Latest from Horse & Hound in Cancer

‘We want to honour Katie’s life’: family raises thousands for charity with home-bred racehorse

Jennifer Donald — Sat, 09 Dec 2023 20:21:05 +0000

A family devastated by the death of their daughter this year are putting a horse up for syndication to raise funds for and awareness of cervical cancer.

South Warwickshire racehorse breeder and trainer Peter Pritchard has donated his home-bred thoroughbred Katie Sunny Dancer to racehorse ownership platform Old Gold Racing for syndication, with the the aim of raising over £40,000 for research into gynaecological cancers and awareness about symptoms.

Peter lost his 37-year-old daughter Katie, a nurse manager and mother of two young children, to cervical cancer this summer. Having spotted a lump, Katie referred herself to a gynaecologist for a second opinion. She was told the devastating news that the lump was a symptom of cervical cancer.

She underwent a course of radiotherapy, chemotherapy and brachytherapy in the spring of 2022 and initially the cancer responded positively to the treatment. But last December, further scans revealed the cancer had returned and that she only had a few months to live. Katie died in June, leaving her husband and two children.

“We want to spread awareness about this deadly disease”

To honour his daughter’s memory, and to raise funds to further research into cervical cancer, the Katie’s Legacy Syndicate has been set up, with Peter’s home-bred Katie Sunny Dancer going to Banbury trainer Alex Hales. For a one-off fee of £60 to join the mare’s first syndicate term, anyone interested can help the Pritchard family raise funds as one of 2,000 syndicate members under the banner of the Katie’s Legacy Syndicate.

“While nothing can replace the void Katie’s passing has left behind, we want to honour her life and her story by spreading awareness about this deadly disease, which so many disregard the early signs of,” said Peter Pritchard. “By combining Katie’s love of horses with our ambition to make a difference, we hope Katie Sunny Dancer will contribute to the advancement of research into cervical cancer, so others do not have to go through Katie’s ordeal.”

Katie Sunny Dancer is a four-year-old filly by Group Two-winning stallion Passing Glance, out of the Anshan mare Earcomesannie, a four-time winner, and breeder Peter has had a lot of success with the family. She is a prospective National Hunt horse and it his hoped she will make her racecourse debut in early spring.

The Katie’s Legacy Syndicate mare Katie Sunny Dancer, who will be trained by Alex Hales. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Old Gold Racing hopes to raise £40,000 for three charities. Half will go to the Lady Garden Foundation, a gynaecological cancer charity which aims to dismantle taboos, raise awareness and gather funds for research. The remaining £20,000 will be directed to Jo’s Cervical Trust, a charity focused on raising awareness about cervical screenings, the HPV vaccine, cell changes and cervical cancer, and on providing support services to people like the Pritchard family affected by cervical cancer.

Old Gold Racing will also commit a further £9,000 of its fee to The Myton Hospice, which cared for Katie in her final days.

“We are so moved to have been selected as the beneficiaries of this charitable drive – especially upon hearing Katie’s tragic story,” said Jenny Halpern Prince MBE, co-founder and chair of The Lady Garden Foundation. “In the UK, around 3,100 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year and it’s the most common cancer in women under 35 years old. It is so important that this cause gets as much funding as possible and we are incredibly grateful to Peter and his family for helping us on our mission.”

Louise Newton, trustee at Jo’s Cervical Cancer Trust, said: “We are so very saddened to hear the devastating news that Katie lost her life to this cancer, as did my wonderful friend Jo, 25 years ago. We are honoured to be part of celebrating Katie’s life and we are dedicated to improving outcomes for people like her and her family. Our mission for the past 25 years has been to support and inform all of the many women who are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year in the UK. Our vision for the future is of a day when cervical cancer is a thing of the past. This initiative will help us to work towards that goal.”

Find out more information about the Old Gold Racing mare Katie Sunny Dancer via the website and the sale will remain open until all 2,000 syndicate membership slots have sold out.

Laura Fry: the late Olympic rider whose daughter became world champion

Polly Bryan — Mon, 24 Oct 2022 15:32:15 +0000

Laura Fry is the late Olympic dressage rider and trainer, whose daughter, Lottie Fry, was crowned world champion in 2022. Laura Fry died on Wednesday 26 September, 2012, at the age of 45, after having breast cancer.

Laura was born in 1967, and was involved with horses throughout her life, but it was winning the H&H “Search for a Star” competition in 1988 that launched her dressage career. She started training with Sarah Whitmore, and took over the ride on the chestnut gelding Quarryman, who was to become her most significant equine partner throughout her international career.

Laura and Quarryman were selected for the British young rider team in 1988, also winning the advanced medium national title that same year, before making their international CDI debut.

In 1991, Laura and Quarryman competed on the British team at the European Championships in Donaueschingen, Germany, alongside Jennie Loriston-Clarke, Tricia Gardiner and Carl Hester. The pair also won the grand prix national title that same year.

In 1992, Laura and Quarryman were selected for the British Olympic team, riding at the Barcelona Games alongside Carl Hester, Emile Faurie and Carol Parsons, with the team finishing seventh.

The pair were then selected for their third consecutive senior championship team in 1993, being part of the historic silver medal-winning team at the European Dressage Championships in Lipica, Slovenia, alongside Richard Davison, Ferdi Eilberg and Emile Faurie.

Laura Fry: rider, trainer and mother

Laura and her husband Simon’s daughter Lottie was born in 1996, the same year that Quarryman was retired from sport. Laura continued to ride and train, running the family’s competition centre in East Yorkshire, Fry’s Dressage. She produced many more quality horses, including Massenet, Ghandi and Remming (pictured with Laura below), and also became a British Dressage List 3 judge.

