imbalance, he can easily over strain the soft tissues within the limbs. However, having said all of this, only ever riding your horse on a perfect, level artificial surface will not prepare your horse’s body for coping with the varying terrain that is likely to arise out eventing. Knowing your horse, doing the correct conditioning work and riding at the appropriate speed will all enable you to compete on various types of ground without a problem. www.harriet-morrisbaumber.co.uk

nternational event riders and Absorbine brand ambassadors Emma and Kevin McNab have had a jampacked 2019 and now the focus is set firmly on the forthcoming 2020 season, with the Toyoko Olympics in sight for Kevin.

What were your highlights from your succesful 2019 season? “We had a very exciting year. Scuderia 1918 Don Quidam finished seventh at Pau 5*L, Scuderia 1918 A Best Friend came fifth at Blenheim 4*L, whilst Fernhill Tabasco won the Eventing Ireland Challenge after winning all three of the Irish events that he competed in. Going into 2020, Kevin has four horses qualified for the Tokyo Olympics.”

Did you have any challenges to overcome? “This is the first year since we’ve been based in the UK that we have had such an exciting and large team of upper level horses. The challenge that comes with this, is making the calendar work so we can get them all to the right events they need to put us in with a chance for selection!” Congratulations on becoming parents for the first time! “Thank you very much! It’s been an amazing time and a big change. Emma hasn’t been riding very much whilst Annabelle is still so young and because of this I will continue to ride Fernhill Tabasco, campaigning him for Tokyo. Very exciting times are ahead!”

Product News...

Photo: Spidge

Continued from previous page...

The new Childéric FMPL Saddle is a hybrid close contact event/jump saddle. Offering the ultimate in close contact and comfort for the horse, this model features integrated panels and innovative flap design offering extended freedom at the wither and shoulder. RRP: £4,320. www.childericsaddles.co.uk

Did the horses have a winter break? If so, when did/will they come back into work? “All of our horses all had a short break. Most of the competing horses had their three to fourweek holiday at the end of season, during November. We then began bringing them back in throughout December, ready for the new year. We don’t like to give them any longer off as it is much harder to get them going

Venue Profile

What is your usual routine before the season begins again? “Since Nelson Pessoa has come onboard as the Australian Jumping coach, we are very lucky to be able to go to Belgium to train with him, so we will do this a couple of times before the events start in March. We also work regularly with our fantastic dressage coach Sune Hansen. We usually take our upper level horses out cross-country schooling once or twice just to shake the cobwebs off, but they don’t normally need more than that. The younger horses will go out much more though ahead of their first events.”

Kevin, your sights are set on the Toyoko Olympics. Can you tell us your plan between now and the run-up? “Yes, that is the goal for the year. I have four horses qualified but the two that are definitely my front runners are Fernhill Tabasco and Scuderia 1918 Don Quidam. Fernhill Tabasco did WEG with Emma in 2018 and is a serious competitor at the big events whilst Don Quidam is just making his way into the big time with his recent seventh place in his first 5* at Pau last year. Fernhill Tabasco will do 4*S events ahead of Tokyo and I’m planning on taking Don Quidam to Kentucky 5* in April.”

What are your musthave Absorbine products whilst Over winter do you do travelling and out any indoor competing? dressage/show “We are so lucky to be able to jumping/arena eventing use all the amazing Absorbine with the youngsters to products, but our absolute keep them ticking over? must-haves are Horseman’s One “We try to go to a few local SJ Step, Showsheen Spray and days with both the younger and Magic Cushion. These three older horses before the season products go with us begins again in March. We try to everywhere!” take the younger horses out www.absorbine.co.uk regularly before the events start so by the time we get there, there are no surprises and they are ready to compete.” The Veredus E-Vento Boots combine maximum protection with comfort to produce hard wearing protective crosscountry boots. The boots are lightweight for greater freedom of movement and flexibility with waterproof all terrain robust protection. RRP: £124 front/£134 rear. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

Stratford Hills Horse Trials in aid of the Charlie Watkins Foundation

13th and 14th June

At Stratford Hills, Stratford St Mary, Colchester, Essex CO7 6PA. Sponsor: Carriagehouse Insurance. BE Organiser: Gillie Cranfield, Stratford Hills, Stratford St Mary, Colchester CO7 6PA. Email: gillie@waterhousefarm.com Mobile: 07768 708637 Entries Secretary: Wendy Evans Email: wendy@bdwp.co.uk Classes: BE80, BE80 RF, BE90, BE90o, BE90u18Q, BE100, BE100o, BE100u18Q, N, ON, NRF. Dressage Facts: Flat arenas with plenty of warm-up space. All with excellent grass cover. Showjumping Facts: Flat spacious arena with plenty of grass cover. Courses designed by Sue Peasley. Cross Country Facts: Courses will be designed by David Carpenter. The course will run in the same direction as last year with some route alterations and new jumps. Additional Information: The horse trials will be run in aid of the Charlie Watkins Foundation which is a charity aimed at students attending the University of Essex and other Colleges in East Anglia. The aim is to provide a safe space for students to speak openly about their own mental health. It provides a 1-to1 online chatroom with trained volunteers operating after 6pm every day.

Photos: Richard Weller-Poley

again. They are all looking and feeling fantastic after their holidays.”

Location: Situated just off the A12 between Colchester and Ipswich.

EVENTING 2020 Barefoot Retreats Horse Trials 9th-11th April

“It’s important to us to support our local communities. We are delighted to raise money for these worthy causes and to see the difference it makes” - Bo Hardwick

SUFFOLK EVENT WITH

INTERNATIONAL APPEAL

n its 37th year Poplar Park Horse Trials continues to be the only British Eventing event to be held in Suffolk. As well as hosting a highly anticipated sporting event, it prides itself on being able to raise much needed funds for local charities. Held on the weekend of 7th and 8th of March, the Poplar Park Horse Trials promises to be an action packed few days of competition with classes from BE80 right through to Advanced Intermediate. Over thirty-seven years the reputation and reliability of the event and its cross-country course, planned and designed by Burghley course builder Joe Weller, continues to grow. Rolex Grand Slam winner, three time Olympic medalist and Burghley 2019 winner Pippa

Funnell MBE and Olympic gold medalist and Badminton 2019 winner Piggy French, were amongst the many riders who made the journey to Suffolk in 2019. Joint organiser Bo Hardwick said, ”It’s great to see so many competitors coming back year after year. We are delighted that some of the world’s top riders continue to return to Suffolk to compete. It gives our spectators the opportunity to watch top class riding in action.” Very much a family affair, the Hardwick family works tirelessly, supported by their many volunteers and organising committee to make this the best event possible. What they achieve however, over and above this highly regarded event, is vital support for local charities. Over the thirty-seven years they have

raised thousand of pounds for their chosen charities. One such charity, Riding for the Disabled (Hollesley Group), has managed to raise over £50,000 to support their move to a new home in Clopton. Trustee Suzanne Hammond said, “Poplar Park work extremely hard on our behalf and we are hugely grateful for their support.” The event also offers the opportunity for a great family day out in the beautiful Suffolk countryside with dogs being most welcome. Trade stands provide last minute equipment for riders as well as country wear, craft and agricultural stalls and a range of food outlets. This year’s local charities are the Riding for the Disabled and The East Anglian Air Ambulance.

PwC Horseheath Horse Trials - 25th-26th April

unning over the first half of Easter weekend, Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International attracts many of the world’s best event riders to Norfolk. An established pre-Badminton, top athletes bring some of their most talented horses to contest the big classes, alongside future prospects to run in the national sections. This year riders have even more incentive: the horse trials will host the first leg of the lucrative Event Rider Master series. Event Director and crosscountry course designer Alec Lochore said, “We are delighted to be hosting the opening leg of the ERM. It’s a perfect fit for us – the world's leading riders descend on our corner of North Norfolk every spring, so to be able to offer them an ERM class as well as our regular threeand four star and national classes is the icing on the cake.” There is ample opportunity for autograph hunting. World number one Oliver Townend remains the man to beat, having won 12 four star classes at Burnham Market since 2007, while British number one Piggy

he PwC Horseheath Horse Trials, Cambridgeshire, takes place over two days 25th-26th April and attracts over 550 competitors from across the region and beyond due to the easy access from the M11 and no small country lanes to negotiate. In addition to BE80(T) to BE105, there is a BE Under 18 class for junior competitors competing in the BE90. The cross-country course has, once again, been expertly designed by BE Course Designer Tina Ure of Ely Eventing centre, a British Eventing Accredited Coach and built by David Carpenter and his team. Entries open on 17th March 2020. www.horseheathevents.co.uk

Burnham Market International

Venue Profile

Great Witchingham Horse Trials

20th-22nd March / 26th-28th June

French and World Champion Ros Canter are also regulars. Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market International offers a fantastic day out. Alongside topclass competition, there will be over fifty shops and, for children, bungee trampolines, bouncy castles, a climbing wall and circus workshops. Organisers, Musketeer Event Management, will again be supporting East Anglian Air Ambulance. EAAA operates two state of the art helicopters and two rapid response vehicles which serve the people of Norfolk, Suffolk, Cambridgeshire and Bedfordshire, encompassing residents of Essex and

Hertfordshire during the hours of darkness. Its services are only kept airborne thanks to donations. The second horse trials to run at Sussex Farm is the Barefoot Retreats Burnham Market (2), on 12th-13th September with classes from BE90 to Intermediate. A great event for stepping up a level towards the end of the season, the courses are beautifully built and educational, with superb spectator viewing. As with all Musketeer Event Management fixtures in 2020, East Anglian Air Ambulance is the official charity. www.musketeer.co.uk

Product News...

Uls-Gard contains ingredients to soothe and coat the stomach, providing support against these stresses. Uls-Gard should be added to each feed for all competition horses, and those on high concentrate diets. Uls-Gard can continue to be fed whilst the horse is in competition. RRP: £34.99/1ltr. www.equine-america.co.uk

At Blackwater Farm (Great Witchingham), Great Witchingham, Norfolk NR9 5PH. Sponsors (1): Diamond Controls Ltd. (2): Diamond Controls Ltd and Tigga’s Saddlery. BE Organiser: Mr Robert Sayer, Church Farm Lane, Sparham, Norwich, Norfolk NR9 5QB. Phone: 01603 873187. Mobile: 07789 225416. Email: greatwitchingham@googlemail.com. Telephone number on day of the event: 01603 873187. Entries Secretary: Miss Wendy Evans, 2 Netherstead Court, Morton Bagot, Studley, Warwickshire B80 7FG. Mobile: 07775 888546. Email: wendy@wendyevans.uk. Web: www.bdwp.co.uk/wevans (Please call only between 9.00am and 7.00pm). Event Secretary: Mr David Sayer, Church Farm House, Sparham, Norwich, Norfolk NR9 5PR. Phone: 01362 688227. Email: greatwitchingham@googlemail.com. Please send all entries and stabling applications to Wendy Evans. Please make cheques payable to D J Sayer. SJ Course Designer: Mrs Sue Peasley. XC Course Designers: David Sayer and Robert Sayer. Course Facts: Novice, BE100 and BE90 courses will start in the opposite direction this year. Great Witchingham’s courses offer a good selection of well-built fences, with alternatives aimed at first-time novice and BE100 combinations. Runs over gently undulating permanent pasture and grassland and incorporates three copses and natural water obstacles. The ground is generally light or black peat. Take-offs and landings of cross-country fences are prepared. The Intermediate course is separate, educational, up to height, with two natural water complexes, there are alternatives for the more difficult fences. Owner-friendly layout with excellent viewing. Classes: 20th-22nd March: OI, BE90, BE100Open, IN, I, BE90PC, BE100Plus, ONu18, BE105, AI, BE100PC, BE90Open, ON, BE80(T), BE100, N. 26th-28th June: BE80(T), BE90, BE90Open, BE90PC, 2BE100Open, 5YO, BE100, BE100Open, BE100PC, BE100Plus, N, ON, I, OI. Location: Held at Blackwater Farm, situated 10 miles West of Norwich on A1067 1 mile West of Lenwade (Reepham turning). Great Witchingham is usually referred to as Lenwade on road maps. The A11 is now fully dualled from M11, A14 to A47 within eight miles of Great Witchingham.

EVENTING 2020 Saracen Horse Feeds Houghton International, including FEI Eventing Nations Cup 21st-24th May

here are few more beautiful settings for a horse trials than Houghton Hall, home to one of Norfolk’s key sporting fixtures, the Saracen Horse Feeds Houghton International. The event has hosted the only British leg of the FEI Eventing Nations Cup since its launch in 2012, ensuring a strong international field. While Great Britain stamped its authority on the first two home Nations Cup contests, Germany has been victorious since 2015. More than 700 horses will be in action across a range of disciplines, from Eventing, British Showjumping, Burghley Young Event Horse qualifiers and Arena Eventing to unaffilliated dressage, showjumping, and the Pony Club team challenge. Spectators can watch both up-and-coming talent and multi-medal winning Olympians, rare at any single event.

ASK A

Masterminder...

Small & Supercharged Mastermind is an online group supporting small equestrian and rural businesses and, as such, is bursting with amazingly knowledgeable people with lots to share. Each month we’ll be asking them a question and members will be sharing their top tips. This month’s question is…

‘WHAT’S YOUR TOP TIP WHEN IT COMES TO EVENTING?’ 16

There is something for everyone: exhilarating sporting action, entertainment for all ages, and extensive shopping opportunities. Visitors can browse over seventy tradestands and keep the children happy, courtesy of the on-event children's entertainment – all the while contributing to Musketeer Event Management’s 2020 charity, East Anglian Air Ambulance. www.musketeer.co.uk

Childeric Saddles Horse Trials 29 -

19th July, 3rd – 5th

esigned by Tina Ure and Jonathan Clissold (Advanced/4*) the cross-country courses at Little Downham are educational at all levels. With new fences and combinations each year, and a fresh looking track at each event, the cross-country runs on Fenland peat and therefore benefits from good going at each event. Each course features multiple water complexes, steps and ditches. “2020 will feature a new CCI4*S track for October as we prepare to welcome a new International fixture to the calendar and look to welcome those riders looking for an Autumn qualification or preparing for the Autumn 5* events,” said a spokesperson.

Amanda Marshall, 3 Donkeys Clothing: “Always have some what I call ‘mucky clothes’ (tracksuit, coveralls etc) with you, to pop on over your competition clothes when getting prepared at an event. This will save time, allowing you to get ready, do any final last minute polishing, then take them off and get on. An added bonus is that your horse will no longer have to wait for you to get changed.” www.3donkeys.co.uk

Ruth Chappell, Dressage Anywhere: “Remember that every dressage movement is worth at least 10 marks. If you make a mistake or a movement doesn’t quite go to plan, don’t dwell on it. Thinking about the last movement could be costly and stop you from setting up for the next one. Instead put it behind you and give the next movement your full attention.” www.dressageanywhere.com

Little Downham

31st May, 18th – October

Classes include BE90 – Advanced at the May event, BE80 – Novice in July, and BE80 to Advanced and CCI4*S in October. The dressage arenas are run on a large flat grass arena within an easy reach of the lorry park. There is a large working in area. Designed by Sue Peasley the showjumping is run on a large, flat, grass arena, surrounded by the tradestand and secretariat area. A large working in area is also provided with a selection of warm up fences. Little Downham is a fabulous event for spectating with 80% of the course visible from one central location. All three phases are within easy reach of the car parking areas with disabled access provided to the cross-country course.

