Royal Show commentator Ian Scott was given some extra help from an unusual visitor on the Wednesday of the show — an escaped parrot.

The African Grey was spotted chewing the loudspeaker cable on top of the commentary box at the Horsemart Arena and was encouraged down by a visitor.

Placed for safe keeping inside the commentary box, the talkative parrot happily pottered about before deciding to fly onto Ian’s hat while he was calling in the Cleveland Bays.

“He was very sweet — he was wandering around the shelf picking up pens and talking to himself, I’d forgotten he was there until he flew onto my head,” said Ian.

Ian dutifully carried on his work until the parrot was carefully set back down.

“He wasn’t too impressed with being taken off my head and put back on the shelf,” added Ian.

But all ended happily, once the show organisers were convinced the call for help was not a wind up they sent vets and a cage.

The parrot — whose name turned out to be Harry — was reunited with its local owner later in the day using its leg ring identity bracelet.

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (23 July, ’09)

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The Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE) is to hold a “Festival of the Horse” in place of the Royal Show, which folds this year.

The festival will be held from 9-11 July 2010 and was announced as H&H went to press on Monday.

Organisers say the new event will feature all the equine classes from the Royal Show, plus a number of new attractions that will make the festival “an all-encompassing equine extravaganza”.

“Staging a specialist event will give us so much more scope,” said RASE equine manager Sarah Deeming.

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (18 June, ’09)

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Seven new equestrian classes have been added to the programme for the 2009 Royal Show as part of a major revamp.

They are three Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifiers, as well as two heavy horse classes and two private driving classes.

Sarah Deeming from the Royal Agricultural Society of England said: “We are delighted to have been offered three new HOYS qualifiers — we now have 19 sections with qualifiers. The extra heavy horse classes and driving classes were spurred on by feedback from competitors and breed societies.”

The addition of the classes is part of a major overhaul of this year’s show, at Stoneleigh Park, Warwickshire, 7-10 July.

Other innovations include a new showground layout, more livestock and a return to the midweek slot preferred by farmers and traders.

The new classes are shire horse of the year (HOYS qualifier), ridden heavy horse and heavy horse young handler.

John Ward from the Shire Horse Society said the classes “had to be a bonus”.

For more information, go to www.royalshow.org.uk

This article was first published in Horse & Hound (12 February, ’09)

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The Royal Show has added another equine ring this year as part of its commitment to expanding its equine section.

The show runs from Wednesday, 2 July to Sunday, 6 July instead of the traditional Sunday to Wednesday format.

New classes on the schedule include a Retraining of Racehorses qualifier, Appaloosa in-hand and ridden, and a Cherif championship for Arab horses.

“The new ring has freed up more time, so the schedule is less jammed and we’ve been able to include new classes this year,” said Sarah Deeming, head of equine at the Royal.

Organisers have also improved systems after last year’s entries fiasco, when a number were turned away following errors with computer systems and new staff (news, 21 June 2007).

“We have improved computer systems this year to handle competitor information and inquiries, and are acknowledging all entries within two weeks of receipt,” said Royal Show spokesman Naomi Barry, who confirmed no entries have been turned away this year.

The Royal also features a new heavy horse area showcasing shire horses, Suffolk Punches, Percherons and Clydesdales.

For more information, or to book tickets, visit www.royalshow.org.uk or tel: 02476 696969.

Click here for your chance to win VIP tickets to the Royal Show

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (22 May, ’08)

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The Royal Show is changing its dates and format next year, in the hope of broadening its appeal. Organisers are also planning changes to the equestrian content and inviting exhibitors to put forward ideas.

“We’ve been consulting widely on the future of the Royal Show,” said John Moverley, chief executive of the Royal Agricultural Society of England (RASE), a division of which runs the show. “There’s an overwhelming need for a national event of its kind, but it needed to be restructured.

Traditionally, the Royal starts on a Sunday and finishes on a Wednesday. In 2008, it will run from 3-6 July, Wednesday to Sunday.

Mr Moverley said Thursday and Friday will have a stronger emphasis on business, while Saturday and Sunday will focus on reconnecting country, town and industry, as well as food and drink. This year, the cancellation of the final day of the show to all but equestrian exhibitors resulted in a loss of around £240,000.

Chief horse steward Guy Hurst said the show is “open to all suggestions” about how to improve the equestrian content.

“The change of dates will help because we can have native breeds at the weekend and people won’t have to take a day off work to come,” he said. “We’ve already changed things in recent years — introducing coloured classes and doing away with flu jab requirements.

“We might consider bolstering the show jumping, and we’re looking at putting on an extra ring, so there will be three rings for equestrian classes.” While the new date does not clash with the Hickstead Derby meeting (possibly 26-29 July in 2008), it does leave little time before the Great Yorkshire Show (8-10 July). The Yorkshire Agricultural Society (YAS) believes this will impact on its show.

YAS show director Bill Cowling said: “We’re very disappointed and see the Royal’s decision as divisive and damaging to the industry.” He said Mr Moverley’s offer to allow livestock to leave the Royal early to travel to Great Yorkshire was “simply not an option”.

“It isn’t practical or advisable to show stock with less than a day’s rest between two events,” he said. “Particularly when several hours of travelling are involved.”

If you have any suggestions, contact the RASE by e-mail at info@rase.org.uk or (tel: 024 7669 6969).

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THE ROYAL SHOW Stoneleigh, Warks, 1-4 July

