Scrubs up well – London horse stars on Strictly Come Dancing

What more could a girl want than for Strictly Come Dancing's Brendan Cole to leap on top of her? 

But it was actress and singer, Holly Valance to benefit as Brendan used Purdey, a 16hh, 12 year old part-Arab mare with which to be Holly's 'knight in shining armour', rescuing her so she could perform a spectacular rumba after her usual professional partner, Artem Chigvintsev had to bow out due to a back injury, with a clip of Brendan's 'rescue' being shown on Saturday's show.

Sister Mary-Joy Langdon, founder of Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, which offers riding and horse activities chiefly to disadvantaged and disabled people, said, "Brendan was charming and knew exactly how to handle Purdey." 

Perhaps Brendan will also be a knight in shining armour for the centre which relies on charitable donations and volunteer support with Sister Mary-Joy saying, "I was really impressed with the BBC which donated £200.00 to the centre." 

The centre is part of the British Equestrian Federation's Hoof Olympic Legacy project and Sister Mary-Joy added, "We now realise just how much more potential there is for the centre to reach out to the community and be of benefit to equestrianism in London too and really hope to find people with fund-raising or marketing skills and planning or project-management experience will be able to support the centre on a voluntary basis." 

You can donate to WSPC through the website www.wormwoodscrubsponycentre.org

For information about Hoof, the BEF Olympic Legacy Project, visit www.hoof-in-town.com where you’ll also find Sister Mary-Joy Langdon’s top tips for fire safety.  For further editorial opportunities relating to HOOF, please contact Anna Bruce at Eventerprise PR anna@annabruce.co.uk or Tel: 07970 285781.

For more details regarding Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, email wspc@btconnect.com www.wormwoodscrubsponycentre.org

HRH The Duchess of Cornwall opens BEF-backed London Riding Centre

Today, 26 October 2011 HRH The Duchess of Cornwall visited Brixton, South London, to
formally open Ebony Horse Club Community Riding Centre, part-funded by HOOF, the Olympic
Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation.

As inner London’s first purpose built riding centre for more than 30 years it will bring sporting
opportunities to young people in one of London’s most disadvantaged areas.

Founded by Ros Spearing, Ebony Horse Club has been bringing the benefits of horse riding to
young and troubled people for 15 years, but was limited by not owning its own facilities.

The Duchess toured the new centre which includes stabling for eight horses, a paddock, an
arena as well as a classroom and offices, built after Ebony Horse Club raised £1.7m, thanks
to key supporters including Sport England and, specifically, a £200,000 grant from British
Equestrian Federation.

Andrew Finding, Chief Executive BEF said, “The new facilities at Ebony are a key part of our
legacy plans; while we are excited about staging the Games it’s also important to remember
those for whom the horse can bring a great and positive influence. It’s wonderful to see the
support provided by so many, including those with their own equestrian interests, for those in
need. This is a very important part of our own Olympic Legacy.”

Local parent, Karen Reid, who has three children at the Club said, “The whole family has waited
so long to hear this news. Ebony has really supported my children especially my son, through
some quite difficult times. The children love going to the stables after school and at weekends.
It’s great that so many more children from the area will benefit and have access to this support.

While the open day demonstrated just how many individuals, families, companies and
organisations have supported and will continue to support Ebony, it is the tenacity of one
woman, Ros Spearing, that has turned a dream into a reality.

Ros says, “We now have a modern community riding centre that will help us to meet the needs
of many more children and young people. I am immensely grateful to all our supporters without
whom this new riding centre in the heart of Brixton would not be possible. The riding centre
has been in development for eight years and is a testament to the young people, all of whom
have inspired our work.”

Although not directly a memorial to a former member of Ebony Horse Club who was killed in a
gang-related crime, his absence was keenly felt by many of the long-standing supporters of the
Club, and for newcomers, this very real tragedy appeared a far cry from the community spirit
exhibited at the Club.

The Duchess watched displays of horsemanship by the Club members and commemorated her
visit - the third since she became President in 2009 - by unveiling a plaque.

