Latest from Horse & Hound in Scotland

BHS Scotland ‘thrilled’ to celebrate 60th anniversary as major fixture’s charity of the year

Lucy Elder — Sun, 31 May 2026 06:21:34 +0000

Scone Palace International Horse Trials’ supported charity for 2026 (27 to 30 August) will be British Horse Society (BHS) Scotland.

Georgina Charlton, national manager for BHS Scotland, said the charity is “delighted”.

“Being chosen in the same year we celebrate the 60th anniversary of BHS Scotland makes this recognition even more special,” she said. “We are thrilled to have the opportunity to showcase and champion the work BHS Scotland does to support horses, their owners and everyone who loves them across all of our charitable areas.”

Proceeds from the official cross-country course-walks with top riders will be donated to the charity, which will also man the “shop and drop” facility.

The BHS Scotland stand will feature a mechanical horse and BHS activities in the children’s area, and the charity will have its own event lorry near the cross-country course.

Scone Palace International Horse Trials also hosts the BHS Scotland Riding Club Style Jumping Championships (29 August), which includes a services section, and the BHS Scotland Championship Finals Series of working hunter classes (27 August).

BHS Scotland will run continuing professional development events during the horse trials. These include a training session with Nick Gauntlett during the first horse inspection (26 August), plus a course-walk and dressage study group. Denise Richardson-Rowell will also host a session on working hunter competitions on 27 August.

Scone Palace International Horse Trials event director Alec Lochore said: “BHS Scotland is a very important charity to everyone involved in all the diverse areas of the equestrian world.

“We are keen to promote a love and understanding of horses, and to share our passion for them with people who may not have had the chance to experience our community, and partnering with BHS Scotland is a great way to do this.”

Grace & Dotty supports Aamilah Aswat

Clothing brand Grace & Dotty has partnered with British jump jockey Aamilah Aswat in a three-year deal that supports her aim of riding on racing’s biggest stages.

The partnership is part of the brand’s wider initiative to spotlight “new faces of the countryside” – a campaign aimed at redefining traditional perceptions of rural life and celebrating individuals whose stories bring fresh energy and diversity to horseracing culture.

“Horseracing is my dream, and becoming the first Black British woman to compete in jump racing is just the beginning,” said Aamilah.

“The support from Grace & Dotty means everything – it’s not just about sponsorship; it’s about visibility and belonging. We’re changing what the sport looks like.”

The Grace & Dotty sponsorship will provide Aamilah with support across training, equipment, and public profile development.

Grace & Dotty owner Karen Ellis said the brand “has always stood for authenticity and adventure”.

“We’re proud to back Aamilah not only because of her incredible talent and determination but because she represents a fresh and inclusive vision of rural Britain. Her journey shows that the countryside – and the sport of racing – are open to everyone,” she said.

“Grace & Dotty believes that horse racing is evolving. Backing Aamilah for the next three years is our way of investing in that future – encouraging equality, opportunity and representation in the spaces and sports we love.”

Howden supports British Riding Clubs

British Riding Clubs (BRC) has partnered with insurance broker Howden to support grassroots equestrian sport.

Howden is the new title sponsor of three BRC championships: the winter dressage championships, national horse trials championships and the combined championships.

Head of BRC Rachael Hollely-Thompson said: “We are delighted to welcome Howden on board and are looking forward to working with them.

“Their support demonstrates their commitment to the grassroots equestrian community, and it will enable us to continue to run high quality events for our members. We are excited to collaborate and offer further support for our clubs and members.”

Catherine Morgan, head of equine at Howden, added: “BRC provides fantastic opportunities for riders to train, compete and be part of a community of like-minded equestrians. Their events are so important in ensuring the sport thrives for the benefit of its members and the wider equestrian community.

“We’re proud to be supporting BRC with the sponsorship of three of their championship events, as well as advising BRC and the British Horse Society’s individual members on their insurance requirements. Robust insurance is not only critical for both riders and horses, but also for enabling equestrian events to go ahead.”

SEIB increases showjumping support

SEIB Insurance Brokers has increased its support for showjumping by signing as title sponsor of the SEIB Big Star young horse championship for the next three years.

SEIB is also offering British Showjumping (BS) members access to bespoke sports horse insurance cover for showjumping horses and ponies, with a discount of up to 20%.

Suzy Middleton, SEIB chief executive, said: “With this new formal partnership we are delighted to be working closely together with British Showjumping to provide the tailored insurance cover that BS members need for their valuable and much treasured horses and ponies.

“Our job as an insurer is to provide financial peace of mind, leaving riders to concentrate on their job of performing at their very best whatever their competition level within the sport.”

BS chief executive Iain Graham said the organisation is “delighted to be working with SEIB”.

“[Its] longevity and expertise in equine insurance ensures our members have access to the cover they need at a preferential rate,” he said.

“We welcome SEIB’s increased support of showjumping, it’s fantastic to have them on board as our new title sponsor of the prestigious SEIB Big Star championship in addition to their long-standing support of the SEIB winter novice championship.”

Tom McEwen named Avant Techno ambassador

Double Olympic gold medallist Tom McEwen has joined machinery firm Avant Techno as its equestrian ambassador.

“As one of Britain’s most respected event riders, Tom represents precision, consistency and performance under pressure – the very qualities that define our Avant loaders,” said Raimo Ala-Korpi, managing director of Avant Tecno UK.

“With Tom as an Avant ambassador, we will be sharing behind-the-scenes yard content and practical demonstrations from Tom, highlighting how Avant machinery supports smarter, more productive equestrian operations.”

Tom added: “We use the Avant pretty much every single day; it’s become a core part of how we run the yard. It makes a huge difference to everything we do, from moving muck and hay to handling larger bales – all tasks that can be especially challenging in UK yards where space is limited.

“With costs rising across the board, having equipment that genuinely improves productivity makes a real difference – Avant loaders simply get on with the job.”

Lycetts continues charity support at Bramham

Lycetts will sponsor the owners’ and riders’ drinks party at Defender Bramham International Horse Trials (11 to 14 June) for a third consecutive year, and support a series of fundraising initiatives at the four-star event.

Lycetts is collaborating with British Polo Gin to serve the Lycetts Collins cocktail, with proceeds going to the British Eventing Support Trust. This follows a successful partnership between the pair at the Eventing Spring Carnival at Thoresby Park in April.

Guests at the drinks party will also be invited to take part in “Pedal for Purpose” on a static bike and Lycetts will donate cash to charity for every kilometre cycled. There will also be a free prize draw for a £1,000 donation to the winner’s charity of choice, funded by Lycetts and matched by Benefact Group

“Bramham is a landmark event in the equestrian calendar and we’re delighted to be supporting it for a third year,” said Tim Slinger, associate director at Lycetts.

“The owners’ and riders’ drinks party is always a special part of the week and this year we’re pleased to add an even stronger fundraising element.”

Chapel Down partners with The Jockey Club

The Jockey Club has named Chapel Down as its official English sparkling wine partner in a multi-year deal.

The official partnership launch takes place at the Betfred Derby Festival at Epsom (5 to 6 June), where the brand will host a dedicated bar on the Hyperion Lawn.

Chapel Down sparkling wines will also be served at bars and hospitality areas across Epsom next week, and at all 15 Jockey Club racecourses.

Chapel Down also renewed its partnership with Royal Ascot (16 to 20 June) this year, and is the official English sparkling wine partner at Newbury racecourse.

“We are incredibly proud to partner with The Jockey Club, which stages some of the country’s most celebrated racedays and hospitality experiences across its racecourses nationwide,” said Chapel Down chief executive James Pennefather.

“The Jockey Club and Chapel Down share a commitment to quality, hospitality and memorable experiences, making this a natural partnership. The collaboration provides a significant platform to showcase English sparkling wine to audiences across some of the country’s most iconic sporting and social occasions.”

Birketts partners with Event Horse Owners Association

Birketts equine law experts will become a source of legal advice to the Event Horse Owners Association (EHOA) and its members.

Birketts head of equine Abi Rudd said the firm is “thrilled” to announce the new partnership.

“Bringing owners together, the association is at the heart of the eventing sport, and our partnership will enable our specialist equine team to support members with any opportunity or challenge that may present itself,” she said.

“We’re looking forward to strengthening our relationship with the eventing sport further and meeting EHOA members at an event soon.”

EHOA chairman Alex Wakeley added: “We are delighted to welcome Birketts as a partner of the EHOA. Their specialist knowledge of the equine sector, combined with their commitment to supporting owners, aligns perfectly with the association’s mission.

“This partnership will bring valuable expertise to our members and further strengthen the support network available within the eventing community.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout the year, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

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New hosts for major dressage shows after venue steps back

Becky Murray — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 11:03:37 +0000

British Dressage (BD) has announced a series of venue changes for major Scottish summer dates.

The Scottish Championships for BD members (12-14 June), Area Festival (17-19 July) and the summer regionals (8-9 August) had been due to take place at Rockrose Equestrian, in Haddington, near Edinburgh – but BD has confirmed that owing to a “change of organisation personnel” at Rockrose, the venue has “unfortunately had to withdraw” from hosting these events.

“Following this disappointing news, the BD team at head office, in consultation with the rules and fixtures committee, has been working hard to reallocate the Area Festival and regional championships to new venues on the originally planned dates to minimise disruption to members’ competition plans,” said a BD spokesperson (1 April).

“Thanks to the co-operation and flexibility from other BD venues in Scotland, this process has been completed swiftly.”

All three fixtures will continue on their original dates; the Area Festival will take place at Netherton Equestrian, Perthshire – with an additional day on 16 July – and the regional championships at Bogenraith Equestrian, Aberdeenshire. The Scottish Championships will run at Highfield at Howe, Fife.

“We appreciate that some members will be impacted by the change in geographical location for these fixtures. However, due to the short timescales involved, it was important to allocate based on the original tender applications we received and select venues that have run major dates previously, with a proven track record in organising these events and providing the required standard of facilities to meet our competition criteria,” said a BD spokesperson.

“BD would like to thank the organisers at Netherton, Bogenraith, and Highfield for their support, as well as our members for their understanding. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Rockrose Equestrian for their support of BD over the past decade and we hope to see them hosting again in future.”

On 31 March James Cunningham at Rockrose Equestrian thanked the dressage organising team at the venue, including the South East Scotland Dressage Group, Liz Anne Dobson and the current committee of Harry Payne, Linda Faulks and Sarah McLean, for “all their help and for running these shows so well for me over the last 10 years” – and all the volunteers.

“Whether you were a judge, steward, test sheet runner, scorer or a scriber. Without you, championships wouldn’t take place. I’d also like to thank BD for giving Rockrose the opportunity to run these championships over the years too,” he said.

“This doesn’t mean dressage at Rockrose is over. There will be a revised programme and there will be dressage here every month going forward, with a variation of affiliated and non-affiliated days.”

Mr Cunningham said once dates are finalised these will be updated on the Rockrose Facebook page.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Calls for national animal offenders’ register part of campaign to improve welfare laws

Becky Murray — Sun, 01 Mar 2026 13:58:52 +0000

Scottish horse owners are being asked to “help push for modern animal laws” – as calls are made to create a national register for those who abuse and mistreat animals.

The Scottish Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (SSPCA) has released its new manifesto ahead of the Scottish Parliament election on 7 May.

The animal welfare charity set out four key asks: the introduction of a national animal offenders register; embedding animal welfare into the education curriculum; a review of the Animal Health and Welfare (Scotland) Act 2006, and the creation of a permitted list of exotic animals that can be legally kept as pets.

The aim of an animal offenders register would be to allow all relevant enforcement agencies to monitor bans, track repeat offenders and identify early links between animal abuse and other crimes – via connection to current intelligence systems.

“Horses are at risk from repeat and serious welfare offences, and we have seen individuals who have been banned from keeping equines go on to acquire or care for them again, with devastating consequences,” an SSPCA spokesperson told H&H.

“A register would be a vital tool in helping enforcement agencies to identify those individuals more quickly and prevent horses from falling back into harmful situations. For equines, early intervention can be the difference between recovery and long-term suffering or neglect.”

The spokesperson added that the SSPCA “strongly supports” embedding the five domains model into welfare legislation.

“This would move the law beyond simply preventing cruelty and recognise what good welfare actually looks like for horses, including their physical health, behaviour, environment and mental wellbeing. For animals as sensitive and complex as horses, this is essential,” he said.

“Scottish horse owners have a powerful role to play. We are calling on people to contact their MSPs and local candidates, to ask them to support our manifesto. By doing this, we can all help push for modern animal welfare laws that can help ensure horses across Scotland are properly protected, that bans are enforced and that welfare standards reflect what we now know about equine needs.

“This is about safeguarding horses today and for generations to come.”

Horsescotland chief executive Sonya Campbell Perry told H&H the organisation is “fully supportive” of the manifesto – describing it as “a significant step forward” for animal welfare.

“As the governing body for equestrianism in Scotland, we continue to work with partners like the SSPCA to ensure our government makes the right policy decisions for the highest level of welfare for our equines and their communities,” she said.

But Ms Campbell added that although the manifesto asks are “vital”, work must be done to “urgently address two further issues impacting horses in Scotland”.

“The decade-long lack of farriery-training provision is creating a critical shortage of qualified professionals, directly threatening equine health given the essential ‘no hoof, no horse’ principle,” she said.

“Secondly, the financial pressure from business rates and associated relief on equestrian businesses is jeopardising the necessary land management required to meet high welfare standards, particularly when considered through the lens of the five domains model.

“We believe this model should be used to direct guidance on rates and tax for all premises accommodating equines, which would then support a practical and supported roll-out of a livery yard licencing scheme to further increase and protect equine welfare in Scotland.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2026, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

85 cross-country courses and schooling venues for hire across the country

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Fri, 06 Feb 2026 17:04:12 +0000

We’ve put together a list of cross-country course hire venues across England, Scotland and Wales, so that you can find the perfect place to take your horse cross-country schooling, whether it’s just for fun or to prepare for the season.

Most cross-country schooling venues, if not open all year, tend to open between February and April as riders start training for the eventing season ahead. Depending on the ground conditions and the time of year, you might prefer to school on grass or on an all-weather surface and we have plenty of examples of both options listed below.

Some courses are available for hire all year round, with the exception of during events and the preparation period, and in extreme weather. We’ve included seasonal opening times where these are available.

One important cross-country schooling tip is to choose a venue to suit your needs – for example, if your horse needs practice in water, opt for a venue with a water complex and splash area – so where the information is available, we’ve listed the fence heights and features of each course to help you find the best option.

If you run a cross-country course or schooling venue for hire that is not listed, please email georgia.guerin@futurenet.com to be added.

East of England

Includes cross-country course hire in Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Essex, Hertfordshire, Norfolk and Suffolk.

Berwick Farm XC

Stanford Rivers, Ongar, Essex CM5 9PY

berwickfarmxc.com

01708 688232

Open Apr–Oct
3.5 miles of tracks
Two water features
Three sunken roads
Two woodland areas
More than 100 fences

Blackwater Farm Equestrian Centre

Great Witchingham, Norfolk NR9 5PH

blackwaterfarm.co.uk

01362 688227

Open all year
Fences 60cm–1.15m
Natural copses
Clear natural water complexes
Wide variety of fence types
New fences every season

Ely Eventing Centre

Little Downham, Ely, Cambs CB6 2TY

elyeventing.co.uk

01353 698839

Open all year
Fences 60cm–1.15m
Two water complexes
Ditches and coffin combinations
Sunken road complex and step/bank area

Keysoe International

Keysoe, Beds MK44 2JP

keysoe.com

01234 708400

Arena XC only
Jumps from 70cm
Water, ditches, inclines
Built by Eric Winter

Kimpton Cross-Country Course

Kimpton, Nr Hitchin, Herts SG4 8HB

kimptonxcountry.co.uk

Open all year
More than 45 fences
Fences 50cm–1m+
Annual membership available

Poplar Park

Hollesley, Suffolk IP12 3NA

poplarpark.co.uk

01394 411023

Open all year
Fences 60cm–1.20m
Six full courses
BE standard
No time limit
Updated yearly

Radley Green Equestrian

Radley Green, Chelmsford, Essex CM4 0LU

rgequestrian.uk

Two arena courses
Fences 70cm–1.10m and 40–70cm
Steps, ditches, water and trakehners
Additional all-weather canter track

Stratford Hills Equestrian Centre

Stratford St Mary, Colchester, Essex CO7 6PA

stratfordhillsequestriancentre.co.uk

01206 322494

Opens February
Fences 35cm–1.10m
50 permanent and temporary jumps
Water jump and splash
Ditches and steps
Jumps in woodland

East Midlands

Includes cross-country course hire in Derbyshire, Leicestershire, South Lincolnshire, Northamptonshire, Nottinghamshire and Rutland.

Arkenfield Stables

Gunthorpe, Notts NG14 7ER

arkenfieldstables.co.uk

Fences 50–80cm

Aston-le-Walls

Washbrook Farm, Aston-le-Walls, Daventry, Northants NN11 6RT

astonlewalls.net

Grass schooling Feb–Nov
All-weather available

Aylesford Equine

Shoby, Melton Mowbray, Leics LE14 3PF

aylesfordequine.com

01664 812834

More than 100 fences
Fences 30cm–1.15m
Mini course (25–60cm)
Additional all-weather arena
No time limit on grass
Water complexes, coffins, sunken roads, drops, banks and skinnies

Barrowcliffe XC

Queniborough, Leicester LE7 3RX

barrowcliffexc.co.uk

Opens early spring
220 fences
40cm–1.20m

Eland Lodge

Ashbourne, Derbys DE6 5HD

elandlodge.com

Open Apr–Sept
Fences 50cm–1.10m
BE standard
All-weather take-off and landings
No time limit

Field Farm

Mumby, Lincs LN13 9SL

field-farm.net

Open all year
Fences 50cm, 70cm and 90cm
Variety of fences

Field Farm Cross Country

Wymeswold, Leics LE12 6ST

fieldfarmcrosscountry.co.uk

Open all year
Fences 70cm–1.10m
BE-standard fences
600m all-weather track with fences
Water, ditches, skinnies, banks and hedges

Grange Farm Cross-Country

Ingham, Lincs LN1 2YD

facebook.com

07711 238266

Opens early spring
More than 200 fences
Fences 40cm–1.15m

Golden Valley Equestrian Centre

Alfreton, Derbys DE55 4ES

goldenvalleyequestriancentre.co.uk

07377 853677

Seasonal opening (weather dependent)
Part woodland, part silica fibre surface
Range of fences

Vale View Equestrian Centre

Old Dalby, Melton Mowbray, Leics LE14 3LX

valeviewequestrian.co.uk

All-weather arena open all year
Fences 60cm–1.10m
BE-standard fences
Natural undulations, water complex with steps of varying heights, several ditches and steps

Well Vale Country Ride & Schooling Field

Well, Alford, Lincs LN13 0EU

wellvalecountryride.co.uk

01507 466644

110 fences
Fences 30cm–1m+
Water complex, steps, mounds and ditches
Additional 8 mile off-road ride with 30 optional fences (40–80cm)

Winters Equestrian Cross-Country

Thornton Manor, Market Rasen, Lincs LN7 6JD

wexc.co.uk

Opens in spring
70 fences
Fences 30cm–1.10m
Water, steps, banks and coffins

North East

Includes cross-country course hire in Northumberland, Tyne and Wear, and County Durham and North Yorkshire.

Breckenbrough Helen Bell Equestrian

Thirsk, N Yorks YO7 4EL

helenbellequestrian.co.uk

07708708967

Closed in winter, but access to winter training area
Fences 45cm–1.20m
Three water complexes
Two bank complexes and ditch combinations

Foxberry Chasers

Caldwell, Richmond, N Yorks DL11 7QL

foxberry.co.uk

More than 100 fences
Fences 45cm–1.05m
Full range of fences, plus track with all-weather take-offs
Water complex, steps, corner, arrowhead and coffin
Course regularly updated

Gloucester Lodge Farm

Blyth, Northumbs NE24 3PH

gloucesterlodgefarm.co.uk

01670 353633

Three courses – 60cm, 75cm, 90cm

Little Whittington

Corbridge, Newcastle Upon Tyne NE19 2LA

littlewhittingtonxc.co.uk

Open Apr–Sept
Fences 50cm–1.20m
Large water complex with ramp in
Steps, corners, skinnies, walls, ditches, logs, brush fences, combinations and tiger traps

Thornton Lodge

Easingwold, N Yorks YO61 3QA

thorntonlodgefarm.co.uk

Open March–Oct
More than 70 fences
Fences 45cm–1.05m
Water complex, two stream crossings and miles of grass

Todburn Equestrian Centre

Longhorsley, Morpeth, Northumb NE65 8QZ

todburnequestriancentre.co.uk

Opens April
Fences 40cm–1.15m

North West

Includes cross-country course hire in Cheshire, Cumbria, Greater Manchester, Lancashire, and Merseyside.

Charity Farm

Wrightington, Lancs WN6 9PP

charityfarm.co.uk

19 fences

Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre

Organsdale Farm, Kelsall, Cheshire CW6 0SR

kelsallhill.co.uk

Opens early spring
Fences 50cm–1.10m
Water complex complete with quarry, ski jump, trakehner, ditches, coffins and steps

Nord Vue

Armathwaite, Carlisle, Cumbria CA4 9TN

nordvue.com

Open Apr–Sept
Fences 40–90cm

Somerford Park

Holmes Chapel Road, Congleton CW12 4SW

somerfordpark.co.uk

Grass course open all year
All-weather Dec–March
More than 100 fences
Fences 75cm–1.20m
Designed by Andrew Heffernan
Combinations, drops, arrowheads, ditches, banks, chase fences and large water complex

Scotland

Greenfields of Avondale

Strathaven, South Lanarkshire ML10 6QF

greenfieldsofavondale.co.uk

07775 782296

Open all year
Fences 60cm–1m

Ian Stark Equestrian Centre

Greenhill Farm, Selkirk TD7 4NP

ianstarkequestriancentre.co.uk

01750 20202

Fences 70cm–1m
Built by Ian Stark

Lindores Equestrian

Newburgh, Cupar, Fife KY14 6HU

lindoresxc.co.uk

07736 044058

Open March–Oct
More than 180 fences
Fences 30cm–1.10m
Ditches, spreads, corners, skinnies, uprights, log piles, whisky barrels, ski jumps, combinations, pheasant feeders, trakheners, beehives, brush, cottages, keyhole and 20x20m water complex with run ins, run outs, steps, an upturned boat and a jump into water

Loch Lomond Pony Trekking

Tullichewan Farm, Balloch, West Dunbartonshire G83 8QY

lomond-ponytreks.co.uk

07745 277320

Open all year
Fences 15cm–1m
Steps, logs, ski jumps, corners, skinnies, tyres, barrels and ditches

Totley Wells

Winchburgh, West Lothian EH52 6QJ

totleywells.com

Open all year
31 fences
Fences 40cm–1m
Skinnies, banks, ditches, water splash, barrels, pigeon feeders, sharks teeth and tiger traps

Wilder Ways

Glen Kerran Farm, Southend, Argyll PA28 6PJ

wilderways.scot

Open Apr–Sept
25 fences
Fences 40cm–1m

South East

Includes cross-country course hire in Berkshire, Buckinghamshire, East Sussex, Hampshire, Isle of Wight, Kent, Oxfordshire, Surrey, and West Sussex.