Michelle Woolrich, The Animal Therapy Hub: “Correct cool down is as vitally important as the warm up. The cool down can be a bit hit and miss and usually consists of a quick ridden walk around and sponge off. As soon as finished, especially cross-country, get off your horse, remove the saddle, get as much cold water on them as possible and walk them around in-hand until respiratory rate has returned to normal (around 13 breaths per min). Don’t forget the legs, it is really important that the legs are cooled down as quickly as possible too. “Remove all boots as soon as possible, and as cold hosing the legs is usually not feasible at an event ice boots are preferred, or cold water boots, but these need to be reactivated by submersion in cold water at least every 5 mins, as they will heat up from the body heat which is counterproductive.” www.theanimaltherapyhub.com

Sarah Johnstone, Apt Cavalier: “Use the notes app on your phone to create a detailed schedule, including everything from what time you will wake up, leave the stable, walk the course, tack up, get on, compete, etc. This will prevent the last minute ‘I should be on by now’ panic and avoid unnecessary stress and rushing. Send the schedule to your grooms or whoever is coming with you to help, so they can help keep you to time too.” www.aptcavalier.com

Donna Case, The Horse Feed Guru: “Whilst competing, ensure you take as much of your own water as possible in containers, both for the journey and also whilst you are away. Water can taste very different to that of back home and the last place you want your horse refusing to drink is at an event where hydration is of the upmost importance.” www.horsefeedguru.com To find out more about the Small & Supercharged Mastermind group, see www.rheafreemanpr.co.uk

Liz Somerville, Loch Leven Equine: “British Eventing’s vaccine rules have been updated for 2020 to include a new rule that means your horse must not have had a vaccination in the seven days prior to your competition. We would always recommend planning your vaccines to fit around your competitions, set reminders on your phone so you don’t forget and make sure your passport is up to date and with your horse when you travel to the event…events will be checking passports so don’t get caught out!” www.lochlevenequine.co.uk

Nicola Kinnard-Comedie, NKC Equestrian Training: “Don’t forget to take a travel horse first aid kit, make sure you include saline solution, gauze swabs, hydrogel and some basic bandage materials.” www.nkcequestrian.com Hayley Files, Equissentials Dressage: “Pack the lorry the day before so you have plenty of time, lay out your kit for each phase and load it into the lorry in reverse order, so your XC kit goes in first and your dressage whites go in last. To be extra prepared, you can get dressed into your dressage breeches and shirt before you leave - but make sure you have joggers/hoodie/waterproofs to put over the top to keep you clean and sparkling before you trot down that centre line!” www.equissentialsdressage.com

CAREERS, EDUCATION & TRAINING

NEW EQUINE DEGREE LAUNCHED AT HARTPURY

artpury University has launched a new equine degree driven by industry experts to enable graduates to succeed in the global equine industry. The BSc (Hons) Equine Performance with Rehabilitation degree at Hartpury – among the largest equine education establishments in the world – will provide students with knowledge of the latest scientific principles and practices. Students can also develop key professional skills by working within the world-class facilities at Hartpury’s Equestrian Centre, including the Equine Therapy Centre, the Margaret Giffen Centre for Rider Performance, and the 230-horse livery yard. The qualification, which is now open for 2020 enrolment, also includes a supported work

placement within the equine industry to provide students with real-world experience, to further enhance graduates’ career prospects. The new degree, which also provides the option of a foundation year, underlines Hartpury’s commitment to ensuring its graduates gain the essential skills and experience that are sought after by UK and international employers. Recent additions to its portfolio of qualifications include the BA (Hons) International Horseracing Business and BSc (Hons) Racehorse Performance and Rehabilitation degrees. The performance and rehabilitation course combines first-hand industry experience with strong practical knowledge, while the business students take a closer look at the governance and structure of international

racing. Recent equine graduates from Hartpury, which offers a range of equine-related diplomas and degrees, have embarked on careers with a number of major employers, including international stud farms, racecourses, and the Hong Kong Jockey Club. Catherine Porter, Head of Hartpury University’s Equine Department, said: “Our partnerships with a wide range of organisations mean we’re

able to develop qualifications that are industry relevant and will enhance the career prospects of our students. “We’ve launched our new BSc (Hons) Equine Performance with Rehabilitation degree after detailed discussions with our industry partners to ensure the content provides our graduates with the knowledge, skills and experience that employers are looking for, in the UK and abroad.”

NEW CITY & GUILDS BRIDLE FITTING AND MEASURING QUALIFICATION LAUNCHED BY SMS fter a year and a half of research and development, the Society of Master Saddlers has launched a new and forward thinking Bridle Fitting Qualification. This new initiative aims to raise standards in the industry and enhance equine welfare. The qualification, approved by City & Guilds, has been developed over 18 months and the course to accompany it will enrol its first students in the summer of 2020. At the centre of all the Society’s suite of qualifications, which are all approved by City & Guilds, is equine welfare which drives members forwards to deliver the best saddlery services and goods in the world. The Society also offers a revised Saddle Fitting Qualification and a Flocking and Flocking Adjustment Qualification, amongst others. www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

Frances Roche and Helen Reader during their assessment

My Dream Career... Will Hughes

ill Hughes, 19, has held a passion for horse racing for many years. “From as early as I can remember through my dad and grandad’s shared interest in the sport. “Throughout primary school I always had the ambition of working in racing, but as secondary school began that went away. However, A-Levels weren’t for me and after a year in retail I decided to apply for the BRS.”

equestrian yard, and essentially needed everything explained to me for several weeks.”

Did you have any prior racing experience? “Before the BRS the closest I had been to a racehorse was at the races. I had never ridden or looked after a racehorse in my life, or worked in any other kind of

What’s the best part about doing the job you do? “For me, the best thing about my job is knowing that I’ll never have to go back to working in a shop or a retail environment. Being outdoors with such interesting

Which BRS course did you do and when? “I was part of Course 329 with the legendary Miss Hobson. It was a 14-week course that went from January to April.”

Tell us about your career so far. “I am just under a year of working in a racing yard, and have already learned so many skills and met so many people. You get the opportunity to ride out alongside professional jockeys and interact with them, Many older members of staff in racing have their own stories to tell on where they have been and who they have worked for, often all around the globe, and you can watch how trainers deal with their horses differently and what work they do to prepare them to run at the races.”

animals keeps you on your toes every day and no two days go the same. It keeps you fit and active so you never have to feel guilty about not going to the gym because nearly all mornings are a workout in themselves.” What are your plans and aspirations for the future? “Right now, my plans are just to complete my level 2 and 3 diplomas, then with more experience and ability, use my job to travel the UK and hopefully abroad.”

CAREERS, EDUCATION & TRAINING IF YOU’VE ALWAYS DREAMT OF A CAREER WORKING ALONGSIDE ANIMALS, THEN BECOMING A MCTIMONEY ANIMAL PRACTITIONER COULD BE THE ROUTE FOR YOU.

CAREERS INSPIRATION:

BECOMING A MCTIMONEY ANIMAL PRACTITIONER he McTimoney Approach is a non-invasive, holistic treatment which works to realign and balance animals’ musculoskeletal systems in order to restore health and movement, soundness and overall performance. If variation, flexibility of working hours and self-management are important to you, then this is a career is worth considering. McTimoney Animal Practitioners all have a common goal; to provide comfort and increase range of movement in order to help their animal clients. Motivation comes from seeing improvements in clients who have been suffering from various symptoms such as muscle tightness, spinal stiffness, lameness or reduced ability to move normally. The key to success in the McTimoney treatment is understanding the importance of a straight spine and level pelvis. If the skeletal structure is asymmetric, then the horse or dog simply cannot move in the same way on both sides, resulting in symptoms such as dragging of toes, less

engagement of affected limbs, changes in posture and overall comfort. Whilst soft tissue techniques can alleviate some discomfort, if the skeletal structure remains unbalanced then the muscular system will compensate again over time so the McTimoney technique is vital in providing a long-term successful outcome. Every case is different, and this variation makes every client fascinating to work with. McTimoney Animal Practitioners always work with veterinary permission and are called upon to treat animals with a wide variety of conditions, sometimes where other conventional treatment has not been effective. Patients are often treated following injuries sustained from falls, collisions or tweaks but problems such as excess weight, conformation defects, incorrect foot or rider balance and poor saddle fitting are also common culprits. With this in mind, it is not only a hugely varied role, but an extremely rewarding one. “A huge motivation for me is seeing my clients’ horses and

dogs return from injury with better results than the prognosis gave them, through careful rehabilitative exercises and treatment plans,” says Nikki Routledge, a McTimoney Animal Practitioner of sixteen years. “When you see them back out competing successfully, it’s a really special feeling. “Whilst most of my clients are horse owners – reflecting the development of complementary therapy in the equine industry over the last twenty-five years – I have also been asked to treat cats, sheep, goats, cows, and even a bull, so you never know what is coming up!” Having developed the approach in the

1950s, John McTimoney modified his human chiropractic technique to be applied specifically upon animals. Today, the McTimoney MSc in Animal Manipulation is the only validated course in Europe in teaching techniques for adjusting animals, training students to the highest practitioner level. Awarded by BPP University London, the programme is designed either for students who already have training in a hands-on therapy (this may include a trained chiropractor, physiotherapist, osteopath or any other fully qualified and suitably experienced practitioner), for those with a BSc degree in Equine or Animal Science or for those who are a member of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons. Students from a nonmanipulative background will be expected to complete the Graduate Certificate in Animal Therapy, whilst those who do not have formal training may submit a portfolio of certified experience for consideration. Animal Practitioners must have completed the minimum three-year post-graduate training course – including training to Level 7 in Animal Manipulations at the

“Since my McTimoney journey began I have met so many different animals and people and made many friends, it is a part of who I am.”

RIDERS McTimoney College – and must have demonstrated a high level of competency to pass the stringent exams required. This course is designed to allow students to study alongside their current career path and is available to those with a prior degree in related sciences. Upon completion, graduates are fully qualified to offer animals manipulative therapy based on the original McTimoney technique. Once qualified, practitioners are encouraged to join the MAA Membership professional body. All members are fully insured, and this affiliation also gives members key support throughout their careers and professional development opportunities. Practitioners are required to maintain their level of expertise by undertaking minimum of 25 hours CPD (continuing professional development) per year or 75 hours over a three-year span as per the veterinary profession. Ongoing support is provided through the MAA members groups, via CPD days and a dedicated CPD co-ordinator keeps members posted on all CPD events. “I am constantly developing and evolving as a professional and I never stop learning which gives you a huge sense of self-worth,” adds Lucy Goodright, a qualified McTimoney Animal Practitioner for eight years. “Since my McTimoney journey began I have met so many different animals and people and made many friends, it is a part of who I am.” www.animalcareer.co.uk

& COACHES...

r Tracey Cole, the UK’s leading equestrian-focused NLP and hypnosis Master Coach and Trainer, is delighted to unveil a brand-new course, Empowered Equestrian Coach Training. This totally unique programme will deliver riders, coaches and instructors with the confidence and focus they need to take their personal performance or business to the next level.

The Empowered Equestrian Coach Training ensures participants will develop the mindset tools they need to succeed and the skills to be an exceptional equestrian mental coach, helping others to overcome their personal barriers. Dr Cole is a former research scientist, university lecturer and teacher who has taken her career on a new path to spread the word about the powerful benefits of NLP, NLP Coaching, Create your Future and Hypnosis. As a keen equestrian and former nervous rider, it is no surprise that she loves to help riders of all levels combat nerves and ride to the very best of their ability and empower instructors to deliver incredible coaching. www.traceycolenlp.com

NLP AND TIME LINE THERAPY: FROM TARA PUNTER PR

ara Best, founder and director of rural and equestrian PR company Tara Punter PR, is delighted to announce she is now a qualified NLP and Time Line Therapy practitioner and coach. These new skills will complement Tara’s mindset, marketing and PR coaching services, ensuring that customers benefit from an even wider range of tools and expertise. Tara undertook a 6-day NLP Practitioner course with Tracey Cole NLP & Hypnotherapy and passed it with flying colours, marking the beginning of an exciting time for her agency. NLP stands for neurolinguistic programming and the practice aims to rewire the subconscious mind, ensuring it is in the best shape possible to support a person’s aims. Tara is excited to be able to offer NLP and Time Line Therapy to her clients as part of her mindset mastery courses, and PR and marketing coaching. “Whether they are working on personal or professional goals, these new skills will help people succeed and learn valuable tools for the future,” said Tara. www.tarapunterpr.co.uk

CAREERS, EDUCATION & TRAINING

EQUESTRIAN ENTREPRENEUR:

AZTEC DIAMOND FOUNDER JORDAN MCCABE WINS LLOYDS BANK ‘NEW ENTREPRENEUR OF THE YEAR’ AWARD he Lloyds Bank ‘New Entrepreneur of the Year award’ recognises young entrepreneurs as future business leaders. At just 24-years-old, Jordan has won that award and beat hundreds of other business hopefuls as she was deemed to have achieved a level of business success that belied her age. Her business, Aztec Diamond Equestrian, is an equestrian fashion and lifestyle brand. The company has grown year on year and has now been recognised as the most promising start-up in the UK. The business is in its fifth year of trading and has seen success on a global scale. Run from her offices and warehouse in the North East of England, her range of riding clothing is worn by girls and women from all over the world. While she has built her business on an E-Commerce

platform, she can be seen with her pop-up boutiques at some of the most prestigious events including Horse of the Year Show, The London International Horse Show and the Global Champions Tour. She has been keen to support the sport and is a sponsor of various showjumping events which is where the roots of her brand are firmly entrenched. Jordan has also recently launched her childrens riding clothing range, adding another dimension to the business in the process. “I was completely overwhelmed to have even been nominated for this award, never mind to have been named the winner. You get so caught up in the running of a business you rarely step back to put everything into perspective or look at what you’ve achieved. This award is such a huge milestone for anyone’s career, never mind at 24! I’m a normal working-class girl from the north east, so this just proves that with hard work and determination you can achieve anything,” said Jordan. Jordan began designing equestrian wear when she was just 10-years-old, turning a childhood ambition into a viable business idea.

www.aztecdiamond equestrian.com

RHEA Asks...

WHAT’S SOCIAL MEDIA ETIQUETTE?

I’M RHEA FREEMAN...I’M A PR, MARKETING AND SOCIAL MEDIA CONSULTANT AND COACH WITH A SPECIALISM IN EQUESTRIAN AND RURAL BUSINESS. I WORK WITH A NUMBER OF THE BEST BRANDS IN THE INDUSTRY AND MANY THAT YOU’LL SEE IN THESE PAGES...

tiquette on social media is something that gets overlooked more than it should. Just because the person isn’t in front of you, and you’re behind a screen, doesn’t mean that you can be impolite and rude… and with trolls and a lot of negative ‘stuff’ on social media, having a little reminder about Ps and Qs is always worthwhile. The thing is, when we think of etiquette, we don’t always think of social media, because although there are

rules, these are more in using the platforms, seriously negative behaviour and bullying towards people. And these are important guidelines to follow too. But it’s always worth reviewing how you interact with your followers and people you’re following, to ensure that you’re not letting yourself down, and you’re behaving in a way that is like you do in real life. There are so many examples of people forgetting their manners. Not long ago, I watched someone launch a brand ambassador search with guidelines as to what they were

looking for, to be told how wrong and unfair they were being to have criteria. I’ve seen people rip others apart because of the way that they have ridden – and often this abuse is generated from a snapshot taken at a show. I’ve seen people’s work ripped apart. I’ve seen people’s ideas torn to shreds in public. And it’s just not nice. Of course, I’m not saying that things like discrimination, abuse and horrific crimes should be greeted with ‘yeah, that’s lovely’, that’s not what I’m talking about here. I’m talking about opinions based on something that isn’t clean cut. It’s good to be passionate. It’s good to have feelings. But how we air and share these needs to be considered. By joining an angry mob, by ripping someone down in public, we’re showing ourselves as animals – as bullies – as uneducated (potentially) – and through doing this, our opinions and beliefs become tarnished by the way in which we’re delivering these ideas. Do you see what I mean? So, how to avoid any of the above? First up, the ‘if you haven’t got anything nice to say, don’t say anything at all’ idea

shouldn’t be overlooked. The next, if you have to say something, is to think about how you’re saying it. If that person was stood in front of you, would you say it at all – and if you would, would you say it in that tone? Because although the creators of the content we’re commenting on aren’t standing in front of us, they’re seeing it and reading it…and are being hurt by it. If you have to say something there are better ways of phrasing things and much kinder ways of addressing issues that matter to you – don’t think everything has to be public – a kind DM or email can do a lot more good than a spiteful comment on a post. And let’s not forget that even big accounts have people behind them. People like you and me who have feelings and are just trying our best. They, like us, might not get everything right all the time – but that’s because they’re human and they’re trying. Never forget that your comments are going to be read by someone and the impact that could have on them.