Clydesdale (J McMillan): yng mare— 1, T Bull’s Arclid Ember. geld— 1 & res, G Holmes’ Thomas; 2, D Mouland’s Westforth Simpson. 1/2-y-o— 1 & ch, L Fountain’s Woodhouse Lucky; 2, S Watson’s Hill Lodge Perfection. team/turnout— 1, G Holmes. 2-horse— 1, A Govan; 2, G Holmes; 3, D Mouland. Percheron (J Peacock): stallion— 1, D Ryder’s Rosehill Donavan. colt— 1, G Leedham’s Rigolo De La Fiere; 2, E Garner & Sons’ Hales Creon. mare— 1 & ch, Bailey & Sons’ Willingham Etoille. foal — 1, Bailey & Sons. barren mare— 1 & res, Garner & Sons’ Hales Xanthus; 2, G Leedham’s Park Spring. y’ling— 1, G Leedham’s Davgue Kathryn; 2, D Ryder’s Valleyriver Toy Boy. 2/3-y-o— 1 & 2, D & L Scurrell’s Willingham Ella & Willilngham Boxer; 3, J McDermott’s Quetsche Du Chesnay. team — 1, L Blain; 2, Garner & Sons. single— 1, Garner & Sons; 2, L Blain; 3, R & S Fuller. Shire (A Wass): geld— 1, Redfern & Tetlow’s Bodernog Brigadier; 2, D Mouland’s Knutsford Senator; 3, Mr & Mrs Mail’s Arclid Beamish. mare— 1 & ch, L Fountain’s Cotebrook Loch Maree; 2 & res, P & W Bedford’s Acle Delma. foal— 1, L Fountain’s Double Diamond; 2, P & W Bedford. 2-y-o — 1, P & K Harper’s Olivia; 2, T Bull’s Arclid Odin; 3, P Moss’ Sladbrook Little Gem. 1/2-y-o— 1, P Moss’ Hillmoor Angilina; 2, P & C Breakwell’s Wheathead Rose Of Lancashire; 3, C Dawson’s Eastcote Marigold. barren mare— 1, T Yates’ Boyton Gold Bracelet. team— 1, J Goodwin; 2, Waldburg Shires; 3, Daniel Thwaites. single— 1, J Goodwin; 2, Waldburg Shires; 3, Geo Gale & Co. Suffolk (S Wager): stallion— 1, J Lipscomb’s Mulgrave Master Apple. mare— 1, Mr & Mrs Fleming’s Eyke Thistle; 2, M Clarke’s Holbeache Bell. foal— 1, M Clarke’s Holbeache Grace Light; 2, Mr & Mrs Fleming’s Eyke Admiral. barren mare— 1 & ch, Mr & Mrs Fleming’s Eyke Amber; 2 & res, Bradley & Purse’s Fenland Gem. filly— 1, S Hall’s Chalkhouse Daisy; 2, Dr Collier’s Ridgeway Alice. team— 1, R Hiscock; 2, Suffolk Punch Trust. 2-horse— 1, R Hiscock; 2, Suffolk Punch Trust. single— 1, R Hiscock; 2, Suffolk Punch Trust. agricultural turnout (A King): single— 1, S Darling’s Longcopy Bernhard Roman; 2, R & S Fuller; 3, A & C Thompson. 2-horse— 1, P Smith; 2, Mr & Mrs Keeble; 3, K Morris. obstacle driving— 1, R & S Fuller’s Andy; 2, S & Y Powell’s Ben; 3, Fullers Brewery’s Pride. pair— 1, J McDermott; 2, A Govan; 3, R Hiscock. Arab purebred (Dr J Bishop): mare— 1 & res, C Reeves’ Metelica; 2, M Hillyer’s Red House Gala; 3, L McCormick’s Marashma. y’ling filly— 1, Atkinson & Howard-Price’s Nyishaa; 2, L Jenkins’ Santanna Savanah. colt— 1, J Cooper’s Charismatic Arabian. do, 2/3-y-o— 1, W Jones’ Sata Havea. colt— 1, J Cooper’s Jacobi. stallion— 1 & ch, Atkinson & Howard-Price’s Ardres; 2, J Bint’s Distinkt. ridden mare (K Houghton)— 1 & ch, D Peck’s Dervatiw Gwyddion. do— 1 & res, S Rose’s Shayna Maybe; 2, G Ayub’s Eastworth Ahmoshini; 3, Mr & Mrs Gay’s Indikah. geld— 1, H Hyde-Andrews’ Majestic Cavalier; 2, A Miller’s Mahradi; 3, Pulsford & Garbitt’s Psyches Vallantino. anglo/PB (J Bishop): y’ling — 1 & res, J Grace’s Renelles Florentine; 2, Sanderson & Eccles’ Bankswood Sophistication; 3, M Bedford’s Stemar Classic Gold. 2/3-y-o— 1 & ch, J Buckley’s Waltza Perfect Dream; 2, Universal Packaging’s Deanshill Regent; 3, Hawker & Tyler-Davis’ Renelles Regal Romance. Cleveland Bay (J Stephenson): mare— 1 & res, J Firth’s Willow Luceres; 2, Mr & Mrs Cowgill’s Oaten Whinbush. foal— 1, Mr & Mrs Cowgill’s Highpasture Salina; 2, J Firth’s Barbarian Divinity. 1/2-y-o— 1 & ch, H Ketley’s Kirkmoor Primrose; 2, E Stockwell’s Thomsonbrook. y’ling— 1, T Bettley’s Littlebeck Rounder; 2, S Lally’s Cholderton Io; 3, H Britton’s Firbob Sir Flint. ridden (K Richmond)— 1, P Pickard’s Natterjack Toad; 2, S Weaver’s Badger Bay; 3, J Moore’s Jemoon Star Catcher. hack/RH breeding (A Blaker & J Murfitt): b’mare— 1, N Bradwell’s Desert Sun; 2, Lady Benton-Jones’ Daldorn State Melody; 3, J Grace’s Legal Distinction. foal— 1, V Russell-Wood; 2, N Bradwell’s Bradway Storm; 3, S Iliffe’s Nutwood Kinglet. y’ling— 1, E Edwards’ Runnon Tommo; 2, L & K Wright’s Mill House Carpe Diem; 3, N Hutton-McKenzie’s Mettlewood Mr Fahrenheit. 2/3-y-o— 1 & ch, Lady Benton-Jones’ Portia; 2, Sheaf & Willis’ Whalton Diva; 3, J Townshend’s Classic Top Totty. sml hack y’ling— 1, Mrs Hawsworth’s Burrswood Kismet; 2, M Bedford’s Stemar Classic Gold; 3, E Edwards’ Runnon Casino. 2/3-y-o— 1, Hawker & Tyler-Davis’ Renelles Regal Romance; 2, B Millington’s Bronze Star; 3 & ch RH, A Pickford’s Comberton Comedian. hunter breeding (J Cope ): mare lwt— 1 & ch, C Upham’s Euphoria II; 2, S Mynard’s Red Silhouette; 3, G Smith’s Broadstone D’Elegance. foal— 1, J Edwards’ Game On; 2, G Smith’s Fritz Déjà Vu; 3, C Upham. hwt mare— 1, V Scouller’s Madame Bea VII; 2, D Davies’ Kilcommon Clover. foal— 1, V Scouller; 2, G Newell. sml mare— 1, T Wareham’s Trenawin Ledette; 2, J Cochrane’s Mountain Firefly; 3, A Gibbins’ Floribunda II. foal— 1, J Cochrane’s Firebrand Bay; 2, M Varmen’s God’s Grace; 3, A Gibbins. y’ling— 1 & 2, J Dunlop’s Man Of Quality & Man Of Vision; 3, L Walton’s A Day In Ireland. filly— 1, E Steptoe’s Night Shift IV; 2, S Proctor’s Flight Of Freedom; 3, A & M Evans’ Rustic Charming Lady. 2-y-o colt/gelding— 1, Brown & Baguley’s Maxi Million; 2, J Townshend’s Classic Top Notch; 3, J Carroll’s Puzzles Picture Perfect. 