Laura also trained her daughter in the sport, with Lottie starting her own competitive career in 2006, aged 10, and riding for Britain at the pony Europeans in 2010 on Andexer.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

“When I first registered with British Dressage, I wanted to be Lottie, but it meant both my mum and I would be L Fry, so we settled on Charlotte,” Lottie told H&H, having re-adopted “Lottie” as she grew up.

Under Laura’s guidance, Lottie went on to compete on numerous British teams at pony, junior and young rider level.

“From the first moment I can remember there wasn’t anything else [but dressage],” Lottie said. “When I was very young, I didn’t realise what my mum was doing as it all just seemed normal. It wasn’t until I got older that I realised how lucky I was to have that kind of training and influence.

“The thing that influenced me the most was her work ethic,” added Lottie. “She worked so hard for what she did and she loved the horses so much. That’s really rubbed off on me I think.”

Lottie Fry and Glamourdale take individual gold in the grand prix special and the freestyle at the 2022 World Dressage Championships. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

In 2010, Laura was diagnosed with breast cancer, but continued to ride, train and compete successfully over the following two years. In April 2012, she was prix st georges runner-up at the Winter Dressage Championships, riding Remming. Her final competitive outing was the Somerford Premier League in late May 2012, also with Remming, but her health deteriorated over the months that followed.

At the National Dressage Championships in 2012, Laura was presented with the British Dressage medal of honour to thank her for her contribution to dressage over the years. She continued to train up until 19 September, before passing away on 26 September. Her funeral was held on 8 October 2012.

“Laura was a tremendous rider, top-class trainer and, above all else, a great supporter of the sport,” said a spokesman for British Dressage at the time.

“Her talent for teaching helped so many achieve in their quest for success while in running competitions for all levels she brought dressage to everyone.

“Laura’s life was one to be celebrated and she leaves a great legacy for us all.”

Horse trials to ‘turn pink’ for Breast Cancer Research following team member’s diagnosis

Becky Murray — Sun, 13 Mar 2022 21:03:52 +0000

A British Eventing fixture will “turn pink” this autumn as it runs in aid of Breast Cancer Research, after one of the organising team was diagnosed with the condition.

Epworth Horse Trials in north Lincolnshire will take place on a new date, 3-4 September, having moved from the first week of the eventing calendar.

A BE spokesman said organisers Cheryl and John Gibbons have decided to “turn Epworth pink” for the weekend, and raise money for the worthy cause.

“The weekend will be very different to what Epworth has run in the past. The decision to make the weekend a fundraiser for Breast Cancer Research is a very personal one,” said Claire.

“In 2021 I had a very close scare; fortunately I was given the all-clear however a very close member of our team unbeknown to me, on the same day, wasn’t so lucky and has since undergone chemotherapy and mastectomy. Not long before all this happened another friend was going through chemo for the same thing and is still [living with] this cruel disease.”

John said the target is to raise £10,000 over the weekend of the horse trials by donating a large proportion of the start fees to the charity. An online auction will take place nearer the time with the likes of Nicola Wilson and Ros Canter on board, with all proceeds going to the cause. Other fundraising activities will be announced nearer the time with souvenirs available to order online and collect on the day.

“Cheryl and John would welcome your support over the weekend by competing with them, donating, helping and coming along to join them to smash their target and to be part of a very special weekend, not to be missed,” said the BE spokesman.

Rescued cob who ‘died’ for 45 minutes survives cancer and losing sight in one eye to return to work

Eleanor Jones — Sun, 18 Apr 2021 06:01:18 +0000

A rescued cob who has overcome cancer and losing the sight in one eye, and whose heart stopped for 45 minutes during surgery, is back in full work a year on.

Helen Buckley told H&H her 14-year-old gelding Paddy had to have his entire penis removed as a result of the cancer, but he has adjusted to urinating backwards, like a mare, and is now healthy and happy.

“It’s been quite an ordeal,” she said.

Helen, who has owned Paddy for 10 years, said she first realised something was wrong shortly after the start of the first lockdown last year.

“There was a lot of black grease on his legs,” she said. “I thought he was being a bit mucky but it wasn’t normal. I’d also noticed that he wasn’t properly dropping his willy to wee, so something was going on.

“We gave his sheath a good clean — and found lots of little skin tags. They felt like little nodules of grease but nothing was coming away.”

A closer look revealed what looked like small sarcoids, “like lots of little Malteasers”. Helen sent pictures to her vet and friend Louisa Smith. A few weeks later, once non-emergency veterinary treatment could resume, Paddy went in for a biopsy, which showed the growths to be cancerous.

“Louisa was confident she’d be able to chop it all away and he’d be fine,” said Helen. “She got it all away but for some reason, which we didn’t know at the time, he grows a lot of scar tissue. Six weeks later, I noticed he wasn’t dropping his willy again and was straining to wee; it turned out he’d grown so much scar tissue, he couldn’t drop it.”

Further investigation found that in those six weeks, a large number of tumours had reappeared.

“Louisa said the only option would be to take all the tissue away; with no willy, there would be nothing for the tumours to grown on,” Helen said. “So that’s what she did. But when he was under the anaesthetic, he had some reaction and he died for 45 minutes; his heart stopped three or four times, for that long in total.”

Paddy went home, and Helen was told to get him moving straight away, to try to reduce the swelling to his sheath. But before long, she realised there was another problem.

“I was walking him in hand and he banged into me; it was like he was genuinely surprised I was there,” she said. “I held a treat out on that side and he couldn’t see it; the vet said he had no sight in that eye at all, because of the lack of oxygen when his heart stopped.

“It was touch and go for 24 hours but my little man held in there and fought back. Bless his heart, whatever happened, he just carried on.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Paddy adjusted to having sight in only one eye, but was suffering at the other end as once again, scar tissue had grown around his urethra and he was struggling to urinate.