Visit www.rheafreemanpr.co.uk • Twitter (@rheafreeman) • Instagram (@rheafreemanpr) • Facebook (/RheaFreemanPR) 23

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The Burnham. RRP: £355. www.fairfax andfavor.com

Miss Julie. RRP: £110. www.aigle.com

What To Wear On A First Date nna Butler, Founder and Designer of Butler Stewart, the British heritage tweed fashion label, has some expert advice for dressing for that first date. “Don’t venture too far from your signature style. You’re likely to be slightly nervous anyway and wearing something that you don’t feel comfortable in, will only make you feel self-conscious and fidgety. “A decent pair of trousers or dark denim with a freshly pressed shirt finished with a singlebreasted three-quarter length coat is a smart but relaxed approach. A knee-length/below the knee dress or skirt teamed with footwear with a slight heel will still be perfect for that dinner date and drinks but avoid any risk of wardrobe malfunction. “Expressing yourself through your clothes might be fun if someone knows you well, but if you like to translate that through cartoon socks, you might be saying something completely different via your outfit choice. “Dress to impress but be mindful of the destination. After all, you want to be focusing on your date, not how uncomfortable your clothes or shoes are.”

Chaya Pro Grip denim breeches. RRP: £189. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

Soft leather Pink Journal. RRP: £39 www.lifeofriley online.co.uk

Tania Coat. RRP: £495.

www.butler stewart.co.uk

BUYER’S GUIDE Hiho Silver has announced that it has teamed with dressage rider, coach and vlogger Olivia Towers on a new exclusive piece of jewellery. The Exclusive Sterling Silver Olivia Towers Roller Charm combines Olivia’s well knowN ‘You Got This’ saying with Olivia’s logo, Hiho’s logo, and a single CZ stone in the bead. www.oliviatowersdressage.com www.hihosilver.co.uk

Baffin Island Fleece. RRP: £129.99. www.kathmandu.co.uk

Vitality bracelet. RRP: £20. www.pegasusjewellery.net

AD Rain Jacket. RRP: £30. www.aztecdiamond equestrian.com

Supersoft Fairisle Knitted Jumper. RRP: £99. www.farlows.co.uk The Equetech Snaffle Bit Diamante Necklace features a stunning eggbutt snaffle detail encrusted with CZ diamante stones. RRP: £25.95. www.equetech.com Opus Cavallo Jacket. RRP: £179. www.zebra products.co.uk

The Equetech Eggbutt Snaffle Bit Diamante Ring complete with encrusted CZ diamante stones. RRP: £19.95. www.equetech.com

Arctic Thermal Under Breeches. RRP: £16.75. Pure New Wool Kimblewick Jacket. RRP: £197.25. www.equetech.com

Covalliero’s Rain Poncho. RRP: £39. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

The Huff Equi Leggings. RRP: £50. www.huff equestrian.co.uk

Therapy Breeches. RRP: £105.50. www.equetech.com

Aurora Winter Boot. Available at your local stockist. www.mountainhorse.se

AZTEC DIAMOND ARE SWITCHING THEIR PLASTIC MAILING BAGS

Synthetic plastic bags will not decompose for several hundred years, however the new mailing bags chosen by Aztec Diamond take no longer than eighteen months to decompose when exposed to UV rays. “Although this seems like a small change, if every company were to take small steps away from single use plastics, we could all make a huge difference to the world we live in,” said Aztec Diamond Equestrian. www.aztecdiamond equestrian.com

Riding Mitts. RRP: £23.95. www.equetech.com

CHARITY FOCUS

OVER 50 YEARS RESCUING HORSES: REDWINGS AMBULANCE DRIVERS

wo dedicated members of staff at Redwings Horse Sanctuary are celebrating more than fifty years collectively of helping to rescue horses and donkeys in need. Professional horse box drivers Clair Turner and Alan Grant have recently clocked-up thirty years and twenty-one years respectively of working for the national animal welfare charity. The pair, who are based out of Redwings’ Horse Hospital in Norfolk, drive the charity’s large horse ambulances across the country to take part in rescues and bring neglected, abandoned or abused equines to the safety of the Sanctuary. Between rescues, they also work tirelessly to transport the charity’s residents between its sites, as well as bring horses in need of veterinary attention to the Horse Hospital and take them back to their paddocks once they have recovered. Clair began working as a volunteer while she was still at school and then took up her first official role with Redwings in 1989, helping to provide the daily care needs of the

Sanctuary’s resident horses. Alan joined the charity in 1998 with the intention of staying for just a month, but said the experience of helping animals proved to be “addictive”. Clair and Alan began working together full-time as Redwings’ horse box drivers shortly afterwards, and over the decades have played an instrumental role in saving countless animals from lives of neglect and despair. At a moment’s notice, the pair could be called to help with an emergency rescue and will often work very long hours, sometimes in the face of difficult weather conditions, challenging terrain and even hostility from unscrupulous owners, to ensure all animals in need are brought to safety. Rescues that stick out in their mind include their first large-

Pinocchio playing with a football during his recovery at Redwings.

scale rescue outside of East Anglia which involved a very long day rounding-up over forty semi-feral Shetland ponies in Devon in 2002 that were suffering from lice, worms and overgrown feet. Alan said: “None of us had done anything on that scale before. There were dozens of ponies

across the fields and a steep hill. Every time we went near them they were off!” Clair added: “We just kept going. A lot of people had given up on them but we managed to catch them all in the end. With our job you finish when you finish – that’s what you have to do when animals are involved.” Another memorable rescue took place at Spindle Farm in Amersham, Buckinghamshire, in 2008 where over one-hundred

Alan and Clair arrive at Redwings with donkeys rescued from Spindle Farm, Amersham. (Left) Pinocchio receiving treatment at Redwings shortly after his rescue.

MENTAL HEALTH PROBLEMS, ISOLATION & POVERTY: CHARITY TACKLES THESE ISSUES ational pet charity, Blue Cross has launched a report examining the devastating impact poverty, mental health problems and loneliness has on society and how pet ownership is the beneficial link in the chain for so many people. Experts on pet welfare, mental health, poverty and loneliness met for a Blue Cross conference to address how society can benefit from pet ownership

and animal interactions, and to call for any future government to recognise the significant positive impact animals can have on people’s lives. The charity would like to see further scientific research undertaken in this area to enable the introduction of more evidencebased policies. Animal-assistance Therapy (AAT) is genuinely changing people’s lives and helping to improve their mental health. Blue Cross wishes to see The

Department of Health undertake a detailed comprehensive review into the use of AAT for mental health patients in the UK to help share best practice and identify the areas where it can be most effective. Blue Cross aims to lead on working with other organisations to reach those in crisis and to promote the benefits of pet ownership for those struggling. www.bluecross.org.uk

CUT COSTS NOT CARE

ember charities of the National Equine Welfare Council (NEWC) have collaborated to produce two practical guides. One to help horse owners find ways to cut costs without compromising on care, and another on making the difficult decision to rehome a horse. www.newc.co.uk/news/cutcosts-not-care

Photo: Blue Cross

horses, ponies and donkeys were saved from appalling neglect. Clair and Alan helped to bring twenty-one equines in need of immediate veterinary attention back to Redwings and transport the remainder to other charities around the UK, all in one day. Clair said: “We’ve been to so many rescues it’s hard to remember them all, but I’ll never forget carrying Pinocchio (a miniature Shetland pony) onto the trailer that day. He was so little and all the life had gone out of him. I really didn’t think he was going to make it. “A few weeks later we gave him a football in his paddock and he could have played for England! To think not that long ago he had given up on life.” Asked whether they are still shocked by the neglect they encounter, Alan said it always saddens them but their years of experience had helped to harden them to some of the sights they witness. He added: “At the end of the day, it’s nice to see animals that are suffering taken away from nasty people. We’re very proud of what we do.” Lynn Cutress, Redwings’ Chief Executive, said: “Both Clair and Alan are very modest about what they do, but over the years they have become the backbone of our rescue operations and together with our field officers and vets they have helped countless neglected animals begin new happy and safe lives. We’re so incredibly grateful for their many years of service and look forward to many more to come.”

HEALTH & WELFARE: FIRST AID

WE MEET...

Nicola Kinnard-Comedie

WHETHER YOU RUN A YARD, OR SIMPLY RIDE FOR FUN, YOU WANT TO FEEL READY TO COPE WITH AN EQUINE EMERGENCY, KNOW WHEN TO CALL THE VET, AND TO SIMPLY BE PREPARED. A HORSE FIRST AID COURSE WILL OFFER JUST THAT. IN THIS ISSUE NICOLA KINNARD-COMEDIE FROM NKC EQUESTRIAN TRAINING, A LEADING PROVIDER OF FIRST AID COURSES, TELLS US MORE ABOUT HER WORKSHOPS AND ONLINE PROGRAMS... ’m Nicola Kinnard-Comedie and I’m very proud to own and run NKC Equestrian Training. I run horse training courses together with our lovely qualified vets, and we specialise in training on Horse First Aid. “Many owners (and I know I have), feel confused about when they need to call the vet, are unsure what to do if their horse has choke or mild colic, and they want to make better decisions for their horses. Owners are often given conflicting advice, and sometimes this advice is not coming from a very reputable source, maybe it’s a Facebook group, or perhaps it's the ‘yard know it all’. This is why I run our Horse First Aid Courses, so that we can give owners the facts, provide information based on evidence, detail the latest veterinary thinking and help owners to take better care of their horses. “It is a busy day, and we start with teaching owners what to include in their horse first aid

kit, about different types of wounds and how wounds heal. Owners learn about colic, why they need an emergency plan and other horsey emergencies such as choke and nosebleeds. We also cover infectious diseases, biosecurity and eye conditions. “Our courses are very sociable as well, we do have plenty of breaks for tea and coffee, and owners also receive a lovely lunch, a goodie bag and certificate of attendance as part of the day. “I absolute love running our courses. I spent many years coaching riders, and running equestrian centres in the UK and Europe. I’m also a total science geek, and as someone who is very passionate about helping

owners with their horses this is the perfect job for me. I’m very privileged to work with some of the best vets in the country, and despite preparing all the course materials, with our vets, I have to say I learn something every time we run a course. Just like with human first aid recommendations change, it’s so important that owners update their horse first aid regularly as well, and don’t just rely on Pony Club knowledge

SPECIAL

OFFER!

from twenty years ago. “I have welcomed hundreds of owners, riders and equine professionals onto our courses, and I have received such fantastic feedback. It is so lovely to hear what a difference attending one of our courses has made to owners confidence, knowledge and horse care. “As horse owners are busy people I launched a digital version of the course, to allow those struggling to make it to a course to still take part. The digital course includes the same information, and over ten hours of audio recorded with our vets to allow owners to ‘learn on the go’, and I know people listen while mucking out or walking the dog!” You can learn more about the courses at: www.nkcequestrian.com

15% DISCOUNT! ABSOLUTE HORSE READERS CAN CLAIM A

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HOW TO TREAT HORSES... s with Small Wound

elow are some tips from the experts at Cavalor to consider when you are faced with having to treat your horse’s wounds.

job, i.e. stitching, considerably harder.

Disinfectant for wounds Some disinfectants will have an adverse effect on the horse’s body cells, so you may hinder the healing process. Cold water Small grazes or wounds on your horse’s As a result the skin becomes too dry and loses its elasticity, resulting in torn rump? They can be bathed with cold skin and/or small wounds. To disinfect potable water from the tap. You can as a preventive measure use Cavalor also use Cavalor Derma Spray to clean Derma Wash. It thoroughly cleans and small wounds. The active pre and probiotics in this product will prevent doesn’t dry out the skin. inflammation of the wound and Swelling and swollen legs promote the natural healing process. Sometimes a wound will only be

Small grazes and wounds? Bathe and clean them yourself An infection or swollen leg is often caused by a small wound. No matter how small, always clean the wound and treat it with a healing salve such as Cavalor Lurax Cream. Also keep an eye out for any swelling, pain or temperature in your horse. Found a larger or deeper wound? Contact your vet immediately as bathing may result in sand, hair or other dirt penetrating deeper into the wound, which could make the vet’s

noticed when a horse develops swelling. Not surprisingly, swelling is often the result of an infection. Mud fever, for example, can lead to significant swelling in your horse’s legs. In such cases Cavalor MudDoc salve is ideal as it accelerates the healing process and reduces swelling by stimulating the circulation. Cavalor FreeBute Gel is also a safe option for the treatment of small wounds, even though this gel is intended for the treatment of swellings. If a wound is taking a long time to heal always contact your vet. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

WIN! WIN!

FOUR LUCKY READERS TO WIN A HORSE & RIDER FIRST AID KIT!

Coming in a handy, wipe clean bag with carry straps, the bag functions as a ruck sack to keep both hands free and is easy to use both on the yard and while travelling away from home competing. The kit contains all the necessary products to deal with minor cuts and grazes, including market leading products Animalintex which is the only VMD licensed multi-layered absorbent poultice available in the UK and Veterinary Gamgee. Also included are Equiwrap bandages, a 15g tube of Vetalintex, Skintact wound dressing 10cm x 10cm, Fast Aid Cleansing Wipes and tough cut scissors. Robinson Animal Healthcare has a wide range of products for all your first aid requirements. www.robinsonhealthcare.com

RRP: around £24.95.

To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st February 2020 and close 29th February 2020.

HEALTH & WELFARE: FIRST AID

COPING WITH: COLD WEATHER HAZARDS

orse owners have been tested this winter with an unprecedented wet autumn, causing muddy conditions and as temperatures drop again, being prepared will help ease your way to spring, stress free. During muddy conditions it is best, where possible, to allow your horse’s legs to dry naturally and then brush the mud off. If you must wash your horse’s legs

it is essential that you dry them properly. Bandaging the legs with Veterinary Gamgee helps to absorb excess moisture and provide warmth and insulation. Equiwrap is Robinson Animal Healthcare’s range of flexible and lightweight cohesive bandages and they come in a variety of colours to brighten up your first aid kit and are ideal for securing Veterinary Gamgee. Hard frozen ground or even

AT A GLANCE

First Aid Checklist t is a good idea to have a checklist for items in your first aid kit and regularly check that everything on the list is still in your kit. • A veterinary licensed poultice such as Animalintex. • Wound dressings in various sizes to avoid contaminating a sterile dressing when trying to cut down to size. Skintact lowadherent dressings come in three different sizes. • Vetalintex wound hydrogel is

an essential for any first aid kit to encourage moist wound healing. • Veterinary Gamgee to cushion and protect wounds from external trauma. • Equiwrap cohesive bandages to hold dressings and padding in place. • Koolpak instant ice packs for the immediate treatment of inflammation and soft tissue injuries. • Blunt ended scissors.