NOTES TO EDITORS

The British Equestrian Federation is the recognised governing body of horse sports in the UK.
Through its eighteen members the BEF represents and works to promote the interests of the
4.2 million riders and carriage drivers in Britain.

Ebony Horse Club is one of many equestrian establishments in the city to be benefitting from
the support of HOOF, a legacy project inspired by the London 2012 Games which aims to attract
funding, improve standards and increase participation in equestrian sports from all sectors of
the community.

For details about HOOF, the BEF Olympic Legacy Project, visit www.hoof-in-town.com.

For further editorial opportunities relating to HOOF, please contact Anna Bruce at Eventerprise
PR anna@annabruce.co.uk or Tel: 07970 285781

For more information on Ebony Horse Club and interviews with spokespeople
please contact: colleen@colleenharris.co.uk or call Colleen on +44 (0)7802 296 737.
www.ebonyhorseclub.org.uk

Emile Faurie visit to Vauxhall City Farm

Central London families muck in with Emile Faurie at Vauxhall City Farm

Twenty London families were able to receive free horse riding and stable management lessons led by Britain’s Team Gold Medalist from the recent European Dressage Championships, Emile Faurie, over the October half term holidays.

Funded by Westminster Council’s ward budget programme and in partnership with the Emile Faurie Foundation, London families were given the opportunity to learn how to ride and look after horses for free at Vauxhall City Farm.

David Gadsby, London representative for the British Equestrian Federation said, “At the BEF we are generating a legacy from the London 2012 Games and welcome this wonderful initiative thanks to Westminster Council. This is an opportunity for new riders to meet an Olympian, and to realise that riding, and just being around horses, is something everyone can enjoy. Even inthe centre of London it is possible to truly escape into another world.”

Founded in 2006 by one of the UK’s leading equine sportsmen, The Emile Faurie Foundation is a unique collaboration of schools, riding establishments and fundraisers whose aim is to help as many children as possible experience the joys and benefits of horsemanship.

Having reached the top of his game, during his visit, Olympian Emile talked to the young people about his achievements with horses to inspire them to reach for their goals.

Emile Faurie, said: “I am delighted that The Foundation has teamed up with Vauxhall City Farm to provide children and their families with the opportunity to ride and care for horses.

“I am grateful to Westminster City Council for their financial support and it was great to visit the farm.”

Cllr Melvyn Caplan, Westminster Council’s Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Transformation, said: “This is a fantastic example of how Westminster’s ward budget programme can provide unique opportunities for all members of the community.

“I know the families of Tachbrook thoroughly enjoyed their visit to Vauxhall City Farm and taking part in this fun activity together over the half term holidays.”

Linda Hinds, riding manager at Vauxhall City Farm, said: “This is a great opportunity for us to reach our local community, introduce them to the farm and let them enjoy our oasis in the middle of the city.”

David adds, “Many equestrian centres and city farms cater for disabled and disadvantaged riders and Emile’s visit will help increase awareness of the many opportunities there are within our sport - volunteering to viable careers in and out of the city.”

The scheme is being funded by the Tachbrook ward budget.

Ward budgets were first introduced as a two-year pilot in 2008. A total of £50,000 was allocated to each of the 20 wards within Westminster for 2010/11 and also for 2011/12.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Photos are available from the following photosales website where you can view and buy if you wish.
Please visit www.buyaphototms.co.uk and in the keyword search box enter wl20110677 or vauxhall
Thanks for your interest.

Chris Berry
Multimedia Editor Photographic
Trinity Mirror Southern
89 Eastworth Road
Chertsey
Surrey
KT16 8DX.
Tel : 01932 561111

This press release is brought to you by HOOF, the British Equestrian Federation’s legacy project for the London 2012 Games. Vauxhall City Farm is one of many equestrian establishments in the city to be benefitting from the support of HOOF, a legacy project inspired by the London 2012 Games which aims to attract funding, improve standards and increase participation in equestrian sports from all sectors of the community.

The British Equestrian Federation is the recognised governing body of horse sports in the UK. Through its eighteen members the BEF represents and works to promote the interests of the 4.2 million riders and carriage drivers in Britain.