“The vet said we couldn’t give him another general anaesthetic, and the only chance was to operate so he would wee at the back like a mare, or call it a day. I said we’d come that far and he’d have been dead if we didn’t, so let’s go for it.”

Paddy underwent the procedure under sedation, after which a catheter was sewn in for him to urinate through. To try to prevent the scar tissue build-up, Helen acquired a laser machine, and used it on the operation site, which seemed to work.

“Paddy had to spend time living in the field, while Helen did her best to treat the sores caused by urine dripping from the catheter.

“We battled through it,” she said. “It’s been a really tough time but he’s such a trooper and I couldn’t give up on him. He learned very quickly to tip his pelvis to wee, and now the catheter’s out, he’s learning to hold it again instead of weeing every five minutes. He’s been through an awful lot but he’s such a lovely character, he deserved to come out the other side.”

Continues below…

(Image credit: Future)

Horse loses sheath and part of penis after major melanomas found during sheath clean

“He’s so much more than just a horse; he’s everything I work towards and my best friend”

(Image credit: Future)

‘I’ve got my boy back’: sheath bean removal transforms horse’s life

The thoroughbred had been out of work for four years before the bean was removed

(Image credit: Future)

Paddy is now jumping again and hacking, and Helen hopes to start competing again soon.

He has also been “adopted” by pupils of the school Helen works at, having helped entertain them with visits during lockdown, and now takes part in various school functions.

“He has such a lovely life,” she said. “But if I hadn’t washed his willy that time, he’d be dead now.

“Always check and clean sheaths regularly; that’s what saved my boy.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

3 of the most common types of cancer found in horses

Horse & Hound — Tue, 12 Jan 2021 16:40:37 +0000

Tim Mair FRCVS looks at the most prevalent  types of cancer in horses and how they are treated…

1. Cancer in horses: Sarcoids

What is it? Sarcoids in horses, although a benign cancer, can be aggressive and spread locally. There are various different forms of sarcoid, each having a characteristic appearance, and individual sarcoids can change from one form to another. Bovine papillomavirus is believed to be involved with the development of sarcoids, although its precise role is unknown. The number and type of sarcoids that individual horses develop varies considerably, but in the majority of cases they tend to get larger and more numerous with time.

How is it treated? There are many different treatments available for sarcoids. The choice of treatment will vary depending on the type of sarcoid, its size and location.

Sarcoids in certain locations, such as around the eyes, can be more difficult to treat. Treatment may include chemotherapy drugs (often applied topically), radiotherapy and surgery (including laser surgery and cryotherapy). A recently trialled treatment that can be useful in some cases is electrochemotherapy, which involves injecting a chemotherapy drug into the sarcoid and then applying an electric current that drives the drug into the sarcoid cells. This type of treatment must be done under general anaesthesia and often needs to be repeated at a later date.

Laser surgery can also be an effective form of treatment, and can sometimes be undertaken in standing, sedated horses using local anaesthesia. Its advantages over conventional sharp surgery include less bleeding, less swelling and less pain.

Don’t wait and watch. The bigger the sarcoids become the more difficult they are to treat. Some chronic and extensive sarcoids may be impossible to treat. Unfortunately, there is always a risk of recurrence of sarcoids following treatment; once a horse has developed a sarcoid it will be prone to getting more in the future, and repeated treatments may be necessary.

2. Squamous cell carcinoma

What is it? This cancer usually affects the eyes and eyelids, and the penis and prepuce of males. It is an invasive form of cancer in horses that is often slow-growing but later can become more malignant and spread internally.

How is it treated? Effective management relies  on early diagnosis and treatment, which  may include surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy.

The penile form of this cancer is most common in older geldings. Regular sheath inspection, if necessary using sedation, is important to identify and treat early lesions before they become extensive.

3. Melanomas

What are they? Melanomas are skin tumours which are more prominent in grey and cremello horses. They become more common with age and it is estimated that at least 80% of grey horses over the age of 12 years will have melanomas. They most commonly involve the tail and perineum (around the anus and vulva in mares), the sheath of males, the eyelids and the mouth.

How are they treated? In young horses, most melanomas behave as benign cancers but with age they are more likely to become malignant and can then spread internally. For this reason, removal (with laser surgery) is advised when the melanomas are small. There is a vaccine that has recently been launched to treat horses with melanomas, but currently there is limited information available about its effectiveness.

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For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday.

Scientific breakthrough on common cancer that affects horses and humans H&H Plus

Lucy Elder — Sun, 31 May 2020 10:19:52 +0000

The common cancer, that is found in horses and humans, results in equine euthanasia on welfare grounds in a ‘significant number of cases’, but it is believed the new knowledge will lead to a much better understanding and treatment. H&H finds out more...

Scientists have made a breakthrough in understanding a common cancer that affects horses and humans.

Squamous cell carcinoma affects horses’ eyes, the skin around the eyes, and genitalia. It leads to equine euthanasia on welfare grounds in a “significant number of cases”.

The new study was led by researchers at the Royal Veterinary College (RVC), King’s College London, the University of Edinburgh and University College London.

It built on previous research, which showed how the cancer often becomes more biologically aggressive. This new study examined tissue and used state-of-the-art artificial intelligence to show a link between chronic inflammation, equine papillomavirus infection (of which warts are a sign) and progression of the cancer on the penis.

Several additional cancer-related signalling molecules, which are important in researchers’ understanding of human penile cancer, were also studied and the results will lead to a much better understanding and treatment of the cancer.

“Equine squamous cell carcinoma is the second most common type of cancer in horses, with a variable prognosis,” said RVC’s professor of veterinary anatomic pathology Simon Priestnall.

