Your Horse & Country Magazine

Winter 2018

Christmas all wrapped up!

Great gift ideas

Winter Sun

Wonderful Winter

Escape the winter blues!

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’Tis the season to be jolly

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WELCOME & CONTENTS

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

Welcome

50

Christmas gifting all wrapped up

8

A break from the winter blues

78

Wonderful winter

Issue 20 | WINTER 2018

D

id we really have a heatwave just a few months ago? It seems hard to believe on those early-morning rides with frost cracking underfoot, our horse’s breath clouding the air and our thoughts on hot tea and cosy blankets.

But let’s give winter a warm welcome – it is, after all, the season of goodwill and celebration! Christmas is just around the corner and we’ve got it all wrapped up with 20 pages of great ideas for presents in our Christmas Gift Guide (Page 50).

As Kathy Carter says on Page 78, winter is also a time for new beginnings with 2019 fast approaching. Perhaps you are planning a fresh start in a new home – in Your Country Property (Page 18) we look at how families are helping to turn the dream of home ownership into a reality for younger buyers as well as bringing you some of the best properties currently on the market.

Equestrians everywhere are winding down for winter, although those stableyard chores will still need to be done – see Kathy Carter’s little tips for easing you through on Page 82. Mary and Emily King are also settling in for the winter break, albeit with their eyes firmly on next year’s competitions – see Keeping Up With The Kings for Mary’s advice on breaking in those future eventing stars (Page 88).

Dr Josefin Jansson is also focusing on your horse’s performance in our Vet’s Advice feature (Page 100), asking if that quirky behaviour is actually your horse’s way of telling you all is not well with their health.

Perhaps you’re thinking your own wellbeing needs a bit of a boost at this time of year with some winter sun. Check out our guide to escaping the winter blues (Page 8).

So sit back and enjoy a little winter pick-me-up with Your Horse & Country Magazine.

The team wishes all of our readers a very merry Christmas and a propserous new year.

Contents

8 Escape to the sun

88

The Kings’ winter wind-down

If winter’s getting you down, saddle up for a well-earned escape to sunnier climes.

18 Your dream home We look at how families are helping each other get on the property ladder.

Editor

Advertising

Publishing Co-ordinator

Editorial

Assistant Publishing Co-ordinator

Production

Contributors

Contact Us

Daniel Miller

Lucy Sperring

Clare Aris

With special thanks to Mary King, Emily King, Dr Josefin Jansson of Rowe Equine Ltd, The Rural Planning Practice, Amy Lathrope-Reid Photography and Shutterstock Images

100 Vet’s advice Dr Josefin Jansson asks if your ‘moody mare’s’ behaviour is a sign of suffering

116 Made for walking We look at winter boots and the best ways to ensure toasty toes this season!

Printed by Stephens & George

Hazel Lomas & Alex Williams

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

Joni Mann & Gary Burt

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

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Trust your senses and minimise the risks As horse owners we are always conscious about feeding our animals the best quality feeds and forage. The ideal forage (hay or haylage) contains adequate digestible energy and protein to meet the needs of horses. Forage can vary enormously in quality in terms of nutrient content but also in hygiene quality which can sometimes be overlooked.

We are all familiar with older hay that has developed a dusty, musty smell, but good quality ‘clean’ hay may still contain contaminants that could negatively affect sensitive horses. Furthermore, horse owners can be conscious of haylage which varies in quality, particularly when visible moulds are present.

Throughout this article we will investigate the hygiene quality of hay and haylage including what to look for when you suspect the hygiene quality is low and what measures we can put in place to minimise health risks for horses.

We will begin with hay. Interestingly, hay is never 100% dry. The atmosphere within and around the bale will contain enough moisture to allow certain moulds and fungi to develop.

These are rarely visible by the naked eye as mould on the hay, but the spores are visible as dust emanating from hay when it is shaken.

The level of contamination will vary depending on the weather conditions at cutting, the conditions it is stored in and its age. The potential for moulds in hay starts in the standing crop. The plant leaf and stem surfaces are mainly covered with bacteria which helps protect the living plant from fungal infection and yeasts which have been suggested to have

a protective role against the effects of visible light. Some fungi can multiply on cut and baled hay causing mould. Once the standing crop is cut, the moisture level of the grass rapidly decreases. The predominant bacteria and yeast populations present on the crop are no longer competitive as the moisture content drops. A new group of microbes can start multiplying which consists of a new species of bacteria, some yeasts and an increased presence of fungi. These organisms feed off sugars and organic acid exudates from the plant during the drying process. The faster the crop dries, the less dry matter losses occurs from the growth of these fungi. Dustiness in hay without the visual presence of mould is usually a result from fungi growing in the cut grass. This explains why growers are keen to cut and bale hay during prolonged periods of fine weather! Once the hay is baled a new group of microbes (mainly fungi and yeasts) start to multiply especially when the moisture content is at the higher end at around 20%.

Several of the specific fungi which grow during bale storage are known to produce mycotoxins which are toxins produced by certain moulds but usually this mycotoxin production is low under the low moisture conditions of the bale.

Mycotoxins are much more prevalent in higher moisture forages such as haylage if allowed to develop due to poor forage preservation. There is another contaminant in hay which comes from the insect world. The humble mite is only around 0.2mm and feeds on small insects. In warm and humid conditions, they can multiply and along with their faeces can cause allergic reactions to both animals and humans. Dusty hay (mould spores) can be unpalatable and can cause severe allergic reactions in some horses which is why some owners choose to soak or steam their hay to minimise this risk.

Soaking or steaming acts to swell the spores responsible for aggravating the airways and causing hypersensitivity, to make them too big for antigens to attach too and therefore prevent significant allergic reactions. As a biological system, haylage production doesn’t always work perfectly. At Devon Haylage we are particularly aware of the challenges to be faced when making quality forage and so do all we can to

Claire Burrow minimise these factors. Grass must be cut at the right growth stage, baled at the right dry matter and then conserved appropriately to minimise aerobic spoilage, but with many land owners making haylage for the equine market there is understandably much variation in quality with some producers regarding mould patches or strong smells as ‘normal’ and nothing to worry about. This is something at Devon Haylage that we regard as definitely not normal and so here we will look at the types of problems that may be observed and why they could have arisen. Firstly, the anaerobic (without the presence of oxygen) conditions in which haylage is made eliminates much of the problems described above with hay, because moulds and fungi require oxygen to survive. Providing appropriate fermentation has occurred and the haylage continues to be stored in anaerobic conditions, haylage is very hygienic. But when things do go wrong what should we look for and how can we tell if the forage is still safe to feed? When we encounter problem haylage it is usually the result of incorrect moisture or the presence of oxygen; odour can be a good indication so use your senses to assess your haylage before feeding it.

The presence of visible, usually white or greeny blue mould is the result of aerobic conditions within the balebecause of poor (loose) packing or air entry from damaged packaging. Dry matter losses will be high, and palatability will be low along with the obvious issues concerning allergies and a compromised respiratory system. At Devon Haylage we ensure our bales have a good consolidation which minimises the amount of air trapped between stems and discard any which have damaged packaging.

Rancid, fishy odour

Haylage with an overly sweet smell is likely to have high concentrations of ethanol produced by spoilage yeasts mixed with acetic acid. This forage will be prone to heating and spoiling.

This is butyric acid, consequential from clostridia contamination from soil resulting from cutting or raking too close to the ground, rain splash or manure residues on the surface of the soil. It can also occur in haylage which is baled far too wet and can be slimy or sticky in texture.

Haylage of this type will have degraded protein and palatability will be low. This is preventable through good practises at harvest to prevent soil contamination and baling at the appropriate dry matter for haylage at around 70%.

Vinegar odour This is acetic acid, more commonly known as vinegar and although it is a natural part of the fermentation process, too much acetic acid in relation to lactic acid (the most desirable product of fermentation) means the fermentation was less than optimally efficient.

To minimise the risk of this occurring with our Devon Haylage we apply completely natural lactic acid bacteria to the grass as it is being baled which helps to ensure the appropriate fermentation takes place.

Sweet odour

Ammonia odour This indicates excessive protein breakdown to ammonia and amines which could be due to clostridia fermentation of high pH.

I describe the correct smell for haylage to be mild and mellow, not eye wateringly strong and different haylage types will all have a different aroma, our Timothy haylage for example smells very much different to our High Fibre Ryegrass.

The main concern with feeding haylage is when there is obvious mould present due to the risk of moulds producing mycotoxins and respiratory issues. Signs of a mycotoxicosis due to long term exposure to contaminated feed and/or forage could include weight loss, digestive disturbance, skin problems, behaviour changes and colic amongst others, but there has been very little research into the effects of feeding mouldy feed and forage to horses as they are not as commercially important as cattle for example.

Discerning horse owners therefore should purchase forage from reputable producers, refuse any bales which have holes in the plastic and ensure it is stored away from vermin which tend to enjoy nibbling the plastic. Hay and haylage which has been stored correctly should keep for many months but if there are concerns over the hygiene quality, tests are available to assess the presence of mycotoxins. However, by visually checking the forage for dust in hay or mould in the case of haylage combined with giving it a good sniff will tell you if the forage is safe to feed. We have an inbuilt mechanism for keeping us safe from potentially hazardous substances and so if your natural reaction when smelling forage is not 100% positive trust your instincts, there is a good chance that your body has detected something potentially harmful! If in doubt, producers should always be contacted, the problem explained, and a replacement offered if the fault occurred with the producer. Sadly, with the majority of our few returns, the problems occur once the haylage has left our farm when packaging is inadvertently damaged somewhere along the supply chain and so ensuring your bales are totally undamaged at purchase and then storing appropriately is key to enjoying clean and healthy haylage.

For more information on our haylage or for a free sample please email

claire@devonhaylage.co.uk

devonhaylage.co.uk 01404 813100

8 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

WINTER SUN

Escape the winter

blues

Rather than riding out the winter gloom, why not saddle up for sunnier climes? Daniel Miller looks at the benefits of horseback holidays

A

fter this summer’s record temperatures and some of the longest dry spells that the UK has seen for years, we are now left clinging to the last of the warmth offered by the autumnal sun. Short sleeves and sunglasses have given way to jumpers and coats; the air is getting damp, the nights are drawing in and there are plenty of grey days ahead.

Seasonal affective disorder (SAD) is a medically recognised form

of depression that affects many of us.

Among other treatments, it is suggested that some winter sun can do wonders for you and your state of mind, offering a respite from the winter blues!

What better way to escape than on horseback? Studies suggest that riding or working with horses has great benefits for mental health because of the way they can respond to human behaviour. Being herding animals, they are accutely aware of signals that mean safety or danger,

while their sensitive hearing tunes into the human heartbeat from several feet away. Studies have shown that horses can even synchronise their own heartbeat with that of human beings – how’s that for empathy? Coupled with sun-kissed surroundings, planning your horseback holiday really can lift your spirits as well as giving you the experience of a lifetime!

Don’t be put off by age or worries about your own ridiing ability, many horse-riding holidays cater for all levels of experience, 

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WINTER SUN

Monument Valley in Arizona, above; the Canadian Rockies in Alberta, right from complete novice to advanced rider level. With experienced horses and help on hand from the ground from your tour guide almost everyone is capable of taking to the saddle!

There are lots of things to consider when planning your winter escape, from destination to luggage and the important must-haves for your trip. Riding holidays are also a great way to meet new friends so don’t be put off if you plan to travel alone – you will be sure to meet a group of like-minded people and share an intimate holiday experience that creates lasting friendships.

Whether you’re in Europe, the Americas, India, Costa Rica or wherever your dreams decide to take you, there are a few essentials that you will need to take with you on your riding holiday. Sun cream is an absolute must, and I would suggest taking high factor 40 or even 50, for at least the first few days. Practical and comfortable footwear is another must; a good quality leather boot with ample grip on the sole, that offers support but is flexible around the ankle, will help keep you comfortable.

A saddle bag is also a great idea and can be purchased before going away.

These can be really handy for storing bottled water, your camera for those holiday snaps and maybe some money if your tour includes stop-off points. Some tours may include one of these as part of the supplied tack, so it is worth checking with your tour operator before buying one.

You can work up quite a sweat when riding so think about what clothes you are going to take. My advice would be thin layers – perhaps T-shirts, a thin longsleeved cardigan or jumper and a gilet or body warmer if you feel the cold – as when the afternoon sun warms up you may find that what was cosy in the morning may make you a little hot once you’re on your way! It is, of course, always best to do some research before leaving for your holiday and speak to your tour operator, as they will know the best things to pack based on the holiday you have booked.

In terms of your holiday destination I would say go with wherever your heart takes you – perhaps it’s adventure and ranching in the Wild West, a horseback

safari, the architectural marvels of the Golden Triangle in India, or maybe you’re taken by the thought of exploring the rainforest in the tropical paradise that is Costa Rica. But wherever it is, be sure to book through a reputable and trusted agent, someone who can take you, step by step, through the entire process – from booking to arriving, from enjoying the ride to saying goodbye at the end of your stay. If you’re a fussy eater or have special dietary requirements then ensure that your needs can be catered for in advance – otherwise your dream holiday could fast become a “hangry” experience!

At Your Horse & Country Magazine, we have put together a host of adventures to tempt your wanderlust, so please lose yourself in the next few pages and plan your escape to the sun. 

 Your Horse & Country Magazine is not a tour operator. We would always recommend talking directly with a specialist tour operator when considering a horse-riding holiday.

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 11

escape the winter blues PALACE TO PALACE ~ You may have heard of the ‘Golden Triangle’ - well with Horse India you ride the bit in the middle! Travelling by Marwari horse your senses are awash with the colours, sights and sounds of India. Join us to stay in old country palaces, dining on the roof by candlelight and under the stars.

DESERT DUNES ~ Chat around the camp fire with shepherds and camel herders, ride over the dunes, see chinkara gazelle and watch 50,000 Demoiselle Cranes come in to feed - a truly awesome sight!

Ride with us to canter along sandy camel tracks, canals, sand dunes and lakes - your Marwari horses await!

WHAT TO EXPECT ~ A riding holiday with Horse India will find you staying in old Palaces, bespoke haveli Hotels or re-creating the ‘days of the Raj’ by camping in their Maharajah ‘shikar’ tents - complete with decorated bedrooms, en-suite bathrooms and real beds - royal style ‘glamping’ in stunning locations!

THE HORSES ~ Marwari horses have curly ‘lyre’ shaped ears that rotate 180 degrees and touch at the tip! They are desert horses, ‘slight’ in build, and stand 15hh - 16hh, spirited but safe, but more importantly, * you cannot ride this breed outside India.* photographs copyright Horse India Ltd.

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Ride through magical rural Rajasthan ~ feel the spirit of the unique Marwari horse as you discover history, culture, forts and palaces by retracing old routes through the forests and lakes of the Aravalli Hills and by riding over the sand dunes of the Thar Desert.

“The trip was a dream ~ so much more than we could have imagined” FAIRS & FESTIVALS ~ Experience the famous horse and camel fairs of Pushkar, Balotra and Nagaur, take the toy train through the unspoilt Aravalli hills.

We have a fabulous range of holidays to suit all budgets, some are date specific but others can be taken at any time. Book now for a holiday of a lifetime!

* WHO: solo travellers, couples, friends, clubs, groups, fundraisers, families, children and non-riding partners * WHAT: Some rides are date specific, we ride on average 25-30km/day or 4-6 hours riding/day * WHERE: Equidistant between the blue city of Jodhpur, the lake city of Udaipur, and within easy reach of the pink city of Jaipur, Rajasthan, INDIA * WHEN: The best climate is September to April * DETAILS: info@horseindia.com tel: 07726 930231

LEOPARDS & LAKES ~ Ride from the magnificent Kumbhalgarh Fort through the shady Ghanerao forest of the Aravalli hills to Jawai reservoir in search of wild and free roaming Leopards!

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

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The 18th century manor house which is your home throughout your stay,with a heated pool, tennis court and extensive gardens offers a unique ‘house party’ atmosphere, intimate, cosy, welcoming and relaxed and the food and wines are delicious The riding is superb on horses you would be pleased to call your own,through stunning landscape and architecture - some of the best in France Unbeatably flexible - you can ride as and when you like. For non-riders there is so much to do. This place is also very easy to get to, fifteen minutes from Bergerac airport or train station. An all inclusive price with free transfers from/to Bergerac means that there are no hidden extras Come and spend time riding with us, contact Jane Hanslip on 07768 747610 or +33 (0)6 32 62 43 15 or visit www.dordogneriding.com

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 15

Keeping Mud Fever at bay for over a decade

NATURES HEALING ENERGY

16 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

With winter fast approaching, wet, cold weather, long, dark nights and mud above your ankles are just around the corner. And unfortunately, where there’s mud, there’s often mud fever.

When it comes to tackling mud fever, you need to know that the mode of attack you use works. So, it will be reassuring to know that natural skin care company Botanica has been helping horse owners to get control of mud fever for well over a decade.

In case you haven’t heard of mud fever it is a condition that often appears on the back of a horses’ pasterns and fetlocks. The first sign of this condition is matted hair with crusts. This then progresses to swollen, weeping lesions. When the crusts are removed the skin underneath will be extremely pink and painful, this skin can also pus.