For details about HOOF, the BEF Olympic Legacy Project, visit www.hoof-in-town.com. For further editorial opportunities relating to HOOF, please contact Anna Bruce at Eventerprise PR anna@annabruce.co.uk or Tel: 07970 285781.

Hoof in the Ranconteur on Equestrian Times

Full story:
   
http://np.netpublicator.com/netpublication/n37076560
   

Vote for RDA Centre to win £6000 Natwest Award

With just two weeks’ left for votes to be cast in the annual Natwest Community Force Awards, your chance to support New Lodge RDA Centre, Near Eltham is nearly over.

Founded 30 years ago, New Lodge RDA provides a service for children and adults with physical and sensory special needs and learning difficulties and currently has 12 horses and ponies and a team of volunteers helping to provide lessons six days a week to approximately 100 regular riders.

Thanks to votes cast last year, New Lodge RDA benefitted hugely from a £3000.00 award last year, helping to pay for tack and equipment for a new horse.

Now bidding for £6000.00, manager, Hilary Crawford explains, “New Lodge started 30 years ago and many of the fixtures and fittings are original.  We’ve raised £5000 already towards the £20,000 required to repair the pot-hole filled driveway and replace old post and rails but adding another £6000 to these funds through the NatWest Award will really help get work underway.”

Members of the London Horse Network, an Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation have already added their support, and David Gadsby, London representative of the BEF explains, “New Lodge really brings many London boroughs, including that of the Olympic Park in Greenwich, together spreading its work to many children and young adults and drawing volunteers from across the region.  Visited by Lord Sebastian Coe and Lee Pearson CBE earlier this year, the centre demonstrated how the London Olympics has inspired the centre – funding sourced through the London Horse Network enabling volunteers to help train youngsters to reach the RDA National Championships this year.  And, winning this funding will mean all those at New Lodge can be proud of their facilities, not just the work within the centre, and create a safer environment from which to support their community.”

Whether New Lodge is part of your local region or not you can add your votes online by visiting communityforce.natwest.com/project/2343 - you just need to register and verify your email address to vote.  But hurry, voting ends 23rd October 2011.
 

London Horse Network Celebrates First Birthday

London Horse Network Celebrates First Birthday

The London Horse Network celebrated its first birthday on 26th September with drinks and canapés on the 11^th floor of 6 Mitre Buildings, Greenwich Peninsula, overlooking many of the Olympic village sites for 2012.

Supported by HOOF the Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation, BEF London Representative, David Gadsby says, “The London Horse Network owes its success to development funding and assistance from the BEF and Sport England and the invaluable contribution of volunteer chair, Jodie Maile and contributing members of the Network.

From the first meeting in which the network agreed priorities of accessing funding, generating links with County Sports Partnerships, schools and local government, improving standards and providing affordable training in the region to increase participation, much has been achieved.

David says, “We held a funding workshop enabling six centres to achieve £50,000 in facilities funding between them and a further six centres successfully applied for Mayor’s Legacy funding to subsidise training for new or existing riders and staff, in return for volunteering.”

Kevin Butchart of Woodredon Equestrian Centre says, “We have already achieved well in excess of 100 new young riders attending our centre who have never ridden before due to HOOF projects with additional interest from their parents to start riding on other HOOF initiatives.”

Members of the London Horse Network include representatives from BEF member bodies such as the BHS and ABRS, riding school proprietors, livery yards, competitive riders, and grooms and encompass various disciplines from RDA to carriage driving, polocrosse to eventing.

Linda Hinds, manager of Vauxhall City Farm Riding School says, “Just meeting and getting ideas, sharing problems and feeling less alone has been hugely beneficial.”

In response to requests, the London Horse Network has hosted business skills days from book-keeping and allowable expenses to employment law and customer care, and coaching clinics have been carefully chosen.

Jodie says, “The Network aims to respond to the needs of the region and hence we hosted coaching clinics that demonstrated what can be achieved to bring new people in to the sport, fill quiet times and keep current riders challenged.”