“We are delighted to have made this breakthrough that provides a greater understanding and can lead to more effective treatments for horses and their owners.

“This project shows what can be achieved when different organisations work together with a common aim and we hope the similarities between the tumour in horses and people can offer a true One Health benefit.”

Lucy Grieve, a member of the British Equine Veterinary Association’s ethics and welfare committee, told H&H working in this way “gives scope for so much more to be achieved and the benefits to be felt as far and wide as possible.”

“This is a perfect example of multiple centres of research having collaborated to achieve more, and even better they have discovered information that will help both horses and humans,” she said.

“If horses and humans, both as patients and owners, can be given more help when suffering from these terrible types of tumours, then we stand a better chance of catching them early, offering more appropriate treatments, with the aim of a higher success rate overall.”

She added that BEVA recognises the huge importance of co-operation between the medical fields and how research like this is only made possible by generous funding.

Alejandro Suárez-Bonnet, lecturer in comparative pathology at the RVC, explained he is involved in further work with Professor Priestnall, leading a masters degree project investigating the cancer from a broader perspective, with funding from the Horse Racing Betting Levy.

“I am so pleased with the results of this study, which will hopefully pave the way for improved prognosis of horses diagnosed with equine squamous cell carcinoma,” said Dr Suárez-Bonnet.

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‘Riding at PSG is my incentive to keep fighting’: meet the inspiring cancer sufferer who refuses to give up on her dream

Polly Bryan — Tue, 31 Jul 2018 07:24:47 +0000

A rider battling a severe form of cancer has made a brave winning return to the dressage arena

British Horse Society coach Clarissa Dawson was diagnosed with terminal leukemia last summer, and endured many rounds of chemotherapy, keeping her out of the saddle for long periods of time. But she made a triumphant return to the dressage arena against the odds last month, when she won an advanced class with an impressive plus-68% at Onley Grounds, Warks, with her mare Primiende.

“I’ve had the mare since she was a three-year-old and she’s been my saving grace,” says Clarissa who, a few days after her win, received the traumatic news that her cancer had returned. “We call her Girlie at home — she always has to put her mascara on — and she’s given me a lot of pleasure over the years. This class was a small thing in comparison to other things, but to me it was a very precious win, on my very precious mare.”

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Clarissa, an equine tutor at Moreton Morrell College, trains with Dan Greenwood, who she describes as “fantastic”, and also credits Liz Rogers with keeping Girlie ticking over while she undergoes treatment.

“The chemo leaves you very weak, and my white blood cell count is on the floor so I’m open to infections,” says Clarissa, who hopes to be out of hospital in early August.

“But they’re very good here at the hospital and they let me walk around, as lying in bed you lose so much strength and muscle. I also have a pedal machine that I can use lying on the bed; it’s a hoot, and everyone thinks I’m a bit nuts, but it works!

“It’s all about psychology and mindset; it’s very easy to give up,” continues Clarissa. “You have to have a goal; not a ridiculous one — even if it’s just managing to get on your horse and walk for 20 minutes that’s great. Ultimately my goal is to ride at prix st georges [PSG]. I’ve got the tailcoat but it’s still hanging up in the wardrobe — I haven’t worn it. It’s my incentive to keep fighting, and I’m quite boneheaded so I think that will get me through.

“It annoys me that this has taken my life away and stops me doing what I want to do, but competing when I can gives me a sense of normality. I had a lovely day at Onley: putting the horse in the trailer, going out and being totally independent.

“Then six days later I had the ghastly news the cancer had returned and I was whipped back into hospital to be sorted out. You have to live for the moment, appreciate the good times and take life day by day.”

For all the latest news analysis, competition reports, interviews, features and much more, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, on sale every Thursday.

Former international showjumper Michael Mac has died

Horse & Hound — Mon, 02 Jun 2014 15:12:58 +0000

Former international showjumper Michael Mac has died aged 52.

Michael had been suffering from cancer. He died today (Monday 2 June).

He was a British team rider, Horse of the Year Show champion, accredited coach and former British Showjumping (BS) chairman.

“We have lost today, not only an innovator for our sport but also a man whose strength knew no bounds,” said Les Harris, current Chairman of BS.

“He knew what he wanted to achieve and he was unwavering in his delivery of this. His strength and backbone was second to none as was his compassion and understanding.

“I talk not only for myself, but also for everyone at BS when I say that I feel privileged to have known him and that I will miss him in many aspects.

“Words are not enough to convey our heartfelt thoughts for his wife Emma and children Jenna, Westley, Sienna and Jack at this extremely sad time.”

See Horse & Hound’s tribute to Mr Mac in Thursday 5 June magazine

Melanoma treatment trialled for grey horses

Horse & Hound — Tue, 09 Apr 2013 14:22:25 +0000

Specialists at Liverpool and Glasgow universities are pioneering research they hope will lead to a greater understanding of melanoma.

The cancer, which can be fatal, afflicts 90% of grey horses.

Professor Derek Knottenbelt said he has been using a chemotherapy agent that is injected into specific advanced tumours that are inoperable.

The research is “in the extremely early stages but it does hold some promise”, he told H&H.

Melanoma, a skin cancer, is common in greys, but is rarely treated because of concerns the tumour will spread. There is no available effective chemotherapy for horses.

Vets usually advise the tumours are left alone, Dr Knottenbelt said, believing that interference could cause more trouble. Many affected horses die from other causes before the melanomas become a serious issue.

Professor Knottenbelt said most melanomas will eventually become malignant, so an apparently small, benign mass can become dangerous and even fatal.

Little research has been done into the disease, which affects almost all grey horses.