In severe cases this condition can cause the horses leg to swell considerably and there may be a chance of the horse becoming lame.

@Botanica_ie

Sean Cooney, the founder and managing director of Botanica International Ltd, is a man dedicated to creating natural skin care products that get results where all others fail!

Sean is a regular at horse shows and events up and down the country, from the biggies like Badminton and Burghley to more regional shows such as South Gloucestershire Show or the Midland Game Fair.

Sean explains “Our customers have had fantastic results over the years using a combination of Botanica Cleansing Wash and Botanica Herbal Cream, even on the most severe cases of mud fever. We recommend a two-step approach, which involves firstly diluting the Cleansing Wash as per instructions and massaging well into the affected area, which gently

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Botanica International Ltd

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lifts the scabs and allows the wash to penetrate the skin underneath. We advise that you should not rinse the wash off, instead leaving for three to five minutes to allow the soothing, antiseptic qualities to work. The next step then is to apply Botanica Natural Herbal Cream, massaging well in. It is recommended that this be repeated twice daily and by the second week you will have hair regrowth.”

The Botanica range is made from 100% natural ingredients (tea tree oil, oil of lavender, jojoba oil and comfrey) and the company stands over the effectiveness of all of its products.

So, if you are faced with mud fever this season, choose Botanica to make it a thing of the past.

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Email: enquiries@botanica.ie

www.botanica.ie

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 17

Botanica International Ltd, Units 12-13 Warrenpoint Enterprise Centre, Newry Road, Warrenpoint, Co.Down, BT34 3LA

Welcome to the first edition of

Your Country

Property Your Horse & Country Magazine is very excited to bring to you a host of luxury Parents and and estates grandparents help the properties for salecan across children coupled buy theirwith owninspiring home without having country, ideas for your to hand over money.

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With many unable to is grab the first The so truth is everything relative; is the rung the right, housing ladder alone,toaround timeofever or do you have strike 60% under-30s have turned whileofthe iron is hot when you to findtheir your families a financial leg-up3, while perfectfor property?

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Home For yoursecurity average UK citizen, it does seem Many parents and areget on that now could begrandparents a good time to keen to help aladder, young ifbuyer secure their the property you can!

Prices first home and ifwith theythe have the financial remain strong average house means, it’s falling an easy it Even price only 2%decision. since theBut vote. raises questions for a family. duringmany the worst recession in history Should the 15%, money be to given as abounce gift or prices fell only quickly as a loan? are to therise. tax This implications back and What continue might for everyone involved?

You might not seem to suggest that prices aren’t going need money but longer what ifto your to fallthe further andnow, waiting get circumstances change andmay youonly needcost it onto the property market back? you more when you eventually can. Also, Gifting rates the money todespite either provide or interest are low August’s add yourifchildren grandchildren’s rise.toEven they do or rise further that deposit might behalt the the most straightforward probably won’t increase in house option. cut down their mortgage prices,Itaswill prices continued to rise at a

18 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

debts and reduce the payments they have to make each month. But not everyone has a large amount spareinterest cash they rapid rate years agoofwhen rates can hand over in Essentially, one go, while were far higher. theothers constant might worry giving a big race to ownabout property andaway the limited chunk of supply, their savings. housing particularly in urban areas Therethey is one option that allows where can’t possibly build more, someone to help to their child or grandchild should continue push prices up. secure a mortgage while itholding onto In summary, it seems has always their however. beencapital, the right time to The buy parent a houseorin grandparent’s sumto!isThe keptbiggest in an the UK, if you lump are able account that challenge liesthen witheffectively first-time serves buyers as who the child’s don’t havemortgage the Bank security of Mum without and Dad to actually being gifted them.impossible It helps rely on and face the to almost reduce repayments task of monthly saving amortgage large deposit while living and will beaccommodation. released back toThey the parent in rented must or grandparent once the income child is earning also achieve a sufficient to meet more and can renegotiate the mortgage. loan to equity mortgage requirements.

Cash thetoonly to fundtothis facility, Whatisn’t needs be way highlighted those an individual can also borrow among Generation Rent who against wish to their own investments – professional advice become house buyers is that time is will helpessence. you decide which is lenders the best of the While many option. have extended their age limits to satisfy

agree how mortgage repayments will be made.

Should overseas investors buy inThis thesolution UK? does potentially have tax

implications for the parent For the overseas buyer the or UKgrandparent property if they own but there are market has their long home been seen as a safe measures that can bethat taken. parent haven for investment canThe provide does returns. not haveMany to bepeople on the were title deed of great spooked thethe new property, of which means theybut can by uncertainty exiting Europe, liability Stamp Duty andsubsided any itavoid appears thatforthese fears have other taxes applied to owners of great second to an extent and there are some properties, tax be on the profits reasons whyincluding now could rightmade time from sale of the child’s to buythe a property in the UK:property. As theThe parent’s not on the deeds, 1. valuename of theis pound – The pound this also means the property is not of is at its lowest rate compared to thepart dollar their estate and would not be subject to in years after it fell sharply following the Inheritance Brexit resultTax. and hasn’t really recovered.

Buying a property is often a balancing act for families and a financial adviser can help find a solution

demand for “later-life” borrowing, allowing In it together people into sum their or 70s, 80s and Tying uptoaborrow large lump borrowing even 90s, if you want to be paying a against their owndon’t hard-earned mortgage long intosuit retirement, theAnearlier investments won’t everyone. you can get the property ladder the alternative is on to apply for a joint mortgage

with your child,monthly meaningrepayments both of your better to keep as incomes will be taken into account by to low as possible.

Our advice would be the when they determine talk provider to your broker, lender or advisor to whether to options agree a available loan. It is and thenfor upfull to look at the the parent or grandparent and child to terms and conditions.

At the time of writing, the exchange rate The right balance stood at $1.29 to the pound. It could be Of course, joint financial endeavours a great opportunity to buy cheap and will be new territory for many make a substantial profit fromfamilies the dollar and everyone involved will havetotoreturn think when values have the potential long and hard about the implications, to a similar level to 2014, when it was both financial emotional. with around $1.70 and to the pound, orBut even the youngseen people facingwhen so many obstacles levels in 2007, it was over $2 to the home ownership, a joined-up family to pound.

That could be a profit of approach willwithout becomeproperty more common, 50% to 60% prices even with any agreements taking into account increasing. the needs of different generations and the 2. There are more properties currently potential tax issues and pitfalls. Specialist for sale – Since the decision to leave the advice from a financial adviser can be EU there are currently 2% more homes invaluable to balancing long-term goals for sale. At the same time the number with the practical requirements of such a of transactions has fallen, meaning that partnership, to ensure that first step on there is likely to be a number of homes the ladder is on firm footing. that have been on the market for longer than thearticle sellerisintended and n This compiled bysome Your Country opportunities a bargain.

Property. It is to notgrab intended as financial or There legal advice. seek available professional 3. is stillAlways a discount guidance on investments.

The home due to Brexit – Property prices across on which mortgage is secured the UK arethe down 2%. This isn’t a massive may be repossessed the mortgage reduction but it’s smallif enough to not borrowers do not keep uphousing repayments cause concern about the market on the mortgage.

The levels and and a sign that property in the UKbases should of taxation, anda reliefs from taxation, continue to be safe bet. can change at any time. The value of This article is compiled by Your Country any tax relief depends on individual Property. It is not intended as financial circumstances. The mortgage solutions or legal advice. Always seek professional discussed are subject to mortgage guidance on investments. conditions and are also subject to status by the lender. *and Yourapproval home may be repossessed if you do not keep up repayments on your 1 . Resolution Foundation, Home mortgage Improvements, April 2018. *2.Mortgages offeredSociety, subject data to status, Nationwideare Building to Q1 terms and conditions apply 2018.

3 . Tesco Bank Home Buyers Survey, September 2017.

4 . OneFamily, September 2017.

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 19

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Stepping Stone Mill, North Wraxall, Wiltshire

Stepping Stone Mill is a charming and unique Grade II Listed period country home situated in a stunning position just north of Bath.

Situation: The original mill, the mill cottage and outbuildings have been sympathetically restored, incorporated and extended whilst retaining much of the character and enhancing many period features. The accommodation is arranged over a number of split-levels creating a superb home for entertaining and taking full advantage of this magnificent rural setting. Providing a variety of configurations in layout a vaulted drawing room leads out onto the terrace which is also approached from an oak framed garden room. A central lobby not only leads to the master bedroom suite but has stairs ascending to the fourth bedroom and comprehensive storage off a further attic room. This is a truly unique home that can only be truly appreciated by inspection in order to understand the quality of workmanship and thought in its design.

Guide Price £1,000,000 20 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

4 Bedrooms | 3 Reception Rooms | Grade II Listed | Converted Mill | Idyllic Situation | Period Features | Beautiful Gardens | Mill Pond

This property is available to view on

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

Your Call Horse us & Country Magazine WINTER Thinking of selling your property? on 01454 318 780 2018   |  21

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Rhonehurst House, Upper Lambourn, Hungerford

Rhonehurst is a character period house offering excellent and versatile accommodation.

Situation: A Handsome House with 4 Reception rooms, 2 Kitchens, 6 Bedrooms, 3 Bathrooms. A Famous Training Yard with: 66 boxes in 3 principal yards, Equine Pool, Horse walker, and Lunge Ring Office, 5 Bedroom Hostel and 2 Cottages. Paddocks In all about 18 acres Reached by a long drive through the paddocks and stables up to a gravel sweep, Rhonehurst is a character period house offering excellent and versatile accommodation. The Old Yard - 19 loose boxes. The New Yard - 24 loose boxes. The Wooden Yard - 14 loose boxes. Across from The Wooden Yard are 3 isolation boxes, a store and a muck heap. Equine Pool Barn - 6 loose boxes. Equine pool with filtration system. Covered Monarch horse walker for 6 horses. Lunge ring Paddocks. The paddocks are divided into thirteen enclosures and are well sheltered over chalk and are free draining.

Guide Price £3,500,000 22 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

A Handsome House with 4 Reception rooms | 2 Kitchens | 6 Bedrooms | 3 Bathrooms | A Famous Training Yard | In all about 18.6 acres.

This property is available to view on

Your Call Horse & Magazine WINTER Thinking of selling your property? usCountry on 01454 318 780 2018   |  23

24 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

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Shutford, North Oxfordshire

Character and individuality in a highly sought after and great community village only 5 miles from Banbury station and M40 Situation: Constructed in 2005 of local Ironstone beneath a slate roof to a high specification, the property has been further enhanced by the current owners to provide flexible and well proportioned accommodation arranged on three floors providing all the conveniences of modern family living. Stylishly presented, the flexible accommodation provides five separate reception rooms and an orangery to the ground floor. The playroom has the potential to have a direct access from the front of the property (providing the potential to be used as a separate office/treatment room). The kitchen has a central island and a range of fitted appliances, all complemented by granite work surfaces. The sitting room has a feature hand cut stone fireplace and both this room and the family room are connected via French doors to a south facing orangery with a glass roof and doors to the terrace and gardens.

Guide Price £1,100,000 26 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Over a 1/3 of an acre of delightful grounds backing onto countryside | 6 bedrooms | 5 receptions and 5 bath/shower rooms | No onward chain.

This property is available to view on

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

Your Call Horse us & Country Magazine Thinking of selling your property? on 01454 318WINTER 780 2018   |  27

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Fern Lodge, Tunbridge Wells, Kent

This distinctive and rare detached Regency house built in the 1820’s overlooks Southborough Common and is close to local amenities.

Situation: With many beautiful original features such as the sash windows, panelling in the hallway typical of the Regency period and an elegant fireplace in the sitting room which all add to the character and charm of the house. The interior provides excellent accommodation in addition to a useful cellar with potential to create a playroom, cinema etc. The reception rooms are elegant and well proportioned with an impressive triple aspect drawing room with polished wood flooring, sitting room with a fine open fireplace with cupboards/book shelves either side and tall window to the front and a generous size study. The three bedrooms are all doubles, with lovely views and are all are well served by a family bathroom with a hot cupboard under the eaves and a further heated linen cupboard. Offering off street private parking.

Guide Price £1,000,000 28 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Many beautiful original Regency period features | Three double bedrooms | Impressive triple aspect drawing room | Off street private parking

This property is available to view on

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

Your Call Horse us & Country Magazine Thinking of selling your property? on 01454 318WINTER 780 2018   |  29

C S G Pollitt Limited 01392 339455 www.csgpollitt-subaru.co.uk 37 Marsh Green Road, Marsh Barton, Exeter, EX2 8PN

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30 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

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Ampney Crucis, Gloucestershire

A truly outstanding contemporary conversion of a period cottage.

Situation: A truly outstanding contemporary conversion of a period cottage that in recent years has undergone a fully comprehensive programme of extension and renovation works and now provides stunning four bedroom detached house finished to exacting standards in an idyllic location.

Guide Price £1,250,000 32 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Detached house | Four bedrooms | Idyllic location

This property is available to view on

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

Your Call Horse us & Country Magazine Thinking of selling your property? on 01454 318WINTER 780 2018   |  33

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The Old Vicarage, South Cerney, Gloucestershire

The Old Vicarage is an appealing Grade II Listed property which dates back to the early 18th century.

Situation: The Old Vicarage is an appealing Grade II Listed property which dates back to the early 18th century. It is situated in a most attractive part of the village enjoying a no through road position, within a conservation area and level walking distance of the village amenities. As one would expect with a property of this age it is full of character and period features including exposed beams, fireplaces, good ceiling heights and large windows with shutters.

Guide Price £1,100,000 34 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Grade II Listed property | Full of character and period features

This property is available to view on

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

Your Call Horse us & Country Magazine Thinking of selling your property? on 01454 318WINTER 780 2018   |  35

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 37

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Prestwood Lane, Crawley

Built in the style of a traditional Sussex barn this beautiful home offers first class accommodation with outstanding equestrian facilities.

Situation: Off the main concrete drive there are two paved parking areas one with an adjacent double garage with lean to log store. To the rear of the property is an extremely useful four bay steel framed barn 60’ x 25’ (18.3m x 7.6m) with concrete floor, three open bays and one lock up with roller door.

The equestrian facilities comprise a traditional styled stable range 89’ x 16’ (27.1m x 4.9m) including overhang with oak cladding under a tiled roof with clock tower divided into six stables, an office and WC, and a fenced 40m x 20m outdoor arena with sand and rubberised surface. The land lies to the rear of the property with two gated entrances on a gentle slope and is divided into two main fields. In all about 16 acres (6.5 hectares)

Guide Price £1,150,000 38 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Detached Barn Style Farmhouse | Superb Games Room | 4 Bay Open Fronted Barn | 6 Stables & Sand School | Gently Sloping Pasture Land | About 16 Acres

This property is available to view on

Your Call Horse us & Country Magazine WINTER Thinking of selling your property? on 01454 318 780 2018 | 39

“a present for life” “Alibaba” ~ the first Marwari ~ orders taken ~ shipping worldwide ~

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40 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – YOUR COUNTRY PROPERTY

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t: 01297 639312 | m: 07811264240 | e: info@woodscott.co.uk Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 41 www.woodscott.co.uk

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West Park House, Malvern

West Park House provides excellent equestrian facilities with a paddock, stables and all weather manège.

Situation: West Park House provides excellent equestrian facilities with a paddock, stables and all weather manège to one side and also has a beautifully maintained garden and terraced area to the rear giving a high degree of privacy, ideal for outside entertaining. The gated 5/6 bedroom property sits behind an extensive driveway with adjacent detached double garage having a one bedroom annexe which could provide additional revenue income or dependant family accommodation. In all the grounds extend to 4 acres or thereabouts. The stables and manège situated in the adjacent paddock also have the benefit of a separate tarmacadam entrance with parking and road access allowing some separation from the main property if required. The substantial three box brick built stables also feature a large hay/equipment store.

Guide Price £1,500,000 42 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Unprecedented peaceful location with equestrian facilities | 5 bedrooms 2 with en-suites | 3 reception rooms | Well fitted kitchen

This property is available to view on

Your Call Horse us & Country Magazine WINTER Thinking of selling your property? on 01454 318 780 2018   |  43

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Gerrards Cross, Buckinghamshire

Handsome 4 bedroom detached character residence, well situated approximately 1 mile to Gerrards Cross rail station.

Situation: This handsome 4 bedroom detached character residence has been in the ownership of one family for over 40 years and is very well situated approximately 1 mile to Gerrards Cross rail station. Both the front and rear gardens are particular features at this property. The mature front garden is well stocked and screened and there is generous parking including detached garage. The property has a 160ft long west facing garden - 0.276 acre plot (in all).

The property is located approximately 1 mile (via footpath and/or road) to Gerrards Cross village centre, which offers very good facilities, including M&S Simply Food, Waitrose, Tesco, Sainsburys Local, various restaurants, Everyman cinema, community library and superb Chiltern Rail link to London Marylebone (fast trains take approximately 18 minutes). The motorway network can be accessed at Junction 1 M40 (Denham) or Junction 2 M40 (Beaconsfield), linking to the M25, M1, M4, and Heathrow/Gatwick airports.