Louisa Milne-Home always keeps her arena harrowed regularly during winter, to help prevent it from freezing

deep muddy conditions can lead to strains, tendon injuries and knocks. Cold therapy is ideal for the treatment of inflammation and soft tissue injuries but traditional cold hosing with water in the winter months may lead to cracked heels or other skin problems. Koolpak provides instant, dry cold therapy, without the need for refrigeration, reducing heat and swelling. Ensure that you store your first aid kit in an appropriate place to prevent liquid items from • Thermometer. • Disposable gloves. To save time in an emergency put together a few smaller wound kits in a plastic bag containing a dressing, padding and an Equiwrap bandage to grab, rather than trying to find each individual item. This is especially handy in a travelling first aid kit. Remember to always check the use-by-date on any item that contains an active ingredient such as Animalintex and replace once they have expired. www.robinsonanimal healthcare.com

becoming frozen. Based in Scotland, sponsored rider, Louisa Milne-Home, is used to braving bad weather. Here are her two top tips: “Keep a plentiful supply of salt to hand and always salt pathways and ramps to muck heaps. Stock up early as once the freezing conditions hit, supplies will quickly sell out. “If you are lucky enough to have your own arena, keep it harrowed regularly to help prevent it from freezing.”

Blunt ended scissors are essential for safe removal of bandages.

Product News... The Veredus Magnetik Pro Wrap is a therapeutic device with six neodymium magnets that develop a power of 2400 Gauss each. The magnets are carefully arranged and distributed on the pastern area. The wraps are ideal to use to reduce pain and swelling, stimulate the flow of blood and speed up the elimination of toxins and regenerative process. Made from a soft and breathable neoprene, the Magnetik Pro Wrap is lined and trimmed in Lycra, to guarantee maximum comfort. RRP: ÂŁ34. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

FiltaBac is a robust antibacterial wound protection cream, acting as a totally natural second skin over any area. FiltaBac will stay in place, allow the wound/skin to breathe, serum to be expelled and provide the skin with protection from the environment, insects and possible bacterial invasion. RRP: from ÂŁ5.60/50g. Available at Veterinary clinics, equine/pet supply stores, pet pharmacies, on-line stores. www.aniwell-uk.com

Stubbs First Aid Box is made from tough Stubbythene moulding and is marked as a First Aid box with green lettering. It has a fastener to take a padlock and comes with a Stubbyfine-coated steel handle or a shoulder strap for easy carrying. www.abbeyengland.com

HEALTH & WELFARE

20% OF HORSES ARE SUFFERING FROM

LACK OF SLEEP

ew research into the lying patterns of horses has uncovered that 20% of horses are only lying down for less than one hour in a 24-hour period. More worryingly, 9% of horses only lie down for less than thirty minutes, putting them at significant risk of collapse and injury. Researcher Juan de Benedetti, who is reading Data Science and Analytics at Brunel University, studied the behaviour of fortythree healthy horses that were being monitored using the Trackener device in 2019. Using motion sensors, Trackener automatically detects if the horse is standing, in sternal or lateral recumbency (lying upright or flat on side). The majority of the horses being monitored were leisure horses with a few being performance horses, living most of the time in a stable and turned out in a field or paddock at least for a few hours every day. Researcher Christine Fuchs who lead the 2019 study said: “Horse owners need to be aware that the sleeping behaviour of horses is an important thing to

consider and to recognise the symptoms [of collapse] as soon as possible. Prevention is essential.” Mr Benedetti’s study involved analysing 560-days of data from thirty-three healthy horses wearing a Trackener device over a minimum of 48-hours. This is the first study to analyse the lying patterns of horses over several days. He found that nine horses out of the sample (20%) were lying down for less than an hour in each 24-hour period and four were lying for less than thirty minutes (9%).The horses lie down the most between midnight and 3am (35 minutes on average during this three hour period), and between 9pm and midnight lie down for twenty-five minutes on average. Dr Michael Hewetson, vet and senior lecturer in equine internal medicine at the Royal Veterinary College commented, “A normal horse requires a minimum of one hour’s REM (paradoxical) sleep per day which requires the horse to lie down. If a horse lies down for less than that, they have an increased risk of sleep deprivation which can lead to injury if they collapse. At the

hospital, we see cases of sleep deprived horses due to either an underlying painful condition or because the horse is insecure in its environment. Horse owners should take appropriate action should their horse appear to be sleep deprived. The Trackener technology is an easy to use and cost-effective tool to monitor a horse’s behaviour night and day.” Said Pauline Issard, CEO of Trackener, “These new findings increase the importance of owners knowing how much their horse is lying down.

However, for many owners who are remote from their horses, this was almost impossible to achieve before we developed the Trackener device, especially as horses lie down the most at night.” She added, “One of our users saw that by adding some rubber matting in her horse’s stable, the horse started lying down much more than before. With the Trackener technology, we are hoping to improve the wellbeing of millions of horses thanks to insights from data.” www.trackener.com

LIVE STREAMING: NATIONAL EQUINE FORUM

his annual event will be held on 5th March and will cover a breadth of important global and national topics related to the equine sector. A key element of the programme will explore the impact of human behavioural science on horse care and welfare. “Changing human behaviour offers the key to improving equine welfare in the UK,” explains David Rendle. “Veterinary surgeons understand the medical needs of their patients but lack the right tools with which to implement human behaviour change.” www.nationalequineforum.com

LOVE IS IN THE AIR...?

tudies have found there a link between sports and attraction, so being involved in the right sport can attract the attention of a potential partner. Golfsupport.com investigated various character traits associated with each star sign to reveal what type of sports can attract the opposite sex. According to their findings Sagittarius men prefer women who ride as it shows they are independent! Read more at: www.golfsupport.com

PODCASTS LAUNCHED:

ANIMAL OWNERS

Your Vet Specialist, the public face of the British College of Veterinary Specialists (BCVSp), has launched a new podcast platform to give animal owners the opportunity to listen and learn from high quality audible veterinary content while they are on the go. www.yourvetspecialist.org

GET BACK SOME WINTER VERVE WITH Vitamin B HEALTH AND WELLNESS COACH SAMANTHA HARDINGHAM IS QUALIFIED TO HELP HER CLIENTS BUILD A LEAN, STRONG, HEALTHY BODY AND MIND THROUGH BOTH EXERCISE AND NUTRITION. RUNNING ONLINE COMMUNITY GROUPS SUCH AS ‘THE BODY MIND COACH GROUP’, AS WELL AS HER WEEKLY BOOT CAMPS, SPORTS MASSAGE, AND ONE-TO-ONE TRAINING/NUTRITION SESSIONS, SAMANTHA EDUCATES, TRAINS AND TEACHES HER MEMBERS TO FULFIL THEIR HEALTH AND FITNESS POTENTIAL BY OFFERING DAILY INSPIRATION, MOTIVATION AND SUPPORT TO ALL. f you feel you’re lacking some sparkle and verve in your life after the long dark days of winter then it might be that you’re also lacking some Vitamin B in your diet. Essential Vitamin B refers to more than just one vitamin, in fact there are eight different B vitamins that we refer to as ‘Vitamin B Complex’ or ‘B Complex’ formula. The term ‘Essential’ meaning that we can’t make it on our own, we need to get these vitamins from a diet rich in protein, leafy

To benefit from Samantha’s health and wellness advice: www.facebook.com/ ItsTheBodyMindCoach/

green vegetables, pulses and nutritional yeast. B Vitamins are able to turn other nutrients into energy, which support nerve and liver function, eye, skin and fetal growth. Insufficient amounts of B Vitamins could see you with chronic fatigue, anaemia, mood swings and poor memory. Under the B Vitamin umbrella are Vitamin B1 (also called thiamine), Vitamin B2 (also called riboflavin), Vitamin B3 (also called niacin), Vitamin B5 (also called pantothenic acid), Vitamin B6, Vitamin B7 (also

called biotin), Vitamin B9 (also called folic acid in synthetic form) and Vitamin B12. Each one has its own unique function although they all have similar role to play. The human body can’t store them so we need to replenish our supply throughout the day by eating Vitamin B rich foods or supplementing our diet with a good quality ‘Vitamin B Complex’ found in your local health store or online. Who should take a Vitamin B Complex supplement? Anyone that’s looking for optimal health with a high level of activity but it’s highly advised if you’re vegan, vegetarian, plant based, elderly, pregnant, suffer from Crohns or digestive disorders where nutrient absorption is compromised.

www.instagram.com/ samanthahardingham

HEALTH & WELFARE

ACCESS LATEST STRANGLES CASES:

AT THE CLICK OF A BUTTON orse owners, vets and paraprofessionals can now access the most up to date information on Strangles diagnoses from across the UK at the click of a button, using a new online resource from the Animal Health Trust. The new website, from the Surveillance of Equine Strangles project, is a huge step forward in the sharing of information about this harmful disease. It will quickly become a vital tool for people owning and working with horses, especially those travelling around the country to areas which have seen higher rates of diagnoses of Strangles. Strangles, as one of the most commonly diagnosed infectious diseases of horses worldwide with more than 600 outbreaks in the UK each year, causes immense welfare problems for horses and significant economic costs to their owners. The new online tool includes a useful mapping function highlighting regions where cases have been confirmed, and allows users to change date ranges to view information particularly relevant to them and their location. Information based on the geography of vet practices making diagnoses, the demographics of horses being confirmed with infection, the ways diagnoses are made and the types of samples being submitted for lab testing, is also included. Users can look at the time course of diagnoses over longer time periods to highlight seasonal

trends, and view the most important associated clinical signs and the combinations of these, as reported on submission forms sent with samples to diagnostic laboratories. Dr Richard Newton, Director of Disease Surveillance and Epidemiology at the Animal Health Trust, said: “This new website provides comprehensive insights about the disease in a very up-to-date manner in a way that has never been available before.” The Surveillance of Equine Strangles scheme was launched in April 2019 by the Animal Health Trust, in collaboration with the Royal Veterinary College and the Universities of Liverpool and Melbourne, thanks to funding from The Horse Trust. This followed a year of research and development to create a platform for collating information on laboratory diagnoses of the disease and recruitment of laboratories across the UK to the scheme. Abbi McGlennon, PhD student at the Animal Health Trust, who led the development of the resource, said: “Our aim with the Surveillance of Equine Strangles scheme is to reduce the spread of the disease. This website is one of the first key tools to emerge from the larger surveillance project. It joins the dots across the equine industry by collating information from laboratory confirmed Strangles diagnoses and communicating this back in almost real time. I’m excited about the prospect of extending this internationally, and the difference that could make for horses globally. “We are extremely grateful to The Horse Trust for funding the wider project, and to SEIB Insurance Brokers for supporting the website.” www.aht.org.uk/diseasesurveillance/surveillanceequine-strangles

GET GUT HEALTH ON THE AGENDA

AT YOUR RIDING CLUB

quiBiome, a leader in gut health, is on a mission to reach horse owners with information on the advances in equine microbial analysis of the hind gut which is hugely important for the health, wellbeing and performance of any horse, especially those that are regularly competing. In 2020, EquiBiome is offering free talks to Riding Clubs throughout the UK, delivered by experts in the field, including microbiologist Carol Hughes. The talk will cover all aspects of gut health and how owners can use cutting-edge technology to identify imbalances and then take steps to restore health and performance. A closer look at the loss of biodiversity in horses’ grazing and how this has impacted on the competition horse of today will also be investigated. To register your interest in a talk for your Riding Club please contact EquiBiome by emailing sharon@equibiome.org. www.equibiome.org

FORMING FRIENDSHIPS: Friday Morning Club! Lincolnshire based equestrian centre is helping to bring disabled people together through a newly formed Friday Morning Club. The club at Four Winds Equestrian Centre in Spalding is a unique non-riding session developed to allow disabled people to spend time with horses, while socialising and making new friends. Four Winds is an Accessibility Mark approved centre so this provides another avenue for disabled people to get involved with horses, without taking to the saddle. Kirsty Sweeney from the centre explains, “I met a lady who had been around horses all her life and had even run a riding school at one point. About seven years ago she had a major stroke and lost movement down the side of her body and it also affected her speech. “All she wanted to do was to be with horses again, to stroke them and groom them. It got me thinking that there must be lots of other people like her out there that would like the same thing and the more I looked into it, speaking to local carers and social prescribers, the group slowly started to form.” The club now runs every other Friday morning between 10.30am and 11.30am, when the riding school is closed so the yard is less busy This works well for some individuals who can easily become overwhelmed in large groups of people or noisy environments. Centre ponies, Jack and Soldier are the centre of attention for the session and members enjoy a range of activities including grooming and pony painting. For more information contact Four Winds EC on 01775 640533. www.rda.org.uk

RESEARCH SUGGESTS CONTACT WITH HORSES MAY BENEFIT PEOPLE WITH DEMENTIA esearch at Hartpury University suggests that contact with horses may benefit the increasing numbers of people living with dementia. According to the World Health Organisation, approximately 50 million people worldwide have dementia and that figure is expected to increase by more than 200 per cent by 2050. Hartpury University masters degree student Alison Rood studied the effects of three equineassisted activities – leading a horse on a rein, grooming and stroking – on people with dementia compared with going for a walk in greenspace. Alison, who is studying a Masters in Research in Anthrozoology, said: “Equine-assisted activities appeared to improve the immediate quality of

life for people with dementia more readily than the greenspace activity.” Alison used the industry-standard Quality of Life-Alzheimer’s Disease (QoL-AD) scale using an in-depth case study approach to assess the effect of the activities. Alison said: “The overall finding is that these participants derived benefit from taking part in a series of activities. “Equine-assisted activities appeared to improve the immediate quality of life for people with dementia.” Dr Jane Williams, Head of Research at Hartpury University, added: “These preliminary results suggest the application of equine assisted activities could be really positive for people with dementia, which is really exciting.”

DISABLED RIDERS TAKE TO THE

Saddle

esearch has confirmed that many disabled people would like to be more active with seven in ten wanting to increase their activity levels. Participating in sport such as horse riding can increase selfconfidence and has many other health benefits. As well as being fun, achieving goals, however small, can be empowering. As 2020 is an Olympic year, the Paralympic athletes heading to Tokyo will no doubt inspire others to take to the saddle. A future Paralympic star could be in the making, with the help of the amazing coaches and volunteers at Accessibility Mark centres. Accessibility Mark now has firty-five accredited centres in the UK providing opportunities for disabled people to take up horse riding. Accessibility Mark status is awarded to a riding centre that has been approved by the RDA following training and assessment. The close link with the RDA means that it can offer continuous support to the establishment to ensure it provides a first-class experience for all riders. www.rda.org.uk

NUTRITION

SLOW, SLOW, QUICK, QUICK, SLOW!

By Baileys Horse Feeds n food, energy is trapped in bonds between molecules and is released when the food is digested and the bonds are broken. The conversion of energy from food into a form the horse can utilise for work is called metabolism. The metabolic pathway chosen by the body to produce energy is influenced by factors, such as the type of energy in the diet and the intensity of the work the horse is doing.

Different ‘Types’ of Energy In the horse world, we have become accustomed to referring to dietary energy sources as either ‘quick release’ or ‘slowrelease’, depending on the digestive and metabolic processes involved in the release of the energy. Fibre is said to be a slow-release energy source because the structure of fibre is complex and it takes longer for the bonds between the molecules to be broken.