Melanoma does not just affect the skin. Professor Knottenbelt has seen tumours “in almost every organ of the body, including inside the eyes”.

Sam Chimley, of Leicestershire, said her 19-year-old grey mare has a large tumour near her anus, but her vet told her to accept it as part of owning a grey horse.

Rather than “take no for an answer”, Mrs Chimley has started treatment of four to six injections under sedation at fortnightly intervals, which could shrink the tumour.

Dr Knottenbelt said the lack of research was a “disgrace”.

“Around 75% of grey horses will develop malignant melanomas,” he said.

“Then when they are bad, treatment is not possible so it becomes a self-fulfilling prophecy. They are benign initially but in the later stages of their development, they are almost always malignant.

“Malignant tumours have the potential to be fatal. If that transition takes place when the horse is nine, or 10, or 12 years old, and the melanoma spreads throughout the body, it will in all likelihood be fatal.”

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (4 April 2013)

Horse back in work after losing more than half her lower jaw

Horse & Hound — Fri, 20 Jan 2012 14:41:48 +0000

Star the appaloosa-cob cross is back to normal despite losing more than half of her lower jaw to cancer, owner Paul Newby told H&H.

She is one of just five horses in the world to have undergone the surgery.

The tumour was the size of a melon.

Paul, of Humbledon, Sunderland, thought he had lost Star when a rare ameloblastoma tumour was diagnosed in her lower jaw last summer.

“It was obvious something had to be done. She was struggling to eat, her teeth were out of line and when they took the biopsy all this pus came out – her jaw was rotting away, said Paul. “I really thought her days were numbered.”

However Star was referred to soft tissue specialist Patrick Pollock at Glasgow University, one of just a handful of vets specialising in these type of cases.

He and his team spent four hours, last September, removing the growth and Star’s lower jaw, back to 2cm in front of her cheek teeth.

And within two hours of the op she was trying to eat, Patrick told H&H.

“She has recovered exceedingly well,” he said. “Horses are very adaptable and can use their lips and tongue to rip grass and hay.

“We had to remove a big flap of skin from her lower lip as there was no bone to support it, and at first she had trouble controlling her tongue, but she is managing extremely well.”

“I wanted to give her a chance,” said Paul. “She was just six and I’d had her since she was six months.”

And Paul’s optimism has paid off. She is now clipped and back in full work – but is ridden in a hackamore.

“She picked up exactly where we left off. She was just starting to do little show jumping classes last summer and we took her cross-country schooling last week,” he added.

Would you be covered if your horse needed major surgery like Star? For all your insurance needs, contact KBIS

Keratex founder, Dr John Irving, dies aged 81

Horse & Hound — Thu, 25 Aug 2011 10:35:54 +0000

Founder and managing director of Keratex Hoofcare, Dr John Irving, has died aged 81.

He passed away on 3 August following a long battle with prostate cancer.

Dr Irving, who was still working one week before he died, set up Keratex in 1991 following his invention of the flagship product, Keratex Hoof Hardener.

His range of products work to protect, repair and improve equine hooves.

Before setting up the business he worked as a group captain in the Royal Air Force and helped to design the world’s first mid-air re-fuelling system.

Dr Irving’s wife Alison, daughter Rosie and son-in-law Alex will continue to manage the company.

28 hours in the saddle record breaking attempt

Horse & Hound — Thu, 04 Aug 2011 14:48:32 +0000

One plucky rider is planning to spend 28 hours in the saddle to raise money for Cancer Research UK and Hospice in the Weald.

Emma Whittington, aged 24, from Frant in East Sussex, will use 11 horses from Bedgebury Park Equestrian Centre in Kent, where the attempt will take place, as well as borrowing some from friends.

Not only is the event manager raising money for the charities but also she hopes to set a new world record, surpassing what she believes to be the current one by four hours.

Her 28 hours of continuous riding, starting on 17 September, will consist of hacking, schooling and a dressage competition on Sunday.

Any time spent transferring between horses will not be counted.

Emma, whose cousin, the eventer Francis Whittington, did a 24-hour charity ride in 1997, said: “One of my biggest worries is the boredom. There will be a party in the evening to help entertain me and on Sunday I’ve entered a dressage competition on three horses, so that, along with some hacking should keep me going.

“The other issue will be getting saddle sore — I’ve been riding all my life and done plenty of sponsored rides so hopefully that will help.

“I’m hoping that as I have to change saddles, and horses, about 24 times they will be kept to a minimum.

“Saddle savers and extra padding will also be used, I’ve already booked in a massage and acupuncture for Monday morning!”

Well wishers can join Emma at Bedgebury, on the evening of 17 September, for a hog roast, rodeo bull and disco as she rides. Tickets cost £10 and can be bought from info@emmaevents.co.uk

Hospice in the Weald provides specialist palliative care, advice and clinical support for people with life-limiting illness, their family and the bereaved in the West Kent and East Sussex area.

Cancer Research UK works to find new way to prevent, diagnose and treat cancer.

You can also donate via Emma’s fundraising page at http://www.justgiving.com/teams/Emma-Whittington-28hourride

Animal Health Trust to open new cancer centre

Horse & Hound — Thu, 28 Jul 2011 16:35:44 +0000

The Animal Health Trust (AHT) has begun building a new cancer centre at its Lanwades Park base in Suffolk — but needs to raise £1.5 million to complete the project.

Due to open next summer, it will treat horses, dogs and cats as well as conduct research into treatments for animals and humans.

The AHT hopes to treat more than 100 equine cases a year at the new centre.

Sue Murphy, head of clinical cancer treatment, said: “Having all three treatment options [surgery, chemotherapy and radiotherapy] on one site means that whatever the diagnosis, we will be able to offer patients the very best option for their case.”