Guide Price £1,000,000 44 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Mature, well stocked front garden | Generous parking including detached garage | Approx. 1 mile to Gerrards Cross village centre | 0.276 acre plot (in all)

This property is available to view on

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

Your Call Horse & Magazine WINTER Thinking of selling your property? usCountry on 01454 318 780 2018   |  45

It’s just you, your horse and the open road…

Three-piece aluminium flooring

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addle, bridle, hat, gloves, boots - check.

Horse - check. That’s everything packed and on board, now where are you heading?

The beach? Hunting through the woods? Is it that competition you’ve been working towards or perhaps it’s the all-important winter training session? Regardless, the world is your oyster when you get behind the wheel of your very own horsebox – it’s just you, your horse and the open road.

As horse owners ourselves, the team at John Oates Horseboxes are driven to create horseboxes that offer style, strength and safety as well as the ability to carry the required weight both securely and legally. The panels and windows with each build are ordered in using the best tried-and-tested products on the market. Apart from these two elements,

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everything else you’ll find in your John Oates horsebox has been handcrafted, manufactured to suit your individual requirements by us. Using the best quality materials available to us we aim to build your horsebox exactly as you and your horse need it. As with many 3.5-tonne horseboxes on the market today, load weights are something that the team at John Oates have given particular attention.

To help us achieve better load weights without compromising on safety and durability, John Oates use three-section aluminium flooring, making the overall build lighter but just as strong, if not stronger than flooring used by other manufacturers.

This allows you to load up all the essentials, safely and legally, without going over your weight allowances.

Designing and building the perfect horsebox is

46 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

so much more than choosing the right colour or pretty patterns to put on the sides; it should be about safety and comfort, practicality and usability, leaving you nothing to worry about apart from that crucial competition, fun ride, a morning’s hunting or trip to the vets. We want to sit with you, one horse owner to another, to talk about your individual requirements but, more importantly, to understand them. It is with this understanding that John Oates really do make dreams a reality!

In our experience, every horse travels differently.

Some are quiet and confident, others highly stressed, anxious and fidgety. However your horse travels, it can be a nerve-racking experience loading them up and taking to the road. With John Oates you can do so with the peace of mind

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Excellent service from John Oates Horseboxes. Really pleased with my horsebox that was collected today. The company are easy to deal with - no hidden extras, just upfront and honest. They offered good advice throughout and genuinely wanted to produce a horsebox that met my personal requirements. Highly recommended!

Sheila, July 2018

that your horsebox has been specifically designed for you and your horse. Our horseboxes are not mass-produced or “off the shelf ”, with each partition, bulkhead, padded ceiling or wall, ramp height or angle carefully engineered to suit your horse, with extra care and attention to detail to meet all of your individual requirements. You will also find in every John Oates horsebox a reinforced bulkhead, which is fitted after the flooring for maximum safety. With added options such as internal horse area cameras, you can monitor your horse from the safety and comfort of the cab.

John Oates Horseboxes is a family business through and through. We understand from personal experience the everyday expense of owning horses, from feed and bedding to tack and the dreaded

vet bills. It is with this in mind that we offer our bespoke horsebox service at a range of different pricing bands. With the option to build on either a new, nearly new or used chassis we are able to work to most realistic budgets. As a trusted and regulated manufacturer and supplier of quality horseboxes, John Oates are also able to offer a finance arrangement (subject to application/approval) for the purchase of your horsebox, meaning we can make owning your very own horsebox affordable too!

At John Oates Horseboxes we pride ourselves on quality and excellent service. Our goal is to work with you to shape your dream; our drive is making your dream a reality.

t: 0121 526 3767 m: 07495 006 634 e: james@johnoates.org.uk www. johnoateshorseboxes.co.uk Richards St, Darlaston, West Midlands WS10 8AJ Sales offices in, Devon, Gloucestershire and New Forest, with offices being opened in Cardiff and Yorkshire in the new year.

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 47

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CChristmass ...all wrapped up

’Tis the season to be generous – Kathy Carter sneaks a peek at the origins of Christmas gift-giving

A

h, the twinkling baubles, the charming carols, festive classics on the radio, and the bonhomie of fun-filled family dining. It can only be Christmastime! Whether your yuletide is steeped in festive cheer, or sprinkled with a healthy dusting of cynicism, it’s undeniably a great time to put a smile on someone’s face with a thoughtful gift. But where does the gifting tradition come from?

From Sinter Klaas to Santa Claus Festive gifting is thought to stem from the traditions laid down by St Nicholas, a Christian bishop living in the fourth century AD. “Saint Nick” (or Santa Claus, derived from the Dutch “Sinter Klaas”), was renowned for secretly giving gifts, and placing coins in the shoes of the needy. In one story, St Nicholas helped a man whose daughters couldn’t marry by throwing bags of money into their house when they came of age; but being very modest, he did the deed in the night, so the man would thank

 Father Christmas, with his red suit and sleigh, seems to have become popular in the last century, thanks to the US, but Santa Claus and the gifting tradition goes back much further

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God for the mystery gift. St Nicholas is widely quoted as being the patron saint of many groups, which reportedly include unmarried girls, sailors, prisoners and thieves.

Although overshadowed by his bearded alter-ego Father Christmas, St Nicholas is still highly regarded and revered, and has his own feast day, which is held on December 6 and is celebrated in many nations of the world.

Traditionally on this night, children left shoes or stockings for St Nicholas to fill during the night, and in the morning they’d find treats of fruit, nuts, candies and cookies. An important premise of the giving was that St Nicholas’s gifts were meant to be shared, not hoarded for oneself; an ethos that has perhaps been lost on many of us, as, stuffed with sugar, we protectively cradle our

CHRISTMAS GIFTS

Chocolate Orange, or tub of colourful wrapped sweeties!

From America with love It’s fair to say that America has had the biggest hand in developing Christmas gifting as we know it. Legend has it that the popular image of a kindly man in a red coat originated from 1930s adverts

by Coca-Cola. (And the drinks company and other marketeers undoubtedly ran with the quirky idea that the great man travelled on a flying sleigh – see below.)

But the fully formed figure of jolly Father Christmas really came to life a few years later, when American troops, dressed as Santa, gave food and toys to children in wartorn Europe, during World War II (specifically in Britain, Italy, France, the Netherlands, and eventually in Germany and Japan, according to the Netherlands’ St Nicholas Center.)

It’s fair to assume that the troops may have been influenced by the Coca-Cola adverts they’d seen when carrying out these lovely gift-giving missions!

This isn’t to say that Father Christmas as a gift-giver was a mid-20th-century creation – there are, for example, many reports of Santa being used as a beacon of hope and deliverer of essential rations to troops fighting in many wars. In his book Santa Claus: A Biography, Biography historian Gerry Bowler

includes a drawing from the American Civil War dated 1862, showing a kindly Santa delivering army supplies. However, despite many earlier instances of Father Christmas being graphically depicted in his book, the author does remind us of the well-quoted phrase that “Santa Claus came to Europe in the suitcase of the Marshall Plan” – the Marshall Plan being the European Recovery Programme, an American initiative to help rebuild the economies of Western Europe post-World War II. So, while nations across Europe had been celebrating the traditions of St Nick for many years, it seemingly took the American troops to truly spread a cohesive image of what “modern” Santa Claus looked like, as they traversed the wartorn countries offering gifts and the hand of friendship.

A miniature sleigh and eight tiny reindeer While we’re pondering the origins of the world’s favourite gift-giver, let’s consider the famous sleigh. The flying delivery vehicle that Santa uses was apparently made popular by writers Washington Irving and Charles Dickens.

Irving reportedly included a sleigh in his 1809 book A History of New-York: From the Beginning of the World to the End of the Dutch Dynasty, under the pseudonym Diedrich Knickerbocker. He included a dream sequence whereby St Nicholas

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flew across the sky in a wagon: “And, lo! the good St Nicholas came riding over the tops of the trees, in that self-same wagon wherein he brings his yearly presents to children.” 

Festive facts Stuck on stockings Stockings are down to St Nicholas, too. Do you remember the story of St Nick, who helped a man whose three daughters couldn’t marry, by gifting money in the night-time? One version of this story, originating from the Netherlands, has St Nick dropping a bag of gold down the family’s chimney, which accidentally fell into a stocking that was drying by the fire.

Why Xmas?

Why do we shorten Christmas to Xmas? This is reportedly thanks to the Greeks, according to the book From Adam’s Apple to Xmas: An Essential Vocabulary Guide for the Politically Correct by H D Curet. The author

explains that X, or Chi in Greek, is the first letter of “Christ”, and served as a symbolic stand-in for the word “Christ”.

In the mid-16th century, the holiday was known as “Xtemmas”, but was eventually shortened to “Xmas”.

Pucker up!

It’s popular to kiss under the mistletoe, possibly as the Druids believed mistletoe to be an aphrodisiac. However, the Germanic word mistletoe literally means “dung on a twig”; a reference to the process of the mistle thrush eating the berries, digesting the seeds, and creating droppings that eventually grow into new plants. How romantic!

25? Jesus’s birthday is said by some scholars to have been adopted from Pagan solar festivals, which saw the Roman mid-winter Saturnalia festival taking place in late December, as well as Roman emperor Aurelian’s “feast of the birth of Sol Invictus” on December 25.

There is actually no mention of December 25 in the Bible!

A special date...

Why do we celebrate on December Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 51

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

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CHRISTMAS GIFTS

But this book was in fact a satirical tome; a fictional account which was taken by many as folklore penned by Dutch settlers. According to legend, Irving’s stories (which also included The Sketch Book of Geoffrey Crayon, 1819, depicting charming English Christmas celebrations), were so popular that they sparked a Christmas fervour in the United States and even here in England; so much so that Charles Dickens is said to have been inspired by Irving when writing his own holiday classic A Christmas Carol, published in 1843.

It’s highly possible that Irving also influenced Clement C Moore’s classic 1823 Christmas poem ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas, which put the idea of the flying sleigh firmly in people’s minds: “But a miniature sleigh and eight tiny rein-deer; with a little old driver so lively and quick, I knew in a moment he must be St Nick. More rapid than eagles his coursers they came; and he whistled, and shouted, and called them by name: Now, Dasher! now, Dancer! now Prancer and Vixen! On, Comet! on, Cupid! on, Donner and Blitzen!”

 Clockwise from above: a day out, a handcrafted wreath, a personalised snow globe or some homemade cookies could make great alternative gifts this Christmas

Get gifting...

S

o, now we know where the history of Christmas gifting comes from, we will perhaps give a nod to St Nick on December 6. It’s amazing that one man’s kindness has influenced celebrations around the world – and a booming commercial enterprise that’s unrivalled in its economic size! But how should we ensure our Christmas gifts hit the mark this year? Originality is key!

Here are our top, alternative gifting tips: 1. Consider creating a Christmas wreath for family and friends – the internet is full of quirky and traditional ideas. Give it early, and start a new (low-cost) tradition!

al Add the person ith touch to gifts w s Bucking Trend

2. Sit down with your loved one or friend and work out what you’d like to do together – could you skip a wrapped gift and enjoy a day at a favourite garden, stately home, beach

or equestrian event together in the new year?

3. Create a photo montage or DIY snow globe (using a crafting kit) – choose personal photos, motivational images and meaningful quotes to create something bespoke.

4. Give a loved one a “cheque book” filled with kind acts that they can redeem. You can cook them a meal, offer a back massage, babysit, take them out on a surprise “date” – anything that your loved one would enjoy.

5. Create homemade cookies and treats – you can present them beautifully in festive packaging. It’s easy to create dairy or gluten-free versions for your more sensitive loved ones – how thoughtful! 

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The personal touch means so much Tarrag Naegel nails bespoke Christmas gifts with its beautiful jewellery collection

I

was finding it increasingly hard to find unusual British jewellery of quality without the price tag of a named brand, writes Tarrag Naegel founder Wendy Ross-Smith. After a frustrating trip to a trade fair in 2015 I decided to take a leap of faith and produce my own range inspired by the farrier’s nail.

To get the proportions right I asked our local farrier George for a few nails. My first pony was kept on George’s farm many years ago and in return he learnt to shoe on my horse.

The first few items I produced were very simple pendants and earrings. I rounded up a few friends and took some photographs with a borrowed horse and a few dogs. Little did I know that some 18 months later these would be core lines that we would be making for the Spanish Riding School of Vienna's retail outlet.

I chose a name that would reflect the products’ roots and ethnicity: “Tarrag” is the Gaelic for nail and “Naegel” the old English for nail.

Launching the Tarrag Naegel collection

in our shop in Scotland in 2015, we enjoyed a great deal of support from the local community and many of our pieces have travelled across the globe. I have sold to Australia, Canada, America, Germany and here in the UK from Orkney to Hampshire.

In 2016 we decided to try a few events, the first of which was Perth Races.

The very first piece we sold was to be engraved and featured birthstones to celebrate the arrival of a new baby. I realised I had a quality product that lent itself to being easily personalised. A few events later I knew I had something very special and decided to give up the shop to focus solely on events. Since then we have been as far south as Gatcombe, and have made pieces for Bryony Frost, Lucinda Russell and Anthea Morshead to name a few. The collections have multiplied too – “Tarrag Naegel with a Twist”, the “Farrier’s Loop” and the “Stirrup” ranges are new for 2018.

I am always happy to hear your ideas and, if possible, incorporate them into my designs – the only rule is there must be a farrier’s nail in there somewhere! Watch

this space for spurs and plaits, which are on the drawing board for 2019.

For me, the best part of my job is what I call the “warm fuzzies” when we create something very personal such as hidden engraved messages or little touches that are special to the person receiving the gift, such as the inclusion of their birthstone, or providing a bride with her something blue.

Recently we made a 9ct white gold and tanzanite cross for a lay minister. Little did we know that it was to arrive just days before they were due to conduct a very personal service. The emotional response to the arrival of the cross was just lovely and it meant a great deal to them. It’s always very poignant when a piece is made as a memorial or commemorates a special occasion.  To see Tarrag Naegel’s full jewellery ranges, visit www.tarragnaegel.com

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Compassion • Care • Support 64 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

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Jenny Bell has a range of beautiful & useful Christmas gift ideas printed from her paintings.

The blanket on this Winter Pony design can be personalised for an extra special present.

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New England Style Christmas Decorations, American Quilts & Cushions, Folk Art Calendars, Cards & Puzzles, Candles and Shaker Peg Rails.

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What would you light up? Contact us now on 01993 898084 / 07814 142658 or visit www.drlightframedesigns.co.uk for a quote to turn your image into a light frame design

The perfect bespoke Christmas gift Unique, hand cut, light up Silhouettes. Turn your favourite equestrian photo into a gift for Christmas. All light frames can be stood, or wall mounted and come in a variety of sizes with different lighting options. Order before 9th December to guarantee delivery delivery before Christmas.

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CHRISTMAS GIFT GUIDE

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THE GIFT THAT GIVES BACK FOR

GENERATIONS Special, unexpected and truly memorable... what greater gift is there than a tree?

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Amelia Earhart

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But once the festivities are over for another year, a lot of people head to the high street to return unwanted presents.

While it’s said to be the thought that counts, we’d all like to believe our efforts will be treasured for years to come. Unfortunately, that’s not always the case.

So, for something special, unexpected and truly memorable, what greater gift is there than a tree? They make fantastic presents for many reasons, leaving a lasting impact long after the Christmas decorations have come down, and offer a number of benefits.

For the landowner in your life, trees are highly effective in preventing flood damage and combating soil erosion, can provide habitats for wildlife and perfectly enhance landscapes.

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They’re also excellent sources of shelter for horses and livestock, and when leaves shed in Autumn they help to improve the soil fertility of the pasture, resulting in better nutrient uptake. In addition, trees maintain water clarity and absorb nitrates from manure. So you’re not only bestowing a thoughtful gift on a loved one, their horses will thank you for it too.

It’s also widely known that trees act as carbon sinks, absorbing carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, and are proven to have numerous health benefits, including helping to alleviate stress.

You’ll also need to bear in mind the space available, and take into consideration the kind of tree your loved one would appreciate the most too; do they have a penchant for stunning, colourful blossoms, or would they prefer a functional, nonflowering species?

At Civic Trees, our team of experts specialise in selecting, sourcing and planting semi-mature specimens, using bespoke systems and implementing aftercare programmes essential for optimum tree health. We’ve been doing it for over 50 years.

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

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 71

Keeping you and your loved one’s at the heart of Christmas giving!

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Please send this completed form to: Your Horse & Country Magazine Subscriptions, Brick House, 21 Horse Street, Chipping Sodbury BS37 6DA Bucking Trends, Putting a personal touch to your Christmas gifting! The one stop shop for personalised gifts, simply send us you personalised order to orders@buckingtrends.com or complete our Christmas order form and return to ‘Bucking Trends, C/O YHC Print, Brick House, 21 Horse Street, Chipping Sodbury, BS37 6DA. Please be advised that our FREE P&P offer is restricted to mainland UK only, for orders requiring non mainland P&P please contact our team on 01454 318780. Standard UK Delivery times from receipt of order is 7 Working days. Whilst every care is taken to ensure your purchase arrives with you safely , Bucking Trends cannot be held liable for damages caused by postage.