Open European Eventing Champion, Lucy Thompson, demonstrated cross-country training in a confined area, the UK Polocrosse Association gave an insight into setting up this exciting sport, Andrew MacFarlane who runs Lead Change, offering business professionals the chance to analyse their leadership and team skills by being around horses on the ground, spoke of the influence a coach has on their pupil and, acclaimed coach, Minette Rice-Edwards, discussed how the rider can affect the horse.

The London Horse Network also supported the inaugural Team London Riding Schools Dressage Championship, bringing in sponsorship to the summer competition and increasing competitive opportunities has since been drafted in to the wish list of Network members.

Intent on building on the enthusiasm generated over the past year, the first birthday and AGM also gave those present the chance to put forward their views for the coming year, particularly how this Olympic Legacy project should capitalize on increased tourism, and interest in equestrian sports, thanks to the Games coming to Greenwich Park.

David concludes, “It was thanks to Greenwich Council that we were able to enjoy the fabulous venue beside the O2 arena for our birthday and it felt like we’d come a long way from a yard portacabin where people barely knew one another at our first meeting.  It was a great way to celebrate the contributions of many individuals of all age and experiences and to thank professionals who have generously given their time to seeing the Network succeed.”

Notes to editors:

For more details regarding HOOF, visit www.hoof-in-town.com or contact Anna Bruce at evenerprise pr on 07970 285781 or email annabruce101@googlemail.com.

London Rider At HOYS

Look out for London’s Shari Butchart, competing at Horse of The Year Show tonight.

No stranger to championships, Shari rode at HOYS, the World’s most famous horse show, as a junior show jumper before going on to represent Britain at international level as a young rider.

Now 27, Shari, and her aptly named horse, Olympic, will be up against leading international event riders.

Shari switched to take up eventing four years’ ago and has ambitions to win one – or all – of the major British events and compete in an Olympic team.

Alongside this, Shari is yard manager and a BHS II instructor at the family run, Woodredon Equestrian Centre – which, as a member of the London Horse Network, is supported by HOOF – the Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation.

And, Shari is involved in encouraging old and new riders to take up the sport through projects such as Mayor’s Legacy and is piloting the ‘Take Back The Reins’ initiative for the British Equestrian Federation.

Shari says, “I love teaching”, but on being under the spotlight for the Express Eventing competition, Shari says, “I’m excited about the whole experience and just thinking about riding in to the arena with the crowds!”

For more info visit www.hoof-in-town.com

Seb Coe and Lee Pearson visit riding centre for enthusiastic young disabled people

Seb Coe, Chair of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and nine-time gold medallist Lee Pearson CBE today visited a riding centre which specialises in providing riding facilities to both adults and children who have a range of special needs.

Take Back The Reins kicks off in London

Visit http://www.hoof-in-town.com/take-back-the-reins/index.php to find you how you, new or lapsed riders can take advantage of a brilliant initiative from the British Equestrian Federation.

There's six of London's finest and friendliest equestrian centres waiting to encourage new and old riders back in to the saddle with a bit of socialising downtime to boot.

When you're ready, group hacks will be on offer or you could keep with the lesson, coffee and cake, or try out a specific discipline from polocrosse to show jumping there's something to suit all ages and abilities, from those seeking a sedate walk in the park or a firing up of adrenaline in their veins.

Carl Hester short film

View Introductory Carl Hester short film on the Guardian site »
   
http://gu.com/p/3xy3f/tw
   

Equestrian Centres receive taster for Customer Care Masterclass

Equestrian centres enjoyed a customer care seminar from Sonia Birch, founder of a chain of leisure centres and now a regional co-odinator for the British Equestrian Federation, in preparation for future collaboration with the John Lewis Partnership.

Gold Medalist, Emile Faurie, visits London riding school to celebrate Olympic Legacy funding

Fresh from helping Britain secure its first Team Gold medal at the European Dressage Championships Emile Faurie, visited London’s Mount Mascal Stables to celebrate funding received thanks to HOOF – an Olympic Legacy project being delivered by the British Equestrian Federation.