Bonfleur Cross-Country Course

Maidstone, Kent ME17 4BD

bonfleurcrosscountrycourse.co.uk

07976138120

Opens March
Fences 45cm–1.05m
More than 120 fences
Water complex, ditches, banks, coffins, trakheners and combinations

Boomerang Stables

Chilton Foliat, Hungerford, Berks RG17 0TW

boomerangstables.co.uk

07711 499596

Open all year
Fences 30cm to BE Intermediate-plus
Water, ditches, steps, skinnies and spooky questions
Fences moved regularly

Bucklands Farm

Balcombe, W Sussex RH17 6JT

bucklandsfarm.co.uk

07754 076108

100 fences
Fences 30cm–1m
Ditches, trekehner, shallow steps, water, woodland areas and sunken road
No time limit

Chilham Park

Chilham Castle Estate, Canterbury, Kent CT4 8DB

chilhampark.co.uk

01227 730811

Chiltern Cross-Country

Woodcote, Oxfordshire RG8 0PH

chilternxc.co.uk

07767 370148

Open Feb–Nov
Fences 60cm–1m
Extensive water complex
Banks, steps and ditches

Coombelands Equestrian

Pulborough, West Sussex RH20 1BQ

coombelandsequestrian.com

07990 054863

Opens March
Fences 70cm–1.10m
Area with smaller arena-type fences for warm-up, lead-rein and small ponies
More than 100 fences

East Bysshe Equestrian

Newchapel, Lingfield, Surrey RH7 6LF

eastbyssheequestrian.com

Opens spring
More than 50 fences
No time limit

Fair Oak

Rogate, Petersfield GU31 5HR

fair-oak.co.uk

Open March–Oct
Wide range of fences

Felcourt Cross-Country Course

East Grinstead, W Sussex RH19 2LQ

facebook.com/felcourtcrosscountrycourse

07817 422923

Opens in spring on Thursdays, Fridays, weekends and Bank Holidays
60 fences
Fences 20–70cm

Gasston Stables

Headley, Epsom, Surrey KT18 6DY

gasstonstables.co.uk

07746 815796

Opens in spring
40cm–1.50m
More than 150 fences
Water complex, ditches, skinnies and steps
Woodland area

Hickstead Showground

The All England Jumping Course, Hickstead BN6 9HS

hicksteadschooling.co.uk

All-weather arenas open Oct–Apr
Fences 60cm–1.10m and advanced
Water complex with steps
Step complex ranging from novice to advanced
Permanent ditches and banks

Homelands Equestrian

Partridge Green, W Sussex RH13 8EQ

homelands-equestrian.co.uk

01403 711076

Opens March
100 fences
Fences 90cm–1.15m
Drops, gullies, mounds, ditches, sunken road, hollow, steps and water complex
Season pass and coaching available

Hurstwood Farm

High Hurstwood, East Sussex TN22 4AN

equestriantrainingcentre.co.uk

Fences 40cm–1.15m
Water complex
Separate mini course

Littleton Manor Equestrian

Littleton Manor Farm, Reigate Heath RH2 8QZ

lmeq.com

07771 600033

Open all year
150 fences beginner to intermediate
Water complex, coffin, steps, sunken road, bank, skinnies and corners

Lockskinners Equestrian

Edenbridge, Kent TN8 7ND

lockskinners.com

Open May–Oct
Technical course of 150 fences (70cm–1.35m)
Introductory course of 161 fences (40cm–1m)
Mini course (up to 40cm)

Lodge Farm

Matfield, Tonbridge TN12 7ET

lodgefarmcrosscountry.co.uk

Opens March
More than 90 fences
Fences 60cm–1.10m
Ditches, corners, arrowheads, skinnies and steps
Lots of combinations and two water complexes

Lyneham Heath Equestrian

Lyneham Heath, Nr Chipping Norton, Oxon OX7 6QQ

lynehamheathequestrian.co.uk

All-weather loop open all year
Grass opens approx end of April
Fences 70cm–intermediate
Mini fences (up to 60cm) in separate field
More than 200 fences

MK Equestrian Centre

Hanslope, Milton Keynes, Bucks MK19 7HQ

mpbeesleyandson.com

07810 120498

More than 200 fences
Fences 60cm–1.10m
BE-standard course
Two water complexes, range of steps, banks and ditches
Two additional mini courses (15–60cm)

Munstead

Godalming, Surrey GU7 1UN

munsteadhorsetrials.com

Open all year
70cm–1m

Nurstead Court

Meopham, Kent DA13 9AD

nursteadcourt.co.uk

07957 495146

BE-standard course

Parwood Equestrian Centre

Normandy, Guildford, Surrey GU3 2JE

parwood.co.uk

Open Apr–Oct (Tues–Sun)
Fences 50cm–1.15m

Prime Ponies

Bridgehill Farm, Horsham, W Sussex RH12 4RN

prime-ponies.co.uk

07853 081669

Opens May
35 fences
Fences 20–80cm

Snowball Farm

Burnham, Bucks SL1 8EH

snowballfarm.co.uk

01628 666222

Open for a limited time in spring
Fences 70cm–1m
Variety of fences, including water complex

Swalcliffe Park Equestrian

Swalcliffe, Banbury, Oxon OX15 5EX

swalcliffeparkequestrian.co.uk

01295 780206

Open all year
Fences up to 1.10m
Mini fences (30–60cm) in separate field
More than 150 fences
Ditches, sunken roads and water complexes

Tweseldown Racecourse

Church Crookham, Fleet, Hants GU52 8DY

tweseldown.co.uk

Open all year
40cm to BE Intermediate (Jan–May)
40cm–1m (May–Dec)

Wakes End

Milton Keynes, Bucks MK17 9FB

wakesendfarm.co.uk

Fences 60cm–1m

Wheatlands Farm

Finchampstead, Berks RG40 4LZ

wheatlandsfarm.com

0118 9731918

Open early spring to late Sept
More than 140 fences
Fences 30cm–1m
Two waters, two banks, ditches and steps

South West

Includes cross-country course hire in Cornwall, Devon, Dorset, Gloucestershire, Somerset, and Wiltshire.

Ace Cross-Country

Twyning, Tewkesbury, Glos GL20 6DA

acecrosscountry.co.uk

Main course and separate mini course
Water complex

Bicton Arena

East Burdleigh, Budleigh Salterton, Devon EX9 7BL

bicton-arena.co.uk

01395 441162

Course hire selected days only
Arena XC hire (70cm–1m)

Castle Farm

Wickwar, Glos GL12 8NS

castlefarmliverycrosscountry.com

Open Apr–Oct
Fences 40–90cm

Cricket St Thomas (Amanda Taylor Eventing)

Puthill Farm, Cricket St Thomas, Chard, Som TA20 4EJ

amandataylor.co.uk

07980 625546

Opens in spring
60 fences
Fences 75cm–1.10m
Two water complexes, two step complexes, two banks, ditches and combinations
Designed by BE-accredited Simon Bere

Deer Park Cross Country

Brockhampton, Glos GL54 5SR

deerparkcrosscountry.co.uk

07964 660702

Open all year
Fences 45cm–1.05m
More than 100 fences
No time limit

Everleigh Equestrian

Quickset Stables, Everleigh, Marlborough, Wilts SN8 3EU

everleigh-equestrian.co.uk

07990 571463

More than 35 fences
Suited to novice riders and young horses

Larkhill Eventing

Knighton Down, Larkhill, Wilts SP48QT

larkhilleventing.com

Opens specific dates
Fences 60cm–1.10m
BE standards

Oxstalls Cross-Country

Stroud, Glos GL6 8HZ

oxstallsxc.co.uk

50cm–1.20m
BE standard fences
Waters, steps, banks and drops
Range of ditches
Decorated fences
Regularly updated
Separate mini course

Pontispool

Norton Fitzwarren, Taunton, Somerset TA4 1BH

pontispool.co.uk

01823 461196

Grass schooling area open from Feb
All-weather open Nov–Mar
More than 200 fences
Fences 70cm–1.15m (from 40cm at certain times of year)
All-weather take offs and landings at permanent fences
Three water complexes and two quarry complexes

Rectory Farm

Duntisbourne Abbots, Cirencester, Glos GL7 7JW

rectoryfarm.com

07824759655

Open selected dates
Fences 70–90cm
Steps, ditch, water, corners and skinnies

Rein & Shine Equestrian Centre

Buryhill Farm, Braydon, Wilts SN5 0AD

reinandshine.co.uk

01666 860068

Opens in spring
Fences 30cm–1m
Variety of fences

Rosamund Green Farm

Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4JG

teamdumas.co.uk

07511078285

Opens in spring
Fences BE100–5*
More than 350 fences
Two water complexes
All-weather take offs and landings

Stockland Lovell

Stockland Lovell Manor, Bridgwater, Somerset TA5 1JJ

stocklandlovell.com

01278 652224

Open 10 months of the year
Fences 50cm–1m
More than 100 fences
Two water complexes
All-weather take offs and landings
No time limit
New fences each year

Stour

Spetisbury, Blandford, Dorset DT11 9EE

stourxc.co.uk

Open March–Oct
38 fences, including mini course
Fences 30cm–1m
Logs, banks, ditches, water complexes and brushes

Wales

Coxlake Cross-Country

Robeston Wathen, Narberth, Pembs SA67 8EJ

facebook.com/coxlakecrosscountry

app.acuityscheduling.com

07837 989767

Open all year
Fences 40cm–1m
Ditches, banks, water and steps
Built by the Willis Brothers

Marian Bach Equestrian Centre

Babell, Holywell, Flintshire CH8 8PZ

marianbach.co.uk

No time limit

Mostyn Farm Ride and Cross Country

Wern Home Farm, Whitford, Holywell, Flintshire CH8 9AR

mostynfarmride.co.uk

07765 402738

Open all year
9km farm ride with more than 100 fences
Built by BE course builder
Ditches, trakehners, water, banks, drops, steps, skinnies and road crossing

West Midlands

Includes cross-country course hire in Herefordshire, Shropshire, Staffordshire, Warwickshire, Worcestershire, and the metropolitan county of West Midlands.

Berriewood Farm

Condover, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY5 7NN

Open June–Sept
30 fences
Fences 70cm–1m
Water, ditch and step

berriewood.co.uk

Lincomb Equestrian

Lincomb, Nr Stourport-on-Severn, Worcs DY13 9RB

crosscountrycourse.co.uk

07986200777

More than 100 jumps on grass
Arena XC available
Fences 45cm–1.05m
Built by BE Gold level course builder

Radfords Equestrian

Lower House Farm, Llanymynech SY22 6LG

radfords-equestrian.co.uk

01691 831523

Open Apr–Oct
Fences 30cm–1m
Water features, ditches, steps and banks
Additional arena XC hire available

Yorkshire and the Humber

Includes cross-country course hire in East Riding of Yorkshire, South Yorkshire, West Yorkshire, North Lincolnshire and North East Lincolnshire.

Epworth Equestrian

Epworth, Doncaster, Lincs DN9 1LQ

epworthequestrian.co.uk

01427 872293

Fences 70cm–1m
2 mile course with 21 fences (70/80/90cm/1m)
Additional single fences

Hopton Horse Centre

Mount Pleasant Farm, Mirfield, W Yorks WF14 8EH

hoptonhorsecentre.co.uk

Open all year
All weather
Mini course

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‘You have to fight for it’: horse world’s continued push for change to firework legislation

Becky Murray — Wed, 10 Dec 2025 11:44:52 +0000

The calls for change to firework legislation continue as horse owners prepare for New Year’s Eve celebrations – but what is the solution?

Every year horses suffer injuries – some of which are fatal – in incidents involving fireworks.

Fireworks are no longer just an issue on 5 November; they are used to celebrate New Year’s Eve, Diwali and Chinese New Year – as well as weddings and other occasions. Although regulations exist around when fireworks can be bought and let off, problems still occur.

As the year comes to a close, H&H has reviewed the current situation and spoken to those campaigning for change.

Horse owner Joanna Barnett has raised awareness about fireworks since the loss of her mare Tallulah, who died when fireworks were let off near her field in Horley, Surrey, on 31 December 2022. Tallulah “crashed through a fence in terror” and was found collapsed on the road. She received veterinary treatment, but could not be saved.

Pictured: Joanna Barnett and her much-loved mare Tallulah. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“She was suffering and it became abundantly clear the only thing I could do was put her to sleep,” Joanna told H&H.

“We’ve since created our own animal safe zone, and other than the village organised display, I don’t think anyone lets off fireworks now, which has made a huge difference. But another nearby village the week before Halloween, it was like a war zone. How can you prepare animals for that? Until you’ve seen that suffering, people don’t understand.”

Equine welfare charity Redwings has this first-hand experience, having lost three residents, Cinders, Percy and Sprite, to fireworks-related incidents.

Pictured left-to-right: Cinders, Percy and Sprite. (Image credit: Redwings)

Redwings introduced its Keep Horses in Mind initiative in 2024 calling for a review of legislation, raising awareness and gathering evidence via a round-table discussion and survey. This September Redwings launched a petition asking for the maximum noise level for consumer fireworks to be reduced from 120 to 90 decibels. By November it reached the 100,000 signatures needed to be considered for a parliament debate and it is awaiting an update.

“There are a range of options in terms of what would be the ideal solution,” Redwings campaigns manager Helen Whitelegg told H&H, adding that these range from an outright ban to limiting fireworks to organised licensed displays – as is being called for by another petition.

“The reason we’re pushing this noise angle is we feel it is a more practical solution at a time when the Government is reluctant to consider more involved regulatory change, particularly ones that place burdens on local authorities.”

The petition has more than 174,000 signatures.

Sign the petition

“We know this call for noise to be reduced appeals to dog owners, military veterans, people with autistic family members. We’re really pleased to be bringing people together,” said Ms Whitelegg.

The Government responded on 7 November, having issued an earlier response which was challenged by the petitions committee owing to not “directly responding” to the petition’s request.

The revised Government response stated: “Noise is one of the key issues we are seeking views on. The Government is also considering the experience of other countries where lower noise limits are in place for consumer fireworks to understand the impact this has had and to identify best practice”.

Below video: A number of horse owners shared video footage with H&H of recent incidents showing the impact of fireworks on their horses.

“You can’t give up. Change is never given to anyone”

Luton North MP Sarah Owen introduced a private member’s bill in October 2024 to restrict the noise and sale of fireworks. Ms Owen told H&H she hears regularly about the “absolute distress” caused by fireworks.

“I want to see change,” Ms Owen said. “I think that there is a mixture of people that use fireworks for anti-social behaviour, but there are also a group that just don’t know what they’re buying. If you look at the packaging, the F categories don’t really mean anything to most people.”

Fireworks in the UK are categorised from F1 to F4. The first three categories apply to consumer fireworks that can be used by the public; sparklers and party poppers are category F1 and can be used indoors and F2 fireworks are considered suitable for confined areas such as gardens. F3 fireworks, which includes large rockets, have a minimum spectator distance of 25m. Category F4 fireworks may only be bought and operated by professionals.

The bill’s second reading is scheduled for 16 January 2026, having been delayed as parliament discussed the assisted dying bill. In the meantime, Ms Owen is having meetings and sponsored an event at Westminster on 12 November organised by the Fireworks Impact Coalition, a group made up of 19 human and animal charities, and attended by 94 MPs.

Ms Owen believes there is still work needed to find the right solution – and said this should focus on licensing.

“Looking at Scotland, exclusion [control] zones haven’t solved the problem, and so it does give pause for thought, what is the best way? I don’t think any country has really cracked this. For me, it’s the licensing side – if you just go down the enforcement route, they’re [loud fireworks] still in the market,” she said.

An ongoing talking point is why nothing has yet changed. Ms Owen said change requires time – and much of parliament’s time has been dominated in the last two years by the economy, health and women’s safety.

“You can’t give up. Change is never given to anyone. You really have to fight for it,” she said, highlighting that as there was a change in Government last year, many MPs are newer to these discussions.

The British Horse Society’s latest firework statistics. (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Scotland’s approach

The Scottish Government launched the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Articles (Scotland) Act 2022. Under this, local authorities can grant control zones – as referenced by Ms Owen – where it is against the law for the public to set off fireworks anywhere in the zone, including on private property, but organised public displays are allowed.

H&H sent freedom of information requests to local authorities to ask how many zones have been granted.

Of the 32 local authorities, six received applications since 2023 – but only two, Glasgow City and City of Edinburgh, granted zones. One local authority did not hold this information.

From the 19 applications Glasgow received in 2024, eight were from animal welfare groups and two were granted. Of 13 applications received this year, two related to animals and both were granted.

The City of Edinburgh Council granted all four applications it received in 2024 and nine of 11 applications in 2025 – all which cited either animals, horses and or/wildlife.

In 2024 and 2025 animal charity SSPCA had a zone at its Edinburgh site, where residents include horses. The charity told H&H it made the animals “much calmer”. But an application for its small animal Glasgow site was rejected, and the charity said better dialogue is needed with local authorities to “understand what the barriers are to securing zones”.

The British Horse Society (BHS) said Scotland has “led the way” with firework legislation – but highlighted concerns.

“How these zones should and could be enforced is an ongoing challenge and there is work to be done,” Des Payne, BHS safety team manager, told H&H, adding that the criteria for a zone are “not well publicised”.

Ms Payne said the Scottish legislation was “rushed through” and some provisions have been paused including mandatory licensing for fireworks. Responding to this, a Scottish Government spokesperson told H&H the “majority” of the act was implemented but licensing was paused owing to “significant financial and resource consequences”.

“Nobody would condone irresponsible use”

H&H spoke to Tom Smith of the British Pyrotechnists Association (BPA), a trade body that represents professional firework display companies and works with the Government and organisations including the RSPCA.

The BPA advocates: “the right fireworks, in the right place, at the right time” and encourages organisers to let people know of planned displays. But Dr Smith does not believe there is a need for tougher legislation.

“Nobody, and certainly not the industry, would condone irresponsible, illegal use. Even if you’re letting off fireworks in your garden we say, ‘Let your neighbours know’,” he said.

“In terms of consumer fireworks, there’s restrictions on periods of sale, time they may be used, noise level. Restricting sales to a shorter period is not necessarily going to make it any better – unintended consequences are always a problem.

“I think the problem has got worse in Scotland since the regulations [were introduced]. There could be all sorts of reasons for that, but the basic one I think is that it was poorly enforced.”

A Scottish Government spokesperson told H&H Police Scotland reported an almost 37% reduction in fireworks-related calls in 2025 compared to 2024 – and “no significant incidents” were recorded between 31 October and 4 November this year.

Invite your MP to your yard

MP for Winchester and equine vet Danny Chambers told H&H he has treated horses with fireworks-related injuries. He is in favour of a noise reduction and having more control over who can set them off and when.

Mr Chambers encourages horse owners to speak to their MPs, adding that as a vet he is aware of the challenges, but other MPs will not have this experience.

“Invite your MP to your yard or event and get them to meet your horses. It will mean more than just getting an email saying, ‘My horse doesn’t like fireworks’ – when they’ve never seen a horse react,” he said.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Tickets now on sale for the second-ever running of Scone Palace International Horse Trials

georgia.guerin@futurenet.com (Georgia Guerin) — Thu, 30 Oct 2025 14:44:14 +0000

Scone Palace Horse Trials tickets are available to purchase for the 2026 event following the event’s successful inaugural running in the summer. Next year’s event will run 27–30 August.

Scone Palace Horse Trials is held in the grounds of Perthshire’s historic Scone Palace and the adjoining Perth Racecourse. It is currently Scotland’s only international horse trials, hosting classes from CCI4*-S to the Scottish Grassroots Championships at BE100 and BE90, as well as a multitude of showing classes, British Showjumping competitions, Pony Club mounted games, and arena eventing.

Scone Palace Horse Trials tickets: General admission

All prices listed are for tickets purchased online in advance. Gate prices are higher.

General admission tickets include entry to the grounds, access to the shopping village and parking.

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

Thursday 27 August

What’s on?

Hunter Show (showing classes for ridden and working hunters, show cobs, native/traditional cobs and non-natives)
Native Breed Show (showing classes for Highland ponies and Clydesdales)
Racehorses (RoR) showing classes
Scottish Grassroots Eventing Championships cross-country and showjumping

Adult: £25

Child (12–16): £12

Child (under 12): Free

Friday 28 August

What’s on?

International eventing, including CCI4*-L Dressage
National Pony Society Scotland Finals (showing classes for mountain and moorland ponies)

Adult: £25

Child (12–16): £12

Child (under 12): Free

Saturday 29 August

What’s on?

International eventing, including CCI4*-L Cross-country

Adult: £42

Child (12–16): £21

Child (under 12): Free

Sunday 30 August

What’s on?

International eventing, including CCI4*-L Showjumping
Pony Club mounted games

Adult: £35

Child (12–16): £18

Child (under 12): Free

Season tickets (all four days)

Adult: £105

Child (12–16): £52

Child (under 12): Free

Weekend tickets (Saturday and Sunday)

Adult: £64

Child (12–16): £32

Child (under 12): Free

Course walk tickets

A course walk hosted by a “special guest” is be available to pre-book on the Thursday or Friday for £25. All proceeds will go to the Scone Palace Horse Trials charity partner.

