Bolesworth issues ‘heartfelt apology’ after rain causes cancellations
Bolesworth CSI**** organiser Nina Barbour has apologised for difficulties during the show caused by extremely heavy rain which caused flash-flooding on Wednesday (15 June).
All competition in the Lake arena, where national classes were due to take place, was cancelled on Thursday and Friday, while spectators were not allowed access to the Cheshire event until 1pm on Friday.
National classes on Saturday and Sunday were restricted to those already stabled on-site to avoid further damage to the lorry park.
Barbour said: “Firstly, I would like to extend a huge thank you to the whole team here at Bolesworth who worked tirelessly round the clock, primarily to ensure the safety and wellbeing of the 800 horses on site, which throughout the week has been our absolute priority at all times.
“But secondly, I would like to thank all involved with our incredible event, and the support and understanding they gave us throughout the five days.
“More heavy rain fell during Thursday, and it was with a heavy heart that we had to take the decision to restrict public traffic during the day on Friday to ensure safety.
“I would like to extend a heartfelt apology to any of those affected, including national competitors who were unable to compete during the week, and our valued spectators who may have already set off on their journey to Bolesworth.
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“I understand that at times there were issues with communication, and would like to emphasise that during a very difficult and challenging time all decisions were made to ensure the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved.
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“For any issues regarding ticket refunds for Friday, please contact the point of purchase, and please bear with us with respect to competitor refunds which will be addressed as a priority as soon as the site has been safely cleared and staff have returned to the office.
“The sport and the events that Bolesworth stage are my passion, and I would like to thank everyone for their understanding and support throughout this immensely difficult week. I would like to reiterate that we will be addressing all issues, and welcome any constructive feedback.”
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A St Andrews’ graduate, Catherine joined Horse & Hound in 2002 and stayed for 11 years in a variety of roles until she went freelance in June 2013. She rejoined the team part-time in November 2016 as hunting editor. She pretty much lives on the hunting field or at the racecourse, but also loves eventing, as a journalist, press officer and competitor. She was H&H’s sole accredited journalist at the London Olympic Games and has reported from major race meetings and eventing, showjumping and dressage championships and shows round the world, and has hunted all over Britain and Ireland.