Lady Harris to present medals at Team London Riding School Championship

Lady Pauline Harris is to present medals to the winning team and individuals at the inaugural Team London Riding School Championship 2011 to be held at Dressage at Hickstead on 22nd June and supported by HOOF – The Olympic Legacy project of the BEF.

No need to beg, borrow or steal....

 Since many riders competing in the Team London Riding Schools Championships to be held at Dressage at Hickstead on 22^nd June 2011, have never competed before, online retailer Cavaletti Clothing has come to the rescue.

Cavaletticlothing.com has created a special Team London site where riding schools can buy some items at special rates and receive a free pair of Hac Tac gloves with every order, in association with HOOF – The Olympic Legacy project of the BEF.

Get the (Team) London Look!

In association with HOOF – The Olympic Legacy project of the BEF, TOGGI is donating celebration blousons, polo shirts and baseball caps based on their latest Team GBR collection to team medal winners at the Team London Riding Schools Championships to be held on 22^nd June at Dressage at Hickstead.

EcoComfyBed supports Team London Riding Schools Championships

London Riding School horses could sleep comfortably as they are in with a chance of winning EcoComfyBed bedding in the Team London Riding Schools Championships to be held at Dressage at Hickstead on 22^nd June 2011. 

Both the centre behind the winning team and winning individual rider will receive a pallet of bedding worth approximately £185.00, in association with HOOF – The Olympic Legacy project of the BEF.

Ebony Horse Club Championships offers inspiration to all

The eighth annual Ebony Horse Club Championships demonstrated achievement against the odds – for the Club and its members.


Against the backdrop of taking children from one of the most deprived areas of Britain to an average of 15 riding lessons a year, the Club delivers standards that rival more regular riders.

14 year-old twins, Shanice and Shaneka Reid, epitomized this with a dressage and jumping display aboard Patch – a green five year-old, and Romeo, an established competition horse who’s last outing had been in the ‘Hunt Challenge’ at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Yet the girls delivered performances that belied their experience and showed a horsemastership that clearly thrilled the owner of the horses, former three-day-eventer, and Club Patron, Charlotte Steel.

“The horses are far from the riding school ponies the girls are used to but I’m enormously proud of how the girls took instruction and rose to the challenge”, explained Charlotte, who is to continue to support the Club as it moves to a bespoke establishment in the centre of Brixton.

There, the Club will be able to deliver more riding and stable management to more members, backed by a £200,000 grant from the British Equestrian Federation’s Olympic Legacy project, HOOF-Ride London.

15 year-old Chloe Rice, explained, “ I have been trying to get extra riding by helping out at Willowtree Riding School at weekends but it can take an hour or more to get there.”

However, the centre will likely be completed just as Chloe heads to college.

She said, “The Club took lots of us to view Plumpton College’s Open Day and we were meant to tour the whole College but I got to the Equine department and stayed there all day”, adding, “Ebony has given me so much confidence, I can’t wait to go and I’m hoping I’ll get enough GCSEs to be able to go in at a higher level than I thought!”

And, this year’s Club Champion, Nahshon Devin, also has his sights set on the College.

“I want to study horse care and go on to work in a showjumping yard”, said Nahshon, 16, who took the title with 235points, nearly 50points ahead of his nearest rival.

Encompassing a unique judging system that includes points for ‘attitude to the horse’ and ‘persistence’, quelling challenging behaviours that some of the members may suffer from, the championship day also includes a written stable management exam, ridden assessment at walk, trot and canter and a practical assessment of leading a horse up in hand and tacking up and/or untacking a pony.

Chairman of the Volunteer Committee for the British Horse Society in London, Janet Coe, was among the judges and said, “I’m delighted with the Champion because when I saw him ride I thought we’ve got a winner here, but next year I’ll be anxiously waiting in the wings as I’ll be teaching at the new centre.”

And as the day came to its conclusion, founder, Ros Spearing, must have had mixed emotions as Hugo, the horse that inspired her to take children from her then neighbourhood to riding lessons made an appearance and she then waved goodbye to the host venue, Chelsfield Equestrian Centre, looking towards the championships being held at the Ebony Horse Club centre next year.