2-y-o. — 1, L Kerr’s Primitive Passion; 2, D Williams’ Tickateeboo; 3, S & M Evans’ Rustic Midnight Moonshine. 2/3-y-o colt/geld— 1 & res, Hennessy & Gibson’s Z Factor; 2, S Hookham’s Revelation II; 3, Moran & Haswell’s Byron Lodge. filly— 1, ch & sup, R Oliver’s Chantry Clover Girl; 2, E Steptoe’s One More Knight; 3, Moran & Hawell’s Dewsberry Park. ID (C Colinssplatt) b’mare— 1, Madame Bea VII; 2, D Davies’ Kilcommon Clover. foal— 1, V Scouller; 2, S Davies. 2/3-y-o — 1, J Murray’s Pride Of Treanlaur; 2, P Gould’s Alkborough Kismet; 3, V Scouller’s Dame De Flandres. y’ling— 1, L Edgeler’s Alkborough Lucky; 2, M Frost’s Avanti Rannoch Mor. grade 1 mare— 1 & ch, E Lord’s Ballineen Glen Abbess; 2 & res, L Millar’s Milady’s Pride. ridden (R Gilsenan)— 1, A Haynes’ Jack Be Nimble; 2, S Hill’s Castlerock; 3, S Roche’s Mister Percival. sport horse— 1, Mrs Killingbeck’s Danza; 2, N Moon’s Schooner Point; 3, S Wicks’ Field Day. palomino (M Bigley): y’ling— 1, J Cooper’s Moonlight Princess; 2, L Longden’s Moon Magic. 2/3-y-o— 1 & ch, J Martin’s Mountedgcumbe Inka’s Gold; 2, S Cousins’ Krysto Golden Elegance; 3, D May’s Roundhills May Song. stallion— 1, D Watkins’ Atinska Blaze; 2, S Stowe’s Colebridge Luminous; 3, J Nunn’s Pewit Dancing Movie Magic. mare/geld— 1 & res, T Chan’s Legend Moon Empress; 2, A Lowth’s Pippins Golden Isabella; 3, L Pugh’s Colebridge Stargold. warmblood (F von Blottnitz): b’mare— 1 & res, Mr & Mrs Marmont’s Dilyla; 2, Woodcroft Stud’s Woodcroft Fonaby; 3, J Shenfield’s Overstones Infanta. foal— 1, P Friday; 2, Woodcroft Stud; 3, J Shenfield’s Donna Davina. y’ling— 1, M Rowles’ Clem’s Chacco; 2, A Hammond’s Bess Hann; 3, A Gibbins’ Saskia. 2-y-o— 1 & res, L Jackson’s Freckleton Marygate; 2, J Willis’ Her Highness; 3, Portia. 3-y-o— 1, J & L Webb’s WS Delphine; 2, T Yates’ Cosworth; 3, P Yates’ Rigoletto. Connemara (C Pickering): y’ling— 1, H Knight’s Lockinge Aconite. 2/3-y-o— 1 & res, Misses Miller’s Rosenaharley Ban Rion Laura; 2, K Douglas’ Draymoor Castle; 3, H Knight’s Rosscon Windy Lady. 4 & over— 1 & ch, S Burton’s Carra Cashel; 2, K Doccochie’s Gavordan; 3, R Blackburn’s Canal Village Poacher. Dales (J Metcalf): 4 & over— 1, P Eminson’s Waterside Joanne; 2, Noble & Hayes’ Sowermere Poppy; 3, R Corner’s Village Blackthorn. y’stk— 1, R Townsend’s Westwick Rose; 2, R Corner’s Village May Queen; 3, J Pennell’s Colliery Magic. Dartmoor (D Jordan): stallion— 1, D Howarth-Podesta’s Trefursdon Nutcracker. mare— 1 & ch, N Wright’s Vean Tatyana; 2 & res, Newbolt Young & daughter’s Shilstone Rocks Another Star; 3, Mr & Mrs Tyler’s Springwater Bartoli. 2/3-y-o— 1, N Wright’s Treworgan Serenade. y’ling— 1, M Reeves’ Pumphill Bramwell; 2, N Wright’s Treworgan Showman; 3, Mr & Mrs Tyler’s Springwater Tatyana. Exmoor (H Sykes): 4 & over— 1 & ch, Mr & Mrs Woodward’s Elsinore Grace Darling; 2 & res, S Poulter’s Flying Buttress; 3, J Smith’s Pernod. y’stk — 1, J Westcott’s Dunkery Nuthatch; 2, A Bell’s Hazlebrigg Tinkerbell; 3, R Aldridge’s Dunkery Cirl Bunting. Fell (S Prior) 4 & over— 1, E Woolley’s Murthwaite Bracken; 2, J Robinson’s Sevenvale Brave Bobby; 3, J Crane’s Rackwood Robin. mare— 1 & ch, T Capstick’s Murthwaite Mulan; 2, D Crow’s Sleddale Rosebud; 3, J Hill’s Shirdleyhill Tara. foal— 1, G Guy’s Severnvale Sadie; 2, A Edwards; 3, S Rees’ Hazel Of The Wolds. 2/3-y-o— 1, T Capstick’s Murthwaite Morning Glory; 2, Crane & Steeps’ Castlehill Magic; 3, J Glass’ Roddlesworth Nancy. y’ling — 1, G Guy’s Severnvale Gypsy Rose; 2, J Cockbain’s Carrock Stormbreaker; 3, C O’Donnell’s Shepparton Jully-Em. Highland (Mrs M Kennerley): 4 & over— 1, Fairclough & Roberts’ Grouse Of Langley; 2, A Taylor’s Kincardine Corrichoille; 3, H White’s Torridon Of Logierait. mare— 1 & res, S Hird’s Brungrange Steffanie; 2, D Cunningham-Reid’s Balleroy Inca; 3, E Hardington’s Rest And Be Thankful Katriona. 2/3-y-o— 1 & ch, Countess of Swinton’s Rollo Of Dykes; 2, M Sturgess’ Billesdon’s Countryman; 3, A Heath’s Glenbruar Dunvegan. y’ling— 1, D Cunningham-Reid’s Balleroy Rooster. New Forest (J Adams): stallion— 1, Mr & Mrs Humbles’ Lovelyhill Uplift; 2, S Andree-Parsons’ Sabinas Gold Nugget; 3, Mr & Mrs Young’s Farriers Fingerprint. mare— 1 & ch, E Collis’ Coriander; 2, Knowles & Josey’s Buttslawn Gemini; 3, Mr & Mrs Young’s Farriers Firelight. foal— 1, E Collis; 2, Young & Nineham. 