Membership tickets

A membership pass includes:

priority parking
full access to all arenas and cross-country courses
entry to the shopping village
access to the exclusive Members Marquee with private bar and lounge
complimentary programme
VIP toilets

Membership passes can be purchased for single days, the weekend or the full four days.

Can you buy tickets on the gate?

Tickets may be available on the gate, but these are subject to availability and more expensive that buying in advance. You can also upgrade to membership tickets on arrival subject to availability.

Camping at Scone Horse Trials

Camping tickets are available for five nights, with up to six people per pitch.

Caravan, motorhome or horsebox (up to 7.5t): £200

Large tent: £160

Princess Royal to join nearly 300 riders and horses in centuries-old tradition

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 12 Sep 2025 11:58:56 +0000

The Princess Royal will be among nearly 300 riders taking part in a centuries-old ride through Edinburgh this Sunday (14 September) as part of celebrations to mark the city’s 900th anniversary.

Princess Anne is to take part in the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches, which originated in the 16th century as a vital inspection of the city’s boundaries and has become a public event that attracts thousands of spectators as it “celebrates civic pride, heritage and horsemanship”.

The ride this year also features a “people’s procession”; 900 citizens representative of the city’s “rich heritage and vibrant present”.

Picture by phunkt.com (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“This event is a living connection to Edinburgh’s past,” said event spokesperson Sam Lockhart.

“It will be bringing together riders from across Scotland and beyond, uniting communities in celebration of tradition, resilience and the beauty of our city.”

“We are honoured that Her Royal Highness the Princess Royal will be joining the event on horseback, marking the culmination of the Edinburgh 900 celebrations. We look forward to sharing with Her Royal Highness the spirit, pride and community that has woven the historical and cultural tapestry of the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches.”

The event also marks the return of Randolph Murray to the city with the “blue blanket” standard, and the news of the Scottish defeat at the Battle of Flodden in 1513.

The hundreds of riders, dressed in traditional uniform and coloured sashes representing the Scottish common riding towns, those known for the tradition of riding the boundaries, will be led by those selected as the 2025 Edinburgh captain and lass, Adam Geehan carrying the Edinburgh city banner and Kirsten Lees.

Picture by phunkt.com (Image credit: phunkt.com)

The riders and horses will start in the countryside surrounding the city, and finish, accompanied by pipe bands, on the Edinburgh Royal Mile. Spectators are welcomed to line the route; viewing points include Mortonhall Estate, Lasswade Road, Captain’s Road, Craigmillar Castle Park, Duddingston Village, Holyrood Park and the Royal Mile.

“The people’s procession is a living tribute to the people who have shaped Edinburgh across centuries” said Iain Whyte, chair of the Edinburgh Riding of the Marches. “If you’re in town, this will be a day to remember. We are delighted that Scottish broadcaster, actor and pantomime legend Grant Stott will be leading the procession and we will be welcoming groups from across Edinburgh, including schools, community organisations, charities, volunteers, music, dance, theatre and more.

“Expect to see everything from surgeons to sporting institutions, bus drivers to paramedics, school pupils to military veterans. What better way to celebrate Edinburgh’s 900th year as a city than to put our citizens at the forefront of the stage?”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Horse chased by loose dogs found stuck in bog and had to be put down

Eleanor Jones — Tue, 02 Sep 2025 10:23:01 +0000

A horse who was chased by loose dogs and got stuck in a bog had to be put down as a result, Police Scotland has confirmed.

Officers are appealing for information on or witnesses to the incident in the Highlands at the end of July, as they seek to trace the person responsible.

A spokesperson for the force said that a man was seen getting out of a white van with two brown spaniels at about 6pm on Thursday, 24 July. The van was on the Affric Kintail Way between Shenval and Corrimony in Shenval Forest, northwest Scotland.

“The dogs were not under proper control, and charged at two horses being hacked which caused them to spook,” the spokesperson said. “Thankfully the riders weren’t on the horses at the time.

“The horses were traced nearby, however they were stuck in a peat bog and couldn’t get out.”

The spokesperson said that the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service was called for help and crews attended.

“After several hours they managed to free the horses. Sadly, one of the horses had to be euthanised due to its injuries,” he said.

“We are appealing for witnesses who may have seen a man with the dogs as described in the area, especially if you saw the van he was driving.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact Police Scotland quoting reference 3960 of 25/07/2025.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

Cheeky Shetland on perfect behaviour to welcome The King to Balmoral

Lucy Elder — Thu, 21 Aug 2025 16:24:18 +0000

Shetland Corporal Cruachan IV joined the guard of honour to officially welcome The King to Balmoral – marking the start of His Majesty’s summer holiday in Scotland.

The pony, who took a cheeky swipe at The late Queen’s bouquet at one of their many meetings some years ago, is the beloved mascot of The Royal Regiment of Scotland.

He joined Balaklava Company, 5th Battalion, to greet His Majesty on Monday (18 August), standing proudly with his handler, Pony Major Corporal Rory Stewart as The King inspected his Royal Guard.

“Balaklava Company has the unique privilege of supporting His Majesty The King and the royal household during their summer court in Scotland,” said Major Tommy Blair, the officer commanding Balaklava Company.

“It’s a huge honour to command this parade today marking His Majesty’s arrival at Balmoral, and we’re looking forward to spending the coming months in Royal Deeside.”

Cpl Cruachan IV, 16, who measures just 10.3hh, took up his role in October 2012 and is entitled to wear the operational medals awarded to the regiment during his tenure as mascot.

He lives with his uncle, Nightcap, who ensures his nephew is “put back in his box” if he is getting a little too big for his boots.

The two ponies spend most of their time in stables at Redford Barracks, where they are cared for by Cpl Stewart, and enjoy trips to the beach when the weather is kind.

The King is colonel in chief of The Royal Regiment of Scotland, and Balaklava Company will remain on royal guard in Balmoral for the rest of the summer.

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘A true gentleman’ of a horse who taught riders, modelled and met royals honoured with posthumous award

Eleanor Jones — Sat, 15 Feb 2025 19:51:27 +0000

A horse who was “everyone’s favourite” and never put a foot wrong has been given a prestigious posthumous award – which was collected by his brother on his behalf.

Monarch, of Tower Farm Riding Stables in Scotland, died last year aged 27, and the British Horse Society (BHS) named him the worthy recipient of its Tarragon Trophy.

This goes to the equine personality of the year, and is presented to a horse or pony who has contributed to the community, overcome hardship or deemed to have a personality worthy of the honour.

BHS national manager for Scotland Helene Mauchlen presented the award last week, to Monarch’s full brother Duke on his behalf.

“The BHS is delighted to have honoured Monarch with our Tarragon Trophy,” Ms Mauchlen said.

“Monarch helped inspire The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards, bringing calm and patience while teaching them to ride. Alongside this, he helped to bring back ceremonial horses to Scotland. Yet, he never lost sight of his day job as a riding school horse, inspiring many children to take their first steps in equestrianism.

“It is more than fitting that Monarch was the recipient for this award and we are so pleased to be able to commemorate such a remarkable horse, as well as celebrate his achievements.”

Monarch moved to Tower Farm aged four and was “level-headed from the word go”, a spokesperson for the centre said.

“He loved his work, particularly jumping and was regularly the lead horse for staff riders taking groups out. He relished carrying both children and adults and had a natural instinct for looking after his precious cargo, including his youngest riders at eight years old, right up to his oldest rider; a 96-year-old lady who was resident in a local care home, who had been a rider all her life and wanted to have one last ride. Monarch carried her with careful confidence, and made this special wish come true.

“He absolutely loved being around children and was a regular entry into fancy dress classes at Tower Farm shows, quite content to be adorned with all sorts of creative outfits, having his tail plaited, glitter painted on his hooves and having kids clamber all over him, like a beloved wise old grandfather.”

Monarch also had his cheeky moments, the spokesperson said.

“He was an exceptionally clever horse and would often open up his stable at night and roam about the barn before putting himself back in his stable in the morning, in time for breakfast,” she said. “He knew his name and would answer back with his distinct whinny when called in his field and would often lead the way by himself, into his stable. When the farrier visited, all he had to do was call Monarch’s name and Monarch would whinny back, letting the farrier know where he was. He enjoyed the comforts of being tucked up with his jammies on in his stable during bad weather and couldn’t get enough of long summer days in his field overlooking Edinburgh.”

But as well as his day job, Monarch had a double life, taking part in parades, modelling for advertisements and taking part in royal visits, including meeting The late Queen on a visit to the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and the Princess Royal at the opening of the new BHS operations hub in Stirling. In 2023, he led the procession at The King’s coronation in Scotland on the Royal Mile.

“Monarch was unfazed by large crowds and pipe bands and he took his public performances in his stride, which included appearing at the Royal Edinburgh Military Tattoo as guard of honour,” the spokesperson said. “He was a familiar face as the flag-bearing horse for the annual Edinburgh riding of the marches, he carried knights in full armour for historical reenactments, took part in Edinburgh Diwali, visited primary schools all over Edinburgh and the Lothians and even helped with a charity bag-packing event! He knew, from the moment he was given a bath and had been clipped, that duty called.

“Monarch always knew exactly what to do and always sensed the occasion. The moment he heard the bagpipes start up, he would stand to attention, ears pricked and wouldn’t move a muscle. He was the horse that the other horses would look to for reassurance; if Monarch was OK with it, the rest of the horses knew it was safe.”

Monarch’s “one true love” was Tower Farm manager Debbie Henderson.

“He understood you, was a true gentleman and was the horse of a lifetime,” she said, adding that the whole team was delighted he was awarded the Tarragon Trophy.

“Everyone who met Monarch knew he was a very special horse; he was always such a positive character and a gentle soul and gave so much confidence to riders of all ages,” she said. “At home he was everyone’s favourite and in public he would never put a foot wrong. His loss was so sudden and to have his brother Duke accept the award on his behalf was a very emotional moment.”

To stay up to date with all the breaking news from major shows throughout 2025, subscribe to the Horse & Hound website

‘Enormous gratitude’ as breeder’s legacy gift benefits injured riders

Eleanor Jones — Fri, 29 Nov 2024 19:21:44 +0000

Jockeys based north of the border can now benefit from services provided by the Injured Jockeys Fund (IJF) in Scotland.

The Ella MacGregor Centre in Galashiels offers physiotherapy and “injury management” on a site convenient for the Borders area racing community.

“This is only possible because the IJF was remembered in the will of the late Ella MacGregor, who owned and ran the Pinkerton Stud at Dunbar in East Lothian,” an IJF spokesperson said. “Her yellow and blue silks were carried to many victories by the likes of Macrobian, who chased home Notley in the Stewards’ Cup, and the successful horses bred there included Kayem, who competed as an eventer for Sir Mark Todd and was taken by him to the Olympics.”

Kelso course physio Libby Lindsay will offer sessions in the new facility, built in partnership with the Scottish Rugby Union on the Heriot-Watt University campus.

“We have wanted to do this for a while,” said IJF chief executive Lisa Hancock. “We are therefore enormously grateful to Ella and her trustees for their generous legacy in making it possible.

“The Ella MacGregor Centre will significantly improve our clinical services and support our activities north of the border and is the first step in expanding our operations in Scotland and supporting IJF beneficiaries of all kinds.”

The late Ms MacGregor also left a significant donation to Retraining of Racehorses for its welfare work. She was based throughout her life near Dunbar in East Lothian, and with her sister Ina ran the Pinkerton Stud, which Ella set up in 1976. They bred racehorses there until the early 2000s.

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Delight as ‘world-class’ international event secured to replace Blair

Eleanor Jones — Wed, 21 Aug 2024 10:11:41 +0000

A new international horse trials will be held from next year, to replace Blair Castle, and organisers promise a world-class event for “decades to come”.

H&H reported in March that the 35th Blair Castle International Horse Trials (22-25 August) would be the last. But today (21 August), it has been announced that an event running classes up to CCI4*-L will run at Scone Palace in Perthshire, just over 35 miles away from Blair.

“The first Scone Palace International Horse Trials will be held next August in the historic and picturesque parklands of Scone Palace and the adjacent Perth racecourse, offering a unique and enhanced setting for this new world-class event,” said a statement from the palace, with British Eventing (BE).

“The establishment of this equestrian competition at this iconic location reinforces Perthshire’s status as a premier destination for international sporting events and ensures the continuation of top-tier eventing in the region.”

Scone Estates CEO Brian Stevenson said the team was delighted that the palace and racecourse were to establish the new fixture.

“We are thrilled to bring a new and major event to Perthshire, highlighting the region as a premium destination for large-scale international events,” he said. “The team and I look forward to working with British Eventing to deliver another world-class event.”

The Scottish Eventing Championships were held at Scone Palace for some years from 2009; Central Scotland Horse Trials started there in 1950 and returned to the palace in 1991 having run at other venues.

William, Viscount Stormont of Scone Palace, added: “Perth racecourse and the parkland at Scone Palace are a fantastic setting for this new international event. The parkland has a long history of hosting eventing competitions, and we know that many Scottish equestrians have fond memories of eventing here. We are delighted to build on the legacy of Blair Castle and bring a new event to new generations for decades to come.

“Equally, we are pleased to introduce the facilities at Perth racecourse to a new international event and to deploy the team to produce a best-in-class eventing surface. We must also acknowledge the Troughton family and everyone at Blair Castle for delivering 35 years of world-class eventing, and we wish them all the best for the final horse trials at Blair Castle.”

The statement said organisers hope the partnership with Perth racecourse will “offer enhanced facilities and an unparalleled setting, ensuring the event’s continued success and growth in its new home”.

Matthew Taylor, director of racing at Perth racecourse, said: “We are delighted to be taking on the honour of running the new Scone Palace International Horse Trials at the parkland at Scone Palace and Perth racecourse. The team at Blair Atholl has done a wonderful job over the past 35 years of hosting such a coveted event in the equestrian calendar. We cannot wait for the opportunity to begin our own new chapter and deliver what we are confident will be Scotland’s leading equestrian event.

“The grounds teams between both the Scone Palace team and Perth racecourse team have a vast amount of experience and machinery to provide a world-class surface for next August.”

The palace will also host the Scottish grassroots championship with more national and international classes incorporated. BE and Scone Palace are “actively working on the schedule and further details will be released when available”.

BE CEO Rosie Williams, said: “We are thrilled to announce that Scone Palace will establish a new and exciting fixture within the British Eventing calendar. We couldn’t have hoped for a better venue. The BE team and the team at Scone will be working tirelessly over the coming months to ensure everything is ready for next year’s event. It’s fitting that the final event at Blair will be a celebration of its many years of success. We now look forward to Scone carrying on this proud tradition.”

Scone Palace International Horse Trials will run from 21-24 August 2025.

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‘I can’t believe it’: epic jump-offs lead to historic hat-tricks for two riders

Becky Murray — Tue, 25 Jun 2024 14:18:37 +0000

A young rider aiming for European team selection made Royal Highland Show history on Sunday (23 June) when she and a superstar stallion won their third consecutive 148cm title – hours after her step-dad took the show’s leading rider title.

Aimee Paxton and Lucy Simpson’s Las Vegas VI topped the The Archibald Buildings/Danny’s Event Catering 148cm final following an epic blink-and-you’ll-miss-it jump-off that went down to the wire.

“The first year I won it I couldn’t stop watching the video because it’s something I’d always dreamed of winning. To win it three years in a row, I can’t believe it,” said Aimee.

The five clears from the first round; Eleanor Archibald and LCS Peachy Beachy, Michael McColm and Legend Scais, Lucy Capper and Capability Brown and Oscar Van De Beekerheide and Aimee and Las Vegas, jumped off in reverse order and the times only got quicker.

Lucy and Capability Brown stopped the clock on 37.00sec, and although it seemed impossible to go any faster, she beat her own time with Oscar Van De Beekerheide, crossing the finish line on 36.83. Last to go Aimee stepped up, with the knowledge that not only would she be defending her title but setting a show record, and she held her nerve until to shave almost a second off the time, recording 35.72sec. Lucy was second with Oscar Van De Beekerheide and third with Capability Brown, Michael was fourth and Eleanor fifth.

“It was so close,” said Aimee, who is aiming for European team selection with Las Vegas VI.

“Lucy looked fast, but Las Vegas VI is so light on his feet and he just keeps travelling. He’s got this way of making it feel so effortless and it’s so nice because you can really believe in him, he wants to help.”

The victory came after a disappointing trip to Hagen, Germany, where Las Vegas VI was spun on the first trot-up after he became stuck in a haynet and sustained a minor injury, and they had to return home without jumping.

“We were all hoping I could win at the Royal Highland Show again, but obviously everything had to go right. I remember the first time I won it I couldn’t stop watching the video because it’s something I’d always dreamed of winning. Even competing here was a huge dream,” said Aimee, who earlier in the day enjoyed a one-two in the Liz For JC championship, with Gillian McDonald’s Roadside Coronation and Maddie Maher’s Madoghill Gorowny.

It was a family affair for Aimee at the Royal Highland; her sister Sophie was second in the Johnston Smillie B&C Championship final with Ignigena Eickenrode, and their stepfather David Harland won the Norbrook leading rider title and £1,000 bonus with Anne Vedeer’s 17-year-old gelding Chincoreve.

Aimee had obviously taken some pointers in speed from David, who set the fastest clear in the first round of the crowd-favourite 1.40m Andrew Black Haulage and Storage speed class on Friday (21 June) in the main arena. He then had the opportunity to double his £1,300 prize money if he could beat his time in the second round, and that he did.

“I just didn’t take a pull,” said David. “Chincoreve is 17; because he’s a bit older he comes round the corner and he knows there’s a jump coming – you can point and shoot.

“He’s an amazing character. My youngest daughter Georgina is seven and she trots him in the arena over poles. She thinks she’s on half the prize money because she helps me keep him fit, so she is trying to work out how much she’s getting out of the £2,600!”

David has been a long-standing competitor at the Royal Highland Show and it was his first time taking the leading rider title.

“I wasn’t going to do the accumulator class on Sunday, but Chincoreve was going so well that we had to give him the opportunity for that title. When I looked and they’d put me first to go, I thought ‘We’re never going to win it from the front, there’s no chance’. There was Paul Barker, Sandy McLean, Chris Smith, Ben Walker – all these people and I thought ‘They’re never not going to go faster than me if I’m at the front’, but we held on,” he said.

“When we jumped the second last he jumped it and I was umming and ahhing about whether we were going up the inside line to the joker or not. He clocked the joker and went ‘We’re going that way’ and he was off. It’s the first time I’ve ever won the Norbrook title, having won the Scottish leading rider six or seven years ago. Winning the Andrew Black speed class was a bit off the bucket list, but I thought it would be another year for the leading rider, but it was our year.”

British national champions’ epic Highland hat-trick

National champions Adrian Speight and Judith Witham’s 17-year-old Millfield Baloney also achieved a historic Royal Highland Show hat-trick, as the first combination to win The Coutts RHS grand prix three years in a row.

“To win it once is great, twice is fantastic, but three times is bl**dy brilliant!” said Adrian.

Mark McGowan’s 1.55m track, while testing, produced 10 clears from 20 in the first round.

“After the international stairway (designed by Shaun Sands) on Friday which jumped amazing, it was obvious that the grand prix had to be a level above,” said Mark.

“I was actually surprised to get 10 clears as I was aiming for five or six, but the ground was so incredible that in spite of the last line being 1.55m they made it look three holes smaller!”

Jumping in reverse order in the jump-off, third-to-go Paul Barker used 12-year-old stallion Green Grass’s ability to turn on a sixpence to shave more than seven seconds off Stephen Lohoar and Night And Day Van ‘T Vlasmeer’s time to stop the clock on 49.09sec.

It looked like Paul had sealed the deal, with only Annabel Shields and Creevagh Carisma coming within touching distance on 49.3sec, until penultimate combination Adrian and Millfield Baloney (Louie) stepped up.

The pair executed the first half of the course with precision, nailing the first turnback to a big upright, followed by the big oxer-vertical combination. As the pair spun back to another upright Louie slipped, but the nimble 18-year-old was undeterred. After getting away with a brief touch of the penultimate oxer, the powerhouse gelding opened up to the last, taking a stride out to stop the clock on 47.6sec.

“He’s just a freak – I really can’t put it down to anything else,” said Adrian.

“When we had the slip I thought ‘Oh b*gger!’ but I managed to pick him up, and he was just on it.”

Adrian and Millfield Baloney’s owner Judith Witham are “considering Louie’s age a bit”, but there are no retirement plans on the horizon yet.

“He’s sound, healthy and on form. I’m relying on him going until he’s 30,” joked Adrian.

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‘I was scared of jumping 90cm’: teenager comes back from fall to take prestigious under-25 win

Becky Murray — Mon, 24 Jun 2024 17:17:47 +0000

A 16-year-old rider who did not think she would jump again, and was scared of 90cm fences, having lost her confidence following a fall in which she broke her arm has won a prestigious under-25 title in her first year on horses.

Yesterday (24 June) Millie Lawson and Cameron Anderson’s 10-year-old gelding Calatis beat some of the UK’s best under-25 riders to claim the Wright, Johnston & Mackenzie RHS Young Masters Championship final at the Royal Highland Show.

Millie and “Cal” and the only other clear, Emma Crawford with Dukes of Hazzard, were joined in the jump-off by three four-faulters; Emma with King Louie III, Sandy McLean and Calcord II and Fergal Holohan and Kan Annie, jumping in reverse order of time.

“In the first round I made a couple of mistakes on my other horse Kyoto Van Duyversputten, so I knew when I went in on Cal not to have those mistakes,” said Millie, who had only contested one 1.40m class before, at the Bolesworth International the previous week.

“My dad said if we had a few poles it didn’t matter and it was just about the experience. I thought I’d be the slowest clear as I’m quite partial to getting time-faults in the first round, but then they said I was last to go in the jump-off.”

Second-last-to-go Emma and Dukes of Hazzard jumped double clear to stop the clock on 41.71sec, and Millie’s dad David advised Millie to aim for a steady clear.

“My dad said ‘You’re not going to beat the time, second place is what you’re aiming for’,” said Millie. “Fence one to two was eight strides and he told me ‘Do not go seven’, but I went seven, I turned tight back to the double, then I just sent Cal forward. I jumped the upright then I saw a good stride to the last and he cleared it. He was amazing.

“Afterwards I thought ‘Have I done enough?’ and then they said I’d won and I burst into tears. I just thought ‘Wow’.”