The horse relies on a population of micro-organisms that interact with one another and ferment and break down fibre into volatile fatty acids, which are absorbed into the blood stream for use as an energy source. This process can take some time, with fibre sources, like hay or haylage, staying in the caecum and hindgut for as long as 48hours. There are different types of fibre, some of which are more easily broken down than others and this greatly affects their value to the horse. Insoluble structural fibres, like cellulose and hemicellulose, make up the bulk of the fibre content of conserved forages, while soluble fibres, like pectin, are more easily fermented and yield greater quantities of energy and are known as ‘superfibres’ as a result. Beet pulp, soya hulls and alfalfa are all rich in superfibres.

Slow Release Oil Oils, like those from soya and

linseed, are also considered slow-release energy sources and their digestion also yields fatty acids, which are absorbed and metabolised to release energy. Oil can only be utilised when the horse is working at low intensities, as oxygen is needed to metabolise it through aerobic respiration. Once the horse is working hard, his body cannot supply the oxygen quickly enough to maintain this so he moves into anaerobic respiration, which can only utilise glucose or glycogen (the storage form of glucose) as an energy substrate. This means that oil helps to promote stamina as it has a ‘glycogen-sparing’ effect, being utilised at low work intensities (walking and trotting) and leaving valuable muscle glycogen stores for use by the horse’s muscles when work intensity increases (galloping).

Cereal Starch Cereals are a very useful

concentrated source of readily available energy. Their starch content is broken down, into glucose molecules, by enzymes in the foregut, and absorbed into the bloodstream, where they can be used straight away, as energy, by body cells. This short time for digestion and absorption is the reason that cereals are considered to supply ‘quick-release’ energy, which is appropriate for horses in hard work and those who may be laid back and need to ‘liven up’ or ‘sparkle’. Problems can arise if undigested starch reaches the hindgut, where it can disrupt bacterial populations, leading to increased acidity, potential discomfort and digestive upset. Cereal starch can also increase gastric acidity levels, which in turn can increase the risk of ulceration, in sensitive equines. Any gastric or digestive discomfort can cause stressy or unsettled behaviour, or poor performance, and a controlledstarch or cereal-free diet may be more appropriate for these horses. Ensuring cereals are carefully cooked, makes their starch content more digestible and this increases the likelihood that it will be digested and absorbed in the foregut, where it should be. Feeding small, manageable meals is also key to ensuring the stomach does not get over filled, as feeding too much in one go can lead to feed passing from the stomach before it is ready, risking undigested starch reaching the hindgut. www.baileyshorsefeeds.co.uk

NUTRITION

Product News... TopSpec Performance Cubes provide energy for working horses but are ‘Non-Heating’ and are ideal for horses that need to focus on their jobs or are a bit sharp. They are completely cereal-grain-free and have a good energy level of 12.5MJ/kg, equivalent to most cereal containing competition feeds. The formula is low in starch and sugar, and high in good quality protein and fibre. RRP: £13.45/20kg. www.topspec.com

Equerry Performance Cubes are specially formulated to support the needs of medium to hard working horses. They contain highly digestible cereals to meet the high energy demands of all competition horses and offer a source of good quality protein for muscle development and function. Oil and linseed have been added to help promote a shiny coat and increase energy levels to help build stamina for horses throughout a busy competition season. They also include yeast for a healthy digestive system and added vitamins and minerals including vitamin E and magnesium for all round health and vitality. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com RRP: £12.95/20kg.

TopSpec Turbo Flakes are formulated to provide ‘fastreleasing’ energy. This highly innovative muesli blend is the ultimate high performance feed, with 35% more digestible energy per kg than quality oats. It consists of cooked high-oil oat flakes and cooked full-fat soya flakes, with added limestone and salt. RRP: £16.30.20kg. www.topspec.com

NutriLyte Electrolyte Supplement contains sodium chloride and potassium in the same ratio as sweat, helping with rapid restoration of energy, increased performance in hot conditions and reduced debilitation during transportation. RRP: from £25. www.nutriscience.ie

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An Energy Boost from Cavalor is an oral paste that has been developed for horses that have to deliver brief and powerful top performances. A mix of high quality electrolytes, vitamins, amino acids, sugars and salt. RRP: £56. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

Simple System products - the natural choice Premium high protein grass pellets. Red Bag Grass Pellets provide all the goodness of spring grass and an overall energy level more than 10% greater than oats, they are the feed of choice for high performance horses, racing, eventing, jumping or breeding high value foals early in the year. The energy is released a little more steadily, so horses should settle more quickly to their work and have more stamina. RRP: £12.80/20kg. www.simplesystem.co.uk

Cooked full fat linseed, ready to feed. Instant Linseed is a valuable source of essential Omega 3 for healthy coat and skin. Builds condition and maintains stamina through slow release energy. Simple System Instant Linseed is the highest quality linseed available with an oil content of over 40%. RRP: £39.50/20kg. www.simplesystem.co.uk

LOCATED IN NEWMARKET BUT WORKING BOTH NATIONALLY AND INTERNATIONALLY DONNA CASE BSC (HONS) IS THE HIGHLY EXPERIENCED EQUINE NUTRITIONIST WHO RUNS ‘THE HORSE FEED GURU’, AN EQUINE NUTRITION CONSULTANCY. FORMERLY A COMMERCIAL NUTRITIONIST ACROSS THREE BRANDS, NOW COMPLETELY INDEPENDENT, SHE HAS WORKED WITH HORSES AND RIDERS COMPETING AT AN OLYMPIC LEVEL THROUGH TO ONE-HORSE OWNERS WANTING THE VERY BEST. CLIENTS CAN TRUST THE INDEPENDENT ADVICE THEY RECEIVE COMES FROM EXTENSIVE INDUSTRY KNOWLEDGE AND EXPERIENCE BUT IS ALSO TOTALLY IMPARTIAL OF ANY FEED BRAND. HER AIM IS TO DEMYSTIFY FEEDING FOR THE GOOD OF THE HORSE AND RIDER.

SPARKLE OR Stamina?

ou feel you want your horse to have more ‘energy’ but have you thought about what that ‘energy’ really

means and looks like to you? It is very different getting on a laid-back horse who requires more sparkle from the moment you get on to providing enough

sustained energy for a horse who can be prone to being highly strung and excitable. In both of these scenarios first of all I would suggest speaking to your trainer and making sure your horse is both stimulated in his work and fit enough for the job that is being asked of him. No matter what feed you use, essentially if the horse is not fit enough, or sour in his work it will not change the outcome. Likewise, if your horse is overweight this needs to be addressed. After making sure your training is on track however, that the horse is happy and a healthy weight you need to consider feeding for temperament. Energy isn’t just about how much is provided, but also think of it in terms of the way it is provided. When considering the laid-back horse who requires more sparkle you may need to select a feed slightly higher in starch. Find out what the energy level is of your current feed and match it with a similar one, however choose a product a little higher in starch. Many of these types of horses can be prone to carrying too much

weight so trying to stay on a similar energy (calorie) level should help to reduce the chance of additional weight gain. Do bear in mind that certain clinical issues such as EMS, PPID, laminitis or gastric ulcers to name a few require a controlled starch level be fed, so in these instances check this with a nutritionist or vet in order to select a suitable feed. For excitable types choose a feed based around fibre and oil with controlled starch levels (ideally 12% or lower). Using this type of feed will help to keep your horse under control and level headed whilst still providing the energy required for work. You can increase up through the energy levels as required but again base this around fibre and oil energy sources. As you can see it is important to establish what type of energy your horse requires, not just how much. www.thehorsefeed guru.com

NUTRITION Product News...

CHERRY IS THE CHOICE FOR FUSSY FEEDER, BROGAN!

akeside Brogan, a 17.2hh grey Irish Sports Horse is a fussy feeder and his owner, Lydia Goodband was struggling to find a feed that he really enjoyed. Seventeen-year-old Brogan is ridden up to six times a week when in full work and Lydia enjoys competing at showjumping and eventing with him. He is turned out all the time during the summer months but is stabled at night over the winter. She first heard about Mollichaff ShowShine, which is flavoured with appetising cherry, when she helped out

on the HorseHage trade stand at the Badminton Horse Trials and took a couple of samples home for Brogan to try. Said Lydia: “He absolutely loved it so I have kept him on it and he has stayed in beautiful condition and, as well as being a great feed to keep his fibre levels up, it also helps to top up his energy levels a little.” Mollichaff ShowShine is a high oil chaff and is formulated to provide ultimate show condition. It is flavoured with cherry to give it a delicious taste so is ideal for picky eaters. www.horsehage.co.uk

JSR FORAGE & BEDDING SUPPLIES Haylage now available in 125kg bales. Small flake, large flake and flax bedding available. Local delivery included on orders of 10 and over. COVERING SUFFOLK AND SURROUNDING COUNTIES

CALL: James 07909 330588 EMAIL: jsrforageandbedding@gmail.com

All-in-One is a caramel flavoured, granular supplement that contains a top specification, broad-spectrum supplement plus many specialised supplements; for example, a superb hoof supplement, generous levels of anti-oxidants and sophisticated digestive aids. This means that it is the most fully-comprehensive supplement you can buy. www.topspec.com A high specification, general purpose daily tonic, new and improved ProPell Plus has an energy dense glucose-fructose complex to ensure it is appetising and palatable when horses need a pick-me-up! RRP: £14.25/1ltr (1 month supply), £39.99/5ltr. www.equine-america.co.uk

Dodson & Horrell Performance Vitamins and Minerals is a complete pelleted vitamin and mineral ‘top-up’ supplement specifically designed for competition and breeding horses and ponies. Performance Vitamins and Minerals are highly concentrated. In addition to vitamins and minerals QLC antioxidants and electrolytes are included to further support performance. www.dodsonandhorrell.com

Golden Paste Company Eliminate Scoops! he Golden Paste Company has made several changes to the business recently to reduce its carbon footprint. The latest change is removing the plastic scoop from the TurmerAid tub as a standard tablespoon can be used instead. TurmerAid, the complete turmeric pellet for horses, is sold in plastic food grade tubs; these tubs are recyclable and re-usable. Using one and a half level tablespoons to measure out the pellets is the equivalent to one of the scoops that was previously in the tub. www.goldenpastecompany.com

PRODUCT

YOUR FORAGE SUPPLY SORTED!

SHOWCASE

The new EquiBiome Prebiotic is ‘restoring gut diversity through gene technology’ as a result of more than ten years of research which analysed the community of bacteria within hundreds of horses, both wild and domesticated, using the latest next-generation sequencing technology. This research enabled the development of the EquiBiome Prebiotic that has been formulated with species specific scientific accuracy to help the horse to stabilise the gut, increase biodiversity and produce more good gut bacteria. This is crucial for the health and performance of all horses. The lead researcher behind the new EquiBiome Prebiotic, Carol Hughes, said: “The EquiBiome Prebiotic feeds the gut bacteria already living in the biome of your horse and provides the right environment for them to thrive.” RRP: £23.50. www.equibiome.org

WITH DIRECT PALLET DELIVERIES Claire Burrow BSc (Hons) from Devon Haylage explains more...

evon Haylage are dedicated to producing the best possible haylage for your horse with customer satisfaction being paramount. “The feeding of our haylage not only provides your horse with health benefits, but a pallet delivery direct to your yard also makes your life easier. “We are pleased to offer a direct pallet delivery of 35 bales for just £237.50 including delivery for our High Fibre Ryegrass or £255 for either the Timothy, Timothy Mix or Native Grass & Herb Mix to anywhere in the UK mainland. “If you are outside the mainland, please contact us for a quote. You can also have a mixture of haylage types on the pallet should you have horses with differing tastes or nutritional requirements. “Our haylage is renowned for being of high consistent quality which reduces the worry and inconvenience of dusty batches of hay, whilst ensuring you never run out if frequent trips to a supplier is required. “All our haylage types are nutritionally tested every year so Packaged in a fully you know exactly what you are recyclable 220g paper feeding. By using the mineral pouch complete with ratios provided on the reports, a biodegradable wooden this helps you to formulate measuring spoon!

bespoke feeding regimes using targeted minerals to get the very best from your horse without the unnecessary use of hard feed. “Sugar and starch content in forage is increasingly becoming the focus for many horse owners as they strive to find a quality forage with known sugar and starch levels which can be safely fed to sensitive horses and

ponies. Our thorough nutritional testing puts customers’ minds to rest as all our haylage types come in at under 10% combined sugar and starch. Our customers have reported substantial health benefits in their horses with the regular use of our haylage, not to mention the peace of mind a direct delivery brings.” www.devonhaylage.co.uk

NUTRITION

TACKLING EQUINE OBESITY: BEVA LAUNCHES COLOUR-CODE SCHEME

Photo: BEVA

he British Equine Veterinary Association (BEVA) has launched a pilot project to tackle equine obesity. The scheme uses a traffic light colour system of vaccination reminder stickers which vets can place on the front of passports at each vaccination appointment. Pending the success of the sixmonth pilot, the initiative will be rolled out across the UK in the summer. Obesity is one of the biggest

problems facing equine welfare in the UK but despite the best efforts of numerous equine welfare charities to address the issue, a significant proportion of owners are either not recognising obesity in their horses, or not being motivated to subsequently take action. BEVA decided to confront the problem in a different way, using knowledge gained from the Behavioural Insights Team (BIT) – a government think tank specialising in behavioural

economics and psychology. Lucy Grieve, President Elect of BEVA and part of the association’s obesity campaign working group, explains: “Determined to look at new ways to positively engage with horse owners, we harnessed the BIT’s experience of what methods work most effectively and came up with a simple, practical scheme revolving around vaccination visits, which could be affected by vets themselves.” The idea is to utilise the routine annual or six-monthly vaccination visit as a time to assess a horse’s body condition. A traffic light colour system of vaccination reminder stickers can be stuck to the front of the passport with the objective of reminding the owner of when the next vaccination is due, but with additional information too. A green sticker indicates a ‘healthy’ body condition. Amber means the horse is carrying too

odern farming methods have reduced the range of plants to a critical point. The loss of biodiversity means the average horse pasture may well lack important phytonutrients linked to healthy metabolism causing an excessive weight gain, together with a ‘cresty’ neck and fat pads on the neck, quarters and around the sheath. All wild plants contain levels of ecdysterones, these important phytonutrients act on the mammalian endocrine system, increasing metabolism and reducing glucose. As plant eaters, horses have evolved to require a wide range of phytonutrients, some act as anti-oxidants improving health and vitality, whilst others like the ecdysterones help the metabolism cope with carbohydrate and glucose intake. 2019 was an especially difficult year for many horses; the UK winter was mild, and the grass just kept on growing. If your horse is struggling with excessive weight gain it could well be time to check the phytonutrient content of the diet and find out what is going on in the hind gut. The EquiBiome Test Kit will allow you to do just that. www.equibiome.org

much fat tissue and needs moderate changes to diet, exercise, management, rugging and clipping regimes. Red implies that the horse is carrying excessive amounts of fat tissue which are placing the horse in morbid danger. The aim of the colour coded stickers is to instigate a conversation about the horse’s weight as part of the scheme, sparking discussion about the potential impact on the horse’s health and how any issues can be addressed. If there is insufficient time to discuss the matter in full during the appointment, the sticker provides a colour-specific QR code which the owner can use to access additional information via their smartphone in their own time. One of three short, colour-specific videos will explain the reason their horse has been designated the colour of sticker on their passport, leading to a link to more specific advice on what the owner needs to do next. Having swotted up on the background information beforehand, the owner can then

IS A LOSS OF BIODIVERSITY

MAKING YOUR HORSE FAT?

discuss the various management options with their vet at a convenient time. Taking into account individual circumstances, together they can come to a joint decision on what is the most suitable weight-loss programme for them and their horse. “The owner needs to be on board and committed in order to carry out the tough task of reducing the weight of their horse. We hope that owners will be ‘nudged’ by the sticker intervention to consider the information they have been offered and start to tackle the problem before it causes lifethreatening disease,” said Lucy. Nine equine veterinary practices were invited to participate in the

pilot scheme, including Deben Valley Equine Veterinary Clinic in Suffolk. Practice Principal Helen Whitbread said: “Obesity is a welfare challenge and it is important that owners know about laminitis risk as well as the many other detrimental health issues. Fat on the outside is matched by fat on the inside of the horse, around important organs such as the liver - people often don’t realise that. I hope this scheme will direct owners to look at a reliable source on the BEVA website and digest the information in their own time and realise we are here, willing to help them.” www.beva.org.uk

HORSE HEALTH EXPERTS HAYGAIN ASK...