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PROMOTION

Little extras to help our pets ward off winter’s worst W

e have had a lovely warm summer, but now the nights are drawing in the leaves are starting to turn and fall. Just like us, our pets can be helped through the colder winter months by adding supplements and additional care, writes Jennie Westcott of the Animal Health Company. As an owner of a veteran horse, a dog with hip dysplasia, a geriatric cat (exact age unknown) and chickens I do give some of them a little extra throughout the winter.

Thai is my 23-year-old ex-racing thoroughbred, who I have had since he was four years old. He is now semi-retired and just “happy hacks” about the tracks and fields. In the summer he is out in the field 24/7, but through the winter he is stabled overnight. While he is stabled and in the colder months he does get a bit stiff and his joints “clicky”. So I supplement him with No Bute Premium, one of our devil’s claw supplements with added glucosamine, MSM and vitamin C. Devil’s claw has been used as a supplement for years for its benefits to the joints.

Kora, our Australian Kelpie, was diagnosed with hip dysplasia two years ago. We retired her from agility straight away. While we still keep her fit and lean we felt the added strain of jumping wouldn’t help her long term. She is on Cani-flex, our dog version of No Bute Premium. Although I don’t add to her diet through the winter months I do make sure she is warm. She has coats and jumpers for cold-day walks as well as a drying coat for after her hydrotherapy sessions.

Older horses are not as efficient at producing Vitamin C, so this is a great supplement to give. It can help to boost the immune system and did you know vitamin C helps to reduce the build-up of free radicals in muscles? This makes it a great supplement on a heavy exercise day for all animals. I supplement myself Vitamin C in winter, so why not our animals too?

Our chickens have a fenced-off area in our garden and, doing what chickens do,

they’ve scratched up the whole section, so the grass is long gone. However, when we get home from work and at the weekend, we let them have free run of the garden. This they love, as they can peck and scratch in the flower beds, where they peck at the dirt and therefore grit. This helps with the quality of their egg shells. Through the winter this treat is limited to the weekends only as the shorter daylight hours mean they are in bed roosting when we get home in the evenings. So I boost their diet with Calci Shell-D. This is a liquid calcium supplement that is not only good for the eggs, but also feather structure, and as ours always choose winter to moult out their feathers it can only help with the feather structure on the new plumage.

Our geriatric cat, Lion, gets

www.animal-health.co.uk

supplemented with Hyper Coat Prime supplement, a skin and coat supplement containing 87 per cent Omega oils. It contains Omega 3, 6 and 9, and not only does his coat shine it is also super soft.

Omega oils can aid joint health too. We do not supplement him anything else as he is a really fussy eater, but he loves this oil.

A good supplement for older dogs and horses through the winter or at times of illness or post-op recovery is echinacea.

It can help to boost their natural immune system and is known for its ability to help combat colds and other viral infections of the respiratory system.  To find out more about our full range of supplements and more, visit www.animal-health.co.uk

01787 476400 Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 75

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STAY AHEAD OF THE GAME. WINTER IS BETTER WITH US 76 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

PROMOTION

Are your stables fresh for the winter months ahead?

I

deally, we keep our horses turned out as much as possible but as daylight hours decrease, grazing depletes, the ground becomes poached and gateways muddy, horses will inevitably spend more time in their stables.

It’s important to make sure the stable environment is as natural as possible to mimic being outside in the fresh air grazing. This means making sure they have adequate access to long-stemmed forage while ensuring the air is clean, minimising exposure to respirable dust from forage and bedding.

Ventilation is key and should result in five changes of air per hour. All stable designs are different but make sure all your air vents are clear, windows are open and have a look to see if there are any adaptations you can make to the design to improve air flow.

Stable dust is comprised of many particles; however, it is the respirable dust (particles less than 5µm in size) that cause the most significant problems. Firstly, when they are this small they hang around in the air for a long time; spores of 5µm fall 0.1cm per second. Secondly, they have a 50% chance of being inhaled deep inside the lungs, causing airway inflammation and ultimately respiratory disorders including inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and severe equine asthma (SEA) also known as COPD, broken wind or heaves.

The main sources of respirable dust are from conserved forage (hay and haylage) as well as bedding of various levels depending on type. Installing Comfortstall, a sealed padded rubber flooring system, allows you to use considerably less bedding (50-75%), which inevitably puts less dust into the stable.

Dry hay can generate 932,090 airborne respirable dust (ARD) particles per litre of air, while the average horse has a mean

 Haygain hay steamers reduce harmful respirable dust in stables by up to 99% tidal volume of five litres – so your horse could be inhaling 4.6 million ARD particles in every breath while their nose is in the hay! Although haylage is lower in ARD than dry hay, it can still contain 4,500 to 8,800 ARD per litre of air.

While the traditional treatment of soaking hay and haylage to reduce the dust does make the dust less airborne, it is counterproductive on several levels. Soaking leaches nutrients, increases bacteria,

produces a polluting post-soak liquor, uses vast amounts of water and is messy and laborious.

To minimize exposure to the dust from forage effectively, both and hay and haylage can be steamed at high temperatures. Haygain hay steamers are scientifically proven to reduce respirable dust by up to 99%, and kill bacteria, mould and fungal spores using a unique and patented method.

Find out more at haygain.co.uk or call us on 0333 2005233 Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 77

winter

Wonderful

Beautiful frosty mornings, cosy evenings and new beginnings – Kathy Carter on why we should give winter a warm welcome

W

as there ever a more beautiful song lyric about this time of year, than “Seasons change with the scenery, weaving time in a tapestry”, from Paul Simon’s A Hazy Shade of Winter?

If ever there’s a reason to embrace the colder months, it’s the certainty of the seasons, the rhythm of nature, the passing of time, and the natural flow of the calendar. One thing always leads to another…

What are the seasons?

Seasonality is perhaps not something we actively think about – but what exactly causes the cycle of the seasons? They’re actually caused by Earth's tilt toward

the sun, as our planet rotates around an invisible axis – the northern or southern axis is closer to the sun at different times of the year. According to America’s National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, during these times, the hemisphere that is tipped toward the star experiences summer, while the hemisphere tilted away from the sun experiences winter.

The art of cosiness So, while cossetted in our gloves and hats, we’re trying to appreciate the certainty of the seasons, and respect the rhythm of nature; but is winter really cause for celebration?

78 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

There may be less to like about winter in some ways; the colder weather causes difficulties for more vulnerable individuals, and can make life looking after outdoor animals more challenging. However, winter should be celebrated! For many of us, it’s a time for enjoying home comforts. That’s not to say we should necessarily stay at home for more of the time, but that, once we’ve completed our frosty dog walks or brisk horse rides, home should be where the heart is! The Danes have this concept covered, of course, with their lovely term”‘hygge”, also known as “the art of cosiness”.

WONDERFUL WINTER

Hoping for hygge Hygge, pronounced “hoo-gah”, is a term used to celebrate the “illumination of the Danish soul”. The word apparently didn't originate in the Danish language, but in old Norwegian where it referred to “wellbeing”. It first appeared in Danish writing around the end of the 18th century, and the Danes have embraced it ever since.

According to the Danish tourist organisation Visit Denmark, hygge is about creating a warm atmosphere, and enjoying the good things in life, with good people. But what does this actually mean in practice, in wintertime? The warm glow of candlelight is hygge. Cosying up with a loved one for a box-set – that’s hygge. 

 After a chilly dog walk or horse ride, you will have earned a snooze under a cosy blanket as we all master the art of “hygge” this season; right, enjoying a meal with family and friends is very hygge – and fun!

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 79

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WONDERFUL WINTER

 A new year is just around the corner and perhaps your resolution will be to make a difference – by volunteering, for example. Roman god Janus, right, looks to the past and the future...

Snuggling with your dog in a tartan blanket as the night draws in; that’s definitely hygge. And there's nothing more hygge than sitting around with friends and family, discussing the big and small things in life.

Perhaps hygge explains why the Danes are reportedly some of the happiest people in the world!

Of course, this enjoyment of life isn’t reserved for winter – but somehow when it’s colder outside, these lovely moments of “warm atmosphere” work especially well, and are most welcome.

What else is good about winter?

Of course, there’s also cause for celebration with the onset of Christmas, which we have discussed elsewhere in the magazine – the ideal time to wind down, spend time with friends and family, and enjoy that well-earned experience of hygge!

But shortly after Christmas comes new year, which is actually a wonderful time in itself.

We may laugh off resolutions as a waste of time, but there’s a lot to be said for reflecting on a year of developments, and making fresh starts.

Another year around the sun We famously have the Roman military general Julius Caesar to thank for the calendar (the Julian calendar, with its 365-day year and leap years of 366 days), and thus also for New Year’s Day itself.

This part of the year (early January) falls when the Earth is closest to the sun, which is perhaps why it was chosen. However, it was reportedly the 16th-century Pope

Gregory XIII who implemented today’s Gregorian calendar (in 1582), which became a slightly more accurate timemeasuring device.

In any case, having a set date for the start of the new year definitely gives us a sense of “newness”, and the chance for reflection. Yes, the tired old pledges to lose weight, eat more healthily, save more money and give up detrimental habits are all popular resolutions. And all perfectly

good ones, if we can stick to them!

However, perhaps it would be beneficial to think of ideas that are more about giving back; for example, volunteering for a dog walking charity; helping out at a local food bank; or working with local community groups to fundraise, or create social events?

Incidentally, we’re following in wellestablished footsteps by aiming for selfimprovement – the ancient Babylonians, who lived more than 4,000 years ago, celebrated a spring harvest festival called

Akitu, which lasted 12 days, and served as their time to make annual affirmations.

Over time, many cultures and military groups have used the first part of the year to select leaders; the elite Romans famously enjoyed social activities and giftgiving after their formal public ceremonies.

Janus, the Roman God of the doorway Tying up nicely the concept of hygge and the new year celebrations is a muchrevered historical figure called Janus, the Roman God of the doorway, or the home. Roman religion is said to be based on the cult of the household; a belief that spirits inhabited everything around them, people included. Janus, as the spirit of the doorway, was one of the earliest Roman deities, and is said to have been a real person who was deified after his death.

He was regarded as the god of beginnings and endings; Janus protected the start of activities and events, and was depicted as being two-faced, representing both the past and the future. It is widely thought that the month of January is named after Janus. And although some scholars believe that the month is in fact named after Juno, queen of the gods, the British Museum takes the former view – so we will take their valued word for it!

Whatever you’re doing this season, however you’re celebrating Christmas, and whatever your resolutions are, we’d like to wish all our readers a happy and hyggefilled winter! Let’s keep one eye on the past, but also look onwards and upwards to new beginnings and happy adventures; spring is, after all, just around the corner! 

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 81

WONDERFUL WINTER

Life hacks for winter chores Y

es, for those of us with horses, winter means reduced daylight hours, chilly fingers and a multitude of rugging and clipping cycles. But with some forward-planning we CAN get through this cold and dark season!

1

If you’re finding it hard to fit in training sessions due to the reduced daylight, consider lungeing, to maintain equine fitness.

2

If your arena is too wet or frozen, treat hacking out as a training session, and school as you ride; for example, riding lateral movements along a bridle path. (Sometimes, you can’t beat an early morning ride, with the sunlight highlighting the spiders’ webs and dew on the grass and branches – beautiful!)

3

If you’re consigned to the yard, take your horse back to basics and do some in-hand training with him. In the stable, ask the horse to move from left to right when you’re grooming him, or when you are sweeping up around him. On the yard, practice “carrot stretches”, so the horse maintains mobility.

4

If you can use your arena, but only in walk, there’s still lots that can be done – lateral work and horse agility (walking over tarpaulin and past flapping tinsel, for example). Use the time to mix up your training and have some fun!

5 Make your horse rugs multi-task!

82 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Think about creating “yard hacks” that make your time at the stables efficient. Can you reduce the number of journeys you make, for example, by using a wheelbarrow to transport lots of things, rather than walking back and forth?

 From top: Use tinsel in your training; embrace those early morning rides; lungeing can help maintain fitness; get your horse to stretch with a carrot

For the stylish Equestrian

6

Choose multi-tasking horse rugs – e.g. turnout rugs that double up as stable rugs, and rugs with removable neck sections. Use masks and Lycra hoods to help keep the horse clean and save time when you want to ride! 

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 83

Payload problems?

Uprating Horseboxes

A

s you may be aware, the DVSA is paying close attention to the horsebox industry and in particular, to lightweight horseboxes which they suspect may be operating overweight.

We have seen cases of horseboxes being stopped, checked and impounded on the roadside, owing to running overweight.

The horses in transit have to be loaded into a different box and taken away, and the resultant fines are ever increasing in size. Yet, there is an alternative.

SvTech is keen to promote its uprating service for lightweight horseboxes (3500kg), whereby the horsebox can gain an extra 200-400kg in payload. This provides vital payload capability when

carrying an extra horse and/or tack and offers peace of mind for the owner.

be fitted with manufacturer’s ABS, if going above 3500kg.

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

If you’re unsure, or don’t believe that you need to uprate your lightweight horsebox, try taking it to a public weighbridge when you’re fully loaded with your horse, tack, passenger, hay, etc. and weigh off each axle individually and the vehicle as a whole. There could be a distinct chance that you’ve overloaded one of the axles, even if you’re within the GVW. If there is a problem, we can help.

Call us to discuss your options.

Since 1993, SvTech has continued to provide the most comprehensive re-rating service in the UK, tailoring our products for the Horsebox, 4x4, Pickup, Minibus, Van and Motorhome markets. We also offer a weighing service at regional shows and events so please contact us if you would like us to attend one of your events.

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84 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

We’ve got sweet itch covered The Boett Blanket was designed in Sweden 25 years ago. Having been continuously developed it is still at the forefront of the market.

Vets highly recommend it as one of the most effective treatments for sweet-itch and some insurance companies will pay for them as an alternative therapy. They are also recommended for the protection of horses with sarcoids and more widely used as a very effective fly rug.

The blanket is used worldwide and is made from a unique light but strong breathable fabric which midges cannot bite through. The fabric has a “parasol effect” that keeps the horse cool in full sun so overheating does not occur. It has water and grease repellent properties. If you have any questions on the management and treatment of sweet itch, call our National Sweet Itch helpline on 01352 840333.

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Bio-Plus capsules were trialled for eight years and are proven to be safe with no side effects. Owners who have used BioPluscapsules to support the immune system are reporting that the severity of conditions i.e sweet itch, COPD and sarcoids improve with the ongoing use of the capsules.

The development and science behind this product and the work of Professor Stanford (BioEos) can be seen on this link: www.youtube.com/watch?v=jh6lj4D4-f0  Visit www.itchyhorse.co.uk for more information or to buy.  Call the National Sweet Itch Centre on 01352 840333 or 01352 771718.

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F

ollowing a long, hot summer, this harvest has seen forage crops of excellent quality. But the extremely dry weather meant that second cuts produced a lower volume due to the lack of grass growth. This also meant horses, as well as other livestock, had to be fed extra forage to supplement their grazing, which normally wouldn’t be required until later in the year. If we happen to have a long, cold or wet winter which sees our animals being kept inside for longer, the demand for forage will increase, as some supplies put by for winter have already been used up. Therefore, it makes sense to look at your horse or pony’s feed now to see how you can add some extra fibre to their diet alongside their forage.

In the wild, horses will graze for up to 18 hours a day, covering many miles in doing so. They are natural “trickle” feeders and

 The Mollichaff Complete range offers three fibre-based complete feeds have evolved to utilise a high-fibre diet, using bacterial fermentation in a highly developed large intestine. Low levels of fibre or poor quality fibre in the diet puts horses at serious risk of problems, so ideally there should be a continuous flow of fibre coming through to help protect the

stomach from digestive disturbances.

The Mollichaff Complete range offers three fibre-based complete feeds. When fed at the recommended amounts, these complete feeds can be used as the sole bucket feed as they each contain a broad spectrum vitamin and mineral supplement and only require good quality forage to be fed alongside. Being fibre-based rather than cereal-based, they are a much more natural way of feeding. A fibre-based feed will weigh a lot less than cereal and so the recommended feeding amounts may seem like a lot, but it’s important to ensure your horse or pony is getting the correct amount in order for him to get all the vitamins and minerals he requires.  For more information, please call the HorseHage & Mollichaff Helpline on 01803 527274 or visit www.horsehage. co.uk

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 87

KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

Winter wind-down with the Kings

Emily King has been riding high at events all autumn while Mary, recovering from injury, has been cheering from the sidelines - as well as preparing her future stars back at the yard…

I

t took until the end of September until the doctors were happy to sign my medical form to say that my collar bone was healed enough for me to compete again. I couldn’t believe it took so long. I did ask the doctors why, and how it was that jockeys were back race riding within a few weeks. The doctor’s answer was: “Mary, they are more than 30 years younger than you!”

It was great to ride Bobby at Dauntsey Horse Trials the following day, and he was a good boy doing a 28 0 0. A couple of weeks later I rode Bobby again in the Ol Bicton Horse Trials (sadly the last event of the season), and again he put in a solid performance, doing a 27 0 0. At both events I couldn’t be competitive as my neck was stiff because some new injections - hopefully by next year it will have improved. I have a syndicate involved with Bobby called The Kings Group. Five of the six people involved came to Bicton, and David and I hosted a fun end-ofseason dinner party.