The victory comes after a dramatic Royal Highland Show qualifier for the Lawson family at Tillyoch Equestrian on 5 May, when Millie’s mum LeeAnn suffered a heart attack.

“She’s ok now, but we just have to make sure she’s standing next to somebody when I jump!” said Millie.

Millie won the Royal Highland Show 138cm championship in 2021, but this was her first year competing at the show as a senior, and her first time in the showground’s famous main arena since she was on 128cms.

“The last time I rode in the main arena was in the mini major competition in 2019 and I fell off,” she said.

“The Highland is one of our favourite shows, we all love it”.

Millie has enjoyed a successful international pony career, but last year, her final year on 148cms, a fall resulted in a broken arm – and a big confidence knock.

“I lost all my confidence and didn’t really think I’d jump again. At the start of 2024 I was scared to jump 90cm,” said Millie.

“We took our time and went to some local shows and it started going good again.”

Millie, who is trained by Rebecca Maher, is building up her string of horses and in February Cameron Anderson bought Cal for her.

“I have a few young horses, but we wanted to find a horse that could teach me a bit. When I went and tried Cal we all fell in love with him. I trust him, he’s a massive personality, he loves people, loves cuddles, and he thinks he’s the best. I’m so grateful to Cameron, and my parents for the support,” she said.

“We don’t really have a set plan for the rest of the summer, this year was about having fun with the horses and getting to know them, but now I think I might need to ask my parents to take me to some big shows.”

‘Nothing for riders to aspire to’: loss of Blair Castle and other eventing concerns come under discussion

Becky Murray — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 21:02:41 +0000

The cancellation of Blair Castle was a major talking point at the British Eventing (BE) Scotland AGM on 20 March – as concerns continue for the sport in Scotland.

H&H reported this week that Blair Castle Horse Trials had announced that this year’s event will be the last. A Blair Castle statement said the land on which the event is held “is increasing its involvement in regenerative agriculture and in future the land will require to be managed all year round in a way that is in accordance with its environmental aims”.

The event, which is host to international eventing from CCI* to CCI4*-L, the Scottish Grassroots Eventing Championships, showing and British Showjumping classes, will run for the 35th and final time on 22–25 August. The news comes just weeks after it was announced that the Festival of British Eventing has been cancelled for 2024, owing to viability issues.

Discussing Blair’s cancellation at the AGM, it was agreed that this was “not a BE problem” but an eventing problem.

Blair event director Alec Lochore said that land management and farming is changing UK-wide.

“Now that the farm subsidies are changing, and the way that farmers use the land, I think that is a challenge for everybody; farmers, landowners, and therefore the sport,” he said.

“I tried on a couple of occasions to make a claim for the sport to continue [at Blair] and it is with regret that there is a line in the sand.”

It was discussed whether a new Scottish venue could be found to “replicate the Blair experience”, and Alec said there is “not a yes or no answer”.

“It’s a case of, let’s explore that if that opportunity comes up. Blair is a huge event, and to transpose it straight onto another event is a fantastic notion, but let’s see if that’s even possible by finding a venue in the first instance. There would be the requirement for quite a considerable amount of investment because there is so much infrastructure now at Blair, which one takes for granted,” he said.

BE chief executive Rosie Williams agreed with Alec and said it is “a nigh-on impossible thing to transport something with 35 years of history and just put it somewhere else”.

“Those things don’t ever really work, so we’ve got to get our heads together and make sure we can find that iconic event that is right for Scotland,” she said. “We’ve got to make these events viable for landowners to be able to say, ‘It’s worth me holding a horse trials’ and not necessarily heading down an agricultural route.”

Ms Williams added that BE’s immediate focus will be trying to “increase the amount of good-quality events that are relevant to the Scottish membership” – and finding a replacement for the Scottish Grassroots Eventing Championships. BE is also training more coaches in the region to help “develop the talent”.

Other discussions included the limited number of events, and that there is no current Scottish representation on the BE fixtures committee. Concerns were also raised that Scotland does not hold any classes at intermediate or above – and those who have a BE premier membership pay the same price as riders in England, but for less opportunity.

Ms Williams acknowledged frustrations, but highlighted some of the challenges including event viability and entries for upper-level classes. Of Scotland’s 700 members, 575 are grassroots, and Ms Williams said it would be “irresponsible” to put on intermediate classes with limited numbers of horses to run in them.

This was met with response from the AGM attendees that how can BE expect to grow the Scottish membership, if there is “nothing for riders to aspire to” – and that decisions to run upper-level classes in Scotland and northern England should be based on figures across Britain, not just Scottish numbers.

Ms Williams said BE is “not shying away from the fact we need to do something”, and reiterated that there will be a full fixtures review, that will undergo public consultation, plus a governance and membership categorisation review.

The meeting concluded with a presentation to outgoing BE Scotland chairman John White. Recruitment will begin for his replacement.

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Starving Clydesdale horse now happy in his new home after being rescued

Becky Murray — Sat, 23 Mar 2024 19:57:54 +0000

A Clydesdale horse, described as a “giant skeleton” and found “starving to death”, has made a full recovery – and been rehomed back to his native country.

World Horse Welfare rescued 15-year-old gelding Seamus when he was discovered in a hillside field with no grass. A spokesman for the charity said he was “so starved that it was touch and go as to whether he would survive”.

Field officer Seema Ritson attended and said when she saw Seamus she was “shocked to see a giant skeleton”, with bare patches of skin.

“I could see he’d had to crane his neck through the fence to reach any morsel of forage, but this was simply not enough to sustain him,” she said.

Seamus was taken to World Horse Welfare’s Penny Farm in Lancashire to be nursed back to health.

“Over the course of eight months Seamus slowly recovered and his placid temperament, which persisted despite his previous neglect, meant that he was quickly rehomed when ready,” said the charity’s spokesman.

Seamus found a new home in Scotland.

Seamus made a full recovery and has been rehomed to Nikky in Scotland. (Image credit: SCOTIA M)

“Although we are experienced with horses, caring for a Clydesdale has been a learning curve as big as him,” said his rehomer Nikky.

“Transport was a bit tricky due to his size, but we found an experienced transporter of Clydesdales to bring him home. We cannot thank World Horse Welfare enough for giving him a chance of life and entrusting us with his follow-on care.”

Seamus is the face of World Horse Welfare’s latest fundraising appeal.

“Previous donations helped make this rescue possible – so thank you from the bottom of my heart,” said Miss Ritson.

“It’s only thanks to donations that we are able to do this, and we desperately need to be there for so many more horses like Seamus. Any amount can be truly life-changing.”

New powers to create no firework zones near stables and animal hospitals welcomed

Becky Murray — Wed, 01 Nov 2023 17:31:54 +0000

New laws giving local authorities the power to grant firework control zones in Scotland have been welcomed – and calls have been made for the rest of Britain to follow suit.

H&H has reported on the Scottish Government’s steps towards tightening firework laws, and in June 2022 the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill was passed (news, July 2022).

New powers came into effect in June 2023 which allow councils to grant designated firework control zones. In these, it is an offence for members of the public to use fireworks, including on private property; fireworks can only be used at public displays and for “some limited other purposes”. Those who break the law could face a £5,000 fine and up to six months’ prison.

To grant a zone councils must create a proposal, hold an eight- to 12-week consultation with individuals and organisations that may be affected by the zone, then if granted give at least 60 days’ notice before the zone comes into effect.

Councils are encouraged to notify the Scottish Government of any zones, and the Government told H&H last month it was unaware of any requested or approved zones around equestrian properties so far.

The legislation has been broadly praised among equestrian charities. Redwings research and policy officer Helen Whitelegg said: “Redwings wholeheartedly welcomes the tighter regulations that Scotland has introduced and is calling on Westminster to follow their lead.

“Having experienced first-hand the sometimes tragic outcomes of fireworks being set off close to horses, we know the impact they have on naturally fearful flight animals like horses, alongside broader adverse effects on other animals and people with conditions such as PTSD or autism.

“We hope the rescued equines we care for at Redwings Mountains in Angus will see the benefit of this greater protection from the multiple risks fireworks present.”

Redwings said the cost of extra staffing and forage to help protect horses from the adverse effects of fireworks cost the charity almost £1,500 last year, and that three ponies have died at its centres recently as a result of fireworks being let off nearby. Redwings is urging people to write to their MPs to ask the Government to follow Scotland’s lead.

An SSPCA spokesman told H&H that “when possible” it will apply for control zones near the charity’s rescue centres.

“Each year we see the impact of fireworks after the animals in our care become distressed and many display destructive behaviours due to the stress and fear,” said the spokesman.

“We look forward to the roll-out of this vital legislation to help further safeguard animals and people.”

The British Horse Society (BHS) was in the Scottish fireworks stakeholder group and provided figures that helped inform the legislation, including the fact that there have been 45 firework-related horse fatalities reported to the society since 2010.

“While this new law in Scotland is a significant step forward, there is still more to be done across the rest of the UK to prevent horse injuries and fatalities due to fireworks. The BHS is committed to driving further change and helping with wider education around use of fireworks,” BHS safety team leader Des Payne told H&H.

An RSPCA spokesman told H&H it is “continuing to encourage local authorities across England and Wales to help do what they can to mitigate the risks fireworks pose”, and would like to see changes to firework legislation including a licensing system for sales, and prohibiting use around horses’ habitats.

New equestrian centre to open ‘on a scale not experienced before’

Becky Murray — Sat, 14 Oct 2023 18:33:40 +0000

A new centre is aiming to provide a “one-stop shop” for all things equestrian “on a scale Scotland has not experienced” before – with hopes of hosting a British Eventing (BE) fixture in future.

Bogenraith Equestrian, in Banchory, Aberdeenshire, is the brainchild of Marion and Ciaran Dreelan. The plans began in 2018 and now the equestrian centre, comprising livery and competition, is gearing up to launch to the public.

Marion, who took up riding aged 44 and competes across disciplines with her gelding Apatchie, told H&H Bogenraith Equestrian had not originally been in the couple’s plans, and came about when a neighbouring farm next to their home went up for sale.

“After some considerable thought we decided that we could do something with the farm and between myself and Ciaran we came up with a plan to buy the farm and split it. Bogenraith Farm and Estates Ltd was started, and Bogenraith Equestrian Ltd.”

Marion said the plans were “hit hard” by Covid, and they had “no choice but to pull back and sit it out”.

“We really got going in 2020 and have been non-stop since. The vision for Bogenraith Equestrian was to create a ‘one-stop shop’ for all things equestrian, on a scale that Scotland has not experienced. We tried to work with the existing farm structures but this proved to be a non-starter, so we went back to the drawing board,” she said.

“I took the views on board as competitor, spectator and business. I could see what was missing in Scotland and decided that if we were going to do this it had to be done on a scale like no other. I refer to Scotland because I have not travelled much further to events.

“We had to create something very special. I have lived in Scotland for almost 30 years and consider it as much a part of my home as I do Ireland, and we wanted to give something back.”

Marion said Scotland has very talented riders at amateur and top level, and the aim is to provide facilities to enable progression – and nurture grassroots riders in their future ambitions – with a venue that can accommodate year-round training and competitions.

“Our centre and facilities have been meticulously designed, from our stables to the arenas and the flow of the centre from the moment you arrive is impressive,” she said.

“Our standards have always been set very high in every aspect of life and we have taken this through to Bogenraith Equestrian and Farm & Estates, our fantastic team has been paramount in making this happen.”

The centre features 50 bespoke 12×12 stables for livery, two 80×40 international arenas, a 70×55 arena, an all-weather cross-country surface, a grass cross-country course, a two-mile off-road hacking route, roofed horse walker and lunge pen. It also has a public restaurant, retail area, seating for 160, and a function room.

“We believe that every rider deserves to excel and enjoy, we want to bring back the fun and support in horse riding,” said Marion, adding that the centre will host training for a variety of disciplines across levels, plus camps and clinics.

“Education is important to us and we are also intending to host evenings where professionals will host talks on things including veterinary topics, feeding and turnout, show day preparation and protocol.”

As excitement builds in the Scottish horse community about the centre, Marion is also known among the community for accomplishing this while undergoing treatment for cancer.

“In November 2021 I found a lump in my left breast, I have always been an avid checker so I knew this was something new. I didn’t really think much of it but decided to keep an eye on it, I had a lot of personal things going on so I decided to push through Christmas and the new year and then if it was still there I would get checked out,” said Marion, who had a mammogram on 26 January 2022.

“The mammogram did not show the lump but my doctor agreed that there was something there. I was referred for an ultrasound where they could see it and then took a biopsy, this sealed it for me and I guess deep down I knew the news was not going to be good, and the waiting was torture.”

On 9 February 2022 Marion was diagnosed with a triple negative grade three breast cancer, which she described as “not a good type to get”.

“I went for surgery on 8 March. This was also my husband’s birthday and entries were open for Kirriemuir horse trials, so it was not a great day!,” she said.

“I then started a horrendous cycle of chemotherapy and radiotherapy, finishing treatment on 19 December 2022. During this time I continued to stay focused and positive, for my family and myself this was the main goal. My horses and dogs got me out of the house on the good days, and the drive to see Bogenraith Equestrian come to reality spurred me on.

“I rode when I could and the steroids helped, but gradually my energy was becoming less, my hair fell out, and I was weaker and feeling robbed of my identity. The horses could feel this so I backed off and just hacked.”

Marion said she still goes for CT scans on her lungs as a nodule was found, which the doctors are “keeping an eye” on because of the cancer.

“Fingers, paws, and hooves are crossed that we are in a good place and it never comes back,” she said, adding that she urges all men and women to check themselves regularly, and to never to postpone seeking medical advice.

Bogenraith’s livery service opens on 1 December, and on 19 January the centre will host a masterclass and training with Ros Canter, in conjunction with British Eventing. The centre’s “official” grand opening will be on a date to be confirmed in spring.

The 160 tickets for the masterclass, and the lessons, sold out within hours of going on sale.

“We were astounded by the response and how quickly the tickets sold. We were receiving messages to release more tickets, so after trying to fit in more seating we decided we could provide another 40, these were sold in less than an hour,” said Marion.

“We are truly blown away by the support and response, and very appreciative to our supporters. This has reinforced the excitement and demand for this centre in Scotland and the Islands.”

This week BE announced that Bogenraith will host BE’s Harry Hall One Club Anyone Can Event (ACE) qualifiers, this winter. The series is an arena-style eventing competition designed for riders of all ages and experiences, and Bogenraith is only the second Scottish venue to host qualifiers, alongside Morris Equestrian in Ayrshire.

Further work is also due to take place from January on Bogenraith’s grass cross-country course – with BE course-builder Adrian Ditcham – with the aim of a spring completion. A BE spokesman said “it is hoped that they will be added to the BE calendar in the future once the cross-country course has been designed and built”.

New sports horse auction aims to fix ‘broken’ sales system

Becky Murray — Sat, 23 Sep 2023 18:32:53 +0000

An event rider and producer is hoping to change the way performance horses are bought and sold in Scotland with the launch of a new auction.

Sonya Cunningham, owner of Rockrose Equestrian Centre, East Lothian, is hosting the first Scottish Sports Horse Auction, in partnership with Caledonian Marts, on 30 September.

Sonya told H&H she came up with the idea having been to auctions in Ireland in the past, and she believes that the current sales system in Scotland is “broken” for both buyers and sellers.

“I think auctions are a fantastic way to buy and sell horses, and we don’t have anything like it here for performance horses,” she said.

“We’ve got some great horses here so I thought let’s get them in one place, and make it worthwhile for people to come and see them.”

There are 30 horses registered for the auction, including yearlings and youngstock, and competition horses across the disciplines.

“The day will be organised to give buyers plenty of time to watch the horses being ridden and also to try them out. The auction itself will be later in the day with the option to bid online if required,” said Sonya.

“All the horses will be inspected by a vet on arrival, and vendors are strongly encouraged to bring full vetting certificates and x-rays as appropriate. It’s as much about educating people how to sell at auction as how to buy.”

Sonya said the auction is open to spectators.

“Even if you aren’t intending to buy, we are encouraging people to come, enjoy the day and learn how the system works to build confidence in future auctions. It’s a fantastic environment to network with breeders, producers, friends and other professionals in the industry,” she said.

“We hope in the future to build on this and host auctions with 50-60 horses, either quarterly or six-monthly. I buy almost all my horses at auction now, including my current three-star eventer. Auctions work brilliantly in most other countries and are a fantastic, and thoroughly enjoyable, way to buy or sell a horse.”

View the auction catalouge.

Concerns shortage of farriers in certain regions will hit horse welfare

Becky Murray — Wed, 13 Sep 2023 17:29:52 +0000

Welfare concerns continue in Scotland as registered farrier numbers decline – and Government funding for farrier apprenticeships remains off the cards.

Since 2017 Scottish apprentice farriers have had to pay their own fees to attend college, and in 2021 the Farriers Registration Council (FRC) told H&H many potential apprentices could not afford the training, leading to worries that there would be a lack of new farriers coming in (news, 27 May).

Farriers and horse owners in Scotland have told H&H this is the case; there is a shortage of practitioners.

Morayshire-based farrier Cliff Barnes told H&H there is “a need for more farriers in Scotland as a whole”, but particularly above the central belt.

“Local farriers are doing their best to cover the work and are working closely with trimmers to provide as much coverage as possible, while also encouraging farriers from the rest of the UK to consider moving to the areas most at risk from potential welfare issues,” he said.

“The biggest problem is that training of new farriers is restricted by the Scottish Government’s refusal to fund Scottish farrier apprentices.”

An FRC spokesman told H&H there are 2,743 registered farriers in Great Britain, of which 168 are in Scotland. FRC records show a decrease of 36 in Scotland between 2020 and 2022, which “would appear to substantiate concerns and observations raised by horse owners in Scotland”.

“The FRC is aware that owners in Scotland are experiencing difficulties accessing farriery services with lack of practitioners suggested as the reason. This raises significant concerns in respect of welfare and the delivery of equine hoof care in particular.”

In 2021 Horsescotland published its 2021–2025 manifesto, which included farrier issues, and the organisation was looking into re-establishing a full- or part-time farriery training school in the country.

A Horsescotland spokesman told H&H last week that the organisation, along with British Horse Society Scotland and World Horse Welfare, have been “moving forward” in the need to address the shortage of apprentice farriers, and have met with the Scottish Government, Scotland’s Rural College, and Lantra about farriers being added to the Scottish shortage occupation list.

“The next step is an industry survey on farriery supply and succession planning,” said the spokesman.

A Scottish Government spokesman told H&H that “given the fresh concerns being expressed” the government will “renew efforts to reinstate the previous reciprocal agreement on funding for farrier training with the department for education [DfE] in England.”

The DfE told H&H it is responsible for apprenticeships in England, its Scottish counterpart for them in Scotland; apprenticeships policy is devolved.

Licensing livery yards could be on the cards in new Government plans

Becky Murray — Sat, 15 Jul 2023 20:03:03 +0000

Licences for livery yards could be on the cards for Scotland – as a public consultation is launched.

The Scottish Government is seeking views on proposals to extend licensing to “currently unlicensed animal-related services”, including livery yards. Also included are proposals to revoke the 1964 Riding Establishments Act and introduce new licensing for riding establishments through the same framework as the Animal Welfare (Licensing of Activities Involving Animals) (Scotland) Regulations 2021, and to extend statutory licensing “beyond riding establishments to a number of currently unregulated equine activities”, such as donkey hire and pony parties.

Throughout the consultation document, which includes data from the British Horse Society (BHS) and World Horse Welfare, the Scottish Government references welfare, transparency and accountability – and raises “key animal welfare concerns”.

Take part in the Scottish consultation

“Currently in Scotland the provision of livery services is unregulated, with no licence or equine qualifications required to own or run a livery business. The absence of regulation and minimum standards to protect animal welfare and ensure accountability is a matter of concern,” said a Scottish Government spokesman.

It is proposed that a future statutory licensing scheme for livery providers would require anyone offering livery to undergo an inspection by the licensing authority before any licence is granted. These would be for one to three years; and an online register of those who held them would be published.

“The statutory licensing of livery services in Scotland would help ensure that horses are kept in safe and appropriate conditions, receive the care they need to maintain their health and wellbeing, and have opportunities to express natural behaviours and socialise. This would help promote the welfare of horses and provide assurance to owners that their animals are being cared for appropriately,” said the Scottish Government spokesman.

Sally McCarthy, executive director of riding school and livery yard Aberdeen Riding Club, told H&H she believes licensing is a “really good idea” and “long overdue”.

“I think it’s good that there is a consultation; by doing this we are more likely to end up with a system that works,” she said.

“From a welfare point of view licensing can only be a good thing; as long as it’s done in a way that’s transparent and that the criteria for the licence are fair and the same across every local authority in Scotland.”

Ms McCarthy, who is also chair of the BHS, added that she thinks it is positive that the Riding Establishments Act is being reviewed in Scotland.“It’s quite an old piece of legislation now, the way we keep horses has changed, and any review is only going to be beneficial,” she said. “Riding schools are hugely in decline, so any changes to licensing need to support riding schools and local authorities need to acknowledge that we need to keep them going, and encourage more to start up.”

BHS national manager for Scotland Helene Mauchlen told H&H the society and World Horse Welfare welcome the consultation.

“Riding establishments are vital to Scotland’s horse world, but regulations around their licensing need a refresh,” she said.

“Meanwhile livery yards where so many people keep their horses are not regulated at all. This consultation is an opportunity to change this and give owners the peace of mind that the welfare of horses at these establishments will be protected. Our organisations have been working with the Scottish Government on these and other issues for some time, so we are delighted to see our joint work come to fruition.”

BHS chief operating officer Sarah Phillips added that the society is “looking forward to seeing what the outcome of the consultation is, and if this is something that could be replicated across the other nations.”

Another major horse trials lost leaving region with just four venues

Becky Murray — Fri, 07 Jul 2023 16:42:57 +0000

A shadow has been cast over the Scottish eventing calendar as another event announces it will not return next year – leaving just four British Eventing (BE) venues in the region.

Organisers Kick on Events announced today (7 July) with “huge regret” that Floors Castle International will not run in 2024.

“Kick on Events have run this prestigious event in 2022 and 2023 but have been unable to make the event financially viable,” read the statement.