1/2-y-o— 1, Knowles & Josey’s Buttslawn Fantasia; 2, K Bailey’s Applewitch Roan Fantasia; 3, A Key’s Kauri Inspiration. y’ling— 1 & res, S Andree-Parsons’ Sabinas Gold Dust; 2, K Penna’s Forestheath Sapphire; 3, Mr & Mrs O’Dibdin’s Ashley Celebrity II. RP breeding (J Godden): b’mare 128cm— 1 & ch, D Lee’s Bradmore Chit Chat; 2, M Coombes’ Bradmore Faberge; 3, C Higham’s Centurion Saraphine. foal— 1, D Lee’s Radley Amazing Grace; 2, M Coombes’ Goresmead Cartier. b’mare 138cm— 1, Mrs Hawksworth’s Yealand Paper Moon; 2, A Constable’s Bracon Top Cat. foal— 1, A Constable’s Clareb Ruby Tuesday; 2, Mrs Hawsworth. b’mare 148cm— 1 & res, J Harforth’s Stanley Grange Heaven Sent; 2, R De Quincey’s Erimus Show Girl; 3, S Palmer’s Palmfields Nightingale. foal— 1, J Harforth; 2, R De Quincey; 3, S Palmer’s Palmfields Nighlight. RP y’stock (J Godden): y’ling 128cm— 1, S Ashendon’s Pearson Pandora; 2, K Thomas’ Rotherwood Significance; 3, A Charlesworth’s Stanley Grange Cock Robin. 2/3-y-o— 1, R Hulbert’s Brookwater Fairy Tale; 2, B & N Smith’s Fenwick Flower Girl; 3, Sanderson & Eccles’ Bankswood Lucy Locket. y’ling 138cm— 1, B Wells’ Wellstan Orlando; 2, J Rucklidge’s Jackets Valadee; 3, Mr & Mrs Sampson’s Waltza Perfect Surprise. 2/3-y-o— 1, B Bevan’s Romany River Verity; 2, J Careless’ Fairley Tranquility; 3, Lady Benton-Jones’ Daldorn Whistleblower. y’ling— 1 & res, J Laffey’s Wytchwood Desert Prince; 2, Sanderson & Eclles’ Bankswood Honeysuckle; 3, S Harper’s Braeglen Masterpiece. 2/3-y-o 147cm— 1 & ch, Mr & Mrs Wrighton’s Moorgate High Hopes; 2, D Herron’s Castanya Starlite. do, stallion/colt— 1, D Lee’s Falconhurst Repertoire; 2, Mr & Mrs Rennocks’ Kingvean Rock Star; 3, Roberts, Taggart & Hulbert’s Rotherwood Peeping Tom. Shetland (S Ross): stallion— 1 & res, L Hutchings’ Butterby Express; 2, J Joyner’s Birchmoor Mulberry; 3, K Wright’s Stardelph Kenny. mare— 1 & ch, L Gregory’s Brewards Penny; 2, Pickett & Sargeant’s Champlers Vesta; 3, C Webb’s Bincombe Endora. foal— 1, M Arden. 2/3-y-o— 1, L Gregory’s Brewards Patti; 2, K Hampton’s Hose Reaper; 3, J Thomas’ Sapphire Czarlite. y’ling 102cm— 1, Pickett & Sargeant’s Champlers Elgin; 2, L Wood’s Sapphire Elan; 3, J Holt’s Linacre Sundrop. mini— 1 & 2, Mr & Mrs Percy’s Snelsmore Calipso & Snelsmore Drambuie; 3, J Lipscomb’s Butterstor Goliath. Welsh sec A (Mrs A Overton-Ablitt): stallion— 1, ch & sup Welsh, M & L Kilbey’s Idyllic Entrepreneur. b’mare— 1, J Williams’ Glebedale Savannah; 2, D Waller’s Abbeybells Souer; 3, C Fell’s Windleway Liberty Belle. foal— 1, C Fell; 2, J Beasley’s Leamvalley Glory Joy; 3, Earl & Countess of Shrewbury. 2/3-y-o— 1 & res, M & L Kilbey’s Idyllic Aurora; 2, S Scott’s Pinelodge Polly Pocket; 3, K & J Sheil’s Dukeshill Mini Mutters. y’ling colt— 1, D Waller’s Delami Diablo; 2, J Williams’ Glebedale Squiggle; 3, K & J Sheil’s Nantdywyll Penaig. filly— 1, L Burt’s Wensley Mithril; 2, B Shepherd’s Vervale Gift Of Gold; 3, J Canton’s Roschoill. sec B (C Rankin): stallion— 1, R Thacker’s Farchynys Penri; 2, J Blackburn’s Moelview Charmer; 3, A Bradley’s Laithehill Jazz. b’mare— 1, S Anderson’s Cottrell Lara; 2, Miller & Davies’ Eyarth Windflower; 3, J Blackburn’s Westaire Saffron. foal— 1, Miller & Davies; 2, D McInnes-Skinner; 3, S Anderson. 2/3-y-o colt— 1 & res, R Jones’ Moelview Chieftan; 2, S Anderson’s Thistledown Gallileo; 3, J Mansfield’s Tiavoric Legacy. filly— 1 & ch, M Mansfield’s Rotherwood Golden Rose; 2, S Anderson’s Thornberry Eiranwem; 3, R Thacker’s Farchynys Sylfaen. y’ling colt— 1, S Anderson’s Thistle Alhaarth; 2, Mr & Mrs Cheetham’s Carrwood Phoenix; 3, D & S Hope’s Laithill Nemo. filly— 1, D McInnes-Skinner’s Ernford Beatrice; 2, F Livermore’s Doylan Honeypie; 3, Y Houston’s Butleigh Flower. sec C (R Manchip): stallion— 1, Mr & Mrs Perrins’ Dabernon Take That; 2, D Laffey’s Menai Lord Charles; 3, Popsters Stud’s Popsters Loaded Weapon. b’mare— 1, W Davies’ Rhyd Ddu Rhisian; 2, C Fell’s Parvadean Delight; 3, T Wilson’s Raci Bobbiesox. foal— 1, C Fell. 2/3-y-o— 1, R Howard’s Moorcroft The Master; 2, C Fell’s Parvadean Roberto. y’ling colt— 1, K Gee’s Popsters Ranger. 2-y-o— 1, N Hutchinson’s Lantau Hale Bobb; 2, C Hinks’ Avonvalley Pebl. sec D (R Manchip): stallion— 1, M Attrell’s Danaway Samson; 2, S Eakins’ Vignose Gambler. b’mare— 1 & ch, Mr & Mrs Batt’s Abergavenny Morning Queen; 2, Mr Prater’s Menai Golden Star; 3, Smith & Jones’ Broughton Roxanne. foal— 1, Mr & Mrs Batt; 2, Mr & Mrs Crutchley. colt— 1 & res, D Broster’s Harrowclough Talisman; 2, D & Z Buckley’s Llechfryn Mabon; 3, V Rhodes’ Brynithon Lethal. 