An extra £250,000 is needed to buy a linear accelerator — a radiotherapy machine that irradiates cancerous cells without destroying the surrounding tissue.

Stamford-based Ian Scott, whose showjumper Lackaview Cruise (known as “Fern”) has been diagnosed with cancer, said the centre was much needed.

“Fern has inoperable and untreatable tumours — hopefully research could lead to treatment being an option for owners in the future living with this diagnosis,” he said.

And Dr Tim Mair of the Bell Equine Veterinary Clinic in Kent, who has studied cancerous tumours in the horse, said: “Equine cancer is an area that needs a lot more work to improve treatment as it lags far behind other small animals and humans.

“All types of cancer are problematic and generally have a high reoccurrence rate — by the time of diagnosis we often can’t do anything.”

For more information, including how to donate, visit: www.aht.org.uk or tel: 01638 555648.

This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (28 July, 2011)

Carlisle hosts world’s first race meeting for lady jockeys

Amy Mathieson — Thu, 21 Jul 2011 13:28:59 +0000

Girls take centre stage at Carlisle racecourse next month — for the world’s first race meeting for lady jockeys.

All six races on the card on Monday 1 August are for female-only professionals, amateurs and apprentices.

The concept — thought up by Jockey Club Racecourses’ John Baker — is designed to promote the girls’ skills to the wider public and raise money for Breast Cancer Care and the Breast Cancer Campaign.

Leading Flat jockeys Hayley Turner, Sophie Doyle and Laura Pike will be riding.

Hayley said: “I hope this unique night will encourage more women into racing.”

And Sophie added: “Hopefully, some big-name trainers will fill the entries and help towards a great cause.”

Racing will be followed by a concert by X Factor winner Alexandra Burke. Tickets are priced from £13.60.

For more information visit www.carlisle-races.co.uk

This new story was first published in Horse & Hound (21 July, 2011)

‘Pink’ Hilton Herbs products raise money for Cancer Research

Horse & Hound — Wed, 11 Aug 2010 16:41:54 +0000

Two “pink” horse products have been launched this week by Hilton Herbs in conjunction with Cancer Research.

The new pink Blossom conditioning shampoo — for horses and dogs — and a limited edition 1.5kg jar of Herball horse treats have been launched in memory of former Hilton Herbs employee Nathalie Siergiej.

Natalie ran Hilton Herbs’ French office in Sendets, near Bordeaux, for seven years before losing her battle with breast cancer in June 2010.

Earlier this year, Hilton Herbs founders Hilary and Tony Self formed a giving group on the Cancer Research website for Natalie.

“We have now followed this up with the launch of our pink Blossom conditioning shampoo and a limited edition Herball Horse Treats,” said A Hilton Herbs spokesman.

“We are very proud that both of these products feature the Cancer Research logo to show that a percentage of each sale will go towards helping this very worthwhile cause.”

Herball Horse Treats have no added sugars, molasses, artificial flavours or colourants and the Blossom shampoo contains jojoba oil and shea butter and aloe vera.

The products are available from usual stockists and www.hiltonherbs.com, starting at £1.18.

Equestrian calendar to raise money for injured riders

Horse & Hound — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 15:38:33 +0000

An equestrian calendar with a twist is on the market to raise funds for Cancer Research UK and the Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund (MDIRF).

The Fit for Life 2010 calendar, which has been on sale since 7 December, features photographs of equestrian-themed imitations of well-known adverts.

“All of the girls in the photos are either riders or work with horses,” said Pete Glowski, the professional photographer who spawned the idea. “There is a strong equestrian theme in every shot.

“For example, the front cover is a play on the Whiskers cat food advert, which has a tagline of ‘nine out of ten cats prefer Whiskers’. I’ve used ‘nine out of ten woman prefer horses’ instead.”

Other companies whose adverts have been “equestrianised” include Guinness and Cadburys.

The calendar, which is priced at £7.99, raised £1,000 on its launch night alone.

“I originally wanted to raise money for Cancer Research UK, but my wife is a keen rider, and we have five horses at home, so we decided to split the money with the worthy MDIRF,” Pete said.

If you are keen to get your hands on a copy of the calendar you will have to act quickly: only 750 calendars were produced, and over half of the stock has been sold already.

For more information visit www.peteglowskiphotography.co.uk

Old Berks Pony Club raise £10,000 for cancer charity

Horse & Hound — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 17:36:14 +0000

Seventy members of the Old Berks Pony Club, aged six to 60, took part in a 24-hour rideathon in aid of the Aqualung Trust, raising nearly £10,000.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (3 September, ’09)

Racing world supports ‘Buy Dad a Day for Father’s Day’ charity auction

Emma Sewell — Fri, 05 Jun 2009 16:40:03 +0000

Leading figures in the horse racing world are backing the online charity auction site Buy Dad a Day for Father’s Day, in an effort to raise money for and awareness of prostate and testicular cancers.

Unique gifts have been donated for people to bid for with Father’s Day in mind.

Derek Thompson, Channel 4 racing commentator, is giving the opportunity for one father to join him for a day at the races. Two badges to a race meeting will be given, along with a visit to the commentary box to watch a race with him.

Another lot on offer is a day at Newmarket. This includes a behind-the-scenes tour of Clarehaven Stables with trainer John Gosden, lunch at the Jockey Club rooms, a stallion show at Dalham Hall Stud and an evening tea at Warren Place with legendary trainer Henry Cecil.

Other lots include two bronze weekend tickets to the British Grand Prix at Silverstone, a play day at Wimbledon with ex-Great Britain Davis Cup player, Nick Brown and a chance to watch Reading FC play from the Directors’ Box.

The auction closes at 5pm on Wednesday 17 June.