“As a family-run venture, alongside our primary business, we have found it extremely difficult to allocate the time required to put on an event of this scale and give it the attention it deserves.”

The Roxburghshire event ran for the final time on 11-14 May, with classes from BE90 to CCI3*-S.

“We would like to thank the Duke of Roxburghe and all of his team for the support they’ve given us and for allowing us to host the event in these beautiful surroundings,” read the statement.

“We wish to thank all the sponsor’s and volunteers who helped, events simply can’t run without the generous support given. It only remains to say we are very sorry we have come to this conclusion and, as eventers ourselves, we can assure you it was not made lightly.”

In April H&H reported again on the difficulties facing the eventing community in Scotland, as the limited calendar continued to dwindle with the loss of Glamis Castle this year, resulting in only seven fixtures at five venues for 2023. At the time BE Scotland chairman John White told H&H BE Scotland was “strengthening its committee” and that work was going on to hold an event in Morayshire. H&H has contacted BE on whether there has been any development on this.

Riders and organisers speak out as more horse events are lost

Becky Murray — Tue, 25 Apr 2023 15:47:22 +0000

CONCERNS about the depleted Scottish eventing calendar have been discussed – with hopes new events could be on the horizon.

Last month Glamis Castle organisers announced their British Eventing (BE) fixture (5–6 August) will not run this year, owing to the “hard reality of running a greenfield site with limited ability to offset rising costs and the uncertainty of major sponsorship”.

This meant Scotland’s 2023 eventing calendar would consist of just seven fixtures at five venues, including the international at Blair Castle – compared to 13 fixtures at 10 venues in 2013. Since 2018 the calendar has lost Hendersyde, Aswanley, Scotsburn, Eglinton, and Burgie.

H&H has reported on the decreasing Scottish calendar, and has now asked stakeholders about the challenges.

BE Scotland rider representative Grace Moran stepped down last month owing to frustration that there is “no real drive” from BE for new events in Scotland. She said she was told by BE there was “no room” in the calendar for new events.

“I was told they have to ensure events run to capacity to make it viable for organisers, and if we introduce more events there is a chance this will dilute entries,” she said.

“I get the logic, but I think it’s short-sighted of BE as to where the sport goes, because at the moment Scottish events are running to capacity. But where’s the growth? Where’s the encouragement for new members? Riders aren’t going to join if we keep losing events.”

Grassroots eventer Marion Dreelan, who is launching Aberdeenshire equestrian centre Bogenraith Equestrian Ltd told H&H she believes the “pressure and expectations” of holding events in Scotland falls on landowners or organisers.

“They appear to bear the brunt of the stress and financial strains. It’s not just months prior preparing the ground and fences to the required standard of safety, it’s the aftermath of reinstating potentially damaged ground and fences,” she said.

“There’s a lot behind the scenes – it’s financially draining and it gets to the stage they’re not making enough money to cover costs, hence they have to tap into sponsorship, which is so vital in helping to host BE.”

But Mrs Dreelan added that some people in Scotland are “starting to question” why they are paying the same membership as those in England for limited events .

“To only have seven BE events in Scotland is shocking. As an amateur you ask: ‘Am I prepared to drive all the way to Warwick Hall in Cumbria or Alnwick in Northumberland just to get a ‘fun’ cross-country run?’,” she said.

Kirriemuir and Glamis Castle organiser James Helyer told H&H costs have gone up “astronomically”.

“It’s not BE’s fault, it’s the nature of what’s happening in the economy. I don’t know how you pass costs on, you can’t pass them on to the competitor,” he said.

“Looking at our costs for Kirriemuir (9 April): we own all our infrastructure, had 250 horses, but even then it is becoming a marginal event to run. It’s just prohibitive. Our bill was nearly £500 for sand, £1,100 for entries and scoring, £500 for paint, £1,500 to £2,000 for medical cover. We will have to look very hard at the end of the season with BE.”

Mr Helyer said BE “had not helped” by introducing a rule that stops them running their unaffiliated event until two weeks after their BE fixture. He said this was a “major hurdle” as this was the “only way as a peripheral event, to make the job pay”. BE told H&H the governing body wants to “encourage everyone to event under the BE umbrella and to make this easier” and BE developed GO BE, designed to give non-members a way to compete without the need of buying membership.

BE Scotland chairman John White told H&H BE Scotland is “strengthening” its committee, with a view to developing the eventing calendar in Scotland.

He added that the central belt is not as badly affected as the north, as it is closer to events in the north of England.

“There is work going on to hold an event in Morayshire, and I’ve been given the name of another estate we’re hoping to speak to about possibly holding an event,” he said.

“The trouble is unless you’re getting hundreds of entries it’s difficult to make events pay. Everything has gone up; medical costs, insurance, lots of private landowners have raised rent. I don’t think everyone knows how difficult it is to put on an event.

“The other change is that more events are run by professional businesses. I think, especially in the north of Scotland, we’re going to have to put the clocks back and set up local committees to run events, not necessarily for profit.”

BE CEO Helen West told H&H “the door is 100% open” to reinstating events in Scotland and BE will do “everything it can to help”. She acknowledged the concerns, and said these are shared by other peripheral regions. For example, there are only three events in the southwest of England.

“It’s a constant challenge that’s always been there. Showjumping and dressage have the same challenges in terms of competitions in places like Scotland, Norfolk, and Cornwall. It’s supply and demand, and viability for organisers versus opportunities for membership,” she told H&H.

“It’s chicken and egg. Arguably if there aren’t events why would you join, but on the flip side for organisers, having good entries provides the viability and sustainable business model.”

Mrs West confirmed that if numbers decline, this only makes the situation worse.

“Historically BE would have subsidised the more peripheral areas. For example in terms of encouraging new events BE would have been able to say ‘If you only get 120 entries, we’ll be able to subsidise you by X’. There were ways to bridge the gap, but the simple truth is there is no money to do that now. It’s costing BE to put sport on – and it’s no secret BE has eaten through its reserves,” she said.

“In terms of being able to invest into areas, at the moment we can’t. But moving forward, strategically that is what needs to happen to get that peripheral representation and help events and help with sustainability.

“What we are bringing to the table has gone up in cost horrifically, and we’ve tried hard not to pass that on so we froze membership and organisers’ affiliation fees this year. But we had to absorb hefty increases, so that means there isn’t extra money to help subsidise.”

‘She’s the pony we’ll never sell’: 11.2hh schoolmistress with the ‘biggest heart’ qualifies for prestigious final again

Becky Murray — Sat, 08 Apr 2023 18:26:49 +0000

A young rider who moved to the UK from South Africa and found new friends – and ponies – thanks to Instagram has qualified for the Royal Highland 128cm showjumping final on an 11.2hh with the “biggest heart”.

David and Leanne Lawson’s Dakota VII was piloted round the one-metre track by Sophie Calderwood, 11, at Tillyoch Equestrian in Aberdeen, on 1 April.

The 18-year-old mare has been owned by the Lawson family for nine years and is no stranger to the big tracks, having been brought up the ranks by David and Leanne’s daughter Millie, who is now flying the Scottish flag on the 148cm circuit. Since Millie, Dakota has become a popular schoolmistress for teaching many young riders the ropes.

Sophie and her family moved to the UK from South Africa in January 2022 for her father’s new job, and it was thanks to Instagram they met the Lawsons.

“Sophie competed to a good level in South Africa, but when we moved she had to give up so much, her pony, her friends and her home country. So when we arrived here I had a bee in my bonnet that I had to get her back into riding as quickly as possible,” Jessica, Sophie’s mother, told H&H.

“I looked on Instagram to find some other riders in the area and I came across Millie. I then reached out to David and told him we’d just arrived from South Africa and we were looking to find other horsey people. He came straight back and said he had a pony he needed a child to ride it for sales video and he told us to come round that afternoon. By 4pm Sophie was riding – and we never left. It’s been an amazing story.”

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Sophie went on to ride and compete 148cm mare Robe Silver Lady for David and after they “instantly gelled” Jessica bought her. The pair are continuing to enjoy a successful relationship together, but as it was Sophie’s last year on 128cms she was offered the opportunity to ride Dakota, and she now has her on lease to compete alongside Lady.

“In South Africa we don’t have the same age and height categories as the UK, so I was all new to this. I was told Sophie would lose out in riding against her age group so that was the aim of riding Dakota, to give her that chance,” said Jessica.

“We thought we’ve only got one year before Sophie will move up to 138cms so we set our sights on the Royal Highland Show. We were told Dakota would really teach Sophie how to ride and place a pony because you can’t just gallop round, you really need to ride her properly to those big fences.”

Sophie and Dakota had missed out on a Highland ticket on two previous attempts at qualifying, but the pair jumped a double clear and were second at Tillyoch. Rebecca Lawson, David and Leanne’s niece, won the class with Riverview Sandy, another former ride of Millie’s. The pair had already qualified for the Highland at a previous show.

“After the previous attempts we were starting to think ‘What if we don’t qualify?’, so when it all came together it was just fantastic,” said Jessica.

“We’ve heard the Highland is another kettle of fish with a huge crowd and atmosphere, so now the pressure is off we can concentrate on getting ready for that.”

Jessica told H&H she was happy with her round.

“At number two we didn’t have the best jump, but after that it went really well,” she said.

“If you line Dakota up to a jump she will always try really hard and I’m looking forward to the Highland show.”

Despite qualifying for the Highland with Millie, and another of her previous jockeys’ Taylor McDaid, this summer will be Dakota’s first time competing in the final; she missed out one year to injury, and another year to the pandemic. Discussing what makes Dakota so special, David told H&H she has “the biggest heart”.

“She just always tries, she loves her kids and she does it for them. She’s the pony we’ll never sell, she is here for life. When Sophie moves on to 138cms we’ll find her another little jockey to teach,” he told H&H.

Jessica added that Dakota has taught Sophie “so much”.

“She’s a tiny pony and needs to work hard to get over those jumps, but she’s so honest. She tries her best and she never says no. She’s taught Sophie so much, and for me as her mum, it’s amazing to see these ponies making Sophie into a real ride,” she said.

“It would have taken years to find a pony like Dakota, and the fact we were welcomed by David and Leanne like that makes it all very special. Millie looks after Sophie and Sophie really looks up to her, Millie has such a great work ethic and Sophie is learning it’s about making those opportunities and working for it. I’m very blessed to have the Lawson family in my life.”

Scotland left with just seven British Eventing fixtures as popular horse trials cancels

Becky Murray — Thu, 30 Mar 2023 15:39:34 +0000

Only seven British Eventing (BE) fixtures will take place in Scotland this year, following the announcement that Glamis Castle will not run.

Glamis Country Fair and Horse Trials had been scheduled to run 5-6 August, but the organising team announced today (30 March) that it had been “deeply disappointed to take the difficult decision” to cancel.

“Following the huge success of Glamis in 2022, unfortunately the hard reality of running a greenfield site with limited ability to offset rising costs and the uncertainty of major sponsorship – combined with the need to attract large footfall in these uncertain economic times – has led us to the hard decision to not run Glamis this year,” said organiser James Helyer.

“The Glamis estate has been very supportive of our decision, which has not been taken lightly together with the impact this will have on Scottish eventing, and we are working with Glamis to look at future options. The organisers would like to thank all those who supported Glamis in 2019 and 2022.”

Glamis had been due to host a BE regional championship, but this will now take place at Hopetoun (2) in West Lothian, from 12-13 August.

“We are sorry to hear that Glamis is no longer running this year, but are happy to be adding the regional championship to Hopetoun (2) in August,” said Douglas Edward of Kick on Events, which runs Hopetoun.

The news of Glamis’ cancellation will be a blow for Scottish eventers, with the already limited calendar reduced to just seven fixtures; Kirriemuir (9 April), Forgandenny (1) (22-23 April), Floors Castle International (11-14 May), Hopetoun (1) (10-11 June), Forgandenny (2) (15-16 August), Hopetoun (2) (12-13 August), and Blair Castle International (24-27 August).

The eventing calendar in Scotland has continued to decline over recent years. Last year the Lochore family’s Burgie Horse Trials called time after 45 years. Since 2018 Scotland has also lost Hendersyde, Aswanley, Scotsburn and Eglinton.

Farewell to Grand National winner who made dreams come true

Becky Murray — Mon, 27 Mar 2023 17:08:26 +0000

“Scotland’s horse” One For Arthur has died from colic aged 14, five years after he won the Grand National.

“We are sorry to share the news that One For Arthur died this morning (25 March). A horse of a lifetime, he made our dreams come true when winning the Grand National in 2017,” said trainer Lucinda Russell.

Arthur was owned by The Two Golf Widows, Deborah Thomson and Belinda McClung, and became only the second horse trained in Scotland to win the Aintree race, ridden to victory by Derek Fox. Arthur was later ruled out for more than a year owing to a tendon injury, but in 2019 returned to contest the Grand National for a second time, in which he and Derek came sixth. This was the year Tiger Roll retained his 2018 crown.

In November 2020 Arthur was retired, having run 25 races under Rules during which he earned £674,299. At the time Lucinda told H&H the original plan had been to run Arthur in the Grand National that year, had it not been for the coronavirus pandemic.

“We were delighted with him in 2019, and everything was being aimed at the National this year – we had him really buzzing and ready to go,” she said. “I suppose it had been in the back of our minds if he’d run a good race this year we probably would have retired him after that. He’s done everything for us, he owes us nothing and to retire him now while he’s at the top of his game and looking fit and well, was our decision.”

Before his death, Arthur had been enjoying a second career, having been reschooled by Steph Robson. He was a winner of retrained racehorse showing classes, and last year competed in the racehorse to riding horse class at the Dublin Horse Show with his breeder John Dwan’s daughter Aisling.

Lucinda said most recently Arthur was in Dumfries, enjoying hunting and cross-country with Ailsa McClung, who “doted on him”.

“His owners, Debs, Belinda, Colin, Fraser, and all here at Lucinda Russell Racing, especially Jaimie, Erin, and Derek, were proud to produce ‘Scotland’s horse’ and thank everyone who has shown him love,” she said.

“Arthur had a fabulous life on and off the track, and in winning at Aintree brought himself immortality. We will all miss him.”

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One For Arthur ridden by jockey Derek Fox jumps the last on the way to winning the Randox Health Grand National on Grand National Day of the Randox Health Grand National Festival at Aintree Racecourse. (Image credit: PA)

‘He’s a legend’: Grand National winner One For Arthur retires

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‘One For Arthur’s done Scotland proud’: Lucinda Russell becomes fourth female trainer to win the Grand National

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Ban on trail-hunting and a new licensing scheme: new Scottish hunting bill passed

Lucy Elder — Wed, 25 Jan 2023 18:26:18 +0000

Scottish Parliament has passed legislation imposing new restrictions on hunting, in a move branded “unjustified and unnecessary” by the Scottish Countryside Alliance.

Hunting in Scotland follows different laws to England and Wales. Previously, more than two hounds were still allowed to be used for flushing foxes to guns. But on Tuesday (24 January) members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) passed new legislation to change this and to put a pre-emptive ban on trail hunting.

The new bill puts a two-dog limit on flushing foxes to guns, with exceptions to be granted in limited circumstances under a new NatureScot licensing scheme. The ban on trail-hunting is defined as “the activity in which a dog is directed to find and follow an animal-based scent which has been laid for that purpose”.

The legislation sets out the blueprint for the licensing scheme. What this will mean in practical terms for hunts and supporters is expected to be made clear in the near future.

Speaking after the bill was passed, Scottish Countryside Alliance director Jake Swindells slammed the new legislation.

“This process has taken over seven years and is both unjustified and unnecessary. The Scottish Government’s own review found that restrictions on the use of packs of dogs could compromise fox control and put both farmer’s livelihoods and threatened wildlife at risk,” he said.

“Whilst it is frustrating that so much time and resource has been wasted on this bill, the licensing scheme is, at least, an explicit acceptance by the Scottish Government that the use of packs of dogs in wildlife management is effective and necessary.

“It will now be down to NatureScot, the licensing body, to ensure that farmers and wildlife managers are able to access the best options for fox control in all circumstances.”

Environment minister Mairi McAllan said she believed the new legislation “has struck the right balance”.

“[This is] between ensuring Scotland pursues the highest possible animal welfare standards, while recognising the need for farmers, land managers and environmental organisations to undertake legitimate wildlife management,” she said.

Views in Scottish Parliament were divided.

MSP Rachael Hamilton criticised the framing of the debate as “often presented as a narrow issue where we can either be pro or against animal welfare”, overlooking practicalities and realities.

“I am afraid that that argument is flawed and does not help anybody. It does not help animal welfare, it does not serve our farmers on the front line and it does not help biodiversity or our environment,” she said.

“If this was a straightforward choice between protecting animal welfare or not, we would be 100% behind protecting animal welfare, but it is not, and we do this parliament a disservice by pretending that it is.

“The debate is so often framed around hunting for sport, but what we are discussing here today is far removed from that. This bill should really be about the balance between animal welfare and biodiversity. If there is no hunting with dogs, predators will be left to attack other animals. Those predators, left unchecked, will attack livestock such as lambs and sheep, or ground-nesting birds such as the curlew, the capercaillie and other vulnerable species. This is not a simple bill that protects animal welfare; it is a bill that protects some animals’ welfare at the expense of others.”

She added the legislation “will not help animal welfare” and fears it “will have a negative impact on biodiversity, our natural environment and those who protect, support and look after it”.

MSP Edward Mountain added he was “deeply disappointed” by the final drafting of the bill.

“I do not support animal cruelty, but the bill has seriously limited our ability to manage wildlife, thus putting at risk the protection and enhancement of our native flora and fauna,” he said.

“I believe that the parliament, in its wish to ban mounted hunts, has shown the true divide between countryside and urban voters. Here we are spending hours discussing hunting with dogs while the national health service is under pressure, schoolteachers are on strike and our ferry service crumbles. This debate has shown how tone-deaf the Government is to the concerns of the countryside.

“I believe that the bill is one fuelled by ideology, not practicality.

I cannot and will not support the bill. I am afraid that it will lead to a further disconnect between our countryside and the urban areas – a disconnect that I believe the Government will ultimately answer for.”

Others criticised the bill for not going further.

MSP Colin Smyth said it was a chance to “scrap loopholes”, but it “does not do that”.

“It will not close all of the loopholes that exist and it will not end the use of packs of dogs; it merely licenses their use,” he said.

He added that ending hunting with packs was “unfinished business” when the bill was proposed, and that it “remains unfinished business”.

Rider recovers from broken back to qualify for Badminton grassroots championships

Becky Murray — Sun, 15 Jan 2023 20:33:10 +0000

An event rider who broke her back in a fall a year ago is looking forward to making her Badminton debut at the BE90 grassroots championships in May.

British Horse Society accredited coach Eilidh Herd fell from her former racehorse Rossie when he spooked and took off broncing while she was schooling him on 30 December 2021.

Aberdeen-based Eilidh told H&H she was unable to get up but initially thought she had just winded herself.

“I lay there and took a few deep breaths and thought ‘I’ll be fine’. But then I still couldn’t get up,” she said.

Eilidh went to hospital and an X-ray showed she had broken her L1 vertebra.

“I’ve had injuries in the past and said ‘Don’t worry, I’m fine’, but I knew deep down this time there must be something wrong because I had actually gone to hospital,” said Eiidh.

“I was sent for a CT scan and was told the fracture was stable, so they didn’t need to operate. I was sent home with painkillers and told not to lift anything too heavy. It was quite a strange time as it was still during Covid when hospitals didn’t really want people in them, and so most of my follow-ups were done by telephone.”

Eilidh was still able to teach during her recovery but could not move poles and jumps, or offer riding or clipping.

“A lot of what I do in winter is keeping horses ticking over and clipping, so it really had a big impact on my work life for a few months, until I was able to do a bit more,” she said.

“At the time I had five horses at home, and although I wasn’t doing any heavy lifting I was still doing what I could – I’d have gone crackers otherwise. I had been told I was fine to be on my feet, and generally I was more comfortable walking than sitting; lying down was complete torture.”

When Eilidh was able to return to the saddle, she started on her small cob Annie.

“My confidence had been killed, but I wanted to get back on because I was convinced the longer I didn’t, the harder it was going to be. I didn’t want to let myself get to the point where I thought, ‘I’m never getting back on’,” she said. “I am very lucky because Annie is as safe as houses, she’s easy and doesn’t have a bad bone in her body and I knew she wouldn’t do anything silly.

“I built up riding again on Annie, then moved on to my other mare Bridget who’s also pretty sensible. Then later I started riding my event horse Eddie again.”

Eilidh built up her riding, and started physio sessions with Caroline Frew of Perform Chartered Physio, which she says made a “huge difference”. She also trained with dressage rider Charlie Hutton and five-star event rider Wills Oakden, to help build her confidence back up.

Although she had no plan to event last year while she continued her recovery, when Burgie Horse Trials announced its 2022 summer event would be its final one after 45 years, Eilidh did not want to miss it and put in a last-minute entry for herself and Eddie (Zuccheros Deff Leppard).

“Burgie was where I rode my first event in 2005, so I had to go to their last. I did it, and after that I thought we could probably manage another, and then we ended up winning the BE90 at Glamis Castle,” she said.

“After Glamis everyone convinced me to do the Scottish Grassroots Eventing Festival at Blair Castle in August, so we did that and we came third.”

A number of weeks later Eilidh received notification that she had qualified for the BE90 Badminton Grassroots Championships. She and Eddie had previously qualified for the 2020 event, the year Badminton was cancelled to Covid.

“I thought only the winner at Blair qualified, but it turned out the top three did so it was a complete surprise. I told a couple of friends and they said ‘You have to go!’,” she said.

“It’s going to be a long drive that we’ll need to split over a couple of days but my friend Anna Miller has agreed to come and support me. Hopefully the weather will be kind over the next few weeks and we manage to do a bit more riding.

“It’s all really exciting. The plan is to get him fit and get to some more lessons, I haven’t jumped since Blair so I’ll need to get myself jumping again and I hope to see Wills for some training. The biggest issue since the fall has been my confidence. Confidence is so easily lost and hard to get back and I still sometimes kick myself, but I know you just have to keep pushing yourself a little bit out of your comfort zone.”

‘It’s magical – and important’: World Clydesdale Show held in Scotland for the first time in history

Becky Murray — Thu, 27 Oct 2022 14:08:52 +0000

The World Clydesdale Show was held in Scotland — and in Europe – for the first time in its history.