Is your horse carrying excess weight?

quines have evolved to put on weight in the summer in anticipation of losing it in the winter when food becomes scarcer. Heading into spring too fat and ‘well’ will put horses at a greater risk of metabolic disorders and joint issues. The UK’s native breeds are particularly good at putting on weight easily, even in winter. Just think of those Shetland ponies perched on a windy hillside in Scotland with only wispy grass and heather as far as the eye can see. Most natives won’t need a rug or hard feed even in winter and adding these elements into your stable management routine means you risk your native getting porky. Ad lib hay is an ideal winter feedstuff for natives but if you’re worried that even that might cause weight gain, you can have forage analysed to identify the hay that has the lowest energy yield. Steaming it in a Haygain Steamer will kill off bacteria, moulds and fungi and remove dust particles, making it totally safe for all. Plus, feeding a high fibre diet comprised mostly of forage will help to reduce the risk of metabolic conditions. www.haygain.co.uk

DAISY’S Herbal Answers CHAMPERENE BESPOKE HORSE HERBAL IS BASED IN SUFFOLK AND RUN BY DAISY BAYLISS, AN APPROVED HERBALIST, WHO HOLDS A BSC (HONS) IN EQUINE SCIENCE.

QUESTION: “My pony is a very good doer and is permanently on a restricted diet. He doesn’t really like mineral licks and I would like something natural to supplement his diet.”

ANSWER: Feeding horses on a restricted diet can be tricky, but adding herbs to the diet can give a good natural source of vitamins and minerals. A combination that I have found to work well is of Sea Kelp, Brewer’s Yeast, Nettle and Rose Hip. Sea Kelp as it is a very rich source of minerals and minerals. It is particularly high in Iodine as well as containing calcium, iron, magnesium, selenium, zinc, sulphur, manganese, potassium, phosphorus and vitamins A, B, B12, C, D and E. It is great for all-round good health, skin, coat and hoof condition. Nettle as they are full of iron and also contain sodium, chlorophyl, vitamins C and A. They are also an excellent source of dietary fibre, can be used as a tonic and support the circulatory system. Rose Hips are a general tonic and are one of the richest, natural sources of vitamin C, as well as containing vitamin A, K, as riboflavin and thiamine. Brewer’s Yeast is a rich source of B vitamins, which make it beneficial in maintaining healthy skin and coat and supporting the nervous system. It also contains amino acids and is therefore good for balancing gut flora and helping hind gut digestion. www.champerenebespokehorseherbal.com

NUTRITION

BEHIND THE SCENES AT SIMPLE SYSTEM:

Our Environment Policy

e have a commitment to protecting the environment, and wherever possible we actively work to reduce our carbon footprint and environmental impact,” explained Stacey. “We are committed to sustainable and ethical sourcing of all our ingredients and packaging. “At Simple System we believe in doing the very best. Not only does this apply to our feeds, but every other aspect of our business too. We have a commitment to operating in a sustainable way to protect the environment. Read on to find out the actions we take to make Simple System Horse Feeds the most eco and sustainable horse feed company.”

Sustainable Energy “Our Head Office, production facility and warehouse are all powered by green energy. The Simple System site is situated on Symonds Farm in Suffolk which is powered by an

Sunset over Symonds Farm

anaerobic digester (AD plant). The AD plant produces renewable heat and power. “Any waste feed we have that can’t be fed to horses or donated to charity is processed by the AD plant, contributing to our zero-waste strategy.”

What is Anaerobic Digestion? Anaerobic digestion is a biological process similar to composting. Like composting it relies on microorganisms to decompose organic material. Anaerobic bacteria break down or ‘digest’ organic material in the absence of oxygen and produce biogas. The biogas is used to produce electricity and heat.

Delivery Vans “Our fleet of delivery vans make feed deliveries across the country every day delivering feed to yards and homes. Routes are optimised to reduce food miles and we are taking steps towards our vehicles becoming

STACEY LASCELLES, MARKETING MANAGER AT SIMPLE SYSTEM HORSE FEEDS, SUFFOLK, EXPLAINS HOW THEY ARE MAKING THEIR OPERATION AS SUSTAINABLE AND ENVIRONMENTALLY FRIENDLY AS POSSIBLE. carbon neutral. We are part of an initiative that plant trees to offset the carbon emissions produced by our delivery vans and company cars.” Through the planting of 7.5 million new trees in the UK (and a total of 9 million globally) since 2006, Forest Carbon have removed nearly 2 million tonnes of CO2 from the atmosphere, as well as providing a host of other benefits to society including flood mitigation, river improvement and public access. “By planting trees, we are also helping to provide wildlife habitats and support biodiversity,” continued Stacey.

Parcel Deliveries “We use DPD and Parcelforce as our couriers for next day parcel deliveries.

“DPD have a commitment to make every parcel they deliver carbon neutral. Parcelforce have over 1,100 eco-start delivery vans and are also trialling electric and hybrid vehicles and aerodynamic trailers. “Our parcels are sent out in 100% recyclable brown cardboard boxes. Our chops (Organic Lucie Stalks, GreenGold, Timothy Chop, Build & Shine and Perform & Shine) are sent out in 100% recyclable clear plastic bags.” Packaging “We have reduced the amount of plastic used in our manufacturing process by 20%. “We continue to look at new packaging options for our feeds but recyclable plastic is currently

WIN! WIN!

ONE READER TO WIN 3 BAGS OF NEW PERFORM & SHINE!

(Above) Feedstock is compacted and prepared for the anaerobic digestor at Symonds Farm; (left) two new vans

still the most suitable option with the pesticides and absolutely no lowest carbon footprint. As we do not herbicides such as Glyphosate. use mould inhibitors or preservatives, Organic farmers are permitted to use just fifteen pesticides, derived from paper bags would not provide natural ingredients including adequate protection. Biodegradable citronella and clove oil, but only based plastic packaging would begin under very restricted circumstances. to biodegrade sooner than the shelf life of our feeds. We continue to • No artificial chemical fertilisers investigate more sustainable Artificial chemical fertilisers are packaging options. prohibited – instead organic farmers “Our new design bags are 100% fully develop a healthy, fertile soil by recyclable. They are made from lowgrowing and rotating a mixture of density polyethylene (LDPE) 4 and crops, adding organic matter such as can be recycled in the same way as compost or manure and using clover plastic carrier bags.“ to fix nitrogen from the atmosphere. You can search for your nearest • No Genetically Modified (GM) recycling point using Recycle Now: ingredients or preservatives - GM www.recyclenow.com ingredients are banned under Organic organic standards. “By developing a range of organic • Better for wildlife - Organic farms are feeds, we are promoting lower levels havens for wildlife and provide of pesticides, no manufactured homes for bees, birds and butterflies herbicides or artificial fertilisers and – there is up to 50% more wildlife more environmentally sustainable on organic farms. management of the land and natural • Better for the planet - Organic environment.” means working with nature, not • Fewer Pesticides - Almost 300 against it. No system of farming pesticides can be routinely used in does more to reduce greenhouse gas non-organic farming and are often emissions from agriculture, or present in non-organic feed. Organic protect natural resources like fresh farming standards, on the other water and healthy soils. hand, don’t allow any synthetic www.simplesystem.co.uk

RRP is £14.80/15kg

erform & Shine from Simple System Horse Feeds is a new natural and nutritious grass chop. Perform & Shine is made from premium dried chopped grass (Cocksfoot and Timothy) with a coating of cold pressed linseed oil. Linseed oil is pressed to order for every batch of product made, ensuring it reaches you in optimum condition without the use of preservatives. Perform & Shine is high in digestible energy and quality protein, whilst very low in starch. It is a palatable feed which is naturally sweet, without the use of molasses or additives, and is ideal for fussy eaters. Perform & Shine provides horses with all the benefits of spring grazing all year round. It is ideal for fuelling medium to hard work the natural way, as well as improving the shape and condition of poor doers. It is suitable for feeding competition horses and is BETA NOPS accredited. www.simplesystem.co.uk To enter: Visit www.absolutehorsemagazine.com and click on the Competitions page. Entries open 1st February 2020 and close 29th February 2020.

NUTRITION £2 off at participating stores nationwide!

FEBRUARY SPECIAL OFFERS! querry Cool Mash is an efficient quick-soaking mash for horses that need a low energy feed. And throughout February there is £2.00 off a bag at participating stores, whilst promotional stocks last! Equerry Cool Mash proved a great success for Amber Major and her horse Howard,

especially through the spring and summer months. Designed for horses and ponies in light to medium work Equerry Cool Mash is cereal-grain-free. It has low levels of starch and benefits from a ‘Non-Heating’ formula. Equerry Cool Mash contains highly digestible fibre sources including sugar beet, to benefit your horse or pony.

opSpec Cool Balancer is designed for horses and ponies that need extra topline and condition and that are in light to medium work. Cool Balancer is a ‘Non-Heating,’ cereal-grainfree formula, with low levels of sugar and starch, plus good quality protein to promote topline. It provides a very palatable, safe and effective way to improve condition and topline without adding excess calories to the diet. Feeding Cool Balancer improves the amount of

Half price throughout February at participating stores nationwide! Whilst promotional stocks last. RRP: £23.95/15kg.

Whilst promotional stocks last. RRP: £11.95/20kg.

Amber Major and Howard looking fit and well.

Said Amber: “The Equerry Cool Mash proved fantastic when Howard didn’t need a conditioning feed but did require a diet to help him stay calm and perform at his best. It’s great to know he’s getting everything he needs and he loves it too.” The mash also includes yeast to support a healthy digestive

nutrients that a horse can extract from his feed and because the horse can extract more nutrients from forage, the amount of concentrate that needs to be fed can be reduced. This benefits digestion and is a more natural way of feeding leading to a more relaxed horse. The forage to concentrate ratio is also improved because Cool Balancer is very nutrient-dense. It is fed in very small quantities, for example just 500g (approximately two TopSpec measures) a day for a typical 15.2hh middleweight weighing 500kg. A small amount of hard feed obviously leaves more space in the digestive system for forage than a large hard feed. Because it contains very low levels of sugar and starch and is fed in very low amounts, the chance of excess sugars and starch overflowing from the foregut to the hindgut and causing a microbial imbalance leading to acidic conditions, is virtually eliminated. Therefore the chances of a horse behaving badly due to ‘acid guts’ are minimised. www.topspec.com

system and added vitamins and minerals including magnesium. www.equerryhorsefeeds.com

NEW BAG DESIGN: Mollichaff...

ook out for the brand new packaging on Mollichaff’s range of high fibre chaffs! The brand has kept its cream coloured bags but has updated the front bag image to fit alongside its complete feed range, featuring the outline of the complete feeds’ horse’s head. www.horsehage.co.uk

Q&A

SADDLERY & TACK

IN THIS ISSUE THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS OFFERS ADVICE WHEN IT COMES TO FINDING A SUITABLE SADDLE FOR A WIDER FITTING HORSE

SADDLE FITTING: FOR THE WIDER HORSE OR PONY

ithout doubt certain types of horses and ponies are by nature harder to fit and those with less wither and wider, flatter backs can prove thought-provoking when it comes to finding a suitable saddle. This type of conformation can lead to a host of issues which need to be discussed with a Society of Master Saddlers’ Qualified Saddle Fitter. Whether choosing a new or second hand saddle you will need to consider the activities you are undertaking with your horse or pony, his shape, development and age. Issues you may need to look at include preventing the saddle sliding up the neck due to the lack of whither which will lead to the back of the saddle bouncing and them being unhappy. With the wider fitting horse or pony if riders are quite tall sometimes getting a saddle that is large enough with big enough flaps without swamping them can be challenging.

The saddle must be comfortable and in the case of the younger rider make them feel secure to help build confidence, but it is equally important that the horse or pony is also comfortable. It is essential that the tree of the saddle is suitable and correct, too narrow a seat on a broad backed horse or pony may not sit securely into the back, so allowing the saddle to tip and rock, whilst the rider may feel perched above. It is imperative that the front width fitting, as well as the shape of the tree in general is correct. Too wide and the saddle will tip forward, causing considerable pressure and discomfort in the area behind their shoulders. The back of the saddle will lift and bounce, also causing discomfort. Too narrow a tree can tip the saddle back, causing pressure under the back of the saddle. Also, the saddle may well ‘run forward’ on to the neck. Part of the tree called the side rails (the bit that narrows under your leg before broadening out into the seat) must also be of a suitable angle and have a suitable width between them. Too close

together and angled, and the saddle will rock: too far apart and the saddle might come onto the spine. If the saddle has a flocked panel, a good saddler can ‘fine tune’ the fit so that the saddle is in perfect balance. The flocking should be of a good quality wool and be quite soft, not hard or lumpy. The best way of avoiding a saddle that rolls to one side, rides up the neck or bridges is to use, whenever possible, the services of a Society of Master Saddlers’ Qualified Saddle Fitter. They will know, by assessing the horse and rider, the style, shape and size that will do the trick. Some saddles now come with several positions of girth straps and this can help the saddle fitter to overcome any conformation difficulties that may cause these actions. However it is the ability to look at a horse or pony and see what these difficulties are and to know what is available saddle wise that is the key to successful fitting. www.mastersaddlers.co.uk

SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS’ QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER, HELEN READER, ANSWERS YOUR FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS.

QUESTION: ‘What saddle brands fit my breed of horse?’ ANSWER: As you browse social media, you’ll see dozens of posts asking for saddle recommendations. Posts like ‘what brand of saddle do you use on your ex-racer/Dales pony/kissing spine horse?’ And, in truth, the answer is… *drum roll please*… there is no answer. Because most brands have gazillions of saddle options. Ideal Saddlery, for example, have approximately 250 different trees in their saddles. So whilst you’ll often see one on a hunkachunk cob, you will also see them on a razor backed Thoroughbred. Not because both those horses fit the same saddle, but because there are so many different trees/panels/models of saddle, even within one brand. And let’s not forget, not all ExRacehorses are as narrow as my chance of owning a Ferrari, and not all Dales ponies are barrel shaped!

Product News...

SUFFOLK’S GRACIE TYTE:

GoLeyGo is an innovative magnetic securing system that ensures a secure connection between human, horse and technology. Products include halters and lead ropes as well as adapter pins for use with existing halters. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

New Brand Ambassador!

lbion Saddlemakers is delighted to announce the appointment of social media star Gracie Tyte, better known as Pony Nuts, as a brand ambassador. Suffolk’s Gracie has joined Albion’s team of ambassadors as the face of the new K3 Sport Jump Saddle. Gracie has been a fan of Albion for a long time, but a meeting at Olympia last year confirmed that Gracie would be a great fit for Albion, and also for the saddle that, at that point, was still in development. “We have been following Gracie for quite a while and love

watching the journey of her and her horses,” said Sherry Belton, Managing Director of Albion. “We enjoy Gracie’s content, but more than that, we really like how kind and warm she is to the people who follow her and see her at meet ups. We feel she’s a real flag waver for eventing, grassroots riders, and for young equestrians, so being able to support her like this and help her carry on doing the work she does in this area makes us really happy as a company.” “I’m so grateful to be sponsored by Albion, a brand I have trusted since I first started riding,” said Gracie Tyte. “The saddles are so

comfortable and secure and I’m so proud to represent such a well established British company that is loved and respected by so many. The team at Albion have both horse and rider in mind when they develop their products.” www.albionengland.co.uk

RRP: Lead Rope with Adapter Pin £32.

