The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has urged riders not to “add to the burden” of the emergency services and stay out of the saddle amid the coronavirus pandemic.
The update today (27 March) goes further than earlier advice by the BEF on Tuesday (24 March) which advised riders to avoid “all organised equine activity”. The federation has also advised to avoid hacking out.
The BEF statement said the government had not issued any restrictions on riding – but the federation urged everyone to “carefully consider the risks and what is ‘essential’ and not ride”.
“The emergency and health services are working at full capacity to combat the virus and as a community we shouldn’t add to that burden,” said the statement.
“If you choose to ride, we strongly suggest avoiding activity with heightened risk and keeping to your own property.”
The statement added the pandemic is “constantly changing and evolving” with advice and help from the government daily.
On Wednesday (23 March) BEVA recommended all routine work should stop – but maintaining a 24-hour emergency service while farriers can continue to provide “essential services” under current government movement restrictions.
The BEF added the federation will continue to provide updates as the situation is ever changing, with new information and updates coming through.
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Since joining H&H in 2018, Becky has covered a broad range of equestrian news including welfare matters, veterinary studies, FEI Tribunal hearings and road safety campaigns. She has also interviewed top riders including Scott Brash, John Whitaker and Ian Stark, to name just a few. Becky’s reporting has taken her to Canada for Spruce Meadows and France for Pau five-star, as well as the Royal Highland and Blair Castle International Horse Trials closer to home. She was also a key part of the remote reporting team for the Tokyo Olympics and the Europeans.