The four-day show took place at P&J Arena in Aberdeen from 20-23 October 2022.

“It’s incredibly magical to be holding this in Scotland – and it’s also really important,” said World Clydesdale Show chief executive Ailsa Clark. “We want to keep our breed going, and to have the show brought to the home of the Clydesdale has been a huge achievement. It would not have been possible without the support of all of the committee and sponsors. We hope the show could return to Scotland again in 2027.”

The overall supreme world champion was crowned on the final day of competition, and the title went to Jim Greenhill’s two-year-old Tulloes Emily, handled by Jim’s daughter Louise. Judges Alistair Christie and Randy Robertson agreed the home-bred filly by Arradoul Balvenie out of Tulloes Lady Jane – who was crowned overall female champion earlier in the day – was the cream of the crop.

Tulloes Emily, overall 2022 supreme world champion (Image credit: creditUnknown)

“She’s exactly what you want to see in the breed. She fills the eye from nose to tail, she’s correct, has long, silky hair, beautiful action and just oozes breed character,” said Alistair.

The overall female reserve spot went to long-term breeder Ronnie Black’s nine-year-old Collessie Jennifer, shown by Ronnie’s son Peter.

Isla Miller and her father Brian Bisset’s 10-year-old Stobilee Zac lifted the supreme ridden championship title ahead of six other champions, after a fantastic week where Isla and Zac won the open ridden class and took the ridden championship. The former Horse of the Year Show reserve heavy horse champion also won the dressage under Katie Common.

“He loves being in the ring; he’s a showman. He likes people looking at him,” said Isla. “I didn’t come here with any expectations, I thought we’ll go and have a nice time and now here we are, supreme ridden. I’m over the moon, I couldn’t ask for any more.”

The stallion title went to Willow Way Swiper, who was also crowned the best rest-of-the-world-bred horse for Ron Brewster, John Anderson and Helen Carr. Paul and Matthew Bedford’s junior colt champion Thorpe Hill Quick Flash was named overall stallion reserve.

Father and son Paul and Matthew Bedford also took home the champion gelding honours and best European-bred horse, with Thorpe Hill Roy, by Colessie Proclaimer. The Tennant family’s West Forth Solo, by Muirton Sabre, was reserve champion gelding.

Hopes new laws for animal sanctuaries will prevent ‘catastrophes’

Becky Murray — Tue, 25 Oct 2022 10:28:57 +0000

Work continues towards introducing regulations for the licensing of animal rescues and sanctuaries in Wales, with hopes that new laws will “close loopholes”.

Two years ago, H&H reported a voluntary code of practice for animal welfare establishments had been launched by the Welsh Government, drafted by the Animal Welfare Network for Wales (AWNW, news, 15 Oct 2020). The code outlined a framework for rescues to deliver “exemplary levels” of care and encourage the highest standards – with the view of creating future regulation.

In 2021, the Welsh Government included the licensing of rescues in its 2021-2026 animal welfare plan for Wales, and stated it planned to “work in partnership with key stakeholders and consult on revised proposals” for the licensing of activities including animals – including sanctuaries, rescue and rehoming centres.

Nic de Brauwere, AWNW management committee chair and Redwings head of welfare, told H&H the code had been a “catalyst” for new regulation, and meetings with the Welsh Government are due to continue.

“The Welsh Government has been keen to take a step back and make sure that what they’re trying to do is closing loopholes, rather than just throwing a bit of legislation at something because we can and then you end up with a gap,” he said.

“The key things with regulating rescues are, if you aren’t allowed on to the premises and can’t do spot checks and follow up on things without waiting for a complaint, normally you only discover that something is wrong when its catastrophically wrong – from an animal point of view it’s far too late. Any regulation needs to allow local authorities to go in and keep an eye on these places before they become a disaster. It takes time and we want to make sure we have engagement from the sector.”

Scotland introduced mandatory licensing for animal rescue centres in September last year (news, 30 Sep 2021). Reflecting on this a year on, Scottish Society for Prevention of Cruelty to Animals chief superintendent Mike Flynn told H&H it had been a “positive step”, but “there is still work to be done”.

“We will not see the true impact of this licensing until all local authorities have carried out inspections on sanctuaries and rescue centres in their area,” he said.

“The number of investigations we have led in cases concerned with equine welfare is lower than previous years, and we have seen a consistent reduction since September 2021. This includes any investigations into horse sanctuaries. It is too early to determine whether the licensing has had an effect on this, but it is promising.”

In 2020, the RSPCA voiced concerns that England was in danger of “being left behind”, and a spokesman has confirmed to H&H that the charity is “still waiting” for the UK Government to confirm plans for the regulation of sanctuaries.

“We are hoping a consultation will be announced in due course,” he said.

Do you think licensing for animal rescues and sanctuaries should be introduced? Or are you a sanctuary that has agreed to the Welsh Government’s voluntary code? Let us know your views by writing to H&H at hhletters@futurenet.com and please include your full name and address.

‘Hopefully we’ll be here for a long time’: riding school celebrates milestone 50th birthday

Becky Murray — Sat, 22 Oct 2022 18:03:32 +0000

A riding school has celebrated its 50th birthday, as its 80-year-old owner hopes the centre will continue to be “here for a long time”.

On 15 October Houston Farm Riding in West Lothian celebrated the milestone with an event attended by 150 past and present pupils.

“We had a fantastic night, there were even people there who I hadn’t seen for 30 years and the fact they made the effort to come has left me lost for words. We’re still receiving messages and cards,” said Elizabeth Comrie, who established Houston Farm in 1972 with her late husband Ian.

“When we started the school we always said it had to be a business, but above everything we wanted it to be a community and a family and it certainly has been that. We have a third generation of children riding, and we have one lady who will be 82 next month who rides with us for half an hour every Monday, she’s an inspiration to everyone.”

The riding school started with three ponies, who Ian an instructor and keen showjumper – bought from the Kelso sales. The couple previously farmed pigs until 1971 following which they sold their breeding stock and decided to start Houston Farm. The couple’s daughters Fiona, Jane and Anne, and daughter-in-law Angela who is married to their son John, followed in the teaching footsteps, with Anne and Angela working full-time at Houston Farm.

Over the years the British Horse Society-approved riding school has grown, and it is currently home to 53 horses and ponies, with 150 riders a week. Ian died in 2019 after being diagnosed with Parkinson’s, but Elizabeth continues to run the business side of the school.

“Most of our horses and ponies are on long-term loan, or they’ve been rehomed from welfare charities after having difficult starts. They’re treated as family here and they have a home for life, we have one pony who is nearly 40,” said Elizabeth.

“Covid was a very difficult time and a real struggle because we had five and a half months when we couldn’t operate but we still had all the horses and ponies to look after. All the money we had saved went to feeding them. It was hard work, but things are picking up now and we’re determined. Hopefully we’ll be here for a long time.”

‘He was pretty outstanding’: Caroline Powell’s exciting six-year-old heads Blair Castle CCI2*-L after dressage

Becky Murray — Fri, 26 Aug 2022 18:03:16 +0000

New Zealand’s Caroline Powell was thrilled to be back in Scotland as she stormed to the top of the CCI2*-L with Tik Tok at the Land Rover Blair Castle Horse Trials.

Jo West’s six-year-old gelding held his own in a strong field and produced a lovely test for Caroline, scoring 26.5. Lucinda Atkinson is second overnight with Pippa Reynold’s Twice Proved on 28.2 and Scotland’s Wills Oakden lies in third with his wife Stephanie’s Keep It Cooley, on 28.3.

Caroline, who also lies in eighth overnight on Legally Grey, and 16th on Tokara, said she was “really chuffed” with Tik Tok.

“I’m really happy with the score. He didn’t really put a foot wrong through the test. He was nice and forward and positive. For a six-year-old he was pretty outstanding. He’s grown up so much,” Caroline told H&H.

“He sort of arrived pretty fresh, he got off the lorry after 10 hours and that’s a big experience for him. We really put this one in the calendar to help them all for next year and things to come.”

Looking ahead to the cross-country Caroline said the hills are going to be a “challenge” for the six-year-old.

“But they’ve got to learn; I brought all of them up here to learn about hills. We’re from Suffolk and don’t have many hills,” said Caroline, adding that is one of the biggest things she misses about Scotland – where she was based for more than 20 years.

“There’s a lot out there to jump. We’re going to give it our best,” she said.

Blair Castle Horse Trials CCI*-Intro

Running for the second year, the CCI*-Intro received bumper entries and has been split into two sections; E and F.

Max Warburton leads section E after the dressage on Morningstar Van Altrido, owned by Conor Bruen, Emma Owen & Suzanne Tearle, on 28.8. Maia Fleming heads section F on her own Candyman Leanorth.

‘Ground-breaking’ firework legislation to become law as Scotland leads the way

Becky Murray — Thu, 07 Jul 2022 16:09:35 +0000

“Ground-breaking” firework legislation that includes the introduction of a mandatory licensing system has been passed by the Scottish Government, but further work is still needed before changes come in.

In December H&H reported on the findings from a public consultation launched by the Scottish Government to gain the views on proposed amendments to firework laws. The results showed 84% of 1,739 respondents backed the introduction of a licensing system, 92% agreed with creating a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks to under-18s, and 83% agreed with creating no-firework zones, suggestions for which included areas around livery yards, riding schools, and vet hospitals. Other proposals included restricting the days fireworks could be bought and used by members of the public.

The Scottish Government pledged to introduce new firework legislation at the “earliest opportunity”, and on 29 June the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill was passed following a debate at the Scottish Parliament. The bill will become law once it receives royal assent.

Community safety minister Ash Regan, who has led the work on the bill, said the “ground-breaking” new legislation will “improve the lives of people across Scotland”.

“This is not a ban on fireworks. We still want people to enjoy them safely, for example attending organised displays,” she said.

“But this vitally important step will make firework use more predictable and safer. The bill will ensure appropriate action can be taken over the dangerous or disruptive use of fireworks, as well as reducing the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.

“It also demonstrates our absolute commitment to further improve safety for communities across Scotland.”

The SSPCA welcomed the bill and said its passing will help “tackle the impact” private firework use in particular, can have.

But although the bill is positive news, the Scottish Government does not “anticipate” some of the changes coming into force for some time. The restriction on the days fireworks can be sold is not expected to apply until 2023, to allow “fair and sufficient time” for businesses to adapt their processes, and new regulations will be needed to provide for “any compensation” that might be made available for businesses that are wholly, or mainly, concerned with the supply, distribution or important of fireworks in Scotland.

The licensing system and no-firework zones are not due to come into force until “later in 2023” at the earliest, as further legislation and/or guidance is needed and this will need to be “scrutinised” by the Scottish Parliament.

Best places to ride in Scotland: from the mighty Highlands to the famous lochs

Martha Terry — Thu, 30 Jun 2022 07:32:17 +0000

Unparalleled access rights, dramatic mountain vistas and white-sand beaches offer the best places to ride in Scotland. Here’s a pick of the hotspots to visit on horseback, from those in the know.

“I’ve travelled the world and been to some beautiful places, but never have I had my breath taken away like in Glenfeshie in the heart of the Cairngorms,” says Claire Scott. And she should know. Claire’s a long-distance rider who has been navigating the Highlands for more than a decade. And while Scotland’s unpredictable weather means its gems are often shrouded in the ubiquitous mists, its hills, lochs, beaches and glens make for spectacular riding country.

Long-distance rider Claire Scott takes a breather in Glencoe in the Highlands (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Moreover, Scotland’s access rights make the countryside a haven for equestrian explorers. Claire cites the Land Reform (Scotland) Act 2003 as liberating.

“With horses we enjoy the right to responsible access – the same as walkers and cyclists – meaning we can ride almost anywhere,” says Claire, currently in the middle of a 1,000-mile trek through the Highlands. “Numerous hill trails are suitable for equines, you just have to be careful regarding the infamous Scottish bog. You may still come across cattle grids and locked gates, but thankfully these are few and far between. There are no bridleways, so we can use any trail marked on a map, providing we do so responsibly. It’s possible to form a two- to three-week trek without going on many roads at all.”

With just 70 people per km² compared to 483 in the south-east, there’s a whole lot of unspoilt countryside to enjoy: “Sometimes I don’t meet another person for days,” says Claire.

Here’s how to visit some of the jewels in Scotland’s 78,000km² on horseback – just be equipped for what the Scots simply call “a bit of weather”, challenging terrain and patchy phone signal.

Best places to ride in Scotland

The lochs

Famous for whisky and monsters, the two iconic lochs, Ness and Lomond, are situated against the stunning backdrop of the Highlands. Candy Cameron runs Loch Ness Riding, near Inverness, which besides formal instruction offers hacks up to three hours as well as bespoke riding holiday packages on well-schooled, advanced horses – or you can bring your own.

“The range of scenery is very diverse – moorland, farmland, forestry tracks and small paths winding around trees,” says Candy. “Keep your eyes open for vestiges of history of this area – hut circles from the bronze age, forts from the iron age, remains of crofting communities long gone, castles, lochs and fabulous views. And did I mention the 22-mile long Loch Ness – the largest body of freshwater in the UK? We have miles of riding – I know just about all the tracks of south Loch Ness and am active in local access work.”

Find places to stay near Loch Ness at booking.com

At Loch Ness Riding in the valley of the famous lake, riders can have formal instruction or enjoy pacy hacks amid stunning scenery (Image credit: creditUnknown)

Suzanne McCall runs Loch Lomond Pony Trekking near Balloch, which provides two-hour treks “high up on to the moors overlooking Loch Lomond”.

“The emphasis is on enjoying the splendour of one of the most impressive and iconic views in Scotland while on horseback,” Suzanne says. “You’ll experience unforgettable views of the landscape, whatever the season.”

Find places to stay near Loch Lomond at booking.com

The coast

Azure seas and white beaches aren’t automatically associated with Scotland, but Claire’s experience of her local area is just that.

“The Moray coast has endless forestry tracks, beautiful sandy beaches and on a sunny day the sea is as turquoise as you’d find anywhere abroad,” she says. “It’s magical to have the salty sea on one side and sweet-smelling pines baking in the sun on the other. You can choose the shade of the forest or have a blast along the sandy shores.

“It’s possible to ride the coastal trail from Cullen to Findhorn or link this up to the Speyside Way at Spey Bay – right into the Cairngorms. If you are lucky, you’ll be able to watch dolphins from the back of your horse like I did last year.”

The west coast is typically dramatic, remote, and challenging, though Claire recommends the more straightforward “route from Ullapool to Bonar Bridge, which gives a coast-to-coast route across Scotland in only a few days”.

Emma France moved from Cambridgeshire to Scotland’s west coast and cherishes her rides up her local hill Ben Bowie with her veteran mare.

“On a sunny day you can see the stunning scenery of the Clyde Estuary, the Arrochar Alps and Loch Lomond itself. But my favourite is a winter morning, when the frost is soft and evaporating off the forest, creating a layer of fog that makes it appear like you are sitting above the clouds,” she says.

Find places to stay in Cairngorms National Park at booking.com

Emma France enjoys the views on the West Coast of Scotland (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The islands

Scotland has more than 900 offshore islands, some giving rise to their eponymous ponies – Shetland and Eriskay. If you’re after remote riding, this is as far-flung as Britain can offer. Due to an island’s natural boundaries, long-distance exploration is limited, but the beaches are wild and wonderful.

Tràigh Mhòr Pony Trekking offers beach rides for all abilities on Lewis in the Outer Hebrides.

“Tràigh Mhòr is Gaelic for big beach, which is exactly what the two miles of golden white sands, cradled by 300ft cliffs, pristine crystal-clear waters and the machair flowers in full bloom have to offer,” says manager Leigh Minion. “It is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, whether you are a beginner wishing to ride along the beach for the first time or an experienced professional looking for a busman’s holiday.”

Find places to stay in the Outer Hebrides at booking.com

From Lewis, Scotland’s largest island, some 200 miles south lies Tiree, a 12-mile long isle in the Inner Hebrides. Tiree is known to have the most sunshine hours of anywhere in the UK and benefits from the warming air of the Gulf Stream. With its white sandy beaches, it boasts a coastline that wouldn’t look out of place in the Caribbean.

Tiree Equestrian offers options from lead-rein to one-hour treks, sunset and picnic rides for all levels along Balinoe beach.

“Cantering along white sandy beaches, and splashing through crystal-clear water under the watchful gaze of the resident seals and porpoises are the highlights,” says the centre’s Rosie Garrigan. “We are truly lucky to be able to ride on Tiree and love sharing its magic with others.”

Find places to stay in Lewis at booking.com

The magic of sunny Tiree island: turquoise seas and white sandy beaches (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The Highlands and Lowlands

Thanks to the access rights, virtually all of the Scottish countryside holds an appeal for riders. While much of the land is wild and challenging, the central Scottish lowlands offer gentle rolling hills and picturesque scenery.

Anna Black runs two-time “luxury holiday provider of the year” Lindores, an 85-acre equestrian facility for training and DIY holidays with accommodation for both horse and human. There are 150 cross-country jumps, grass and all-weather arenas, as well as off-road hacking.

“We have top eventers training here all the way down to adults wanting to get back in the saddle or five-year-olds on fluffy ponies,” says Anna. “Some people come with their family and animals, and enjoy the hot tub or restaurant-style lunch overlooking the River Tay.”

“Luxury holiday provider” Lindores is an 85-acre equestrian facility offering training and DIY holidays with accommodation for horse and human (Image credit: creditUnknown)

The raw, remote Highlands are at the opposite end of the scale. The last word should belong to Claire Scott, who cites the Cairngorms – Britain’s largest national park – as her favourite place to ride.

“There are endless trails that link through beautiful glens and it’s possible to ride your horse to the top of a Munro or two [mountains over 3,000ft in height],” she says, detailing the moment that took her breath away in Glenfeshie. “As we rounded the corner at the end of the glen, it happened – I struggled to breathe for a moment or two. The sheer cliffs rising up on either side, the sparkles of the river beside me, the young silver birch waving their leaves like bunting along either side of the trail supported by the mature Scots’ pines behind.

“It was this combined with the feeling of being so remote but content with my two equine companions that made it a totally breathtaking experience.”

“Remote but content”: long-distance rider Claire Scott with one of her two horses enjoying the Cairngorms (Image credit: creditUnknown)

‘Many future champions have cut their teeth on the hills’: much-loved event calls time after 45 years

Becky Murray — Thu, 16 Jun 2022 18:33:12 +0000

A much-loved long-standing Scottish fixture will call time on British Eventing this summer.

The Lochore family’s Burgie Horse Trials, which has been running for 45 years, will take place for the final time on 3 July. Its second 2022 fixture, “Wee Burgie”, in September will not go ahead. The Forres event ran as an international until 2012, following which it hosted classes up to open intermediate level, and more recently up to novice. The loss of Burgie will be widely felt by the Scottish eventing community, and it is the fifth venue to leave the calendar since 2018.

“From humble beginnings in 1977 through the flourishing years of the late 90s and early 2000s, Burgie grew to being one of the largest competitor three-day events in the world, with the core objectives of good fun and good sport,” read a statement from the Lochores.

“Many future equine champions have cut their teeth on the hills at Burgie and the great and good from the eventing world have enjoyed the long light days and fabulous views from the top of the hill.”

The family said it had been a “very difficult” decision to call time on the event.

“All of us at Burgie are well aware of the enormous contributions that have been made over the years to make Burgie so internationally synonymous with the sport and the significant community which has embraced the venue from around Scotland,” continued the statement.

“It is testament to this community that there are still key team members and volunteers from the original event in 1977 that will be active for the final running on the 3 July and we would like to pay tribute to the hard-working horse trials committee and the many volunteers who have made this event so great over so many years and who have given so much time, energy, and hard work into the running of eventing at Burgie over the past 45 years.”

The family added they are sincerely grateful for the years of commitment made by the riders, owners, sponsors and “so many more” who have embraced Burgie and “embodied all that is good about the sport of eventing”

“We hope the sun will shine and everyone will have fun on 3 July,” they said.

Showjumper who overcame eating disorder hopes to inspire as she aims for Miss Scotland title

Becky Murray — Fri, 03 Jun 2022 18:03:34 +0000

A showjumper who overcame an eating disorder and went on to start a personal training business has been named a finalist in the Miss Scotland competition.

East Lothian-based Ailsa Black, 25, is one of 11 finalists vying for the crown, the winner of which will compete for the Miss World title in December.

Ailsa, who is a level two British Showjumping accredited coach and runs her personal training business A2B coaching, told H&H she was persuaded by a client to sign up for the competition.

“I’d never thought of doing something like this before but my client said I’d be perfect for it. I thought the worst that could happen was that I wouldn’t get accepted, but I heard back and was invited for an informal interview where I met the organisers and previous winners, and then a few weeks later I found out I was a finalist. I felt a bit star-struck when I found out, I thought ‘They really want me?’”

Finalists will be set a variety of online-based challenges and be scored on their social media engagement, creativity and content. During the final, on 29 July, the contestants will take part in an interview in front of a panel of judges.

Ailsa Black is one of 11 finalists vying for the Miss Scotland crown. Picture (Image credit: Cove Studio)

“The theme is ‘beauty with a purpose’ and it’s really about inspiring young people. They are looking for an ambassador for Scotland to represent the country at its best. The idea is promoting that you can be beautiful, but that you can do other things as well – you can study, or do your dream job, you can move up the ranks and you can help and inspire others,” said Ailsa.

“One of the challenges involves fitness so I’m looking forward to that one.”

Finalists must also fundraise for their chosen charities, and Ailsa is raising money for an organisation close to her heart, eating disorder charity Beat. Aged 18 Ailsa developed an eating disorder, and at one stage was hospitalised.

“I want to show people that it’s not the end of the road and you can overcome it, with the right help and support,” she said.

“At the time it started I was doing my exams at school and it all hit me quite badly. It went on for a couple of years, and I realised it was totally affecting my health. Now I’m at the opposite end of the spectrum and I’m healthy. When I look back I realise I could never have done what I’ve gone on to do with my horses if I was that underweight and unwell.

“It’s nice to support Beat because I’ve got that direct experience and I’ve overcome it. It’s something a lot of people suffer with, especially with social media and people comparing themselves to others, and until there’s more awareness these things will never get better. My family own a haulage business so I’ve got lots of ideas for promoting the charity and the competition and hope to get some crazy signage on the lorries and things like that.”

