As Bonfire Night approaches, new laws giving local authorities the power to grant firework control zones in Scotland have been welcomed and calls made for the rest of Britain to follow suit. New powers came into effect in June 2023 which allow councils to grant designated firework control zones. Those who break the law could face a £5,000 fine and up to six months’ prison. British Horse Society safety team leader Des Payne told H&H: “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.”
FFMBPH Oxnam, Jedburgh, Scottish Borders, UK. 12th February 2016. A horse and pony in New Zealand winter rugs enjoy grazing in a frost
(Image credit: Alamy Stock Photo)
The clocks have changed and winter is on its way. Heaving wet rugs across the yard and attempting to dry them in freezing conditions can prompt a flurry of expletives. But is there an easier way? H&H has asked riders and owners for their secrets on winter rug hacks – from every-day household items that are an essential part of repair kits, to washing tips and DIY rug-racks. These are 17 tips not to be missed.
Mark Phillips: ‘It’s nice when persistence pays-off!’
Persistence pays off as Ireland’s Austin O’Connor wins a first five-star title at Maryland on Colorado Blue.
(Image credit: creditUnknown)
Mark Phillips reflects on course-designing and Maryland 5 Star in this week’s exclusive H&H column. “I was super-happy for Ian Stark, who got his five-star track up to speed in spectacular fashion in his third year at Maryland 5 Star. That’s no surprise – it takes three years to get to grips with a venue and the level at five-star. Ian is a super talent and when he retires at the end of next year, he will leave a void that the sport will struggle to fill,” says Mark. “Everyone was happy for Austin O’Connor when he won in Maryland. He decided not to go to the Europeans, but came to the Festival at Gatcombe, which was rained off, and then Burghley, where he had an early glance-off. It’s nice when persistence finally pays off!”
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Lucy is an experienced news journalist, reporter and presenter. Since joining the Horse & Hound team in 2015, Lucy has reported from major global sporting events including the Tokyo Paralympic Games and multiple European Championships, as well as Badminton, Burghley and London, to name a few. She has covered current affairs and sports news across the full spectrum of equestrian disciplines and racing, as well as human and equine welfare, industry news and court cases.