It had been so unusual (and very frustrating) not competing through August and September. The last time this happened was when I was pregnant with Freddie, who is now 19! During my time off I had fun supporting Emily at various events, including the special events at Gatcombe, Blair and Ballindenisk. I also travelled to the wonderful Le Lion D’Angers, where she had a last-minute call-up to compete with Quinn (see Emily’s piece for the full story!). She has generally had a super first season based at Sam’s yard, with all the horses winning and progressing well.

I had a great time spending three days judging the young event horse classes with Sam Griffiths and Angela Tucker, and hosting a masterclass at the Royal Dublin Horse Show in August. What a wonderful spectacle it was with a fabulous atmosphere. I was also asked to help judge the potential event horse foals at The Elite Foal National Final at Morton Morrell in September. How sweet they were. I tried to favour the more thoroughbred foals (as I did when judging in Ireland), as they are more likely to make sound four-star-level event horses in the future.

I’ve been doing a few talks and also yard visits for sponsors, including Marksway Horsehage, which has been a very loyal supporter for many years.

BREAKING IN ‘MY WAY’ At the moment I am breaking in Cyrus, my homebred three-year-old (Kings Temptress x Future Gravitas), who is taking it all in his stride. He is turned out with Bobby, who is being his nanny. I break in all my homebred horses myself, and have a method that works for me safely! This is “my way”: In the field (where he is relaxed B

because he is with his friends) teach him to lead and to lunge at walk and trot. I take pockets full of nuts and give him plenty of praise while doing this.

C Teach him to lead in from the field with Bobby, and stand in the cross-ties next to Bobby.

D Get him used to being groomed, boots on, then leading up and down the yard on his own.

88 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

E Ride Bobby leading Cyrus around the lanes. This sounds daring, but we are lucky to have a good network of lanes where we live, and because Cyrus is unsure he sticks to Bobby, and there is no chance he would want to escape!

I find this much safer than long reining.

F Gradually introduce a saddle and bridle. Initially I use just a polypad on and off both sides, then a saddle, being careful with the girth, keeping it loose initially, then gradually tightening it up.

I always use a breastgirth so there is no chance of the saddle slipping back with the looser girth.

G Lead him then lunge him with his tack on, at first in the yard, then in the arena. I turn Bobby out in a paddock next to the arena to keep Cyrus relaxed initially, then when he is more confident I take him into the arena without Bobby close by.

H Start to stand on a stool next to Cyrus in the cross-ties and lean, then lie over the saddle on his back. Again, plenty of nuts and encouragement helps! Jump up and down gently on the stool, with plenty of patting and stroking in front of and behind the saddle. Repeat all of this from both sides.

KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

I When very relaxed doing this, I start to put my foot in the stirrup and lean over him, then I get on properly, lean forward and offer nuts. I get on and off many times and I don’t progress until he is very relaxed with all of this.

J For the next stage I do need help from someone on the ground! Having led him up and down the yard, I then get on him and get someone to lead me up and down the yard, stopping, starting and turning. I use my voice, which he has learnt to understand.

K Because I don’t long-rein they are still very ignorant in their mouth at this stage so I have two set of reins on - one on their bit (which I don’t use to begin with) and one set on each side of the headcollar, which, having been taught to lead, they respond to. I also use a neckstrap, which again they seem to understand easily. So while being led up and down the yard I use my voice to “whoa” and pull on the neckstrap and headcollar reins as part of the signal to stop.

L I then progress to riding him up and down the yard on his own.

M Once Cyrus was relaxed about this he was ready to go hacking with someone on Bobby.

Luckily Dan, editor of this wonderful magazine, wanted to come down and see me so I asked him to bring his breeches! Dan rode Bobby and I rode Cyrus around a short “village” loop. What a good nanny he was – thanks, Dan! I find all this takes about six weeks but I am in no hurry, and each horse is different. This is all I would do with a three-year-old.

Tilly (homebred by Chilli Morning out of Kings Temptress) is now four years old and I have been progressing with her education this autumn. I briefly went through what she had learnt last year, which took about a week - they have an amazing memory and don’t forget what they have been taught. She had her first set of shoes on, so I could hack her regularly around the lanes. I started taking her through the woods and began popping over little logs and climbing up and down banks. I’ve started to work her in my arena, and have begun jumping her. I start off trotting over poles then little crossbars. Once she was confident and keeping straight on the approach and landing I started to introduce fillers, barrels and the water tray. So far so good - she is very sweet-natured, and loves to learn.

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www.mirrorsfortraining.co.uk Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 89

KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

So what a year it has been, the second half of the season has held some successes, disappointments and surprises!

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A trip to Homme House in South Wales brought the first successes with a win for Quinn (Quinlan Z) in the Open Novice section, Rosie (Kings Rose) second in her novice section and Hobby (Your Horse & Country Magazine syndicate’s Langford Take the Biscuit) narrowly coming second in his novice section. All three horses posted fantastic double clears and finished on their dressage scores!

Exciting news as darling Brook (Brookleigh) ran at his first event since the injury he sustained at Badminton 2016! We went to one of my now local events at Somerford Park in the Open Novice.

He produced a lovely double clear but we took it nice and steady cross country, incurring quite a few time penalties, but it didn’t matter. He was extremely happy to be out and about again! He just loves his job and is an absolute pleasure to ride.

My next big adventure was up to Blair Castle for the CIC*** ERM with Jane Del Missier’s Dre (Dargun) and CCI* with Quinn. I love Blair Castle, it’s a beautiful event with a well-designed course which is inviting but testing. Dre did a superb test, one of his best to date, putting us into third, only 0.7 of a mark behind the leader Oliver Townend with Cillnabradden Evo. Colin Hexley built a strong show jumping course with only seven clears out of the 23 starters, Dre produced a stunning round to be one of the rare clears, putting us into the lead. I couldn’t believe it! I was really looking forward to the cross country… I completely trust Dre and know he’s a top-class cross country horse. With the win potentially only six minutes 54 seconds away, and £16,000 at stake, the pressure was on! We exited the start box meaning business, but unfortunately after landing from the third fence and galloping up the steep hill towards number four, Dre was just not taking me and

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KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

wanting to gallop. As we approached the fourth it was apparent that Dre definitely wasn’t himself, so I decided to pull up and retire. A win is not more important than the welfare of my horse. After a few tests it turned out he was suffering a heart fibrillation due to a small underlying virus he had contracted. He is currently on a course of anti-inflammatories and an early end of season holiday but will be ready to come out next season fighting fit!

The unfortunate discovery of this, however, meant that my aim to do our first CCI**** together at Pau could not be fulfilled so my aim now is to go to Badminton next year. I’m really looking forward to it! Quinn made up for the disappointment with Dre as he finished ninth with a double clear in the CCI* and gained a qualification for the 7 Year Old World Championships at Le Lion d’Angers.

A TEST FOR HOBBY Hobby’s next outing was at West Wiltshire in the novice. It was important that he had a nice run to give him confidence before his first CCI* at Ballindenisk. It couldn’t have gone more to plan! He felt amazing, jumping brilliantly

he was clear in the show jumping and flew round the cross country, achieving another double clear and a well-deserved second place!

take the win – well done, Brookers! This was the last event of the season for these three and they came home to enjoy a much-deserved holiday in the field.

It was then off to Ballindenisk with Brook, Rosie and Hobby. The weather on arrival was typically Irish - wet and a bit windy!

However, it was the following night where it got quite dramatic. The roofs of the stables were literally trying to blow away! The hardworking onsite team acted quickly and we had to evacuate the stables and load the horses back onto the lorries until the wind died down and further measures were taken to ensure their safety. As we led the horses back to the lorry, both Becca and I were nearly being blown off our feet and the rain was coming down sideways – I was not looking forward to doing dressage in that weather! As it was, the wind died down, the rain stopped (slightly!!) and all three horses did lovely tests, putting us in a strong position going into the cross country. Three double clears inside the time pushed Rosie to the top of the leader board to win the CCI1*! Hobby came sixth in his first ever CCI* - I am so proud of him!

And finally, the dreamboy himself in his first international since Badminton 2016 flew around the CIC** with a grin on his face to

You may remember from my last article that one of my youngsters, Marco, now known as Vamónos (previously Amore JG Z) had qualified for the 5 Year Old National Championships. Well, now it was time for the championship itself, held at Osberton International. He was third after the dressage with very few marks between the top six, but went on to produce a beautiful double clear and was crowned reserve National 5 Year Old Champion for 2018.

He is definitely a horse for the future! Quinn also travelled to Osberton for the Young Horse CIC** Championship. He had been given an early dressage time and, being quite energetic (and grey!), it can take some time to get him relaxed as well as looking sparkly and clean. Sophie and I got out of bed at 5am to ensure he was fed, exercised and looking beautiful all in good time. It wasn’t until I trotted down to the warm-up ring and the steward couldn’t find me on her list that we realised I had got the wrong day and that his dressage was, in fact, the following day! Poor Sophie had to do it all again the next morning!

Emily riding The Your Horse & Country Magazine 'Hobnob' Syndicate's Hobby Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 91

KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

AN UNEXPECTED CALL It was at this point I thought my season was over. Quinn, although qualified, had not made it onto the list of travelling horses for the 7 Year Old World Championships at Le Lion d’Angers. I was very disappointed but Le Lion only have a small number of spaces allocated for each country, so I resigned myself to starting my winter winddown slightly earlier than expected. During the winter, as the horses are mostly out in the fields on holiday, the girls often take the winter off to holiday and enjoy themselves as they work so hard during the summer.

So once Le Lion was off the cards, Sophie decided to take her holiday slightly earlier.

She has been amazing this year, turning horses out at events to the highest standard and looking after them so well at home. Becca Nicholson, who has been a wonderful head groom for Mum and I over the past two years, decided it was time to leave the team and pursue a freelance career nearer her hometown of Durham.

I can’t thank her enough for her incredible help over the years and can only wish her the very best for the future. This left me to do the wintering-off of the horses while seeing other riders’ social media posts of them arriving at Le Lion and settling in at the event. I was just settling down to watch a Sunday night episode of Graham Norton when I received a call saying that a very last-minute space had opened up and that Quinn and I could now compete!

At this time Quinn was in the field, becoming very furry and happily covered in mud! So Monday morning required a quick clip and lots of last-minute packing while sorting out paperwork for his transport over to France. Luckily Quinn loves to be clipped (Clippersharp stock fantastic heavy-duty clippers which are much quieter than others!) so stood like a darling while being prepared for his trip. As both Becca and Sophie had left, Sam’s competition groom Sienna Elles kindly jumped in to help me over the Le Lion week. We managed to get

92 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

onto the last boat from Portsmouth that would get us to Le Lion in time to allow Quinn a leg-stretch and prepare him for the trot up. The sun shone for the whole event and I felt extremely lucky to have had the opportunity to compete at such a prestigious event. Quinn did his best throughout the competition, putting his heart and soul into it. He performed a beautiful, fault-free test, which I felt was slightly harshly marked - 32.1 to put us into 29th. He stormed around the tough cross county track, posting a very impressive round to finish home clear and inside the time, which moved us up to 16th. An unlucky pole in the show jumping denied us of a top 10 placing, but we still managed to move up a few places to finish 14th - the 14th best 7yo in the world, out of 69 starters ! Many thanks to Sienna for stepping in to help and turning Quinn out so beautifully.

KEEPING UP WITH THE KINGS

TIME TO UNWIND This time, the season really was over. Dre, Brook, Rosie, Marco, Hobby and Quinn are all out on their holidays, thoroughly enjoying themselves, wrapped up in their Bucas turnout rugs and custom Baileys feed programmes to keep them warm and healthy over the winter. They will come back in January next year to start their preparation work for the 2019 season. I am now busy working with my younger horses doing some winter training and some show jumping competitions to get them ready for their first year of BE. I had a busy month in November, including a yard visit and clinic, Your Horse Live, running a lecture demo with Sam at our local college – Coleg Cambria and a couple of horse sales in Ireland and Germany to hopefully source the next superstars! I will be doing another yard visit around February time, so please follow me on Instagram and Facebook to keep up to date with Hobby’s progress and any clinics or yard visits you may be interested in.

I want to thank all my sponsors for their support throughout the 2018 season, especially Your Horse and Country Magazine and to my owners, without whom this wouldn’t be possible.

r ou g in ow ll fo r fo ou y k n a Th story for this year and we wish you all a merry Christmas and a happy new year xx

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 93

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 95

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AADV NG G FF EEAT ATUURREE DV EE RT RT II SS II N

Over the the threshold Over RecordInheritanceTax InheritanceTax bills bills are are a reminder of the Record the need need for forgood goodestate estateplanning. planning.

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here are are few few more more confusing confusing here – or unpopular – taxes than – or unpopular – taxes than InheritanceTax Tax(IHT).

(IHT).For Forolder older Inheritance generations, the prospect of paying up generations, the prospect of paying up to 40% tax on what they leave behind is to 40% tax on what they leave behind is difficult to contemplate. For some children difficult to contemplate. For some children and grandchildren, grappling with IHT is and grandchildren, grappling with IHT is something they are ill-equipped to do. something they are ill-equipped to do.

Yet more and more families are having Yetto more and IHT. moreThefamilies are having deal with latest figures from toHMRC deal with latest figures from showIHT. that The the government collected HMRC show that theingovernment collected £5.1 billion in IHT the 12 months to May £5.1 billion IHToninthe the same 12 months 2017 – upin9% periodtoinMay the 1 on the same period in the 2017 – up 9% previous year . IHT is set to be even more setthe to government be even morein previous year1. IHT isfor of a money-spinner offuture; a money-spinner forBudget the government in the Office for Responsibility future; thethat Office for Budget Responsibility predicts receipts will increase to £6.2 predicts receipts will increase to £6.2 billion that by 2020/21. billion by 2020/21.

The rise in death duties reflects the surge The rise in death dutiesprices, reflects in residential property as the wellsurge as the recovery in other assetasvalues, which in strong residential property prices, well as the has dragged more households into the IHT strong recovery in other asset values, which The OBR that housing hasnet. dragged morereports households into the assets IHT now account aroundthat halfhousing of the value net.

The OBR for reports assetsof estates notified probate, now account for for around half highlighting of the value the of impact that rising property prices have had estates notified for probate, highlighting the on IHT Meanwhile, thehave IHThad nilimpact thatreceipts. rising property prices has remained fixedthe at £325,000 onrate IHTband receipts.

Meanwhile, IHT nilper person (£650,000 for couples) since rate band has remained fixed at £325,000 2009, so it’s not surprising that the number per person (£650,000 for couples) since of families paying IHT hasthat risen.

2009, so it’s not surprising the number of families paying IHT has risen.

At the the heart heart of of this this problem At problem remains remains thesimple simple fact fact that that IHT the IHT is isaavoluntary voluntary tax; theTreasury relies on inertia and tax; theTreasury relies on inertia and people’s reluctance to confront the people’s reluctance to confront the issue. The result is the record level issue. The result is the record level of revenue generated, money which of revenue generated, money which could instead stay in the family to could instead stay in the family to support future generations. support future generations.

The boost to the Treasury’s coffers is a The boost ofto the the damaging Treasury’s effect coffersdeath is a reminder reminder of the damaging effect death duties can have on families’ plans to create duties canonhave on families’ to create and pass wealth, and alsoplans that there are and pass on wealth, and also that there are perfectly legitimate ways of mitigating perfectly legitimate ways of mitigating IHT through foresight and careful financial IHT through andofcareful financial planning.

Theforesight mitigation IHT does not planning.

The mitigationtaxofplanning; IHT doesonly not require high-powered require high-powered tax planning; only a willingness to discuss the issue, take aaction willingness to use discuss issue, take and make of thethe many options action andsuch make of the many available, as use establishing trusts options where available, suchand as establishing where appropriate, making usetrusts of annual exemptions like appropriate, andgifting. making use of annual exemptions like gifting.

The levels and bases of taxation, and reliefs fromlevels taxation, can change at anyand timereliefs and The and bases of taxation, are dependent from taxation, on canindividual change atcircumstances. any time and are dependent on individual circumstances.

If you are uncertain about how you stand IHT and would like you to know Ifregarding you are uncertain about how stand more about how to prevent much of regarding IHT and would like to know your money falling into the hands of more about how to prevent much of HMRC, or your through your money fallinglocal intoauthority the hands of HMRC, or your local authority through

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Bryant BryantAssociates Associatesareareinviting inviting Your Horse Your Horse&&Country Countryreaders readerstoto discover the simple yet highly discover the simple yet highly effective steps you can take to effective steps you can take to protect your wealth and stay in protect your wealth and stay in control - helping the right amount control thepeople right amount of it pass -tohelping the right at the of it pass toright the time. right people at the right time.

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The Partner represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management YourisHorse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 97 products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.The title ‘Partner’ the marketing term used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

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Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 99

VET’S ADVICE with Dr Josefin Jansson DrMedVet MRCVS

Poor behaviour or poor

health?

Could your horse’s ‘little quirks’ actually be a sign they’re suffering?

I

t has been, in the past, easy to brush off some unpleasant behaviour by our horses as “quirkiness” – and who has not heard the term “moody mare”? Some of us even have the hoodie! But with what we know today about diseases and conditions that horses can suffer from, it is unfair and unprofessional to look no further in finding out if the source of poor performance or undesired behaviour could actually stem from pain and discomfort!