Ailsa, who is a regular on the Scottish showjumping circuit and has previously ridden at Horse of the Year show in the Talent Seekers and Foxhunter finals, is stepping back from competing for a few months while she focuses on her coaching – and Miss Scotland.

“I started my personal training business four years ago and this year did my level two showjumping coaching certificate. Both are my passions and for me it’s trying to bridge that gap and make people understand how important it is to be fit to ride, and not just about your horse being fit,” she said. “Showjumping, eventing and dressage are advancing to such an insane level, you have to be ticking all the boxes in every department if you want to go all the way.

“If I was to win Miss Scotland and make it to Miss World it would be mind-blowing. It’s all so exciting. It’s just amazing to be able to have a go and be challenged to something that’s totally different to my norm – but still promoting all the things I believe in.”

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‘Illogical’: plan to ban trail-hunting put forward in Scottish hunting bill

Lucy Elder — Sun, 06 Mar 2022 20:00:55 +0000

The Scottish Government’s move to tighten its hunting laws has been branded “illogical” and an “unjustified attack on rural Scotland” by campaigners.

The Hunting with Dogs Bill was introduced to parliament in Scotland on 24 February, following a public consultation that ended in December 2021. This consultation had more than 11,000 responses, but the results and in-depth analysis have not yet been made public. These are expected later this year.

Scotland’s environment minister Màiri McAllan said her aim is to close existing loopholes and “prevent others opening”.

Hunting in Scotland comes under different laws to England and Wales. At present in Scotland, more than two hounds may still be used for flushing foxes to guns. But this new bill seeks to change this.

It would also make trail-hunting illegal and adds significant red tape for packs. There is provision for the use of dogs to search for, stalk or flush a wild mammal in “specified circumstances”. For example, preventing serious damage to livestock, timber or crops, protecting human health or preventing spread of disease.

A licence must be obtained for more than two dogs to be used, and applicants would have to demonstrate there were no satisfactory alternative methods of control available.

The Scottish Countryside Alliance (SCA) has warned any licensing scheme must be “workable and practical”.

“Farmers and land managers across rural Scotland will understandably be asking why the Scottish Government is intent on compromising their livelihoods in direct contradiction to both the science and its own review [carried out by Lord Bonomy],” said SCA director Jake Swindells.

Lord Bonomy’s review, published in 2016, found using packs of hounds to flush foxes to a gun remained “a significant pest control measure”. It also found restricting the number of dogs would “not be as effective as that done by a full pack of hounds” and imposing a restriction could “seriously compromise effective pest control in the country” (news, 1 December, 2016; 4 December, 2017).

In his report, Lord Bonomy concluded that there were “aspects and features of the legislation which complicate unduly the detection, investigation and prosecution of alleged offences”.

Mr Swindells added: “This legislation is an unnecessary and unjustified attack on rural Scotland. Depriving farmers of the ability to protect their livestock and their livelihoods would be a direct attack on their rights.

“Restricting the ability of land managers to protect threatened species like curlew and capercaillie is equally illogical. The only way the damage done by these proposals can be mitigated is by ensuring that the proposed licensing scheme is workable, practical and open to all farmers and land managers who use packs of dogs as part of their fox control measures.”

A spokesman for the National Farmers Union of Scotland stressed the need to maintain “effective, practical and pragmatic control of wild mammals, including foxes in a farming and crofting context”.

He added that this is to prevent damage to livestock, crops, plants and habitats, limit the spread of disease, and reduce predation on protected wildlife species.

Ms McAllan said that she wants to “make clear that chasing and killing a mammal with a dog, for sport or otherwise, has no place in modern Scotland – indeed it has been illegal for 20 years”.

“I am seeking to close loopholes which have allowed that already illegal activity to persist, and my aim is to do that in a way that ensures the greatest possible animal welfare while facilitating legitimate predator control,” she said, adding that she also plans to take “pre-emptive action to prevent trail-hunting becoming established in Scotland in order to reduce the risk of wild mammals being killed by dogs.”

“However, I should like to be clear, that foxes can cause significant harm to livestock, as well as other wildlife such as ground nesting birds – so it is important that farmers and land managers have access to control measures that are efficient and humane. This legislation provides that.”

Popular show known for its HOYS qualifiers cancelled for 2022

Alex Robinson — Thu, 24 Feb 2022 09:02:31 +0000

Popular showing show The Scottish Horse Show has announced that it will not run this year.

Held at the Royal Highland showground in Edinburgh, The Scottish Horse Show was one of Scotland’s main equestrian events and offered competitors a full schedule of Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifiers, including a HOYS in-hand supreme qualifier and opportunities for plaited ponies, horses and mountain and moorland ponies.

The show’s chairman, Tweetie Nimmo, recently made the announcement with a caveat that she hoped that it would return in 2023 with a new structure.

In December 2021, the show’s vice-chairman Allan Robertson died having suffered from poor health, leaving Mrs Nimmo with sole responsibility for most aspects of the show’s organisation.

On behalf of The Scottish Horse Show, esteemed judge, breeder and show supporter Tom Best said: “Over the years the show has built up a favourable reputation with exhibitors both north and south of the border, due to the abundance of qualifying classes for HOYS.

“Combining show duties with other personal commitments, it is little wonder that Mrs Nimmo is looking to restructure the event so that it can come back to the show calendar with renewed vigour next year.”

‘Milestone’ moment as fireworks petition reaches one million signatures

Becky Murray — Fri, 04 Feb 2022 14:25:02 +0000

A petition calling for a review of fireworks rules has reached a landmark one million signatures – as new firework laws in Scotland take a step forward.

The Firework Campaign’s change.org petition, launched three years ago by Julie Doorne, calls for an urgent review of firework regulations to “further restrict their use, as a step to preventing needless animal suffering”. The petition hit a million signatures shortly before midnight on Tuesday (1 February), the day of Chinese New Year when fireworks may be set off until 1am under UK law.

On the same day, the Fireworks and Pyrotechnic Articles (Scotland) Bill was introduced in the Scottish Parliament. The bill, if approved, will make it an offence to buy fireworks without a licence and make it an offence to let off fireworks in “firework control zones”, designated by local authorities. A bill taken to Scottish Parliament will be debated, voted on and may be amended. Parliament then decides if it should be passed.

Julie told H&H reaching a million signatures on the petition felt like a “milestone”.

“We were watching the signatures go up and up as it got closer to midnight,” she said.

“Not many petitions reach a million unless they’ve been talked about on the news so we are really pleased. Some people might say it took us ages to get to this point, but it doesn’t matter how long it took, we got there – and people are still signing it.”

Julie will present the petition to 10 Downing Street in the coming weeks, and following this will request a meeting with Paul Scully, Parliamentary under-secretary for the department for business, energy and industrial strategy, to discuss firework issues.

“I can take six people to Number 10 so I will be reaching out to MPs and the petitions committee, who have always been very supportive, and I hope to take an RSPCA representative. I am going to include a data stick with all the comments from people who have signed the petition and shared their story,” she said.

“I’d really like to see something big happen now, like a national review or for the Government to admit that there is a problem and the current law is not working.”

The petition will remain open for signatures and Julie has emphasised the importance of continuing to report firework concerns to the British Horse Society (BHS), RSPCA and the police. The petition can be signed here.

“We recently ran a survey and of 320 responses, 83.8% said they hadn’t reported firework issues involving their pets to anyone,” said Julie.

“An animal doesn’t have to be injured by a firework to report it, it’s just as important reporting if they are distressed. The RSPCA and BHS are actively asking for this information and we absolutely need people to be reporting it.”

An RSPCA spokesman said the “incredible response” to Julie’s petition goes to show “the strength of public feeling” about what are often unlicensed and random firework displays that give animal owners no time to prepare.

“We hope this opens up public debate and leads to restrictions in the private use of fireworks, saving hundreds of animals from distress each year,” he said.

“The RSPCA has long called for regulatory changes in the way we use fireworks through our Bang Out of Order campaign. Last year we set up an online reporting tool for people to use whose animals had been affected by fireworks and we reached more than 11,000 reports. Sadly many reports to us involve terrified dogs, cats and horses – with some ending up seriously injured or dying in incidents involving fireworks.”

Help rescued horses after Storm Arwen destroyed their shelters

Becky Murray — Thu, 23 Dec 2021 13:03:03 +0000

A welfare charity is appealing for donations after its horse shelters were destroyed by Storm Arwen.

The SSPCA is trying to raise £40,000 to replace three shelters which were destroyed, and hopes to add new shelters to the Aberdeenshire site’s other fields to improve outdoor grazing areas.

Storm Arwen hit the UK on 26 November and brought gusts of up to 98mph in some parts of the country, causing huge amounts of damage and almost a million properties to lose power.

SSPCA Aberdeenshire animal rescue and rehoming centre manager Louise Griese said staff were “devastated” to arrive at the charity the morning after the storm to discover the shelters had been “totally levelled”.

“Thankfully, there were no horses in the shelters at the time and no people or animals were hurt, which is the most important thing,” she said.

“Shelters allow the horses to graze outside while still offering protection from the elements. Many of the horses in our care come from backgrounds of abuse and neglect so having time outside to exhibit natural behaviours like grazing is an important part of their rehabilitation.”

One of the charity’s horses who relies on the shelters is 26-year-old cob mare Eigg.

“Eigg came into the centre in March 2020 as part of a large group seized on welfare grounds. When she arrived she had lice, a large worm burden, her feet needed to be trimmed and her teeth were overgrown,” said Ms Griese.

“The veterinary team took blood samples due to her age and condition and they came back positive for equine metabolic syndrome (EMS). The staff at the centre fully clipped her and it took several special medicated baths to kill the lice. We worked closely with our vets to help Eigg with her teeth and she has had several dentals over her time with us to help with her eating.”

In 2021 after court proceedings concluded, Eigg was signed over to the SSPCA.

“Eigg is still in our care waiting for the perfect retirement home but until then she knows she’s happy and safe here,” said Ms Griese.

“We’d be so grateful for anything people could spare towards these shelters and we know the horses in our care will be too.”

No-firework zones around livery yards and riding schools suggested in Scotland

Becky Murray — Sun, 12 Dec 2021 19:03:20 +0000

No-firework zones around livery yards and riding schools are among the suggestions to come out of a public consultation on fireworks in Scotland, as the Government looks to introduce new legislation “at the earliest opportunity”.

In June the Scottish Government launched a consultation to gain views on proposed amendments to firework laws. The proposals included mandatory conditions at the point of sale of fireworks, no-firework zones and making it an offence to carry pyrotechnics such as flares or smoke devices in a public place (news 3 June).

The consultation had 1,739 responses and findings released this month include the fact 84% backed introducing a licensing system, 92% agreed with creating a new offence to criminalise the supply of fireworks to under-18s, and 83% agreed with creating no-firework zones, suggestions for which included areas around livery yards, riding schools and vet hospitals. Proposals also include restricting the days fireworks can be used by the public to; 29 October to 12 November, 26 to 31 December, the first day of Chinese New Year and Diwali and the weeks following them.

Scottish Government community safety minister Ash Regan said the consultation builds on significant engagement and evidence gathering and demonstrated the range of views among those who responded.

“I am committed to making our communities safer and we have already moved quickly to introduce regulations restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be supplied to the public — as well as the times fireworks can be set off,” she said.

“We are intent on further improving safety for communities across Scotland by taking forward the Fireworks and Pyrotechnics Bill at the earliest opportunity to ensure appropriate action is taken over the sale and use of fireworks and to reduce the misuse of pyrotechnic devices such as flares.”

World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers told H&H the consultation “clearly demonstrates” there is public support for making fireworks safer for all.

“We are heartened that the majority of those who responded agreed on the need for licensing the possession and use of fireworks, and for this licence to require completion of an online safety course which would cover the impact on animals. We are also pleased to see support for set dates when the public can use fireworks – although we think the proposed window is too wide, particularly around Bonfire Night,” he said

“There is also clear support for no-firework zones which would be best led by local authorities who understand their areas, and it is essential that they be given the appropriate resources and training to fulfil this role.

“We welcome the community safety minister’s commitment to take forward the Bill and strongly encourage the English and Welsh Governments to seriously consider similar actions.”

The SSPCA was part of Scotland’s independent fireworks review group and a spokesman for the charity told H&H the organisation is encouraged by the public support in the consultation and will continue to work with the Scottish Government.

‘Unnecessary and unjustified’: proposal to strengthen Scottish hunting law

Lucy Elder — Thu, 11 Nov 2021 12:11:59 +0000

The Scottish Government is seeking a “pre-emptive” ban on trail-hunting amid plans to strengthen the law in a move blasted by the Scottish Countryside Alliance as “unnecessary and unjustified”.

The Government launched a consultation on 29 October on a handful of proposed measures that would significantly affect how Scottish packs operate.

Hunting in Scotland falls under different laws to the Hunting Act 2004, which is the legislation under which packs in England and Wales operate. It is covered under the Protection of Wild Mammals (Scotland) Act 2002.

At present in Scotland, more than two hounds may still be used for flushing foxes to guns. This is one of the areas the Scottish Government is seeking to change.

The proposals include limiting the number of dogs allowed to flush foxes, and other wild mammals, from covert to waiting guns and a licensing scheme for the use of more than two dogs “where no other method of control would be effective”.

The detail in the proposed licensing scheme suggests a model that could mean licences are only granted for “a specific purpose” and if there “was no satisfactory alternative method of control available”.

“Any scheme would also consider details such as the period of validity of a licence granted, the geographical area that it covers and any reporting duties on the licence holder (number of foxes culled),” it adds. “Any licensed operations would be subject to monitoring to ensure compliance with the law and with licence conditions. Licences could be withdrawn for non-compliance with monitoring or breaches of conditions.”

The Government is also consulting on “pre-emptive action to prevent trail-hunting becoming established in Scotland…to avoid it being used as a cover for illegal hunting, following the introduction of a two-dog limit”.

“This could be by banning the use of animal-based scents or any other scent that seeks to mimic the scent of wild mammals for the purpose of providing a trail for dogs to follow,” it states, clarifying that this does not extend to draghunting.

The consultation also seeks views on how the Government could strengthen the law to tackle hare coursing.

Scottish Countryside Alliance director Jake Swindells described the proposals as “unnecessary and unjustified”.

“[They] directly contradict the conclusions of the independent review carried out by Lord Bonomy,” he added.

“It is difficult to imagine a more pointless or illogical consultation, but if the Government is determined to push ahead, it must ensure that farmers can continue to protect their livestock and wildlife.

“Any licensing scheme must be fair, equitable and accessible so the livelihoods of farmers and land managers are not compromised.”

A statement from the organisation added that it is consulting with stakeholder organisations, its members and interested parties before responding to the consultation and remains engaged with members of the Scottish parliament.

“We will also be urging those who live and work in the countryside to respond directly and lobby at local level, to ensure that unnecessary and ill-thought-out legislation is not responsible for the loss of effective and humane working practices throughout Scotland,” it added.

The public consultation ends on 15 December and can be found on the Scottish Government website

The background

The direct build-up to this consultation dates back to 2015, when Lord Bonomy was asked by Scottish Government to examine whether the existing law gave adequate protection to wild mammals, while allowing effective control where necessary.

This review, which is cited numerous times in the consultation, was published in 2016. It found using packs of hounds to flush foxes to a gun remained “a significant pest control measure”. Lord Bonomy also found restricting the number of dogs would “not be as effective as that done by a full pack of hounds” and imposing a restriction could “seriously compromise effective pest control in the country” (news, 1 December, 2016; 4 December, 2017).

In his report, Lord Bonomy concluded that there were “aspects and features of the legislation which complicate unduly the detection, investigation and prosecution of alleged offences”.

In January 2019, the then Scottish parliamentary minister for rural affairs and the natural environment Mairi Gougeon (now cabinet secretary for rural affairs and islands) announced the Government’s intention to act on and “go further” than Lord Bonomy’s recommendations. The proposals seen in the current consultation can be linked back to this 2019 announcement.

What do you think about the proposals? Send your thoughts to hhletters@futurenet.com, including your name, nearest town and country, and you could win a bottle of Champagne Taittinger

Gin It 2 Win It: winners of over-40s eventing league celebrate friendship… and gin

Becky Murray — Sat, 23 Oct 2021 19:33:31 +0000

The winners of an over-40s eventing challenge aimed at “celebrating friendship, duct tape, and gin” have been crowned, as organisers get ready to make next year’s series “bigger and better”.

Gin It 2 Win It was the brainchild of former British Eventing (BE) Scotland under-18 co-ordinator Rose Dudgeon and Grand National-winning trainer Lucinda Russell, with support from co-organisers Lara Bailey Kerr, Caroline Moseley, Laura Anderson and Grace Moran. Riders accumulated points for placings, completions and double clears at Scottish BE fixtures throughout the year.

Claire Johnstone and Hanleen Armani won the Classy Touch trophy for the riders aged 40-49 category, Gillian Edward and Benny Station took the Shades of Silver salver for riders over 50, and Sarah Thomson and Justo Georgia won the Little Beau trophy for the best rider over 60. Jane Valentine and Cabplant Hire took the prize for best rider over 70.

Grace told H&H everybody got behind the league, with results coming “right down to the wire” at the final event of the season, at Burgie in September.

“Throughout the series we had different people leading at different times and we had riders writing blogs for the Eventing Plus — Scotland Facebook page. It was really good banter and we had a real camaraderie,” she said.

Riders were encouraged to wear a small piece of duct tape to identify themselves as being part of Gin It 2 Win It but Grace said next year they hope to design a lapel badge.

“Some people wore the tape and some didn’t, we think partly because they didn’t want the dressage judges thinking they were being held together by duct tape if they didn’t know what the story was!” she said.

The official prizegiving took place at Lucinda Russell and former champion jockey Peter Scudamore’s yard on 17 October.

“Lucinda and Peter did us proud, their generosity was quite something. Three stable tours were held and we got to meet all the horses and see how the water treadmill works, so it wasn’t just a fun day, it was educational and informative too,” said Grace.

“Lucinda is an amazing ambassador, not just for racing, but for eventing too. We’re trying to convince her to borrow a horse and maybe do an event next year. She’s not said no yet, so we’re hopeful!”

Details for next year’s series will be announced in due course and can be found on the Eventing Plus — Scotland Facebook group.

New rules ‘to stop the horror cases’: Scotland introduces licensing of rescue centres

Becky Murray — Sat, 25 Sep 2021 19:33:31 +0000

SCOTLAND has become the first country in the UK to introduce mandatory licences for animal rescue centres in a “positive step” for welfare – but challenges have been highlighted around ensuring the appropriate training of inspectors.

The regulation, which came into force on 1 September, requires rescue centres and sanctuaries that keep five equines or more to apply for a licence from their local authority in order to operate.

SSPCA chief superintendent Mike Flynn told H&H previously anyone could start a rescue centre, but the new requirements will bring sanctuaries in line with other welfare legislation to make sure animals are being cared for by people with the relevant knowledge and facilities. Mr Flynn said while the regulations were primarily brought in owing to the issues around dog rescues, there have been “a few unfortunate cases” over the years involving equine sanctuaries which have resulted in prosecution.

“These regulations are to stop some of the horror cases seen in the past where a sanctuary fell through the net because there were no [licence] requirements,” he said.

“Often it’s people who start off with the best intentions and will take in a horse here and there, but by the time the SSPCA or any other agency gets involved some have turned into animal hoarders and don’t rehome them. When one of these sanctuaries goes wrong it tends to be a major problem. If a local authority is keeping its eye on them and not allowing them to go over their numbers, it should make a great difference. This isn’t to put a rescue or sanctuary out of business – it’s about everyone coming up to a decent standard.”

Local authorities will enforce the licences and can appoint local authority staff to inspect the premises as part of the application process. Vets or the SSPCA can also be appointed to carry out inspections, but this is not a legislative requirement.

In the World Horse Welfare Scottish equine manifesto published this month (news, 23 September) the charity urged the Scottish Government to commit to appropriate training and resourcing of enforcement bodies to ensure the success of the licences.

“The new legislation is a positive step in ensuring quality care of equines in sanctuaries and providing reassurance to the public who support these establishments that welfare comes first,” said Roly Owers, World Horse Welfare chief executive. “While we recognise the main driver of this legislation is the dog trade, it has real potential to deliver positive improvements in equine welfare. To do this, there will need to be species-specific guidance and upskilling of those appointed to inspect these establishments.

“There is a clear need for these inspectors to have prior experience of horse rehabilitation or welfare cases as, by their very nature, the horses these sanctuaries care for often have complex needs and will be at various stages of the rehabilitation process. There will be a real challenge facing inspectors to ascertain whether there is a welfare issue during inspection, and we have concerns this could lead to cases of poor welfare being overlooked or, conversely, inspectors mistaking early stage rehabilitation for poor welfare standards and establishments being closed down.”

Mr Owers added the charity looks forward to supporting this legislation and added the equine welfare sector will continue to engage with the Scottish Government to ensure any “difficulties” that arise can be addressed.

“This will also help inform our campaigns in the other UK countries, as we urge their governments to introduce similar legislation.”

A Scottish Government spokesman told H&H the Scottish Government takes animal welfare “very seriously”.

“These important new measures aim to ensure they further protect animal welfare and ensure they experience the best quality of life possible,” he said.

“We would encourage operators of animal sanctuaries and those engaging in animal rehoming to familiarise themselves with the changes to the law and, where required, ensure they apply for and obtain the relevant licence.”

In October 2020 a voluntary code of practice was launched by the Welsh Government, drafted by the Animal Welfare Network for Wales, calling for animal welfare establishments to agree to deliver “exemplary levels” of care and encourage the highest standard of husbandry (news, 15 October 2020). A two-year window was set to gauge the work of the code, before regulation is created. At the time the RSPCA told H&H the charity was working with the UK Government on guidelines for rescues in England.

#ActNow4Horses: new campaign targets ‘window of opportunity’ to improve equine welfare

Becky Murray — Wed, 22 Sep 2021 20:03:39 +0000

A new World Horse Welfare campaign is targeting a “window of opportunity” for better equine welfare in Scotland and Wales.

The charity launched #ActNow4Horses this month following the countries’ parliamentary elections on 6 May. The campaign is asking for Scottish MSPs and Welsh MSs to support a number of pledges set out in five-year manifestos. Both manifestos call for improved welfare during transport, work towards full digital traceability of equines and the updating of the Riding Establishments Act.