2/3-y-o— 1, C Fell’s Gwynfaes Carnwennan; 2, Mr & Mrs Booth’s Rainhill Olwen; 3, B Story’s Penclose Trinket. y’ling— 1, M Hall’s Abergavenny Welsh Maid; 2, J Hart’s Mycathlly Touch Of Class; 3, K McClarence’s Brackens Welsh Flyer. ridden M&M (S Rampling & J Woods): New forest/Connemara— 1 & res, L & P Cook’s Millfields Sportsman; 2, A Kelly’s Walstead Hunny Bear; 3, S Smith’s Millford Adventurer. Fell/Highland/Dale— 1, S Ashworth’s Rivington Prince Charming; 2, A Edwards’ Waverhead Ted; 3, J Robinson’s Severnvale Grey Bobby. Dartmoor/Exmoor/Shetland— 1, M Burnett’s Stowbrook Jenny Wren; 2, Boardman & Rawsthorn’s Phi; 3, M Alford’s Dryknowl Ennar. Welsh A&B— 1, M Burchell-Small’s Rowfantina Tribute; 2, Mr & Mrs Carter’s Millcroft Ghost; 3, E Moyce’s Eyarth Apollo. sec C— 1, F Billingham’s Tawelfan Red Robin; 2, K Novell’s Keeshen Renegade; 3, G Baker’s Starcrest Discovery. sec D— 1 & ch, G Hasdell’s Botleymill Magic Spark; 2, S Harrison’s Tybanadl Gwilym; 3, A Wheatcroft’s Sydenham Ixia. ridden hunter (R Gilsenan & M Ramsey) 4-y-o— 1, J Day’s Pride & Joy; 2, L Wilkinson’s Agherlow Sir Walter; 3, L Young’s Lord Litchfield. lwt— 1 & res, J Dunlop’s Finn McCool; 2, H Hunter’s Applejack II; 3, L Bell’s Be Cool. mwt— 1, Monserratt Sport Horse’s Slieve Namon Mist; 2, D Tatlow’s Adamstown; 3, D Ramm’s The Star. hwt— 1 & ch, Kelanne Stud’s Book Of Kells; 2, B Smart’s Arran’s Misty Morn; 3, W & E Gibson’s Shelford Rupert. ladies’— 1, S Clark’s Togher Princess; 2, Adamstown; 3, J Dunlop’s Little Alice. working (R Sharp & S Somers) lwt— 1 & ch, L Bell’s Man On Fire; 2 & res, J Armstrong’s Mainly Manhattan; 3, A Smurfitt’s Silver Cruise. hwt— 1, J Philp’s Katmando; 2, E Brown’s BBQ; 3, C Benson’s Beinn Bhan. nov— 1, C Teltch’s Czech Mate; 2, G Davies’ Treiddon Silver Knight; 3, J Philp’s Rococo VI. cob (J La Four & P Thorne) lwt— 1, Baileys Horse Feeds’ Quasar. hwt— 1 & ch, C Neame’s So Smart; 2 & res Baileys Horse Feeds’ Lynx; 3, E Bury’s Waterford. working— 1, G Phillips’ Goldburg; 2, H Clubley’s Andy Capp; 3, R Dilworth’s Mulberry. coloured (N Hall & C Mould) non-native pony— 1, J Barker’s Kavanaghs American Beauty; 2, Pfede Stud’s Pferde Stud April Morn; 3, E Bonham’s Souibury Spot On. non-native exc 15hh— 1, Dell Park Stud’s Merrigan; 2, Baileys Horse Feeds’ The Ascoteer; 3, J Jenkins’ Wulfstan King Of The Mountains. native/cob/trad— 1, S Hollinshead’s Longdon Domino; 2, P Howarth’s Hulabaloo; 3, J McGuiness’ Higher Tongs. horse— 1 & ch, C Neame’s So Smart; 2, S Fletcher’s Bowater; 3, C Bardo’s The Humdinger. in-hand (C Mould): y’stk— 1, S Lyndsell’s Hopgarden Hidalgo; 2, H Locke’s Delaware Daydreamer; 3, J Carroll’s Puzzles Picture Perfect. open— 1 & ch, Mannanan Stud’s Meadowhead Scout; 2, Hopgarden Hidalgo; 3, H Ellis’ Trickster. native— 1, A Long’s Apache VI; 2, Grievson & Southern’s Colourfast; 3, C & J Mouat’s Molly Magpie. hack (I Smeeth): sml— 1 & ch, Mr & Mrs Keen’s Absolutely; 2, Loughlin & Cooper Corporation’s Whalton Pinball Wizard; 3, M Lewin’s Secret Garden. l’ge— 1, Mr & Mrs Keen’s Marquis Of Queensbury; 2, R Harris’ Time Out; 3, K Healy’s Abbey’s Fair Breeze. side-saddle (L Whitehall)— 1, Mr & Mrs Andrews’ Overdrive II; 2, A Lance & Hickstead Feeds’ Merlin; 3, S Cowley’s Tom Firr. RH (E Coates): sml — 1 & res C Bardo’s Whalton Highpoint; 2, J Williamson’s Lyncombe Blue Print; 3, N Heseltine’s Little Gem II. l’ge— 1 & ch, P Atkinson’s Broadstone Doulton; 2, C Bardo’s The Philanderer; 3, V Lucas’ King’s Gold. side-saddle concours d’elegance (C Thomas)— 1, R Grantham’s Just Bart; 2, E Boorman’s Shadow Of Doubt; 3, P Saxby’s Hannington. RP (J King): 128cm— 1 & ch, L Edwards’ Deanhills Sweet Rhapsody; 2, Sir F Barlow’s Pennymore Isadora; 3, V Windsor-Phillips’ Eskdale Merchant Of Venice. 138cm— 1, Thomas & Byrne’s Wyndham Aristocrat; 2 & res, Mrs Welby’s Ainthorpe Countess; 3, P Francis’ Kelsborrow Henrietta. 148cm— 1, D Lacey’s Radway All Talk; 2, Mrs Welby’s Daldorn Spring Whisper; 3, D Day’s Mountcaulfield Freedom. mini pony (J Griffin): LR— 1 & res, S McMullan’s Chinook Eclipse; 2, M Lloyd-Bainbridge’s Cwmllanwenarth; 3, H Barton’s West Leake Sophistication. FR— 1 & ch, M Dent’s Chinook Chanelle; 2, S Horne’s Tidesbrook Roger Rabbit; 3, L Curbishley’s Barkway Misty Morn. SHP (H Thomas & B Lears): LR— 1, P Jackson’s Greuon Ianto; 2, V Lucas’ Doulton Master Rupert; 3, Cooper Corporation’s Thistledown Bumblebee. 122cm— 1, N & K Ward’s Beckcroft Best Man; 2, S Bettles’ Daukester Simon of Warleigh; 3, K Hirst’s Colby Starglow. 133cm— 1 & ch, Mrs Daly’s Out Of The Blue; 2, M Dent’s Warleigh Small Talk; 3, J Gill’s Trelawn Kingfisher. 143cm— 1, Thomas & Byrne’s Wyndham High Society; 2, A Brayshaw’s Rowanoak Next Generation. 153cm— 1 & res, R Binks’ Hamptonne Fair and Square; 2, Julie Templeton Show Team’s Yealand Myth; 3, J Parry’s Chiddocks Valentine. WHP (P McCarthy & P Hilton): 153cm— 1, B Crosbie-Starling’s Mystic Napoliana; 2, N Stockill’s Murphys Irish Clover; 3, P Cox’s Harlequin Rose. 143cm— 1 & ch, C Collier’s Sannan Valley Bobby Sox; 2 & res, C Shepherd’s Glengoogle Boy; 3, J Saunders’ Bay Highlight. 133cm— 1, C Nott’s Willoway Pot Of Gold; 2, M Lewendon’s Trewithian Woodrough; 3, G Gardner’s Kiltinane Cavalier. nursery— 1, C Shepherd’s Ponsbourne Pirate; 2, C Church’s Valentine Heathcliffe; 3, H Jeans’ Brianne Hapri. int (J Griffin & P McCarthy): SHT— 1, M Harwich’s Banjo II; 2, R Hellliwell’s Samantha III; 3, G Twitchett’s Eagle Moor. SRT 153cm — 1 & ch, D Day’s Mountcaulfield Freedom; 2, M North’s Small-land Rialto; 3, D Lacey’s Radway All Talk. 158cm,— 1, D Hesford’s Marshbrook Sir George; 2, J Knipe’s Foxy Formula; 3, J Edmondson’s Sharlen Top Hat And Tails.