SADDLERY & TACK Product News...

DAY IN THE LIFE OF A...

Saddle Fitter

BY POPPY WEBBER, QUALIFIED SADDLE FITTER FOR THE SOCIETY OF MASTER SADDLERS, COVERING CAMBRIDGESHIRE, LINCOLNSHIRE, NORFOLK AND SURROUNDING AREAS. SHE ALSO WRITES REGULAR ADVICE POSTS ON PEEWEE SADDLERY’S SOCIAL MEDIA. SEARCH FOR #adayinthelifeofasaddlefitter

Photo: Abbi Grief Photography

ho remembers, many moons ago, when the first synthetic saddles were released? I was a stroppy teenager who scooted around the countryside on my Welsh pony at several million miles an hour. Everything I owned was brown, plain and boring… except for my much loved, bright red saddlecloth. Imagine my delight when I saw an advert for a new type of saddle, a non-leather one… that came in bright red or blue options. I. Was. In. Love. My mum said ‘no way’, which I promptly added to my (long) list of ‘reasons to be stroppy’. Nowadays, synthetic saddles are (thankfully) much improved and are very popular. I would estimate that 30% of saddles that I fit are synthetic, or part

synthetic. They’re popular for several reasons; they’re cheaper, lightweight, easy to clean, and most are adjustable. More recently we have seen a sway towards a more ‘vegan’ lifestyle too, which has added to their popularity. So, are they the same as leather saddles? In many ways, yes. They have the same structure as a leather saddle, and the majority of synthetic saddle manufacturers also make identical leather versions of the same saddle. They’re no longer available in the bright red I was so desperate for, and the synthetic material has improved massively over the years. It feels much more like leather. And companies are now

using leather girth straps instead of plastic ones that cracked. Who can resist the idea of a saddle you can hose down after splooshing through the sea? Or wipe clean with a baby wipe? Especially when they can be half the price of a leather version. But… here’s the interesting part. They don’t always fit the same. The material doesn’t have the same ‘give’ as leather. And for that reason, they don’t work for every horse. For example, if you’ve got a thoroughbred, with a dip behind their wither and a large shoulder; you need a saddle that really flexes in front of the ‘point’ of the tree, to avoid restricting the scapulas movement. Similarly, a ‘well covered’ cob type might need really soft/shallow panels that have enough ‘give’ to them to stop you perching on top. So check with your fitter, as they might suggest a second hand leather version over a newer synthetic one. www.peeweesaddlery.co.uk

RRP: £4,800.

The carbon saddle tree on the new Kalifornia Dressage Saddle has been completely redesigned to better enfold the rider’s pelvis and is characterised by a taller cantle which improves the rider’s support. www.zebraproducts.co.uk

The Ideal saddle for event riders, the T&T Monoflap XC Jump saddle features a forward integrated mono flap, for a close contact position and the balance required for crosscountry riding. With a premoulded medium soft flat seat, this ‘next generation’ of adjustable saddle has all the benefits of Ideal’s quality leather and attention to detail, combined with its revolutionary new EGP system. This ensures that each T&T saddle is expertly tailored for you and your horse and can be quickly and easily adjusted for the changing seasons, the growth of a youngster or the arrival of a new horse. www.idealsaddle.com

RRP: £1,695

BITS IN THE SPOTLIGHT: VULCANITE AND RUBBER PELHAMS

BITTING EXPERTS, ABBEY ENGLAND, MAKE THOUSANDS OF BITS IN THEIR UK FOUNDRY EVERY YEAR. DESIGNED AND PRODUCED BY HIGHLY SKILLED CRAFTSMEN, EVERY BIT IS INDIVIDUALLY HANDMADE AND CAN BE CUSTOMISED TO SUIT YOUR REQUIREMENTS. HERE THEY TAKE A CLOSER LOOK AT VULCANITE AND RUBBER PELHAMS AND THE OPTIONS AVAILABLE. elham bits are popular in showing classes when used with two reins but are not permitted for dressage. The bit has the potential to exert a lot of pressure on the horse so should only be used in experienced hands. A Pelham features two sets of rings and so is usually used with two sets of reins. The lever action means that the reins attached to the lower or curb ring exert more force on the horse’s mouth than the reins attached to the upper or snaffle rings. For riders wishing to use a single set of reins - roundings can be used which attach to the upper and lower rings on the Pelham and provide a leather loop to which one rein is attached on

Pelham Rubber Loller Short Cheek

either side. Using a single rein in this way can be easier for the rider but does not enable as precise signals from the rider to the horse. A Pelham bit is a blend of three pressures - if you set the curb chain correctly - with equal pressure in the mouth at the poll and on the underside of the lower jaw. A longer shank (part of the cheek below the mouthpiece) on a Pelham will encourage a quicker yield to the bit and therefore allows the rider to use a lighter hand. As the rein is used, the cheek turns and the mouthpiece rotates downwards applying downward mouth pressure. If the curb chain is correctly set it should move against the jaw as Pelham Vulcanite Jointed

material built over a metal bar for strength. Rubber produces a similar effect to Vulcanite but has a softer feel. It can also be used to make flexible bits by moulding it over a strong steel chain rather than a solid metal bar. The Pelham cheeks available measure 4”, 5” and 6” and currently Abbey England make an extenstive list of different types of mouth on Pelhams (as Flexible Rubber pelham well as Kimblewicks). Curb Chains are supplied with all the cheek of the bit reaches 45º Pelham Bits. Chains supplied are stopping the downward normally stainless steel with pressure from continuing, and nickel, brass or nickel plated balancing the bit in the mouth available on request. Single giving then equal pressure in the chains are available in pony, cob mouth on the jaw and the poll, and full size, whilst doubles are which gives you your degree of also available in extra-long. Flat head tilt and your brakes. Polo chains and Brass chains are Pelhams from Abbey England available at extra cost. can be made with vulcanite or Abbey England hosts one of the rubber mouths which often suit largest collections in the UK and horses which have room for a as a bitting expert understands slightly bulkier mouthpiece as the importance of both they can be more comfortable performance and comfort. than metal. All their bits have been designed Vulcanite is a hard plastic type and manufactured to the material giving a firm but highest standards using only the ‘warm’ feel. It is also normally best quality materials. quite thick so that the effect is www.abbeyengland.com to produce a gentle bit in a firm Pelham Rubber French Link

STABLES, YARDS, ARENAS & PADDOCKS

TRADITIONAL MATERIALS, MODERN STABLING:

Why timber is at the reins

imber is one of the oldest, most trusted building materials out there. Yet when constructing a stable, barn or other equestrian facility, a wide range of materials can be used - steel, masonry, concrete or timber. So what is behind wood’s growing popularity, and how are some design specialists taking timber stables into the modern era? Here’s why this historic building material is at the cutting edge of modern stabling.

Optimal comfort and performance Whether you’re human or horse, comfort is a prerequisite. So how do timber

stables steal a march? The answer - superior thermal performance. As a material, timber is hygroscopic, meaning it has small air pockets within its structure, allowing exchange of moisture with the outside. This means that timber is naturally breathable, acting as a buffer against short-term changes in humidity and temperature. It also fights against dampness crucial for a stable. Not only that, but it’s also a natural insulator; timber performs 15 times better than masonry, 400 times better than steel, and 1,770 times better than aluminum. The greenest way to build Climate change is soaring in importance as a priority for

individuals and businesses. The good news? Wood is almost universally seen as the greenest way to build. The building industry accounts for a staggering 40 per cent of carbon emissions. Steel and masonry construction are energy-intensive, mineral-based extraction processes that add carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. Timber, on the other hand, takes it out - a ‘carbon-sequestering’ material. The growth and harvest of trees removes these gases from the atmosphere, mitigating climate change. On a more micro level, as discussed above, timber acts as a barrier to changes in temperature, which means wood stables require less energy to heat and cool - which can be a bonus for the environment (as

GARETH BARBER FOUNDED THE STABLE COMPANY IN 2002. WITH A BACKGROUND IN INDUSTRIAL PRODUCT DESIGN, GARETH HAS DEVELOPED A COMPANY WHICH IS A MARKET LEADER IN HIGH-TECH, SUSTAINABLE TIMBER FRAME BUILDINGS.

By Gareth Barber 54

well as your pocket). Simply, when compared to steel or masonry, timber is far kinder to the planet.

Space smart and dynamic Some projects might house one or two horses, some are larger facilities. Regardless, all aspects stalls, tack and feed rooms, washing areas, security systems, outdoor lighting for those dark, cold nights UK winters - demand careful thought. So too for hay stores, aisles, walkways, doors and the like. Temperature and ventilation are crucial considerations. What do you struggle with in your current stable setup? Bespoke timber construction affords the creation of spaces that cater to all the specifications and requirements of running a modern stable. Whether an individual, livery yard, riding school or large equestrian centre, the dynamism of modern timber buildings has been heralded as a huge plus point. A popular, space-efficient stable is the classic L-shape; it allows equine occupants to see each other as well as providing protection from the elements. With clever design, timber stables can also incorporate extra rooms or units to fulfil a number of other purposes - a garage, leisure space, a home office or even a gym. A stable that looks the part There’s also something to be said for the natural, rustic aesthetic of timber that makes it a timeless choice for stables.

Timber cladding can provide a seamless visual transition from woodland to stable, allowing buildings to blend in. Designs can be fitted to a certain period, too, with features including clock towers, clocks and weathervanes. Finances are always a crucial factor, too; no one wants to break the bank unnecessarily. Although costs associated with timber have risen over the decades, as a rule, wood is still the most cost-effective building material when compared to brick, concrete and steel. Not only that, but due to the modular nature of timber (frames are constructed at a facility and then erected onsite), timescales are often shorter.

A building material for the past and the future It’s clear that timber has the edge over rival building materials in terms of natural thermal performance whilst also offering an eco-friendly, costeffective and dynamic proposition. It should come as no surprise why timber is leading the way for stables and other equestrian facilities. www.thestablecompany.com

SAFETY & SECURITY

uring the winter months criminals use the extra hours of darkness as an ideal cover for their crimes. Many equestrians have experienced the heartbreak of stolen tack, rugs etc. You may think by locking the tack room you are guaranteed it will be secure. But, did you know it takes a burglar 9.2 seconds to break into a normal door lock, or a side door? This is the same amount of time to put

up and take down an umbrella. Thankfully, Brisant’s Ultion Smart offers uncompromised security through its robust Lockdown Mode, a hidden lock which activates when attacked. From the outside, Ultion Smart appears to be a conventional door lock and handle, to appeal to the traditionalists out there, but the inside boasts leading smart home technology, including voice activation and geo-unlocking. However some people like the

STABLE SHIELD:

NEW CLEANING CRITERIA

ast year there were outbreaks of Equine Influenza forcing some race meetings to be abandoned to reduce the risk of spreading the disease. Subsequently the National Trainers Federation had the objective to improve the standards of hygiene at racecourse stables. Research was carried out by the Irish Equine Centre to look at the cleanliness of racecourse stables. Three Northern Racecourses

participated in the research, which then led to discussions with the BHA Racecourse Committee. There needed to be a stronger method of cleaning. The BHA General Instructions now state that equine specific chemical disinfectants should be used at racecourses when carrying out a Level One clean. Stable Shield Disinfectant has been put forward as one of the approved products to use. It was tested by the Irish Equine Centre and the Animal Health Trust

Brisant’s Ultio n Smart can be easily installed in minutes wi th no drilling require d and easily replacea ble batteries. RRP: from £2 29

traditional method of opening a door and that is why there is an option to use a real key as a back-up, something no other smart door lock is currently complemented with. Using GPS and Bluetooth technologies, the Ultion Smart can automatically unlock when a trusted user approaches the door. Users can even issue timelimited electronic keys, via the Danalock app. www.brisant-secure.com

against equine bacteria, fungi, equine viruses and diseases such as Strangles, Rhodococcus Equi, Trichophython (equine strain of ringworm), Aspergillus mould (causes RAO and bleeding), Equine Influenza and Equine Herpes virus type 1 and 4. www.stableshield.co.uk

RRP: £65+VAT and delivery/5L

STABLES, YARDS, ARENAS & PADDOCKS very equestrian has, at one time or another, sat and dreamt about what their ideal yard and stable layout could be. Whether it is relocating the tack room, adding a wash bay, installing an arena or maybe even adding a roof to provide the dream indoor arena. Actually embarking on that dream equestrian building project can be both stressful, time consuming, financially draining, as well as exciting. Before taking the first steps towards your equestrian dream there are a number of aspects to consider...

Location If you are building from scratch you need to consider location and where planners may look favourably on sites. If you can hide elements of your yard within the existing landscape this may be looked

upon more favourably. Equally you need to consider the location of the different elements of the yard in terms of practicality as well. If you are looking at separate Summer and Winter paddocks, look at what area drains better and also their location to the stables.

Access Is there existing access or will highways access need to be granted? Additional thoughts around access will need to be considered in practical terms for not only construction traffic but around whether small or large horseboxes will need access, agricultural machinery for maintenance and how manure can be removed from the site.

Environmental sustainability Thought needs to be given to not only the landscaping around the equestrian development or what landscaping it may disturb but also how drainage and

waste removal may be included in an environmentally sustainable manner.