The Scottish manifesto also asks for consideration to the regulation of commercial equine establishments and breeders, and to ensure the success of the licensing of equine welfare establishments – which came into force on 1 September. The Welsh manifesto asks the Welsh Senedd to improve enforcement of legislation, facilitate faster rehoming of equines involved in prosecution cases, improve welfare on the commons and to consider licensing welfare establishments.

World Horse Welfare senior public affairs officer Kim Ayling told H&H now is the “perfect opportunity” to put equine welfare on the political agenda. Equestrians are urged to contact their MPs or MSs and ask them to pledge to the manifestos.

“As an organisation we can bring these points to the attention of politicians, but they act on the interests of their constituents,” she said.

“It’s important to show that this is of interest to the general public and something they need to consider and act on. We will do everything we can, but we cannot do our job without the support from animal lovers.”

Nic de Brauwere, chair of the National Equine Welfare Council and Animal Network Wales, told H&H equine welfare has been “under siege” in recent years, highlighted by the organisation’s member charities in the joint report, Britain’s Horse Problem (news, 24 December).

“Stakeholder engagement with the devolved governments is vital to ensure equine welfare is protected or enhanced on the back of new evidence and when opportunities arise for new or amended legislation,” he said.

“Partnership working on the front line is essential to ensure we can evidence where legal protections for equine welfare are not working, and the new World Horse Welfare campaign, directly aimed at the new governments in Scotland and Wales, is an excellent example of making sure our elected representatives are aware of the issues that our horse-loving nations want to see fixed.”

Scotland’s rural affairs secretary Mairi Gougeon told H&H the Scottish Government takes animal welfare “extremely seriously”.

“We are committed to ensuring the highest possible standards in Scotland. In general, we are supportive of the manifesto. I met World Horse Welfare on 1 September to continue engagement with the sector to ensure the highest standards of animal welfare,” she said.

“Within this year’s programme for government (PfG) there is a commitment to take forward future licensing of animal services which in due course may include equine establishments. There is also a PfG commitment to consult further on specific transport proposals following our general consultation on the farm animal welfare committee’s recommendations earlier this year. The equine sector will be included in future discussions alongside other Great Britain administrations.”

A Welsh Government spokesman told H&H the Government welcomes the manifesto and intends to publish a five-year animal welfare plan this autumn.

“We plan to develop a national model for regulation of animal welfare and introduce registration for animal welfare establishments, commercial breeders for pets and animal exhibits,” said the spokesman.

“We are working with the UK Government on introducing a ban on the export of livestock and equines for slaughter through the Animal Welfare (Kept Animals) Bill, and to consider how the protection of animal welfare during transport can be strengthened.”

Licences for buying fireworks could be on the cards for Scotland

Becky Murray — Mon, 28 Jun 2021 06:03:06 +0000

Animal owners are among those being asked for their views on proposed new legislation that could require members of the public to apply for a licence, complete an online safety course and pay a fee before buying fireworks in Scotland.

Last week the Scottish Government launched a new consultation to gain views on a number of proposed amendments to laws on buying fireworks in Scotland. The proposals are: the introduction of mandatory conditions at the point of sale of fireworks, no-firework zones, making it an offence to carry pyrotechnics such as flares or smoke devices in a public place, and granting the police powers to stop and search anyone suspected of carrying pyrotechnics.

If successful, the point-of-sale conditions could include a system requiring adults aged 18 and over to apply for a licence before they can buy fireworks. This would include members of community organisations and groups organising a public display. Applicants would be required to complete an online safety course and pay a fee to obtain the licence – and must disclose any unspent convictions for fireworks-related offences. Consideration is also being given to whether a licence should be required for the possession and use of fireworks.

“We are keen to get practical feedback on the introduction of legislation from those who use and enjoy fireworks as well as those affected by fireworks including vulnerable groups, animal owners, and from local authorities, enforcement agencies, the fireworks industry, retailers and other organisations that have a role or interest in fireworks,” said a Scottish government spokesman.

In 2019 the Scottish government took action after a public survey found 92% of more than 16,000 respondents felt there should be more control on how fireworks can be used. Scottish minister for community safety Ash Denham appointed a firework review group, made up of key organisations including the SSPCA, Police Scotland and the Scottish Fire and Rescue Service, to consider options for legislative and regulatory change.

The review group issued a series of recommendations in December 2020 relating to how fireworks are sold and used by the general public in Scotland. In February this year new legislation was introduced in the Scottish parliament by Ms Denham restricting the times of day and the volume of fireworks that can be sold to the general public and restricting the times fireworks can be set off.

“I am delighted to report that as a result of these regulations, we will now see a shift in how fireworks are bought and used in our community in time for this year’s fireworks period,” said Ms Denham.

A series of online consultation events is being held in June, July and August to enable stakeholders, individuals and communities to share their views on the new proposed measures.

Continued below…

(Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

Horse to lose eye after fireworks incident

More than £13,400 has been raised by well-wishers towards the gelding’s vet fees, of which the remainder will be split

(Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

Government committee to explore changes in firework law

The group will consider how the current legislation around fireworks can be tightened

(Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)

“These events will provide opportunities for people to come together to discuss the proposed changes in more detail and to identify and discuss the practical implications of each,” said the Scottish government spokesman.

“A summary report will be produced from each event for the Scottish Government to consider alongside the official consultation responses.”

The consultation closes on 15 August. Take part in the consultation here.

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.

‘There’s no better place’: why horse lovers should move to or visit Scotland H&H Plus

Becky Murray — Sat, 26 Jun 2021 11:00:22 +0000

Whether planning a holiday or moving lock, stock and barrel, discover the best of Scotland with its Caribbean-style beaches, terrific training terrain and popular native breeds, says Becky Murray

THERE’S something majestic about Scotland, a land like no other. Home to native breeds including the much-loved Clydesdale and the Eriskay pony, Scotland is famed for its scenery and visitors are welcomed with open arms to a unique sense of camaraderie.

But a proud Scot can be a force to be reckoned with and when it comes to equestrianism, they rightly have much to be proud of with top studs, medal-winning riders, and training grounds producing past and future success stories. The long, harsh winters and often lengthy travel to competitions certainly teach riders about grit and determination, but combined with breathtaking views and islands that offer Caribbean-like beaches, there are worse places in the world to be an equestrian.

A dressage rider who knows a lot about this determination is 19-year-old Rachel Evans, who lives in Shapinsay, a small island off Orkney. Despite there being no British Dressage competitions in Orkney, she qualified for the 2020 Petplan Equine Area Festival Championships at Hartpury (which were later cancelled owing to Covid) with her Connemara gelding Kingswells Midnight Blue. Rachel has her eye on further qualifications and is training towards advanced medium level.

“I don’t have an arena so I have to school on the beach,” explains Rachel, who travels to mainland Scotland throughout the year for training and competition. “I have to ride when others might choose not to, you have to make the most of it. There’s usually one unaffiliated competition in Orkney a month, but because I’m not on the mainland of Orkney it’s still a 25-minute boat journey to get there… and the boat doesn’t run if the weather is too bad!

“When the weather is nice, there is no better place to be. The roads are quiet so the hacking is really good, and you know that if there was a problem anyone would help you.”

IT’S not just riders made of the tough stuff. Born to cope with harsh island life of course is the robust Shetland pony, which has long inhabited the Shetland Isles and can be traced back to the Bronze Age. While this native breed might be small, it packs a punch with personality and ability, and has become a popular children’s pony across the world, starting the careers of the likes of eventer Zara Tindall and jockey Sam Twiston-Davies.

Elaine Tait of the Merkisayre Shetland Pony Stud, formed by her parents Barbara and George in 1994, says while the ponies thrive on the island, they are also very versatile to live elsewhere and turn their hooves to a variety of careers. One of the stud’s most recent success stories is Merkisayre See Duble, who competed in the Shetland Pony Grand National final at Olympia, the London International Horse Show, in 2018 with his jockey Poppy Dadson.

“It’s very nice when you get a phone call to say a pony you’ve bred has won a championship or qualified somewhere,” says Elaine, who herself competed at Olympia on her Shetland pony Robins Brae Firva in 1987 and 1988. “It’s good to hear they’re successful because that means you’ve done a good job.”

Another much-loved native Scottish breed is the Highland pony, known for their kind temperament and strength. The Queen’s Highland pony stud at Balmoral Castle breeds working ponies for carrying stags off the hills of the estate – as well as producing successful ponies for the show ring. The stud has a herd of 40, including stallions Balmoral Squire and Balmoral Major.

“What we think about first and foremost, especially for a working breed, is the brain; if they don’t have the temperament with a trainable brain, there’s no point even starting,” explains Sylvia Ormiston, Balmoral Stud manager. “Her Majesty The Queen is very involved in our breeding programme – I will come up with a suggestion and take it to The Queen and she’ll either agree or disagree whether she wants to go ahead.”

IT isn’t just native breeds flying the Scottish flag; sport horse studs including Balcormo Stud, MFS Studfarm, Turnbull Ashton Stud and Caledonia Dressage Horses are among those with lots to shout about as their horses enjoy worldwide success.

The Low-Mitchells’ Balcormo Stud was home to the late breeding stallion Secundus, one of the first warmbloods to arrive in Scotland, imported by the late Dugald Low-Mitchell. He promptly put Scottish breeding on the map with countless offspring competing internationally. The stud continues to breed successful horses from stallions Corraghoe Storm and Jumped Up Z.

Sandra Low-Mitchell says she’s proud to be Scottish and describes the landscape as a “playground” for educating young horses.

“It’s a great starting ground in terms of the variation in the climate, ground and terrain, but I think when you get to a certain level you have to take a chance and move on and get out into the world,” she explains. “Scott Brash has been a fantastic inspiration for riders – he’s shown it can be done. He always had serious talent, but he also has fantastic drive.”

COMPETITORS in Scotland have a choice of venues offering British Showjumping and British Dressage including the Cabin Equestrian Centre, Aberdeenshire; Howe Equestrian,

Fife; the Scottish National Equestrian Centre, West Lothian; and Morris Equestrian Centre and Muirmill Equestrian Centre, East Ayrshire.

The British Eventing offering in Scotland has reduced in recent years as organisers have retired or moved away from affiliated events with competitor favourites Aswanley, Floors Castle and Eglinton some of the events to drop off the calendar.

Burgie, Hopetoun, and Kirriemuir are among those that continue to welcome riders during the limited Scottish season.

And while competitors aspiring to the higher levels often spend many hours on the road heading south, the Royal Highland Show and Blair Castle International Horse Trials pull in the cream of the crop up north, as top showing riders, showjumpers and eventers descend annually.

“The Royal Highland is a big draw for us, everyone wants to ride there – it has a great atmosphere and you don’t get a nicer place than Blair Castle,” says Sandra.

New Zealand Olympic rider Caroline Powell, who was based in Scotland for almost 20 years, has fond memories of Blair Castle.

“Blair was amazing – they had some excellent events,” she recalls. “It certainly isn’t a place to go with horses that don’t know how to get up and down hills!

“I miss Scotland and the camaraderie, it had a close-knit community and was good fun. Kelso was a lovely place to keep horses – they lived out the whole time.

“Scotland had the most amazing riding and open space, whereas down south it can get a bit claustrophobic.”

Olympic team gold medallist Scott Brash, who was born and raised in Peebles, may spend much of his time flying the British flag on the international showjumping circuit, but he speaks proudly of his home country and returns to Peebles as much as he can.

“The hillwork I could do in Scotland was really beneficial to my horses’ training programme, which they don’t get on the Continent. If you go to a yard in Belgium or Germany, it’s really hard to get traditional terrain to train horses and develop the muscles in the correct way, so that’s a real benefit of living in Scotland,” he says.

“Scotland has a strong place in my heart, I’ll always regard it as home. I still put my young horses there to be brought up in that environment – there’s no better place.”

Scotland’s Caribbean-like beaches and varying terrain make it an ideal place for training horses (Image credit: creditUnknown)

EVENTING legend and Olympic medallist Ian Stark says it was never an issue keeping his horses fit during his eventing career and credits the Scottish hunting scene as an important part of his preparation. Ian recalls his first Badminton winner – in 1986 with Sir Wattie – whom both he and his wife Jenny hunted.

“We were last to go at Badminton in bottomless conditions and Sir Wattie just thought this was normal,” he says.

“We went sailing round inside the time and won the competition. They learn a huge amount hunting; it teaches them a lot about looking after themselves, and I still take my young horses hunting.”

And there is plenty of hunting country to enjoy in Scotland, with hunts including the Lauderale, Berwickshire and the Duke of Buccleuch, the latter of which Ian was a former field master and joint-master.

One thing that’s clear is that those who are based in Scotland speak highly of it, and those who move on will always remember it as home.

RIDING HOLIDAYS

(Image credit: creditUnknown)

SCOTLAND offers a paradise for those seeking riding holidays from beaches to mountains and everything in between. Check out these yards.

● Highland Horse Fun in Inverness-shire offers tailor-made experiences on Highland ponies, including five-day trail rides or munro bagging (climbing peaks) by horseback.

highlandhorsefun.com

● Loch Lomond Pony Trekking offers a riding experience with spectacular surroundings in and around Loch Lomond and the National Park.

lomond-ponytreks.co.uk

● The Shetland Pony Experience in Burra, Shetland Islands, offers a beach experience suitable for families, with plenty of photograph opportunities. theshetlandponyexperience.com

● Traigh Mmoh Pony Trekking on the Isle of Lewis offers two miles of beach riding with ample opportunities to enjoy a good gallop. tolsta41.com

● Loch Ness Riding offers holiday packages for experienced riders, and your own horse is welcome too.

lochnessriding.co.uk

This report can also be read in Horse & Hound magazine, on sale date 24 June 2021

Future welfare concerns over lack of Scottish farriery funding

Becky Murray — Fri, 21 May 2021 21:18:54 +0000

Concerns have been raised across Scotland and the industry about a possible future lack of qualified farriers. H&H speaks to governments, farriers and authorities to find out more

CONCERNS have been raised around funding for Scottish apprentice farriers, as a potential decrease in farriers and long-term welfare consequences are feared.

The topic of farriers was raised in the Horsescotland manifesto, as the organisation said one of its aims for 2021–2025 is to address farriery issues in the country. The only Scottish farriery department at Oatridge Agricultural College closed in 2009, so apprentices must train at one of three English colleges; Myerscough, Herefordshire and Ludlow, or Warwickshire.

While course fees for Scottish apprentices attending were once publicly funded, since 2017 Scottish apprentice farriers have had to pay their own fees. Those attending the colleges from England or Wales have their fees paid by the UK Government.

A spokesman for the Farriers Registration Council (FRC) told H&H many potential apprentices cannot afford the training.

“Young men and women in Scotland who wish to pursue their chosen career are being disadvantaged through lack of access to public funding, which may limit their life chances,” he said.

“There is a risk that over time, the number of registered farriers practising in Scotland will decrease to such an extent that owners may not be able to access the hoof care needed by their animals in a timely manner, with welfare consequences. There may be a requirement to import skills from elsewhere in Great Britain to manage the consequences.”

Horsescotland chairman Grant Turnbull told H&H funding for apprentice farriers is a “very significant” medium- to long-term issue.

“It’s on our radar as to how we can achieve support for apprentices and for approved training farriers,” he said.

“We’re conscious that there is an adequate number of farriers in Scotland just now, but the projection of the medium to the longer term is the difficulty.”

Mr Turnbull added that Horsescotland is looking into re-establishing a full-time or part-time farriery training school in Scotland.

“It’s interaction with the Government and possible venues that could provide this. I’m aware of three potential venues, but it’s about us being able to present a package to demonstrate that there are these facilities, and a need and thirst for the development of apprentice farriers, so we have a robust case,” he said.

Approved training farrier David Newall, who has two apprentices, told H&H not all apprentices are in a position to pay the fees and added it is another obstacle for Scottish apprentices who are being “penalised”.

“There’s going to be a welfare issue in terms of actually having enough qualified and registered farriers in Scotland doing work,” he said.

Third-year apprentice Grant Nelson, 19, who is self-funding his £15,000 fees, told H&H the cost was in the “back of his mind“ before starting his course and it could put others off.

“It feels unfair; I’m going to college and paying for it while others get it for free,” he said. “It’s tricky to get an apprenticeship anyway because there are not lots of approved training farriers, but when it’s as hard as it is and you’ve got to self-fund, some probably won’t do it.”

A spokesman for the Scottish Government told H&H farrier that training at Oatridge college ceased owing to lack of demand and that prior to 2017, the Scottish and UK governments had an “informal agreement” on reciprocal funding, which allowed training to be delivered in England to Scottish applicants.

“This agreement ceased in 2017 when England adopted new guidelines for funding apprenticeships, which required those receiving funding to work over 50% of their time in England,” said the spokesman. “We continue to press the department of education to resolve this matter and reinstate our previous agreement.”

On low demand, the FRC spokesman said “this is something of the chicken and egg argument”.

“Where there is no public funding, this is likely to (or even will) suppress demand. However, given that demand may be low – and relative to elsewhere in Great Britain it may be – there is no compelling financial reason not to make public funding available to Scottish applicants,” he said.

A spokesman for the UK Government’s department for education told H&H the department is responsible for apprenticeships and funding in England, while the Scottish government is responsible for those in Scotland, adding that apprenticeship policies are devolved.

“An apprentice based in England for more than 50% of the time is eligible for funding through the English model,” he said.

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New dossier aims to put £335m Scottish horse economy to Government

Becky Murray — Sat, 15 May 2021 10:01:35 +0000

Horsescotland hopes to increase participation and heighten awareness at Government level of what the equestrian community offers — and Scottish riders have to be on board. H&H finds out more

A NEW manifesto aims to put Scotland’s £335m equestrian economy on the Scottish Government’s radar, while increasing inclusivity and modernising regulation.

Last month Horsescotland released its 2021 document providing data on Scotland’s equestrian sector and the organisation’s plans for the next four years. It includes figures from the 2019 British Equestrian Trade Association Scotland-specific survey, funded by Horsescotland with support from British Horse Society (BHS) Scotland, which shows the Scottish equestrian economy is estimated to be worth £335m; Scottish racing contributes an additional £306m.

Horsescotland’s aims include encouraging participation in equestrian sport by tackling misconceptions such as elitism, improving accessibility, modernising regulations for riding schools by tackling anomalies in local authorities around licensing costs, developing breeding programmes for native Scottish breeds, and promoting welfare with licensing of sanctuaries and improving traceability of equines.

Horsescotland chairman Grant Turnbull told H&H the aim of the manifesto is to heighten awareness at Government level of what the equestrian community offers, not just in terms of economic input but from a health and wellbeing perspective.

“We had to ensure we got the manifesto out at the right time, and wanted to launch it prior to the Scottish election on 6 May. We’ve had great cross-party interest and engagement,” he said.

“We want to be seen knocking on the door at Government saying ‘we are here, this is what we do and we would like you to recognise it’ so we can build on it for the future. The figures from the survey alone are quantifiable and an eye-opening amount to be considered by Government as worth further engagement,” he said, adding that it is hoped riders and owners will use the information from the manifesto to lobby MSPs on any issues or concerns in the equestrian industry they are affected by.

“We’ve had great cross-party interest and engagement but it is down to the membership; if one of the aims rings true with them then it’s up to them to engage with their local Government representatives to ensure they are aware of the manifesto and that they are taking it up the Government levels. There’s a limit to what Horsescotland can do on our own, we need people to communicate with us and others to ensure that our story is told in a positive and proactive light. I want people to think ‘I can have an input’ and ‘I can help’ on an individual basis, rather than say ‘it’s never going to happen’.”

Horsescotland board director John Burns told H&H it sometimes feels like equestrian sport has been forgotten about at Government level.

“We need to let them see what the equestrian community offers the country as a whole; be it from vets, farriers, the support industry. The community is huge but sometimes it gets overlooked,” he said.

“People need to speak to their MSPs and tell them what value horses give them as an individual, and who supports them within that,” he said. “Public health is all about encouraging people to take part in sport, but I think equestrianism has to be looked at more as a sport, and that could encourage more investment from the Government.”

BHS Scotland national manager Helene Mauchlen told H&H that with almost 200,000 regular riders, there is a vibrant equestrian community in Scotland, adding that equestrianism provides opportunities for leisure, learning and mental wellbeing to riders across the country.

“As one of the largest, most active members of Horsescotland, the BHS is delighted to work with the other member bodies to support their work in uniting the Scottish equestrian community to enable people, horses and places to thrive,” she said.

A spokesman for Sportscotland, the national agency for sport in Scotland, told H&H the organisation will continue to work closely with Horsescotland as it develops plans to increase participation in equine sport.

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Good news for Scottish riders as competition gets to restart

Becky Murray — Fri, 12 Mar 2021 18:30:58 +0000

Scotland has been given the nod to resume equestrian competition, in welcome news for riders.

Last week, first minister Nicola Sturgeon set out plans to relax the “stay at home” restrictions and today (12 March) Horsescotland released revised guidance for equestrians, in accordance with Sportscotland.

From today adults (aged 18 and over) can take part in organised activity, including training and competitions, but this must take place within their own local authority for those in mainland Scotland. Riders taking part in “informal activity” such as hacking or facility hire without a coach, can travel up to five miles into a neighbouring local authority area.

Training and competitions should take place in outdoor sporting bubbles; for 12 and over a “field of play bubble” can consist of up to 15 people ( including coaches, officials and support staff) at any one time.

“Where there are multiple bubbles operating at the same venue these must be risk-assessed to ensure there can be no mixing of participants before, during or after the activity. Specific mitigations could include staggered start times, limiting car parking or controlling access/ egress points,” the guidance states.

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Under-18s can take part in training and competition without travel restrictions. The field of play bubbles can consist of up to 15 people for age 12 and over including coaches and officials at any one time. For under-12s a bubble can consist of up to 30 people.

“Through working closely with Sportscotland, I am delighted to see activity again opening up for the equestrian community in Scotland,” said Horsescotland chairman Grant Turnbull.

“I urge riders to work with us, our member bodies and the wider community to ensure progression is speedy and continuous. I personally believe that further relaxation measures are likely to be accelerated and that we can look forward to much greater freedom in the not too distant future.”

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.