ROYAL SHOW Stoneleigh, Warwickshire, 2-3 July

Osborne Refrigerators Scurry Sml— 1, Titch & The Talisman (R Griffiths); 2, Baileys Buttons & Charlie (C Dick); 3, Carriagehouse Insurance Touch & Go (C Orchard). Osborne Refrigerators Scurry— 1, Mean & Keen (R Griffiths); 2, Osborne Refrigerators Zig & Zag; 3, Carriagehouse Insurance Rough & Tumble. Osborne Refrigerators Scurry Ch— 1, Darkhorse Fred & Barney (G Roberts); 2, Mean & Keen; 3, Osborne Refrigerators Zig & Zag. non-Hackney 13.2hh & under— 1, M & N Fuller’s Trehewyd Brewin Arthur (N Fuller); 2, O Salter’s Thistledown Eric (N Salter); 3, A Staniland’s Starlyte Little Trojan. over 13.2hh— 1 & ch, M Woolley’s Striker (G Docking); 2, J Dobson’s St Helens Regency Katie; 3, C Bunn’s Elektra. Hackney— 1 & res, E Lewis’s Stapleford Harry; 2, J Clayden’s Glenshane Prince; 3, J Vyse’s Glenshane Playboy. non-Hackney pairs, tandems or teams under 14.2hh— 1, B A

le Marquand’s Staines Ap-Pip & Staines Minstrel; 2, G Coburn’s Gem’s Lord

Jasper & Gem’s Lady Jade; 3, A Mann’s Jasmine of Rowangar & Threapwood Vanguard. concours d’elegance— 1, J & P Clough’s Halloughton Hallmark & Camorland Just Right (J Clough); 2, B A Le Marquand’s Staines Ap-Pip & Staines Minstrel; 3, A Spatcher’s Hannah & Molly.

The organisers of the Royal Show have emphatically denied rumours that the event is on the brink of bankruptcy.

H&H had been contacted by individuals concerned about the show’s future, but manager Simon Frere-Cook said the stories were “codswallop”.

He added: “It’s business as usual and the 2008 Royal Show is being planned at the moment.”

But he admitted that closing the final day of this year’s Royal Show to spectators had cost money.

“Cancelling the last day of the show did have financial implications,” he said. “But we’ll absorb those costs — there’s no question of us not doing so.”

The 240-acre showground at Stoneleigh Park, the home of the Royal Show, has been put up for sale, but Mr Frere-Cook said: “The fact the ground is up for sale has nothing to do with us and is just a business activity.”

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Georgina Andrews and Overdrive clinched the £1000 to the winner Supreme Ridden Championship on the final (equestrian only) day at The Royal Show, when only the equestrian classes were held due to poor ground conditions.

Having won their hack, cob & riding horse side-saddle class the previous day, the pair returned to give a wonderful display to impress judges David Broome and Liz Edgar. A winner at Windsor four times including this year, and at The Royal on three occasions, the 17-year-old son of Java Tiger has also been a successful intermediate horse for Georgina’s daughter Sammie and his previous owner Helen Clubley.

“He is the horse of a lifetime” said Georgina.

Standing reserve was the working hunter champion, Louise Bell’s Man On Fire, and the show pony champions Becky Edwards and Deanhills Sweet Rhapsody took second reserve.

Birmingham bound after heading a strong Cuddy line up is Mark and Liz Kilbey’s Section A Idyllic Entrepreneur. The seven-year-old stallion, who is home-bred by Pendock Legend out of Idyllic Cracklin Rose, also clinched the Section A and overall M&M championships.

Youngstock champion at the Royal Welsh Show as a three-year-old, the eyecatching grey has gained numerous championships this term, including the supreme title at Unex Towerlands Welsh Show.

Don’t miss H&H’s full report on all the showing and show jumping action from the Royal Show in a future issue

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David Tatlow and the Kelanne Stud’s winning heavyweight Book of Kells was the choice of Rory Gilsenan and Marjorie Ramsay to take the coveted ridden hunter tricolour at a rain soaked Royal Showground.

Bought after winning his four-year-old class at Dublin last year, the 17.3hh chestnut gelding is by Peter Pan out of Shipley Valentine. Already a winner at the South of England, Book of Kells was specifically aimed at The Royal.

“He’s a big horse, and still growing, so we’re not going to hurry him. We always thought the ring would suit him here, so this has been our main target for the summer,” said David.

Reserve champion was John Dunlop’s Finn McCool who headed a strong lightweight division for Guy Landau. In his second open season, the seven-year-old, who hunts with the South & West Wilts in winter, has racked up four major championships this term, including Windsor.