All money raised from the online auction will help in funding the research and treatment of male diseases like prostate and testicular cancer.

For further information or to place a bid, visit www.buydadaday.com

Wish comes true for young cancer sufferer who is given her own pony

Horse & Hound — Tue, 02 Jun 2009 11:23:38 +0000

An 11-year-old Bristol girl who was diagnosed with a rare form of ovarian cancer in 2007 and suffered blindness, loss of consciousness and seizures has been given her own pony by wish granting charity Starlight.

Called Bailey and donated by a mystery donor in Devon, the pony was given to Paige Brown of Backwell at the Youngwood Green stable yard in Nailsea on 15 May.

Paige has successfully recovered from the cancer after having a tumour removed from her pelvic region.

She had to endure five weeks in hospital and months of chemotherapy.

This is the first time Starlight has been able to fulfill a wish in this way.

Paige’s mum, Kirstie, said her daughter was thrilled.

“Paige has been an avid pony lover all her life and the hardest part of her illness was not being able to ride,” she said. “When we collected Bailey she didn’t have a clue that she was about to get her own pony. She was completely surprised by the whole thing.”

The mystery donor came forward after Paige’s story was published in the Starlight newsletter.

Horse riders get in the pink to raise money for Cancer Research

Horse & Hound — Thu, 28 May 2009 13:16:22 +0000

Hundreds of riders are preparing for the pinkest date in the equine calendar.

The Speedgate Equestrian Centre’s Ride for Life at Fawkham, Kent, is now in its third year and will take place on 6 and 7 June.

“When the ride was first launched we had no idea it would be this popular, and enthusiasm has just grown and grown. It is a cause close to many people’s hearts,” said organiser Nicky Barnes, 25, who is the events manager at Speedgate.

Horses and riders will be dressed top-to-tail in pink for the event, which is themed “Think Pink”. They will raise thousands of pounds for Cancer Research UK as they ride over10 miles of beautiful Kent countryside.

“Last year around 320 riders helped us to raise more than £30,000 for Cancer Research, so we have a huge target to beat this year,” Nicky added.

This year Speedgate has also designed pink Ride for Life t-shirts which can be worn on the ride or kept as souvenirs. Retailing at £5, with all proceeds going to Cancer research UK, they are available to buy in advance from Speedgate, or can be bought on the day.

“This is a lovely and unusual event to take part in and to watch — it’s very pink and it’s growing by the year,” said Jane Krafft, area volunteer manager for Cancer Research UK.

For more information visit click here or tel: 07765 547 301.

Teenager goes eventing for Breast Cancer research

Horse & Hound — Wed, 25 Mar 2009 14:52:08 +0000

A teenager from Norwich will be combining her love for eventing with fund-raising skills when she competes at horse trials throughout the season to raise money for Breast Cancer research.

Steph Richardson, 17, has clipped a Breast Cancer ribbon onto the hindquarters of her horse, Athlone Frankie. The pair will kick-off their fund-raising and eventing season on Sunday (29 March) at Great Witchingham Horse Trials.

The ribbon shape on the 15.3hh seven-year-old gelding’s rump will be sprayed bright pink as the pair compete in the BE90 section at Great Witchingham. On the ground, Steph’s mother, Pam, will lead a team rattling buckets for Breast Cancer.

“We have entered Great Witchingham and Burnham Market to start with,” said Steph’s mother, Pam. “We will have a strong team on the ground accompanying us to both events, wearing pinks shirts with the Cambridge Breast Unit logo on, and rattling pink buckets.”

Steph and her mother, Pam, are hoping to raise money for the Cambridge Breast Cancer Research Unit at Addenbrookes Hospital — a unit that Pam worked closely with for three years.

Steph is currently doing her AS levels at Norwich School. She is a member of the school’s newly formed equestrian team, and this will be her third season eventing at affiliated level.

The Barn Shop at Royston and North Walsham Saddlery in Norfolk are among several companies who have supported the cause by pledging money.

Steph and Pam hope that by attending these events they will raise awareness of the illness and raise money to help research.

“We are very much hoping that Frankie goes well at the initial two events so that we can make a season of it,” explained Pam.

New equine cancer unit opens at Cambridge University

Horse & Hound — Fri, 17 Oct 2008 15:26:45 +0000

Horses with cancer have a better chance of recovery thanks to the extension of a cancer therapy unit at the University of Cambridge.

The Queen’s Veterinary Hospital at the university is the only facility in Europe offering radiotherapy for horses. Last week it opened a new building to house a radiotherapy machine designed to treat animals.

Veterinary oncologist Dr Jane Dobson told H&H: “The building has been designed to allow us to bring horses into the treatment room.”

The new machine — called a linear accelerator — is identical to those used in human cancer treatment centres.

President of the British Equine Veterinary Association, David Dugdale, said the unit was “very good news” and offered a new treatment option for horses with cancer.

For more on this, see the current issue of Horse & Hound (16 October 2008)

Horses with cancer will receive improved treatment from new unit

Horse & Hound — Fri, 10 Oct 2008 12:09:23 +0000

Horses with cancer have a better chance of recovery from today thanks to the extension of a cancer therapy unit at the University of Cambridge.

The Queen’s Veterinary Hospital at the university is the only facility in Europe offering radiotherapy for horses.

Since 1991, the hospital has been using radiotherapy equipment donated by NHS. But yesterday it opened a new building to house a new radiotherapy machine designed to treat all animals large and small.

Veterinary oncologist Dr Jane Dobson told H&H: “We haven’t treated any horses yet on the new machine, but the building has been designed to allow us to bring horses into the treatment room.”

The new machine — called a linear accelerator — is identical to those used in human cancer treatment centres.

