Search is on for unsung heroes of the equestrian world
A call for nominations for an award celebrating the equestrian world’s unsung heroes has been made by The National Equine Forum (NEF).
The Sir Colin Spedding Award 2016 is open to nominations for individuals or organisations and the winner will be announced at the NEF on 3 March next year.
It is presented annually to an exceptional an as yet unrecognised person or organisation that has made an important contribution to the equestrian world.
Sir Colin was the founding chairman of the NEF and chaired the event for 20 years until shortly before his death in 2012.
His aim was to allow the equine world to consider and then speak with a coordinated voice on matters of the moment.
The award was introduced in his memory in 2013.
Jane Holderness-Roddam, chair of the NEF award committee, said: “Sir Colin’s aim for the Forum was to bring all echelons of the equestrian world together to speak with one voice.
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“The award is an extension of this philosophy.
“It’s an opportunity for us to recognise and commend an exceptional individual or organisation from any area of equestrianism for their incomparable endeavour, for the good of the horse.”
Paul Greeves, former executive director and keeper of the General Stud Book at Weatherbys was this year’s winner (pictured, credit: Craig Payne Photography).
The Animal Health Trust’s infectious disease group won in 2014 and TV star and British Horse Society president Martin Clunes was given the award on behalf of UK Equine Welfare Charities in 2013.
Entries should be no more than 100 words and those nominated will have made an extraordinary contribution to equestrianism over a number of years.
A shortlist will be drawn-up by the NEF organising committee and a winner will be selected from these by the Sir Colin Spedding Award committee.
Nominations close on 31 July and the winner will be notified by 31 October.
Email nominations to equineforum@gkcrossman.co.uk by noon on 31 July.
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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.