Second reserve was the middleweight winner, Monserratt Sport Horse’s Slieve Namon Mist who gave one of the best gallops of the day. In his fourth season with Cheshire rider and producer Robert Walker, the elegant Irish Draught grey gelding recently took the ridden hunter title at Bramham.

STOP PRESS

The conditions on the showground at Stoneleigh are such that the organisers to decide not to allow spectators to attend tomorrow on health and safety grounds. The horse classes will go ahead as planned. Read the full story >>

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The Royal Show at Stoneleigh Park in Warwickshire (1 – 4 July) is to close to the public a day early because the showground and car park areas have become saturated by rainfall.

The all-weather arena struggles to cope with the rain. Photo by Mandy Hughes

However, the equestrian competitions will continue so that Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifying rounds can be completed.

The decision to cancel the last day (Wednesday 4 July) for all but the equestrian competitions, was taken by the honorary show director Mark Spencer on health and safety grounds.

Mr Spencer said: “We are very disappointed to have made the decision to end the show a day early but are sure everyone will understand that safety is paramount.”

He said he and his chief stewards had consulted health and safety officers, Warwickshire police, and viewed Met Office forecasts before arriving at the decision.

He explained: “We managed showground and car parking ground conditions before and during the first three days of the show, spreading large amounts of wood chips, chatter and straw. However, continuing heavy rain showers mean the ground could not take any more water.”

“Our stewards are intent on running the equestrian competitions on the higher, and therefore drier, ground to ensure those competing in HOYS qualifying rounds are not disappointed,” he added.

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Richard Oliver’s Chantry Clover Girl was Jocelyn Price’s choice to become The Royal Show’s 2007 Top Spec Supreme in-hand light horse champion.

Held in torrential rain, the three-year-old filly, who was handled by Bridget Millington, claimed the £500 winners purse. By the Irish TB Power Blade out of Paris Clover, the quality bay was one of several yearlings bought in Ireland as potential eventers. Youngstock champion and supreme hunter overall, Chantry Clover Girl is also Birmingham bound for the Cuddy championship.

Reserve Top Spec champion was Jackie Buckley’s outstanding Part-bred Arab champion, the two-year-old colt Waltza Perfect Dream. First reserve was Walter Gilbey’s coloured champion, the five-year-old Meadowhead Scout.

Other notable champions at Stoneleigh today were Lady Benton-Jones’s Portia who took the hack and riding horse breeding title. The two-year-old trakehner filly is by Axis out of Paradis.

Champion in-hand riding horse was Penny Pickford’s Trifolio sired Comberton Comedian. The lovely three-year-old filly has been covered by Blaircourt Franco, and will be shown as a broodmare next term.

Breed champions included Enid Lord’s Ballineen Glen Abbess, who took the Irish Draught tricolour. Home-bred by Torspark Benedict out of Glounbrack Lass II, the 15-year-old grey mare has bred two foals, and hunts with the Cheshire Drag and Holcombe Harriers.

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Becky Edwards and Deanhills Sweet Rhapsody maintained their recent good form by taking the show pony championship at The Royal Show at the National Agricultural Centre, Stoneleigh.

Having won their 128cm class, they went on to take the tricolour in torrential rain. A big winner in-hand, the four-year-old bay mare has made a spectacular start to her ridden career with Becky, 10, who describes her as “a dream pony”. Owned by Jane Laffey, who bought her from her breeder Robert Cockram, Deanhills Sweet Rhapsody is by Sandbourne Royal Ensign out of Rosslyn Sweet Fun.

Emmie Collier and Sannan Valley BobbySox took the working hunter pony title. Offered the ride on Isabel Pendred’s 12-year-old chestnut gelding just after Horse of the Year Show last year, Emmie and BobbySox have qualified for both the Royal International and Horse of the Year Show. Emmie, 16, is the reigning Horse of the Year Show WHP champion with the now outgrown Oscar Charles, who gained the title in 2006 and 2007.

Emma Holder and Out of the Blue literally galloped away with the show hunter pony championship. Winners of a strong 133cm class, Regina Daly’s cracking chestnut gave a blistering gallop in the championship to clinch the title.

In his debut season, the six year old of unknown breeding, has never been out of the first two. With normal jockey Hannah Horton not available due to a previous engagement, 13-year-old Emma made her first ride a winning one. “He is an amazing pony to ride,” she said.

Louise Bell and Man On Fire again turned on the heat to win the lightweight working hunter class and subsequent championship in The Royal Show’s grand ring. Bred by John Whitaker, and by the well-known coloured jumping stallion Utah Van Erpekom, the six-year-old quality bay has notched up 13 wins so far in this, his debut season. “He did it in style” said Louise.

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The organisers of the Royal Show (1-4 July) have reinstated 110 of the 166 entrants who had their entries returned owing to staffing problems and computer glitches.

H&H reported on the chaos surrounding the show last week (news, 21 June), but Royal Show manager Simon Frere-Cook said he believed a satisfactory conclusion had been reached.

In a statement released to H&H, he explained: “We have been working around the clock to contact every competitor. Of the 166 entrants, we’ve contacted 136; 110 of those have been reinstated and we are awaiting entry forms from the remaining 26.”

Mr Frere-Cook said of the other 30 entries, there are just 14 with whom the Royal Show has had no phone communication — but it has now contacted them by post.

Stay in touch with the latest showing reports from the Royal Show on horseandhound.co.uk next week

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A furore erupted last week after 166 competitors had their entries returned by the Royal Show (1-4 July).

Royal Show manager Simon Frere-Cook said the livestock office had taken on extra staff to try to reinstate as many of the returned entries as possible — but admitted it was “all a bit of a muddle”.

“The closing date was 27 April, a Friday, but unfortunately 166 entries arrived after that date — many after the weekend,” said Mr Frere-Cook. “We had 100% new staff this year in the office, so it took longer than normal to put people’s entries on the system — and we had a few computer problems. When all the entries were logged, we found we were up on numbers from last year, so we had to return the ones that arrived late.

“It is most unfortunate, particularly for those hoping to use the Royal Show as a Horse of the Year Show [HOYS] qualifier. Some of those returned were from very senior competitors.”

Mr Frere-Cook admitted that some late entries were mistakenly date-stamped 30 May instead of 30 April — the Monday. Plus, several competitors had their entries returned with another competitor’s cheque — all of which “added to the confusion”.

He added: “There have been a couple of muddles for which I apologise sincerely.”

Irate show producer Lynn Russell was one of those originally rejected.

“I went mad — I’ve exhibited there for more than 20 years,” she told H&H. “If the entries had been late, I should have had them back by return. They also said they’d been oversubscribed, but I find that hard to believe. The problem for people is that it’s too late to enter any other shows now.”

The producer rang the organisers and her entries were reinstated.

She added: “The Royal is a lovely, big show. It’s one of the most prestigious and everyone wants to exhibit there.”