The following are necessary questions we should ask ourselves when faced with a difficult horse:

1

Does the horse have gastric ulcers?

There are no characteristic symptoms of equine gastric ulcer syndrome but frequently reported complaints are: being a picky eater, has a poor body condition, “girthy”, grumpy

to groom, teeth grinding and expressing more aggression or nervousness. Overall poor performance at training and events can also be a sign as duration and intensity of exercise has been linked to gastric ulcers. There is no blood test for gastric ulcers, the only way to find out for sure is to book your horse in for a gastroscopy procedure with your veterinary practice.

By accessing the stomach with a long camera tube your veterinarian will be able to diagnose gastric ulcers. He or she can then prescribe appropriate treatment as well as advise necessary changes to your horse’s management and feeding routine as this also is linked to development of gastric ulcers.

2

Do the teeth need a rasp?

Did you know that horses’ upper jaw teeth are wider set than the lower jaw teeth? This means that the wearing

100 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

of the teeth as the horse chews will result in sharp hooks on the cheek side on the upper teeth and on the tongue on the lower teeth. These sharp hooks, if left untreated, will wear into the tongue and cheeks, eventually forming painful ulcers.

Add the pressure of the bridle to those ulcers and the pain can be excruciating.

The horse could exhibit discomfort by head shaking, not eating and consequently losing condition. A yearly dental exam and teeth rasp by your veterinarian or BAEDTqualified equine dentist will ensure that your horse is comfortable in the mouth and not suffering from dental disease such as fracture or abscessation. Presence of wolf teeth should be assessed and, if required, removed.

3

Can the horse see properly?

Conditions such as iris cysts and cataracts can cause your horse

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4

 From top: a dental exam; a farrier at work; a gastroscopy to check for ulcers; an iris cyst

Are the horse’s feet looked after as well as they can be, and is the horse sound?

There is a proverb among horse people: “No hoof, no horse.” The key to healthy hoof care is a good farrier who can tailor the trimming and shoeing to the individual horse. Sometimes you need to get your veterinarian involved as well, especially if your horse is suffering from conditions such as navicular disease or laminitis, when special shoes or X-rays could be necessary. 

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102 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

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VET’S ADVICE

t Left: back pain could be caused by a poorly fitting saddle; above: check whether your horse is overweight or underweight

A horse that is reluctant to go forward, does not like hard or soft ground, bunny jumps in canter, is “pottery” overall or keeps tripping could have an underlying orthopaedic condition which should be investigated by your veterinarian.

A footy horse over the age of 12 could suffer from Cushing’s (PPID). This disease is very easily diagnosed by a blood sample. Visit www.talkaboutcushings. co.uk for more information or revisit the previous issue of this magazine.

5

Is the horse’s body condition optimal?

Carrying too much or too little weight can make the horse lethargic and lack willing to work. By reducing the weight of an obese horse not only can it regain some lost energy but also reduce its risk of laminitis, joint disease, soft tissue injury, infertility and cardiovascular disease to name a few! Ask your veterinarian for his or her honest opinion if you suspect that your horse is overweight and they can give you a constructive plan for achieving weight loss in your horse.

An underweight horse or a horse that has recently lost condition should have a veterinary examination as there may be an underlying medical condition such as high worm burden, gastric ulcers or Cushing’s disease.

Review what you feed your horse!

This could vary with time of the year and

type of work that the horse is doing. All established horse feed companies have excellent information on what to feed your horse according to age, work and body type.

6

Is the back sore?

A bucking horse could be the result of a pain in the back which is exaggerated when carrying a rider or jumping fences. Impinging dorsal spinous processes in the back (so-called kissing spines) is a relatively common condition which can be diagnosed simply by X-rays and treated with surgery or medication

and a tailored rehab programme. The horse could also be bucking because the saddle does not fit. The shape of the horse’s back will change naturally with muscle development from work or with muscle wastage from disease or a longer rest period. The saddle will also lose its shape after some time and need re-fitting.

It is a good idea to have a saddle fitter visit regularly to prevent tack problems developing.

In summary, there are many things that can cause a horse to be grumpy, difficult to handle or ride. Horses love to work and have a purpose so more often than not there is an underlying pain-related reason that the horse is trying to tell us about by expressing this behaviour. The importance of having a good team of farrier, veterinarian, trainer and physio cannot be stressed enough. n

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EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 103

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Ultrasound Scanners, Shockwave and Endoscopy Diode Surgical Laser for treatment of sarcoids and melanomas Digital portable X-ray Dedicated Lameness Workup Area IRAP and PRP Pre Purchase Examination Gastroscopy Dentistry Surgical Facilities Specialist Consultants In-house Laboratory JMB Measurement Free local visits now available

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Call 01926 612937 visit www.springpaddocksequine.co.uk 104 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – EQUINE HEALTH

PROMOTION

Every horse has a stomach lining...

The facts behind EGUS

E

quine gastric ulcer syndrome (EGUS) is an erosion of the horse’s stomach lining resulting from increased exposure to acid secreted quite normally by the stomach as an aid to digestion.

For many years EGUS was a very significantly under-diagnosed condition in horses as the gastroscopes required for diagnosis were cumbersome, expensive and often only available in equine hospital surroundings. Since gastroscopy became more widely available it has been found that the prevalence of the condition is far higher than previously suspected.

Studies have found up to 90% of racing thoroughbreds and endurance horses have active ulcers while ulcers are present in the stomachs of more than 50% of sport and leisure horses.

Gastric ulcers present as two distinct types depending on which part of the stomach is affected; if the damage is in the lower glandular portion of the stomach it is known as equine glandular gastric disease (EGGD) while if the non-glandular area at the top of the stomach is ulcerated it is known as equine squamous gastric disease (ESGD). Both conditions have the same fundamental causes: a mixture of diet – particularly one lacking in fibre, management – raised stress levels or increased intervals between feeds,

strenuous exercise and exposure to certain drugs such as phenylbutazone.

Treatment is usually a combination of two drugs, omeprazole and sucralfate, coupled with appropriate management and feeding changes; this is normally effective in between two and eight weeks depending on the severity of the ulcers.

The difficult bit of all this is knowing whether or not your horse is affected. The symptoms are very variable, ill-defined and easily confused with other conditions.

Some horses with ulcers will have a decreased appetite – but many won’t; some will display aggressive behaviour – especially when being mounted – but so will horses with bad backs; some will not perform as well as before – difficult to assess; while others will lose weight, grind their teeth and suffer from colic. Most confusingly, many horses with ulcers will display no symptoms at all.

The only reliable method of diagnosing whether ulcers are causing problems in your horse is by a gastroscope examination followed by a course of treatment to see whether the symptoms resolve. At West Ridge Equine we believe that a gastroscope is usually best carried out at your own stable where the horse is unstressed and comfortable. The procedure requires sedation but is very

1

2

 1. Gastroscopy image of squamous ulcers 2. Gastroscopy image of the same horse after four weeks of omeprazole treatment. Top: Back to full health and out competing again straightforward and usually takes less than 30 minutes. Our machine gives a live video stream, which can be discussed at the time or recorded for further analysis.

If you are concerned that your horse may be affected, discuss the situation with your vet and get their advice on the usefulness of gastroscopy.

Hannah Dennis BVetMed (hons) MRCVS

Experienced Equine Veterinary Care, Direct to Your Stable Call: 01363 83030 | Email: grsidlowvet@gmail.com | Visit: www.westridgeequine.co.uk Find us on Facebook EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 105

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*Sample savings based on the cost of purchasing these goods and services separately (based on average prices charged across a sample of CVS equine practices) would result in an average annual savings in excess of £150 benefits, costs and savings vary depending on the weight of your horse. Benefits received under the Horse Health Programme include: annual flu and tetanus vaccination, 20% off selected lifetime care medicines, 10% off all veterinary treatment, dental check with routine floating including sedation if required, four faecal worm egg counts, annual autumn tapeworm saliva test plus autumn wormer where required plus annual health check. **CVS reserves the right to change lifetime medicines

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 107

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Improving health and wellness in the older horse With continuing research Rowen Barbary are always looking at ways to enhance and improve feed formulations, so have taken a closer look at Senior Support. First launched in 2004 it has always been a popular feed for veteran horse owners, but following market research the step was taken to review the formula introducing new ingredients along with some extra additives to help improve overall health and wellness in the older horse.

Senior Support still remains a high fibre formula but now contains a blend of Linseed and Soya Oil designed to provide the extra calories required by the older horses to help ensure excellent overall condition is maintained.

Special attention has been given to help support joint health, with an equal ratio of Glucosamine and MSM added to help restore joint function and mobility, alongside Turmeric and Cracked Black Pepper to aid bio-availability. Like all Rowen Barbary products it is fully balanced in essential nutrients and rich in antioxidants, Vitamin E, Vitamin C and Yeasacc 1026 to help promote overall health and wellness in the older horse.

To find out whether Senior Support would be suitable for your veteran please contact Rowen Barbary on 01948 880598 or visit www.rowenbarbary.co.uk EQUINE HEALTH – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 109

110 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Fast Fibre The Quick Soak Fibre Provider ®

The summer may have been glorious but high temperatures and a lack of rain has had serious implications for grazing and forage supplies. There is wide expectation that there will be a hay shortage in many areas over the winter. With owners already having to feed hay to their horses out in the fields due to a lack of available grass, Joanna Palmer, Equine Nutritionist at Allen & Page Quality Horse Feeds advises that careful conservation of forage supplies is of the utmost importance.

With fibre (in the form of forage) being the most important component of every horse’s diet, how do we ensure their fibre needs are met when we’re having to watch our precious stores of hay diminishing rapidly before winter has even started? Fast Fibre is the answer! Our quick soaking, high fibre feed that is similar to hay in terms of the nutrition it provides, and can be used as a partial forage replacer. Being very low in starch and sugar Fast Fibre is ideal for horses and ponies prone to, or at risk of laminitis.

Whilst long fibre such as hay is the most natural winter forage for horses and ponies, do not wait until your hay supplies are running low before taking action. Early preparation and careful planning is key to maintaining a workable, cost effective solution to any potential forage shortage.

Just by replacing a small proportion of your horse’s daily hay allowance now you will help to avoid any sudden changes in his feed in the future. For instance if your horse normally has an 8kg net of hay overnight, try reducing this amount to 7kg and topping up his fibre needs with 1kg (dry weight) of Fast Fibre. This won’t be a huge change to his diet and will continue to ensure he receives adequate fibre whilst allowing you to keep some hay back to feed later in the winter.

Why is fibre so important?

Horses have digestive systems that are designed to be trickle fed an almost constant supply of fibre. Not only is this fibre vital for good digestive health, but its digestion also creates body heat as it is fermented in the gut which helps to keep the horse warm during the colder weather. A lack of fibre in the horse’s diet will result in weight loss regardless of how much high calorie 'bucket' feed he is given. Horses that do not eat enough fibre are more likely to develop digestive problems such as colic, along with behavioural issues, including aggression, grumpiness and crib biting due to the horse’s inability to fulfil natural feeding and chewing behaviours. Not only can Fast Fibre be used to help ease a potential hay shortage, it is also a perfect choice of feed for older horses and ponies

For more information on our feeds and feeding forage this winter call our friendly, award-winning nutrition helpline on 01362 822902, email us at helpline@allenandpage.co.uk, visit our website www.allenandpage.com or find us on Facebook @allenandpagefeed

Joanna Palmer, Equine Nutritionist at Allen & Page Quality Horse Feeds

who have difficulty chewing hay, due to natural, age-related decline in their dental condition.

As part of our ever-popular Barley & Molasses Free Range, Fast Fibre is free from barley and molasses and also doesn’t contain any whole cereal grains or alfalfa, making it ideal for horses and ponies who suffer from intolerances to these common feed ingredients. Fast Fibre contains no artificial flavours or aromas, instead we only use natural herbs including, mint and fenugreek for their well-known properties and to ensure it is appealing to even the fussiest of horses.

Being a soaked feed Fast Fibre is also ideal for those with worn or missing teeth.

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 111

Calming excitable horses:

The Calcium - Magnesium ratio

Lordington Park Agronomy’s Jonathan Holmes puts a client’s field to the test

I

was reminded during a recent visit to a new customer that all too few people appreciate just how important it is to have a nutritionally balanced soil for the benefit of their horses.

The lady in question had become increasingly frustrated by one of her favourite horses being a ‘proper pain’ all summer. In some cases, she couldn’t even get him to stand still to put the saddle on, never mind get him calm and collected once she was actually riding him.

What was interesting to find out was that the native pony her daughter rode was its usual content self, despite being kept in the same environment.

Usually the answer to this distressing and frustrating situation lies in the soil. By utilising Albrecht soil analysis, the complementary and antagonistic relationship within the soil nutrients can be assessed, quantified and remedial action implemented.

Negligible levels of Magnesium, and Calcium, in the soil often generate issues with horse behaviour. This will often be associated with a significantly high Potassium level which further compounds the issue. Once the soil samples were analysed, this proved to be the case.

High Potash, and negligible available Magnesium.

In the spring, Potash is drawn from the soil into the grass to be used for transporting nutrients up the plant to the grain sites to ensure seed fertility. When eaten by

the horses this grass then generates hyperactivity, or in extreme cases Grass Tetany: a diet that is too high in potassium means that the extra cellular fluid is permanently high in potassium.

This upsets the delicate Sodium – Potassium ratio and consequently the nerves and muscles cannot relax creating restless hyperactive animals that lack body condition and display a lack of ability to regulate their food intake and digestion.

Not a good situation!

The extremes of winter rain and spring and summer drought had further stressed the remaining grass. Everything on this planet wants to promote its genes, and grass is no different. In a stressful situation the grass utilises the minimal availability of Phosphate to stimulate root growth, and therefore generate energy for reproduction.

112 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

When the day length has extended enough to generate enough solar radiation for flowering, ripening and pollination the plant extends its stem and produces a seed head. To feed the seeds for the future and ensure that the stem has enough nutrition for expansion, potassium is utilised to drive the transpiration stream of nutrients up the plant. Before the seed head appears, the Potassium level significantly increases within the plant.

The delayed development of the plants this year has exacerbated this situation and sensitive horses will struggle.

As an interim measure, Magnesium and Calcium supplements combined with Epsom Salts in the drinking water helped calm this horse. (Always check with your Veterinary Surgeon before utilising this approach)

One interesting and beneficial consequence of the magnesium in the water to calm the hyperactive horse was that its metabolism had obviously changed, because the flies that had permanently mobbed it before now only occasionally pestered it.

no idea what that plan was.

Just for a moment in our hectic lives consider what our horses require to thrive.

Which is not necessarily what we allow them to feed on!

Soil analysis: investigating the cause of horse behaviour

Horses are essentially designed to run and graze for 20 hours a day and then rest for the remaining four. They will roam widely with a choice of what they can graze on; whether it is an herbaceous plant that supplies their mineral requirement or a carefully considered grass species delivering the energy they needed.

Having spent many hours at a young age watching working horses forage across large areas of my late father’s Estate, I realised that they grazed preferentially at different times of the year, and often as dictated by Molly the matriarch Shire. They seemed to be following a plan, but I had

Now that I utilise my Albrecht soil science expertise to help grow Happy Horses I can appreciate the innate skill that Molly had, and conferred onto the rest of the herd, to travel to find the nutrients and minerals they were looking for.

Once I have been tasked with investigating the soil, in virtually every case the reason for their hyperactivity is obvious.

Negligible levels of Magnesium and often Calcium in the soil will quickly generate issues with horse behaviour, especially when this is combined with a significantly high Potassium level.

The ideal balanced soil for horses Analyse the soil and then spread appropriate rates of Magnesium fertiliser on to the grassland in the spring. This counteracts the negative effect of the Potash while supplying essential

Magnesium for photosynthesis and grass quality.

The ideal Calcium – Magnesium ratio in the soil is 1:10. Outside of this ratio and the horses are eating lignin (imagine eating a drinking straw!). Calcium is a major constituent of cell structure and stem strength and tree bark. Essential for plants to grow but needs tempering with Magnesium for horse health.

Large areas of the country are calcareous rich soils (limestone or chalk), which can’t fundamentally be changed. But what we can easily change is the negative effect that this has on the soil health and grass quality for our horses by balancing it with Magnesium fertiliser and supplements.

It is immensely satisfying when my customers tell me that their horses are calmer, easier to communicate with and fun to be around again. All because the soil has been put back into balance and healthy grass created.

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www.lordingtonparkagronomy.co.uk Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 113

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These

boots walking for

were made

Nothing beats a boot when it comes to taking winter in your stride

F

rost-hardened grass crunching under foot, wet mud inches deep where in summer there were dry fields, and ice that makes even the shortest journey across the yard a feat of balance and bravery – keeping the wet and wind at bay is a team effort from our winter wardrobes, but a decent pair of boots is the star player when it comes to standing up to the season’s worst.

Once you’ve found the right pair, you won’t think twice about what to pull on before leaving the house – whether you’re on the way to the stables or the school run, splashing along country lanes on a dog walk or striding along the high street.