Dr Dobson said: “The tumours we have treated previously were solitary lymphomas, sarcoids and squamous cell carcinomas of the skin — radiotherapy is not very effective at treating large, slowly growing tumours.”

Radiotherapy usually takes the form of a course of three or four treatments over a period of three to four weeks.

Although treatment itself takes only about five minutes, the patients have to be anaesthetised and manoeuvred into the right position — which can take time.

The University of Cambridge is still raising money to help pay for the installation of the new cancer therapy unit. In total, the project cost £1.5million.

For more information, visit www.cam.ac.uk

Event rider Ben Hobday shaves his head for Cancer Research UK

Amy Mathieson — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 12:56:13 +0000

British event rider Ben Hobday is sporting a new, smoother look after he shaved his head to raise money for Cancer Research UK.

The 19-year-old decided to shave his head in support of his yard manager, Dianne Lee, who has been diagnosed with cancer, and his mother, who is in remission.

Ben said: “Dianne has been diagnosed with cancer and when her hair started to fall out, she asked me to shave mine off, too.

“I thought we could raise some money for charity in the process and Cancer Research seemed the right cause because it is really important to me that doctors look for ways of preventing and stopping all types of cancer.”

Ben was a member of the British squad at the 2007 European Championships and is based in Cheshire.

Donations can be submitted through www.benhobday.com or donated directly to www.cancerresearchuk.org.

Cheques can be sent to Ben Hobday, Rowley Farm Stud, Quarry bank, Utkinton, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0lA.

Ifor Williams Christmas present puts a family in the pink

Horse & Hound — Fri, 04 Jan 2008 17:31:57 +0000

Girls have always loved the colour pink — so when trailer manufacturers Ifor Williams donated a pink trailer to the charity Breast Cancer Care there must have been hundreds of little girls up and down the country begging for their parents to place a bid.

The lucky recipients of the distinctive trailer were seven-year-old Amelia Potter and her mother Celia.

Amelia’s father, John Potter, a Norfolk businessman who owns Potters Holidays Ltd, placed his bid online while relaxing on the beach in Cyprus.

The gift served as a Christmas present for both his daughter and his wife.

“Amelia is a typical seven-year-old and happens to need transport for her pony Russett, and I knew she would love it to be pink,” he said.

The charity auction was part of the annual campaign In the Pink and the trailer was displayed at the Horse of the Year Show.

Mr Potter’s bid of more than £6,000 secured the trailer which would usually have sold for £4,000.

Fancy dress dressage day raises money for cancer charity

Horse & Hound — Tue, 04 Dec 2007 11:24:11 +0000

A Tickled Pink Equestrian Event at Richmond Equestrian Centre has raised £2,873 for Breast Cancer Haven’s Yorkshire Appeal.

Event organisers Belinda Yarrow and Alison Clayton put on a “Pink” extravaganza, with a full day of fancy-dress dressage for all ages and abilities.

The Yorkshire Appeal aims to raise £2.2 million in order to purchase The Gateway and convert it into a Breast Cancer Haven in Leeds, opening in 2008.

This is the only charity that provides centres, or Havens, that deliver a free programme of care specifically designed to complement and enhance conventional breast cancer treatment.

“The Tickled Pink event was a huge success with such a fantastic donation made to the Yorkshire Appeal.

“It was also so good to see both supporters and their horses getting in the pink to help us achieve our goal,” said Julie Harrington, Yorkshire Appeal Manager.

The charity currently has two havens in London and Hereford that help over 300 women, men and their families each week. Belinda Yarrow, Equestrian Event Organiser, said:

“The event was fun and we are thrilled to be handing over this money to such a worthwhile local cause as Breast Cancer Haven. We are so proud of our achievement and very grateful for the support and help we received.”

Trek Jordan for Teenage Cancer Trust

Horse & Hound — Thu, 25 Oct 2007 15:28:09 +0000

The Teenage Cancer Trust is to run a horse trek in Jordan to raise money for teenage sufferers of cancer.

In a programme organised by the charity, trekkers will ride Arabian horses through deserts and mountain ranges in the footsteps of Lawrence of Arabia, starting in Petra and finishing in Wadi Rum. Groups will sleep in traditional Bedouin camps.

The trek will take place 15-23 November 2008. To take part, trekkers must be over 18, relatively fit, and able to pledge a donation which will include the cost of the trek and money to the charity.

Participation costs £1,673, with a minimum required donation of £2,650.

Teenage Cancer Trust funds specialist units within NHS hospitals to give teenage cancer patients access to the best possible medical treatment and facilities. Six teenagers in the UK are diagnosed with cancer every day.

For more information on the trek contact Teenage Cancer Trust on 020 7612 0370 or visit: www.teenagecancertrust.org

Cancer unit to boost horse health

Karen Spinner — Mon, 02 Jul 2007 13:44:59 +0000

A £3million animal cancer centre will benefit equine patients when it opens in June 2008.

Half the funds have already been raised, the centre’s Stephanie Brickman told H&H, with the other half to come from grants and trusts.

The centre is part of a £100m investment in the Royal (Dick) School of Veterinary Studies at the University of Edinburgh and, when open, will be only the sixth facility of its kind in the world.

With the radiography equipment designed mainly to treat cancer in small animals, state-of-the-art imaging equipment will be used to diagnose and treat problems of the head, neck and legs in horses.

Project leader Professor David Argyle told H&H the centre would also improve understanding of inflammatory diseases.

He explained: “One problem we have had for several years is that the images of the head and neck we’ve taken in horses have been quite poor and, as a result, we still don’t know enough about dental diseases and sinus problems.”

Professor Argyle said equines would be referred from all over the country, and mainland Europe, to the centre.

“The centre will make us world leaders in our field,” he added.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (28 July, ’07)

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