Read this news story in full, including comments from top producer David Tatlow and native pony enthusiast Jenny Crane, plus details of what to do if you have had your Royal Show entries returned, in today’s Horse & Hound (21 June, ’07)

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Large horses carried the day at the Royal Show, Warwickshire yesterday. Willingham Marie, a heavy horse, was crowed Supreme In-Hand Champion and Omega’s Boy, a working hunter, was hailed Supreme Ridden Champion. E Bailey from Cambridge, who owns the grey Willingham Marie, and Adele Hanson owner of Omega’s Boy were presented with £1000 cheques – the show’s biggest equestrian prize.

Both Willingham Marie and Omega’s Boy won the prestigious Supreme Champions accolades at last year’s Royal Show, under different judges.

According to judge Jim Yates, Willingham Marie won on the basis that she looked good from all angles. “She looks good from wherever you look at her and she appealed to all of us,” he confirmed. Mr Bailey was thrilled with the result: “This is the best result I’ve had since I was 12-years-old,” he said afterwards.

The Reserve Surpreme Ridden Champion award went to Trevaylor Tiger Lilly, a first ridden pony, ridden by Alexandra Hollings and owned by Mrs E Stanleick. Tiger Lilly had already been chosen as the Royal Show’s best First Ridden or Leading Rein pony earlier in the day.

Goldsborough Princess Royal, a brood mare owned by W Merryweather from Lancashire was selected as Reserve Supreme In Hand Champion with Vanessa Compton’s Castle Comet – a Connemara – as second reserve.

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The Royal Show 2006 kicks off on Sunday (2-5 July) at Stoneleigh Park, near Kenilworth in Warwickshire. As Britain’s most prestigious agricultural event, the show celebrates all aspects of country life, and includes a huge range of equestrian events. Changes to the programme enable show horses and ponies to compete at Hickstead this weekend as well as at the Royal Show. The in-hand classes, which have traditionally run on the Tuesday, have moved to Monday 3 July, and the ridden horse classes have moved from Monday to Tuesday 4 July.

The Horse & Hound Inter Hunt Relay promises a nail-biting showdown this year. The organisers have been bombarded with entries for the Grand Ring event, which offers £1,700 prize-money. “There aren’t really any other types of competitions for general hunt riders to get involved in, so we are always keen to arrange a relay at the Royal,” said show council member Richard Matson.

The Cheshire Farmers Draghounds, the Scarteen, the North Cotswold, the Cotswold and the Old Surrey Burstow will all be competing, along with the West Kent, East Sussex and Romney Marsh; the Teme Valley and the Golden Valley.

The Royal Show’s first inter-hunt relay took place 15 years ago. This year’s cash prizes include £750 for the winning team; £400 for the runners-up; £250 for runners-up in the semi-finals, and £75 for each team knocked out in the first round. H&H will also provide the winning team with rugs and a trophy.

A £1,000 prize will be awarded to the supreme winner of in hand horse classes at the Royal Show. The Supreme In Hand Horse or Pony Champion is selected from the winners of the Supreme In Hand Mountain and Moorland Pony Championship, the Supreme In Hand Light Horse Championship and the Heavy Horse Championship. The reserve champion will receive £250.

“With a £1,000 prize for the Champion, which is a large prize for the showing world, the championship is very highly regarded,” said Debbie Dann, Royal Show equine specialist. The competition will be judged in the Grand Ring on the Wednesday of the show when a panel of independent judges will decide the supreme champion who will take the title ‘TopSpec Supreme In Hand Champion.’

As well as the overall Supreme In Hand Award, TopSpec is also sponsoring the Light Horse and the Mountain and Moorland In Hand Championships, scheduled to take place on Wednesday. In both sections the champions will receive £500 and the reserve champions £150.

For the first time in the show’s 167 year history coloured horses are being introduced to the rings. The classes, which are all Coloured Horse and Pony Society (CHAPS)-affiliated, include four ridden Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) qualifiers. In addition, winners of all the classes will qualify for the CHAPS UK championship. There will also be a new Driven Championship this year, offering £1000 to the supreme champion of the Best Coaching Exhibit, Best-Driven Hackney, Best Private-Driving Turnout and Best Three or Four Heavy Horse Turnout. The class, which takes place on Tuesday 4 July in the show’s Grand Ring, will be judged by London-based third-generation horse-drawn undertaker Stan Harris.

After more than 10 years, the King’s Troop, Royal Horse Artillery will be returning to the Royal Show. “We’re delighted to be back at the Royal Show. We have a performance lined up that will thrill horse lovers and the general public alike,” said Troop Captain Nick Parker.

A group of 120 soldiers, 90 horses and six guns will perform the famous Musical Drive – performed in front of the Queen at her Birthday celebrations. The Drive is carried out at the gallop, culminating in a dangerous scissor movement when teams cross in the centre of the arena with no visible gap between them.

Don’t forget to visit H&H at stand E-C-204 while you’re at the show for the chance to win prizes, including Harry Hall gear, a Mirotec rug and legwraps and lots more.

You can also save up to 30% on a subscription to H&H and sister titles, and collect a special gift of a fleece rug or saddlecloth.

For a full programme and book tickets online visit the website at www.royalshow.org.uk.

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The Royal Show is to extend its equestrian scope by staging polo this year for the first time. The action — sandwiched between established showing, show jumping and driving classes, and displays in the equine and grand rings — will consist of daily “have a go” sessions for visitors, mounted and on foot, and afternoon matches involving high-goal players.

Several other firsts are planned for the 2004 Royal (4-7 July): the British Percheron Society is holding its breed show; the Pony Club celebrates its 75th anniversary with a display; Saffron Walden Riding Club will perform its quadrille and new demonstrations include Western riding and harness racing.

Besides classes and displays in the grand ring — equestrian action takes up 80% of time there — all other competitive classes are to take place in one equine arena and demonstrations and displays in the other. This is designed to reflect the differing interests of spectators.

Livestock specialist Debbie Dann explains: “The show has such a history and tradition behind it [it is in its 165th year and its 41st at the same site] but it has to keep moving on and providing what the public wants. The showing days are themed: Sunday is workers and children’s ponies; Monday ridden classes; Tuesday in-hand and Wednesday natives and supreme championships.”

The announcement follows various changes introduced last year to the equestrian programme at Stoneleigh, such as an overall supreme in-hand championship between the four section champions, which was deemed a success. Ridden and driven supreme championships could take place at some time in future but not, as suggested last year, in 2004.

Last year’s other major alteration was running the show — which attracts 160,000 visitors —from Sunday to Wednesday rather than Monday to Thursday, which will be repeated this year.

Read the full story in the current issue of Horse & Hound (19 February 2004).

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Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now