You might be in the market for a new pair this season or just looking at how to get the best from your old favourites this winter…

You probably don’t need a PhD in ancient history to see how the boot was born from need and practicality and, most likely, not from someone dabbling in caveman couture. The earliest

boots would have been fashioned from separate pieces to cover the foot and lower leg, say historians, to offer extra protection against the elements and the environment as our ancestors roamed and hunted.

Animal skins and fur would have been the toughest and warmest materials available and today leather, suede and nubuck are still the top choices for designers and shoppers alike for their durability, breathability and smart appearance.

But boots have gone hi-tech, with many manufacturers developing their own trademarked methods of waterproofing and testing techniques. Designers are also incorporating modern, super-tough fabrics more often seen in workwear, sports or even military footwear into our everyday boots. So you may find the hard-wearing nylon-based Cordura – used in luggage, protective motorcycle clothing and many more items that might take a beating! – on the outside of your boots, while something

116 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – FASHION

like a Gore-Tex or Thinsulate lining might be keeping your toes toasty and dry from the inside.

Get a grip Wet, cold days are one thing, but ice and snow bring their own challenges.

Developing footwear with enough traction to keep us upright on the slipperiest surfaces is something still keeping scientists around the world busy. In Canada, the Toronto-based iDAPT research team even rate brands’ shoes and boots online after putting them to the test in realistic wintry conditions on an icy slope built in their lab.

This writer knows from experience the value of good grip after suffering a dislocated elbow one winter thanks to the silky-smooth soles of an otherwise sensible-looking pair of boots! Many boots will incorporate rubber into their soles as its softness affords better grip on tricky surfaces. The variety of tread patterns isn’t just for effect either – look for designs that

FASHION

the folklore that exposure to chilling may cause the onset of common cold symptoms, perhaps by some change in respiratory defence caused by reflex vasoconstriction of the blood vessels of the upper airways”.

The cold, hard facts

Catching a chill We’ve all been warned at least once not to get cold feet or we’ll get ill. Scientists at Cardiff’s Common Cold Centre decided to put this bit of advice to the test, asking 90 people to soak their feet in cold water for 20 minutes, while another group of 90 merely put their feet in an empty bowl. In the days after, the participants were asked if they developed

 Penguins are the experts when it comes to walking on ice – follow their lead and take short, flat-footed steps

any cold symptoms, such as a runny nose, sore throat or sneezing – with 13 from the “chilled” group reporting they did, compared to just five in the other group. The researchers said while much more work needs to be done, their study did in fact “support

Know your onions Some people swear by this peculiar practice for getting rid of a cold – putting sliced onions in your socks overnight! It seems to date back to medieval times when people thought onions could absorb “bad air” and protect them from deadly illnesses like the plague. Any evidence that this is a miracle remedy is purely anecdotal, however, but as onions contain a range of vitamins, including A, B6, C and E, you might be better off simply eating them to boost your health!

will allow water to escape from under your feet and won’t trap it underneath, creating a slippery barrier between you and the ground.

If you do lose your heart to a pair of boots with a less-than-sensible sole, however, all is not lost. Try slipping a pair of ice grips over the bottoms – they won’t look as good, but neither does falling flat on your back!

Arctic explorer David HemplemanAdams says we should look to the true experts for the best way to walk on ice – penguins! Keep your weight evenly balanced as you take short, flat-footed steps, he says – so get waddling!

Treat with TLC Back at home, don’t just throw your boots in the hall cupboard. They’ve taken care of you so take care of them if you want them to last!

As leather ages, it can lose its waterresistance, absorbing some of the wet before hardening and cracking as it dries out – a sorry end for a much-loved pair of boots! Well-worn should mean well cared for so investigate what your manufacturer recommends – many produce their own boot care ranges, including cleaners, conditioners and protective coatings.  FASHION – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 117

Crafted Without Compromise Introducing our new Country Boot collection, stylish, strong and stirrup friendly, designed to be worn comfortably all day at the barn, in the saddle or about town.

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118 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – FASHION

Country

FASHION

u Take care of your boots and they’ll look after you for longer

Before you grab your slippers and dive under a blanket after getting in from the stables, mud and dirt should be rinsed off your boots before letting them dry naturally – not on top of the radiator! Re-proofing should be done regularly to ensure your boots can continue to keep the water outside and not soaking into your socks.

To keep your boots looking smart, careful but easy storage is a great idea.

A rack that supports your boots as they hang upside down can help them dry out naturally, while boot shapers or boot trees that sit inside your tall boots when not being worn can be purchased quite cheaply. You can even splash out on a boot closet complete with a rail of hanging boot shapers or make your own shapers from plastic bottles or rolled-up magazines (then you’ll always know where to find your old copies of Your Horse & Country Magazine)!

Toasty toes As our body temperature drops, blood flow to our extremities reduces to help protect our vital organs – leaving our toes and fingers really feeling the cold. Numb, painful feet are the thing that will make us want to flee indoors so how can we avoid this when there’s work to be done at the yard?

Long, cosy socks are an obvious addition – but what material is best? For those who prefer natural materials, wool and merino wool are popular for their cosiness. However, it’s also important for winter socks to wick sweat away from your skin before it cools and the chill starts to set in and for this, synthetic fabrics are often pretty effective, while cotton and wool tend to hold on to moisture. Of course, many socks are made with a blend of these materials to combine the best properties of each, so shop around. To keep in even more heat on long days riding and at the stables, combine with a thin, moisture-wicking sock liner.

For people who really suffer with the cold, technology has stepped up to offer a solution – heated insoles. Some of these are switched on and off with a remote control or even an app on your smartphone, keeping you snug and maybe a little smug too! Just remember, if you’re planning to layer up inside your boots, make sure you try them on for size with all of your extra accessories before you buy! n

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FASHION – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 119

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120 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

HELPING YOUR HORSE

Making a difference to your horse this winter As the nights draw in and the temperature drops, we move into that time of year where our horses need as much support as possible. EQU StreamZ fetlock bands - invented and manufactured in the UK - are now a ‘choice of champions’ and a piece of tack worth investigating.

The StreamZ bands were developed to offer a natural response to health problems and make a real difference to users, be they humans, horses or dogs. StreamZ’ unique approach to the magnetic therapy market has won them many fans, with an impressive word-of-mouth expansion across the UK and, increasingly, Canada, the US and Australia. World-renowned riders now endorse the products; including Olympians, Paralympic, World and National Champions across multiple equestrian disciplines.

‘I’ve seen more than a few improvements in several of our horses wearing the EQU bands, and I wear the human band myself.

I can say from experience that they have helped us and are worth every penny!” - Sophie Wells, Paralympic,World and European Gold Dressage Medallist.

The origins of the technology lay in its inventor, Eric Dodd, seeking a natural, but effective, way of reducing his wife’s chronic migraine headaches.

He succeeded and then realised the potential of his invention to positively impact on other conditions and on animals as well as humans. Hence the birth of the StreamZ bands.

EQU StreamZ fetlock bands Natural pain relief & recovery

What makes the StreamZ technology so unique and so popular with horse owners across the globe is its revolutionary 360º magnetic process. This generates a nonintrusive energy field around the horse’s legs, creating no additional heat and suitable for long-term 24/7 use - ideal in the colder months when your horse is likely to need more ongoing support.

But what is most important for the many horse owners who use the bands is their impact on a wide range of conditions, including those involving inflammation. There are numerous non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medicines (NSAIDs), commonly used to treat the pain and inflammation associated with arthritis, postsurgery discomfort, or other pain. NSAIDS are, of course, an extremely valuable tool in many circumstances. However, there are known side effects and risks associated with their use, especially if the animal has other health problems.

The EQU StreamZ fetlock bands are not a replacement for NSAIDs, or any other prescribed medication. Many horse owners who now use them on their horses on a regular basis, however, consistently report significant improvement in their horse’s joint mobility, flexibility and wellbeing and wouldn’t be without them!

StreamZ reputation is entirely based on results, as indicated by their glowing reviews online, the number of professional equestrians who endorse the product, and their rapidly-growing customer base. This UK company is certainly creating a ‘spin’ in the community with their alternative solution to more intrusive therapies and treatments.

Sophie Wells (MBE)

Get yourself £5 off a pair of EQU StreamZ and create £5 donation to Horseworld Trust, visit www.equ-streamz.com and use the code HORSEWORLD5.

Follow EQU StreamZ on social media, or get in touch if you have any questions relating to your horse. @equstreamz Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 121

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Carpetgallopuk Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018   |  123

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kate@3countieshorseboxes.co.uk if you have any questions feel free to ring whenever it suits you 07985 811 311 Based in Worcestershire and Somerset.

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 125

Are there hidden dangers in T

his summer – the hottest since 1976 – in many cases has had devastating consequences for arenas. Despite copious amounts of water, your arena probably still needs some attention. Is it time to refurbish?

Refurbishing a sand and fibre arena could be as simple as checking that you have an even depth all over with a sufficient amount of fibre remaining, before power harrowing the surface to remix the fibre into the sand.

reporting any supplier that cannot provide an environmental certificate, by calling 03708 506506 or emailing enquiries@ environment-agency.gov.uk.

It is important to use the correct materials. Recycled products can be fraught with issues, not least respiratory problems for horse or rider. One should be aware of the dangers of “hydrogels” or other superabsorbent polymers (SAPs).

These are made from acrylic acid, which is irritating for eyes and nasal membranes

The easiest way of checking the depth of surface is to take an ordinary garden fork and measure in two-inch increments on each tine two, four and six inches, marked with insulation tape. Walk the arena, testing the depth as you go, paying particular attention to the centre line and track where you will find the least depth. Ideally you should aim for an even depth of six inches over the whole of the arena, it could be you will be able to recover surface from the corners etc. to regain this even depth – if not then you will need to add more sand and fibre.

For every inch you need to add on a 20mx40m arena you will need to add 32 tons of sand; for a 20mx60m arena you need to add 49 tons of sand. The amount of fibre will depend on the remaining overall content of fibre in your arena – a rule of thumb is for every inch of sand you add to a 20mx40m arena you will require 675kg of fibre; for a 20mx60m arena you will require 1,050kg.

Arenas with sand and rubber can also be stabilised by adding fibre, which works particularly well if you have to top up with sand; the process is the same as above.

When choosing the sand, try to obtain the same original sand, if not obtainable or because of cost restraints Beta-Ride® has a fibre suitable for any Sub-Angular Sand.

When choosing your fibre or fibre alternative, always check the provenance of the suppliers’ materials, and ask the supplier for their materials Safety Data Sheet and that the materials are environmentally certificated. The Environment Agency is concerned about toxic waste being installed into horse arenas, such as plastic granules, and has asked the public to be vigilant (as you could be breaking the law) by

and it will leach into the ground or surface waters as it has high water solubility.

Degradation is microbial for these superabsorbent polymers.

Manufacturing Our manufacturer Cojarec is skilled and experienced since 2013 in making the right blend of the PA and PP fibres, in order to perfect the mechanical properties of COFIBRES®, Beta-Ride® and BetaRide® Plus (elasticity, root-structure, impermeability etc.)

regulations. The machinery that produces COFIBRES® Beta-Ride® and Beta-Ride® Plus is a process line, with five treatment steps. The purpose of the different steps is to separate the plastic fibres from all nonplastics, such as glue, latex, wool, cotton, fibreglass etc.

Identification of foreign materials** and their separation from the PA and PP

COFIBRES®, Beta-Ride® and Beta-Ride® Plus Is never made with post-consumer synthetic textiles, such as post-consumer carpets, because of health and safety issues and traceability concerns.

Cojarec has designed all of its equipment, which is maintained and revised in-house.

This makes for a unique production process, which creates a product that is the only one of its kind.

COFIBRES® Beta-Ride® and Beta-Ride® Plus distance themselves from similar products through quality control and compliance with health and environmental

126 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

fibres is done mechanically, by a series of machines that have been designed for this purpose. Glue and latex are very common ingredients in the type of synthetic

PROMOTION

the surface of your arena?

The batch number has a coded key to:  the material quality (PP, PA)  the supplier of the material  the precise time and date for that particular delivery The batch number is completed when the material is processed with the codes for:  the size of the “cut” of the fibres  the time and date of production of the product  a unique number for each bale  the weight of the bale

are often still considered waste. If you want to use them in your arena, you should possess an environmental waste licence. If you do not, you are committing a criminal offence and are responsible for the “cleanup” of the soil.

Cojarec’s products are regularly analysed, so that any change in quality or composition of the material is detected early and can be corrected immediately.

Cojarec also has a very solid relationship with its suppliers, so any change in formula is detected before arriving in our factory.

Traceability of the material is the most definite of quality controls, but is also a governmental requirement.

Our business partners can retrace the material to us, by the batch numbers. Cojarec can retrace the supply of the raw material and the production date. Copied products often don’t comply with the traceability regulations, which means that they are illegally sold.

Environmental regulations

fibre products that are used to make COFIBRES® Beta-Ride® and Beta-Ride® Plus or copying products. The copying products have not been processed in the same way as COFIBRES®, Beta-Ride® and Beta-Ride® Plus because of our unique manufacturing line. This implies that glue, latex, even fibreglass can be ingredients in the copy product. Not only is this hazardous for the environment, but its toxicity makes it a certain risk for the horse and the rider’s health and safety.

The cutting of the fibres to the desired length is done with a mechanical grinder, the type that is used mainly in plastics recycling. The grinder has been adapted

by Cojarec to be able to produce the right length of fibres, blended with the right surface of padding.

Traceability procedures All supply of the raw material for making COFIBRES® Beta-Ride® and BetaRide® Plus is weighed on Cojarec’s own calibrated weight bridge, checked on quality and then accorded a batch number.

Any product or secondary raw material that is made from “waste”, whether it is post-consumer or industrial waste, has to comply with certain rules and regulations.

These regulations are issued by the Department of the Environment.

Companies, such as Cojarec or other recyclers that produce products and secondary raw materials out of waste, are obliged by law to have an Environmental Licence. This licence will hold limitations to volume, type of waste and ways of processing the waste. Cojarec has posted a scanned copy of its environmental licence on its website.

According to our national laws, this licence is in Dutch. For a translated version, you can contact us directly in Belgium. Copy product suppliers often cannot produce such a licence, which means that they are operating illegally.

This is a criminal offence.

Cojarec has posted a copy of a letter from its waste control body, in our case OVAM, on its website. This letter states clearly that all materials issued from our machinery are secondary raw materials.

This is important, because without this confirmation, the material produced can still be considered waste. Copy products

Cojarec complies with REACH (Registration, Evaluation, Authorisation and Restriction of Chemicals) regulation and undergoes frequent inspections, which confirm our compliance with the environmental laws. Cojarec is certified as a producer of recycled products.

COFIBRES® Beta-Ride® and BetaRide® Plus are the only fibres produced

by Cojarec and are safe products for both horse and rider and the environment.

A laboratory should always test copy products in order to make sure that there are no traces of toxins (e.g. glue, latex), fuels (e.g. used carpets), foreign materials (e.g. wood, glass, cardboard, paper) or non-plastic textiles (e.g. cotton, jute, wool).

Cojarec welcomes visitors to its premises and laboratories, so any questions concerning the environmentally friendly way the product is made can be answered.

Pro equestrian surfaces

beta-ride.co.uk info@beta-ride.co.uk 01269 595 064

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 127

Good planning will lay firm Building an arena can be a challenging ride, says Rural Planning Practice’s Judith Norris

A

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

Traditionally, development within the countryside is limited and the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) focuses on sustainable development which encompasses an economic, social and environmental role. There

is little in the way of policy relating to equestrian development and large scale schemes can be seen as a blot on the natural environment.

Equestrian use does not come under the umbrella of agriculture; however, there is significant guidance under section 3 of the NPPF ‘Supporting a prosperous rural economy’ where equestrian businesses are concerned. Arenas which are located close to existing buildings will be considered favourable over standalone sites and careful consideration should be taken when choosing the location and siting. Generally, designated areas which include green belt, national parks, areas of outstanding natural beauty (AONBs), sites of special scientific interest (SSSIs) and conservation areas will be more

128 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

problematic in terms of gaining planning permission.

One of the primary decisions to be made is whether to go for an indoor or outdoor arena. Inevitably the decision will come down to a number of factors which include the location, the size and the required use. Generally outdoor arenas will be seen as favourable, and the size and scale of these will need to be considered when making the application. For private, use the local council will generally see 20x40m as an acceptable facility for all-weather riding. It provides a suitable alternative to grass which can become too wet in the winter months or too hard in the summer. For a commercial or business use, larger arenas such as 20x60m may be more applicable on the basis that a

BUILD IT – ARENAS

foundations for your dream higher standard of training is required for the horses. Indoor arenas may be seen as more appropriate where the UK weather would have a detrimental impact on the financial viability of the equestrian business.

The Rural Planning Practice has extensive experience in dealing with planning applications for arenas with much success. With a varied catalogue of work from small-scale arenas for private use to large-scale indoor arenas with associated viewing galleries and facilities we are able to provide guidance throughout the whole process. We are able to help assist in preparing all of the necessary documentation including environmental statements, proposed method of construction, cross section drawings which deal with depth and earth works, drainage management plans and managing objections.