Dream vs practical A dream equestrian facility may be what all of our clients want, however there is often the hard decisions to be made between what is just a dream and what can be turned into reality. Thoughts as to what is practical need to be considered in terms of layout and facilities, both for what is needed for everyday use and what can be achieved within a budget and within planning allowances. Layout The layout of your yard needs to work for your intended purpose. Placing a tack room near to grooming bays for example, having surfaced or concreted walkways from the stables to the arena, sharing lighting from stables to other working areas. Lighting Good lighting is essential in all areas. Not just overall lighting but lighting within stables, treatment areas and smaller

Advice for planning

EQUINE PLANNING, AND THEIR SISTER COMPANY EQUINE CONSTRUCTION, OFFER READERS SOME EXPERT ADVICE WHEN IT COMES TO PLANNING YOUR DREAM YARD. work areas, as well as arena lighting. Better lighting will not only make for a nicer working environment but will also make for a safer one. If developing your existing facilities or looking at building new ones it is worth speaking to an equestrian planning specialist. Local planners will have good knowledge of the local area however equestrian specialists can offer next level advice on key aspects and as well as being able to traverse the hurdles of local planning authorities. www.equineplanning.co.uk

YOUR DREAM YARD 56

PADDOCK MAINTENANCE: TOOLS FOR THE JOB anaging fields and meadows can be a difficult task once the growth hits a certain height. It doesn’t take long before grass, nettles, brambles, and all sorts of nasties make it impossible for a lawnmower or strimmer to bring it back under control. A flail mower is ideal for maintaining rough grassed areas where a conventional mower would get clogged up and struggle to cut. The FM48 is a powerful, towed, long grass cutter with a working width of 1220mm (48"). A reliable 13Hp Honda engine with an electric start drives two ‘V’ belts and 42 cutting flails. These sharpened flails are easily replaceable to extend the lifetime of the machine. As of 2020, the FM48s transport wheels situate at the rear of the machine, instead of the side. By mounting the transport wheels

in the new position, the mower cuts closer to the edge and can squeeze through narrow pathways. Mounted at the rear of the cutter is a one-piece roller. This roller is easily adjusted to finetune the cutting height and alleviates scalping by ensuring the flails lift above the highest peaks on uneven ground. A screw jack effortlessly raises or lowers the transport wheels, allowing you to travel to and from storage on pneumatic wheels, before dropping the mower onto its steel roller. This steel roller flattens and neatens the ground behind it, it protects the user from the rear of the flail mower, and it is invulnerable to punctures, unlike rival mowers which operate on wheels. The tow bar is typically mounted central to the mower, and it can be offset to the side of the vehicle when it’s desirable not to flatten the grass by running it

over. The safety of the operator is very much in mind when designing this type of machine. The throttle control and engine emergency stop switch are reached easily from the tractor seat. Full skirt guards are provided to stop the operator’s feet from being accidentally offered to the flails. A jockey wheel is mounted onto the tow bar to help manually move the 245kg machine in and

out of storage. The SCH FM42 Flail Mower is identical in many ways to the FM48, however instead of having a width of 48”, its width is (you’ve guessed it) 42”. This compact machine is ideal for towing vehicles with less pulling power and smaller areas to manage. For a free 80 page brochure featuring over 200 British built machines, contact SCH. www.schsupplies.co.uk

LOVE DOGS

FARLAVALE GUNDOGS:

ENSURING A HEALTHY

Start in Life!

op gundog trainer, Ryan Kay, of FarlaVale Gundogs, takes great care when choosing what to feed his working dogs whether fully trained and in the prime of life, or as a young puppy just starting to be fed. At FarlaVale, Ryan has dogs of all sizes and ages which differ incredibly in terms of energy levels and activity. These are the main influencing factors that help him choose the right food for his dogs, but whatever the breed or the disposition of the dog, the product ingredients should be of a high quality and that’s a very important factor when considering the right food. For example, there are different sources of protein, with quality

meat being far superior to other sources. Ryan has been feeding new VetSpec Working Dog Food, Puppy & Junior Formula on his young cocker spaniel and trialling prospect, FarlaVale Dante known as Lula. “The new Super Premium Working Dog food from VetSpec has fresh chicken on the ingredients list and at a price that rivals the other popular working dog foods. The food is also wheat-free and instead includes brown rice for slow release energy. “The results are obvious. The food provides all the focused energy Lula needs while also helping her to have great levels of concentration too. Her coat is soft and shiny and the working

food also provides the vitamins and minerals she requires for the hard work ahead.” New VetSpec Working Dog, Puppy & Junior Formula is a veterinary specification puppy and junior supplement within a super premium dog food made from 44% chicken with added rice, vegetables and herbs. The highly specific supplement ensures optimum growth and development of young dogs from four weeks through to twelve months of age, when the dog can then be successfully

Trusted by dog owners... Hyper-Coat Prime – a 100% vegetarian source of Omega oils, 3, 6 and 9 (with no fishy smells). Boasts 87% Omega oils. Helps achieve and maintain a show winning coat. Efficient source of dietary energy. Low daily amount, makes it great value for money. Available in 250ml, 1lt, 2.5lt and 5lt bottles. RRP: from £10.55. Caniflex – a liquid supplement of Devils Claw, used for centuries by humans against joint pain. Caniflex also contains MSM, Vitamin C and Glucosamine Sulphate. Can be given daily and long term with out any debilitating side effects. Available in 250ml, 1lt, 2.5lt and 5lt sizes. RRP: from £12.10. www.animal-health.co.uk

transferred to VetSpec Working Dog, Adult Formula. It is wheat gluten-free with no added artificial colours, preservative or artificial flavours. It is ideal for: • Optimising development for a long working life. • Growing healthy muscle. • Developing strong bones and tendons. • Puppies with sensitive stomachs. • Healthy skin and good coats. • Nutritional support for joints. www.vetspec.com

Product News...

Luxury pet blankets. RRP: from £25. www.minkeystweed.com

Doggy dining bowl. RRP: From £30. Ceramic gifts with various slogans. RRP: £6. www.oliveandberry.co.uk

Equisafety dog rug is made using waterproof, hard wearing, hi-vis reflective Mercury fabric. RRP: from £25.99. www.equisafety.com

Slip and Clip leads are available in eight colour-ways, all designed to match the dog coats. The leads are soft to hold and very easy to use. Finished with leather bindings, the Slip and Clip leads have smart colour matched top stitching and solid strong brass fixings - suitable for use for all breeds. RRP: £15. www.ruffandtumbledogcoats.com

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

e have been very busy here at our Berry Fields headquarters and have achieved a number of successes since last monthâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blog. We are proud to announce we have achieved the Non-Ridden Friendly accreditation for our business, became a certified freelancer, accredited alternative provision for Cambridgeshire County Council and are soon to be announced as a British Grooms Association Ambassador! We are very excited to be becoming an Ambassador for the British Grooms Association and we are hoping to promote this further through our small business practices. A massive thank you to our amazing farrier Nathan Salter who delivered an excellent demonstration to pupils from Howard Junior School, inspiring young children and

Farrier Nathan Salter and the pupils from Howard Junior School

showing them the art of farriery at Berry Fields. All children were thrilled to receive a real horseshoe. Our long lining sessions have also been very well received. This combined driving is the ultimate test of communication, athleticism, and collaboration between horses and their young handler. The handler must learn to communicate effectively. As horses are non-judgmental and do not criticise, our visiting pupils have felt confident in trying this new experience with fantastic partnerships being created. Over the Christmas period

Buddy our donkey foal made his debut appearance at schools with his mum Betsy. His training has been progressing very well and he has taken to travelling, leading out and simple agility obstacles in his stride. As we are a company that strives to give back to the local community, Solo one of our ponies, delivered a Christmas hamper to someone that is a community champion in our

Our sponsor Hannah Ward has visited the ponies and donkeys for regular massages

New Animal Assisted Education Team member Robbie

ANIMAL ASSISTED EDUCATION & CONSULTANCY

By Rachel Hartopp area. This and other charity visits are all fully funded by our company. As this is something we would like to continue, we would welcome any business that would be interested in sponsoring our ponies. If this is something you would like to help with please get in touch. As we are always striving to improve and be the best that we can, we joined the British Horse Agility Association and embarked on our course training with the intention of qualifying as an accredited agility instructor in the future. We are very proud to welcome a new member to our Animal Assisted Education Team. His name is Robbie and he is a 15year-old registered Shetland pony. He has settled in well to our herd of six and has embarked on his training in order to join our team of visiting therapy equines. Since starting in September 2019 our ponies have met nearly over 390 new children. Their behaviour has always been impeccable and we have received fantastic feedback. www.berryfieldsanimal assistededucation.co.uk

RIDER PROFILE

FIVE MINUTES WITH...

ow and when did you start riding? “I started riding my friend’s pony, Annie, when I was six. I then went to a riding school for a little while and after about a year I got my first pony.” How did you get in to jumping? ”I have always had a love for jumping but when I got my first jumping pony, Pepsi, I quickly realised how much I loved it! Every time I watch professional riders ride, it inspires me even more to work hard.”

Photo: Elizabeth Ebsworth Photography www.elizabethebsworthphotography.com

Please tell us about your yard. “I am incredibly lucky to keep my ponies at home - it’s a basic yard with a menage and set of jumps to practice with. I’m so grateful to have them at home.”

Do you have any particular riding/competing highlights? “One of my favourite memories is competing on the team for Essex on my old pony, Bambi, at the BS National Academy in 2018. Also jumping at Keysoe Grassroots finals and getting a triple clear, even after a big jump-off of up to 1.05m! “I have so many competition highlights on Bambi but one of my favourites is now, having Lola, and making her my own.” You have several

Megan Cock

HORSE PROFILE: Lola Name: Expats Lightening Storm Stable name: Lola Owner: Ali Cock Age: 5

Colour: Buckskin Sex: Mare Height: 14.2hh Breed: Morgan x KWPN

Lola is a very sweet mare who loves people. She is ridden 4-5 times during the week and she loves to jump, showing lots of potential when she puts her mind to it! She is an extremely brave pony and nothing seems to phase her. She does enjoy flatwork but she gets bored very quickly and when you school her 3-4 days a week you have to change things up a bit as she can be very opinionated! During the summer we competed at Gosling Cup, British Showjumping Academy, NSEA and lots of local showjumping and XC shows. We went to Pony Camp and had the best week of my life and recently took her for her first hunt which she absolutely loved - as did I! sponsors, please tell us more. “I am incredibly lucky to be sponsored by three amazing companies and I am an ambassador for another. “Fenn Wright Estate Agents are my main sponsor and without them I wouldn’t have weekly lessons and clinics.

“I’m also sponsored by The Tack Box which is an amazing monthly subscription box with only the best quality equestrian goodies for both horse and rider. “I am also an ambassador for Alice-Alice Scrunchies, which is a fabulous business that makes hand-made scrunchies which I wear on a daily basis and to all

MEGAN COCK IS A 13YEAR-OLD FROM ESSEX. SHE IS CURRENTLY RIDING HER 5-YEAR-OLD MARE LOLA, A MORGAN SPORTS HORSE FROM IRELAND. MEGAN HAS HAD LOLA FROM A 4YEAR-OLD AND TOGETHER THEY MADE IT TO BS NATIONALS THIS YEAR, REPRESENTING ESSEX IN THE TEAM ACADEMY EVENT. competitions. “Lastly I have the support of Elizabeth Ebsworth Photography. Liz travels far and wide on photoshoots, capturing your relationship with your horse just perfectly. With such passion for her photography she gets outstanding shots!”

What’s the most useful advice you’ve ever been given? “Stay calm and relax - nothing will go to plan if you are stressed and tense. Breathe!” What are your future plans? “My plans with Lola are to gradually move up to the 1m+ classes and I would love to qualify for some big shows. Long term dream is to compete at Olympia and to showjump aboard!”

EVENT & READER REPORTS

LOCAL IN-HAND STAR SHINES!

AT OLYMPIA, THE LONDON INTERNATIONAL HORSE SHOW

Photo: Kit Houghton/Horsepower

eld on 16th-22nd December, The London International Horse Show provided top class sport and entertainment from the outset, and on the fourth day of Olympia, there was a remarkable win for locally-based Laura Oughton-Aker. In the In-hand section of the Olympia Senior Showing & Dressage Championships 32-year-old Hot Fuss, shown by Laura, took the honours. Said Laura, “Our pony, Hot Fuss, was In-hand Champion and the oldest horse/pony to have ever competed at Olympia! He made history by winning and was the clear winner by 10 marks.” Meanwhile the evening performance got underway with a British win in The Lemieux Six Bar. Jumping big fences is all about power and Essex-based Laura Renwick’s partner Top Dollar VI has that by the bucketload. Clearing the final 1.95m fence with ease, the pair took the win as the only combination to remain faultless after four rounds. “I hate to say he makes it easy, but the strength he has is special,” said Laura of the 10-year-old stallion.

Laila Ramaci from the North Essex Hunt putting on a speedy display in The Aztec Diamond Pony Club Mini-Major.

Well Done! “At just 3-years-old my niece attended the last show of the year to make it a winning one! We went to the festive Broads Equestrian showing show, where Jemima on my own Pendock Apache did their first proper lead rein class which they won! Then for a bit of fun we did the festive theme fancy dress and to much amazement we won that too, and stood Mini Champion!” - Emma Tiley-Nunn

CLASSIFIEDS

Ryder-Davies & Partners V E TE RINA RY S URG EONS Our experienced equine team offer a range of services throughout Suffolk, South Norfolk & North Essex Services include: • Full lameness investigations • Routine and remedial dentistry • Pre purchase examinations • Vaccinations, worming regimes • Equine reproductive stud work • BEVA accredited practice for chilled and frozen semen • Video endoscopy and gastroscopy Facilities include: Inpatient and outpatient stabling with 24 hour care • Digital X-ray, In-house laboratory, endoscope and digital ultrasound. We offer: Visits on a round-reduced visit fee Yard visit days - no visit fee • Spread the cost health plans Regular client information evenings and newsletters.

www.ryder-daviesvets.co.uk

24 Hour Emergency Support Tel: 01394 380083 . d bedding, fast delivery “Lovely quality hay an ce!” All round great servi

ESSEX BASED MOBILE VETERINARY PRACTICE

Motorised dentistry, lameness evaluations and on-site treatments, including PRP and Arthramid, portable x-ray, ultrasound, portable video gastroscopy and endoscopy, all carried out in the comfort of your horses’s home.

Pre purchase examinations. 24 hour local emergency cover.

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

CALL: James 07909 330588 EMAIL: jsrforageandbedding@gmail.com

www.facebook.com/JSR-forage-and-bedding-supplies

CLASSIFIEDS

Suffolk

Pet & Horse Crematorium

BASED IN SUFFOLK AND CLOSE TO NORFOLK, ESSEX AND CAMBRIDGESHIRE

Tel: 01284 810 981

www.suffolkpetcrematorium.com

enquiries@suffolkpetcrematorium.com

KAY HOWARD

QUALIFIED MASTER SADDLER & SADDLE FITTER • Range of quality new, secondhand and synthetic saddles and accessories • Impartial, independent, saddle fitting and advice • Mobile workshop. • Re-flocking, top-ups and remedial flocking • Full saddle repair service. Based in Norfolk, but covering a wide area.

Please phone Kay on (07775) 850400 Registered member

WIX

EQUESTRIAN CENTRE

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

01255 870744

Juddpurs Saddlery Specialists in saddle fitting by Society of Master Saddlers qualified saddle fitter. Most ranges of saddles in stock or we can order. 111 Bedingfield Crescent Halesworth, Suffolk IP19 8ED

Tel: 01986 874800

SATURDAY 1ST FEBRUARY ARENA XC Essex: Barleylands EC; Arena Cross Country. Tel: 07545 010770 ARENA EVENTING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Arena Eventing. Tel: 01449 711962 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Easton College; British Dressage. Tel: 01603 732316 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Forest Edge Arena; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01760 722616 SUNDAY 2ND FEBRUARY ARENA EVENTING Norfolk: Lime Kiln Farm EC; Arena Eventing. Tel: 07749 951898 ARENA EVENTING Suffolk: The Jays: Arena Eventing. Tel: 07759 603120 DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 DRESSAGE Essex: Barleylands EC; Dressage. Tel: 07545 010770 DRESSAGE Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07879 881755 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 01449 711962 SHOW Cambs: Fenland EC; Showing Show. Tel: 01945 466617 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Unaffiliated Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687550 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Boyton Hall EC; Showjumping. Tel: 07557 091008 MONDAY 3RD FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Dressage. Tel: 01708 687550

TUESDAY 4TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Beds: The College EC; British Dressage. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; Clear Round Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; Senior British Showjumping. Tel: 07879 881755 WEDNESDAY 5TH FEBRUARY SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687550 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Wix EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 01255 870744 THURSDAY 6TH FEBRUARY SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 FRIDAY 7TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Norfolk: Anvil Park Stud; British Dressage. Tel: 07879 881755 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Barleylands EC; Evening Showjumping. Tel: 07545 010770 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; Evening Open Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962 SATURDAY 8TH FEBRUARY DRESSAGE Essex: Barleylands EC; Dressage and Combined Training. Tel: 07545 010770 DRESSAGE Suffolk: Martley Hall Stud; Affiliated and Unaffiliated Dressage. Tel: 07881 802129 SHOWJUMPING Beds: The College EC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01234 708400 SHOWJUMPING Essex: Brook Farm TC; British Showjumping. Tel: 01708 687550 SHOWJUMPING Suffolk: Topthorn Arena; X Pole & Mini Showjumping. Tel: 01449 711962