FMD crisis: Berkeley International Dressage Trials postponed

The Berkeley International Trials, due to take place at Hartpury College, Gloucestershire, 28-29 April have been postponed due to the Foot and Mouth outbreak.

The event was scheduled to provide the backbone of international team selection for 2001, but British Dressage has announced that this event has been shelved until there is clear indication of British riders being able to compete abroad.

British Dressage acting Performance Manager, Jane Kidd said: “It is very disappointing to have to postpone as it has taken a great deal of work to get this exciting concept off the ground and to find such a good sponsor. As soon as the picture clarifies and British riders can compete overseas, a new trial will be scheduled.”

Hartpury College is currently operating under the restrictions enforced by a D notice, which restricts the movement of animals on or off the premises. Hartpury College equine show co-ordinator, Sarah Phillips said: “It is a great shame that the trials cannot be held. However we were left with no option as our nearest Foot and Mouth Disease outbreak is only 3km away. “