Judith Norris BSc MSc FRICS IHBC

Initial considerations when thinking of a new arena: • Access to the proposed site and ground conditions • Location and siting of the proposal in relation to designation areas • Landscaping and site levelling • Drainage issues including banking, ditching and mitigating run-off issues • Consideration of trees, hedges and the surrounding topography • Maintenance and monitoring once the surface has been implemented • The size, type and proposed surface, including boundaries • Archaeology

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 129

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We Build: Equestrian Buildings, Timber Garages, Poultry Houses, Garden Sheds, Kennels, Playhouses, Timber Workshops, Summerhouses and many more ranges of timber buildings.

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Visit our display centre: Featherstone Works, Cotherstone, Barnard Castle, Co Durham, DL12 9PS Call now for a FREE brochure Telephone: 01833 650274 or visit our website: www.hodgsontimberbuildings.co.uk

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

Cozee Homes Equestrian Building Ltd Tel: 01580 881 231 or 01424 215 222 Unit 1&2 Redlands Lane, Robertsbridge TN32 5NG

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BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 131

Stables expertly craftedbuilttobysuit you British craftsmen

Whether you need one stable or a complex, the wide range of options within our Intro, Ideal and Elite ranges is sure to meet your requirements.

When you purchase any of our fine range of quality buildings we want you to feel proud you have selected a Jon William Stables product.

We do this by creating equestrian products that have been built by craftsmen. We strive to build the best possible product we can, so we are confident you will be proud to own it. We firmly believe our business cornerstones drive us to perfect every Jon William Stables product.

Jon William Stables

quality equestrian buildings built by British craftsmen We want you to be proud of your purchase. We are proud to create it for you.

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Simply Arena Mirrors.co.uk • Bespoke robust aluminium frames • Reinforced corners • Bonded & sealed with polymer sealer • 6mm thick Pilkington ‘Optimirrors’ • Safety backed to EN 12600 2B2 • Safe, strong & highly durable • Easy install, full instructions & support ‘Premium’ and ‘Contract’ ranges - Mirrors only or complete installation kits, supplied with steel posts to suit all budgets. See our website for more details

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132 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

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Arena Graders

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

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NEW Beat the escalating costs of sand with our new No need for sand!

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Cost effective outdoor arena led lighting

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Our new product is easy to lay and maintain, rides well and makes a great and economic surface. Contact us for our introductory offers.

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Make full use of your arena all year round Maximised light quality & distribution

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• 5 settings. Use with Quad, Mower, Tractor, 4WD. 1.5M, 1.8, 2.1M, 2.4, 3.0M. • Giving you the very best Leveller for your paddock or arena. od ne Go shio e a ic d F rv Ol Se

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FOR SAND, FIBRE, SYNTHETIC, WAX AND RUBBER SURFACES ONE O NE MACHINE MAC AC CH HIN HI NE FOR FOR YOUR YO OU UR PA P ADD DOC CK KSS AND D AREN EN E NA New Cross Over One machine for your paddocks and arena

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All weather riding solutions

From a full brand new arena to refurbing your existing school Equestrian Arenas Limited are national installers of quality horse riding arenas, lunging pens and gallops. It is run and owned by just two directors, with a combined experience of over 20 years in the arena building industry.

Nationwide company providing a turn-key service to the exact specification of the client. With our vast experience in the equine industry we are able to give you a bespoke product for you to be proud of.

We can also provide you with friendly independent advice, incorporating your needs into any project.

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

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

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

• Post and rail fencing in either straight or half rounded finish • Any size sand school can be constructed to meet your requirements • All riding surfaces are available, Refurbishments to existing sand schools • All site work undertaken and completed by CJ Arenas in the Devon and Cornwall area

Visit www.cjarenas.co.uk

or call 07813 574160 for more information or a no obligation quote BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 135

Welcome to Winning Post Consultancy We are a specialised company with over 25 years’ experience in constructing All Weather Riding Arena’s and Gallops, working in some of the best yards in the business.

Riding Arenas and Gallops From small private clients to professional Equestrian Centers both our indoor and outdoor riding arenas are given the same meticulous attention to detail.

We offer a free site visit, anywhere within the UK to determine the exact requirements for your project. This includes a full site survey, with details of the design, planning, sighting, drainage, base construction, fencing, and the Riding Surface itself.

Every stage of the project is fully explained to give you the Riding Arena you want.

All this information is used to provide you with a competitive quotation, along with a 5 year guarantee.

After acceptance, work commences using the latest machinery and laser levelling technology operated by our own fully trained team.

Within a short period of time your arena or gallop will be completed.

Sportrack Synthetic Riding Surfaces Our range of synthetic surfaces covers all aspects of the market and each equestrian discipline is catered for.

Sportrack Eco-Ride Sportrack Eco-Ride, a premixed surface containing specially cut synthetic fibre blended with multi washed silica sand. This is our entry level surface and is ideal for the livery yards where a surface is needed for different abilities.

136 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

Sportrack Pro-Mixed Sportrack Pro-Mixed is our premier dry mixed surface containing equestrian approved multi washed and blended silica sands accurately mixed with our specially manufactured synthetic fibres to produce a surface which is used in competition venues and professional yards Sportrack Waxed This surface is based on washed and blended silica sands, with a combination of synthetic fibres, blended with a hot wax coating. This is an ideal surface for indoor schools,lung pens and gallops.

Sportrack Pro-Waxed Our top of the range surface where horses work on the surface. High graded, washed and blended silica sands, mixed with specially cut synthetic fibres, coated with a hot wax coating. Installations include, racing gallops, polo, showjumping and dressage establishments.

Sportrack Stabilising Fibres As well as premixed surfaces we can supply Sportrack Stabilising Fibres to add to existing sand surfaces. These specially cut synthetic fibres will enhance any existing surface, adding stability. Delivered on pallets anywhere in the UK, this is a very cost- effective way of improving your riding school.

Sportrack Complete Fibre This is nothing but synthetic stabilising fibres laid on top of a geotextile membrane and compacted to a finished depth of 150mm. This gives a very cost effective surface.

 Full Gallop and Riding Arena inspections and reports.  Complete construction of new Gallops, Canter Tracks and Riding Arenas.  Refurbishment of existing Gallops, Canter Tracks and Riding Arenas.  Supply of Sportrack Synthetic Riding Surfaces (Premixed and Waxed).  Supply of Sportrack Stabilising Fibres, Equestrian Grade Silica Sand and Rubber Crumb.

Should you need any advice on the construction or surface merits please talk to us. We are proud of what we build for your enjoyment. For more information please visit our website or check out our most recent work on Facebook or phone us.

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 137

20mm Rubber Crumb The low maintenance all weather surface

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

RUBBER CRUMB does not freeze easily and is an excellent all weather surface that will not rot or blow away.

It is ideal for turnouts, horse arenas and gallops.

RUBBER CRUMB is environmentally friendly, extremely cost effective and is virtually maintenance free.

It provides exceptional cushioning qualities to help reduce the risk of potential injury or lameness.

Visit our website for more information:

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email: info@angusrubbercrumb.co.uk

Everyone has their own reason for wanting a round pen

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Passionate about horses welfare, body and mind

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Join up with a hard to catch horse Confidence builder when riding Help bonding with a dominant horse Training a youngster Loading issues Restricted grazing pen

We believe in customer service as a top priority and welcome customer enquiries, reviews and feedback on our products.

Our response time is less than 24 hours 100% of the time.

I am sure we have a pen to suit your needs and budget, a bespoke service and delivery is available too.

Let us help you fulfil the dream of having an enclosed safe area to work your horse with our affordable, quality round pens.

0844 264 6057 | www.round-pen.co.uk | info@round-pen.co.uk The Round Pen company is based in Shropshire UK providing a range of round pens, to suit all requirements.

138 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

J. E.50Graham Ltd years of experience Selling quality new machinery for pastures and paddocks

SUFFOLK SWEEPER COLLECTOR • British designed and built • Low running & maintenance costs.

• 1.8m wide with large easy discharge hopper • PTO driven - low HP requirements • 3 point linkage with four independent rubber wheels • Rejuvinates grass, removing dead and loose materials, including horse manure

SUFFOLK PASTURE TOPPER • Safe - Fully guarded • Strong - British built design by J E Graham • Simple to use and adjust - no spanners required • Variety of sizes - 4’ 5’ and 6’ • Can be used in an off-set position for cutting near fences and hedges

www.jegraham.co.uk t: 01379 384444 m: 07775 764540 e: info@jegraham.co.uk

"For every job there is a great tool you'll need"

J E Graham Limited Woodlands Farm, Brundish, Woodbridge, Suffolk IP13 8BP

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

 Specialising in robust designs ideal for large

establishments, professional arenas and gallops

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

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



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

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

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Call 07703 110132 / 01225 891014 BUILD IT – Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 139

£195 per bale +VAT Approximately 3 bales per tonne

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

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

1

a

2

a

3

a

Only those manufacturers with a passion for the sport looking to improve the performance, consistency and safety of arena’s, are investing in understanding how to contribute to providing an arena for all disciplines at all levels.

Beta-Ride® Pro-Equestrian Surfaces are going the extra mile to offer a fibre suitable for all discipline’s capable of being mixed with sensibly priced Regional Sub–Angular Sand to a quality not compromised by cost.

+44 (0) 1269 595064

140 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

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

Are Cojarec Fibres Shredded?

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

What is different about Cojarec fibres from cheaper fibres available?

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

Cojarec Fibres Cofibre® are widely distributed across the UK, often being offered by installers as their own brand of fibres.

With the ever increasing participation in horse sports, the demand for artificial surfaces has increased dramatically, this consumer-led market has increased the number of manufacturers offering arena surfaces ten fold, sadly there are currently no regulations or guidelines on materials offered for sale, with performance and safety not featuring very highly with a large number of these manufacturers.

Are Cojarec Fibres recycled materials?

4

a

Why does it matter about the different mix and size of fibres in Cojarec Products?

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

www.beta-ride.co.uk

Pro-Equestrian Surfaces unrivalled performance

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

5

a

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

8

a

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

6

a

How can I find out what sand is in my existing Arena?

Send a small sample of your sand in an envelope to Beta-Ride Pro-Equestrian Surfaces who will check this for you.

7

a

9

a

How are Cojarec Fibres delivered?

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

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

Do I need specialist equipment to install Cojarec Fibres?

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

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

Are Beta-Ride® Associate Equestrian Installers reliable?

a

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

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

Horse &SA18 Country Beta-Ride® Pro-Equestrian Surfaces Ltd, Unit 1, Penpound Garage, Heol Y Felin Betws,Your Ammanford, 2HL Magazine WINTER 2018 | 141

Equestrian Rubber Sale 20mm Rubber chip

suitable for arenas and gallops 98% wire free

£18.00

per tonne +vat

PROJECTS We offer the complete package.

Design, Demolition, groundworks, construction. End to end project management. Internal stalls, field shelters, steel framed buildings and entire bespoke stable complexes.

We supply fully CE marked steel portal frame buildings to cover your arena!

All aspects carried out!

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

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

Tel: 01225 684522

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

Call us now on 0800 4701371 www.niramaxrubberproducts.co.uk

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142 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine – BUILD IT

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ge hem the ble that smell

We are also developing a new product for riders with more complex disabilities.

Available in two sizes (Small or Medium) and two colours (yellow or black)

The Equihandee harness has been designed & produced with the knowledge that it offers the owner and user a durable, high quality product that will last!

If you’d like more information about Equihandee, please either email us at info@equihandee.co.uk or visit

www.equihandee.co.uk

TRANSPORT

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

Are you towing legally?

Many people do not realise if they passed their driving test after January 1st 1997 they are not legal to tow.

This could mean, that if they do, then their Insurance may not be legal.

Horses are precious animals, as a soul-mate, best friend, etc, as well as an expensive monetary value. We know that you want the best for them and you must not overlook towing them safely, knowledgeably and legally.

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Equihandee is a riding aid designed to help keep young horse riders safer whilst riding.

PROMOTION Our unique harness has been created with a handle that helps you support young, unstable and disabled riders in the saddle.

■ Carol’s Farm Club is in St Ives, Cambs www.farmclub. co.uk

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cats es Carol erchant

Safer in your hands

Fight Back with a Feral!

We at Bubble Towing specialise in towing, training you cost effectively in our DVSA signed off trailer combination. We then take you to test again in the training combination you are used to - manual or automatic. You then have piece of mind that you're towing legally, so that if the police should stop you, you are legal to tow and your insurance is valid too.

We are a local family business and are the leading Towing specialist in Bristol and South Gloucestershire area.

We teach ½ days towing training for those of you who have Grandad rights to tow but are nervous.

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

Free service. Release pen and starter pack.

We deliver up to four hours drive from London.

CALL US TODAY ON

Pick up the phone give us a call to allay any fears you may have Horses are wonderful creatures giving back so much to you, make sure you safeguard them when towing them too.

07830 387130 SNIP registered charity no. 299258

www.bubbletowing.co.uk e: russ@bubbletowing.co.uk | t: 01454 884244 Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 143

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

ALDERSHOT EQUESTRIAN Suppliers and installers of all types of

LEADING SUPPLIERS OF EQUESTRIAN PENS, TREADMILLS, EXCERCISES AND MORE

equestrian fencing, post and rails, schools and arenas

Our customers represent the complete spectrum of the equestrian world, from large professional yards with over sixty horses to individuals with two to three horses. As well as supplying equipment for all sizes of sports horses, we design and make pens, horse walkers and treadmills for ponies and miniature horses.

For customers who have specific requirements, a difficult site or need to make use of an existing building, we will design a product that meets their needs.

Richard Jones Fencing contractors For FREE advice and estimates

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

Tel 0800 032 5595 Mob 07778 628 205 rjonesfencing@aol.com

email horsetech@btconnect.com telephone 07799264060

www.richardjonesfencing.co.uk NB Services A5 Horsebox Hire Flyer LR.pdf

SERVICES

1

05/08/2016

12:09

www.aldershotequestrian.co.uk SERVICES

Class 4, 5 & 7

YOUR ONE STOP HORSEBOX SHOP OFFERING SELF DRIVE HIRE

✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓ ✓

½ DAYS OR FULL DAYS HIRE SPECIAL WEEKEND RATES FULLY INSURED VEHICLE HIRE HORSEBOX SERVICING & REPAIRS

BRYANT ASSOCIATES Financial Advice | Tax & Estate Planning Retirement Planning | Later Life Planning Investment Planning | Wealth Management

MINISTRY INSPECTIONS 24 HOUR BREAKDOWN & RECOVERY - Courtesy horsebox available

01454 851589 | www.bryantassociates.co.uk 86 Broad Street | Chipping Sodbury | South Gloucestershire | BS37 6AG

All your horsebox needs under one roof PHONE: 01488 72118 | simon@nd-services.co.uk | www.nd-services.co.uk Unit F Aerial Business Park, Membury, Berkshire RG17 7RZ

The Partner Practice represents only St. James’s Place Wealth Management plc (which is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority) for the purpose of advising solely on the Group’s wealth management products and services, more details of which are set out on the Group’s website www.sjp.co.uk/products.The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the title ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place.

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 144

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY FEED AND BEDDING

FEED AND BEDDING

SMALL BALE MEADOW HAY Delivered nationally by the single pallet – great for smallholders, limited storage and perfect to travel with!

We also sell small bale haylage and horse bedding by the single pallet.

Call for a sample t: 01837 849222 /849200 m: 07871 609345 Colehay, The Croft, South Zeal, Devon EX20 2NX

www.colehay.co.uk e: info@colehay.co.uk FEED AND BEDDING

145 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

SERVICES

CLASSIFIED DIRECTORY CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

SERVICES

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

sustainable materials

Stablecare South West affordable

eco friendly

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

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

Mobile homes, holiday chalets, log homes.

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

• • • • •

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

• • • •

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



Bespoke Design Service And Technical Data

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

www.horserugcare.co.uk TRANSPORT

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

CONSTRUCTION AND MAINTENANCE

From roof to floor we do it all

Premier Horse Walkers

CALL US TODAY 014un5tr3y M5a1g 1400 azine an Horse & Co d mention Your

From leaky roofs to rotten ramps we offer a repair/refurbishment service to all parts of your horsebox plus servicing, repairs, pre mots

WHY INVEST IN A PREMIER HORSE WALKER ?

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

www.horsebox-repairs.co.uk

Actrees Farm, Unit 6, Berkeley, Gloucestershire GL13 9PP

Come and see us at our new premises 146 | WINTER 2018 Your Horse & Country Magazine

www.premierhorsewalkers.co.uk 01405 704172

Made in

Britain

LEADING EUROPE IN HORSEBOX INNOVATION

BLOOMFIELDS HORSEBOXES SOUTH Built by Professionals for Professionals

THE ONE

LEGACY S

LEGACY SL

LEGACY SLE

PROFESSIONAL

The elite name among amateurs and professionals alike, offering exceptional build quality and sensible prices.

All models available on 3.5T, 4.0T, 4.25T, 4.5T, 5T or 6T brand new chassis.

EVENTER 4.5T

COMPACT EVENTER

EVENTER 5/6T

To beat the wait list call 07711 543114 | info@bloomfieldssouth.co.uk www.bloomfields.co Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 147

Your Horse & Country Magazine WINTER 2018 | 148