“All I can say is that I’m very proud”, said Ros.

London Riding Schools snaffle up Mayor’s Legacy Funding

London’s riding schools are to offer subsidized training at all levels thanks to the Mayor’s Legacy Skills Investment fund.


The opportunity was identified by the British Equestrian Federation and presented to members of the London Horse Network, a group supported by the BEF’s HOOF Ride London Olympic Legacy project.

BEF London representative David Gadsby says, “The ‘Mayor’s Legacy’ appeared to be almost too good to be true, paying up to 75% of the course cost in return for the candidate volunteering in the community, giving a win-win situation for candidates, riding schools and the London community.”

With the Riding for the Disabled Association (RDA) already offering an established training route for volunteers - to suit even those with no equestrian or special needs experience, so the Greater London region has delivered Mayor’s Legacy courses this spring with funding exceeding £5000.

Chair of the Greater London RDA, Diane Jeffries says, "This is a great initiative to encourage those considering volunteering, giving them the skills to be able to support their community and even our volunteers with more than 35years experience have been able to benefit from training part-funded by the Mayor's Legacy Skills Investment fund."

And a further six London riding centres are following suit with a raft of courses to encourage all levels including training towards Pony Club badges, BHS exams, ABRS qualifications, RDA awards, first aid to fundraising skills and even cross-country course building.

Jodie Maile, volunteer chair of the London Horse Network says, “The Network put forward some innovative training that would benefit the community by enabling new and established riders to develop and encourage non-riders including parents, friends and individuals to gain a greater understanding and enjoy being part of the sport, confidently able to contribute directly to the sport either on a yard or in a supportive role, rather than just watching from the sidelines.”

Hence transferable skills such as first aid, fire marshalling and fund-raising are among the courses on offer.

David continues, “The potential of this funding is huge as candidates can reside anywhere in the country with the only condition being that the minimum 20hours of volunteering, akin to work experience, is conducted in London, and in return 75% of the course cost will be met by the Mayor’s Legacy.”

For a full list of supporting riding schools and courses on offer register your details with Jodie Maile at jodievm@aol.com while details of forthcoming courses will be available via http://www.hoof-in-town.com/ and on the HOOF Facebook page.

Pony’s Unplanned Pregnancy

A city farm in London is appealing for help after discovering one of its seven riding school ponies is pregnant.

Pimms, a five year-old coloured Irish cob was purchased last autumn and has proved to be exceptional – even taking part in a sponsored cross-country ride earlier this month.

However, the size of her waistline was of some concern and Vauxhall City Farm’s veterinarian prescribed a low-calorie diet. When this failed, suspicions were raised and it’s been confirmed that she is due to foal in the next four to six weeks.

Director of the riding school, Linda Hinds, says, “It’s unlikely the previous owners were aware of her condition either as she’d have fallen pregnant last summer but it is no wonder she’s been so quiet!”

However the city farm is now faced with sending Pimms away to specialist care to have her foal and to rear it in appropriate surroundings.

Linda explains, “We don’t have any grazing, her stable would be too small for her to foal safely and there would be little peace and quiet. It feels like she is an Irish girl being sent away to the country to a home for unmarried mums!”

David Gadsby, London representative of the British Equestrian Federation notes, “The HOOF Olympic Legacy project of the BEF is supporting London’s riding schools to improve participation but this wasn’t the kind of legacy we had considered.”

More seriously, the care for Pimms and her offspring comes at an unexpected cost with Linda saying, “As a city farm we provide a large number of subsidized lessons and rely on donations and paying for veterinary care and costs for a mare and foal on confinement until Christmas plus paying for a replacement pony was not in this budget so we’re hoping people will help.”

To donate to Pimms please visit Vauxhall City farm’s website, http://www.vauxhallcityfarm.org/ and click on ‘Support the Farm’ and then, ‘Donations’.

Or to find out more about horse riding in London, visit http://www.hoof-in-town.com/

Olympic legacy rewards riding school

HOOF, the Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation has invested £25,000 of capital funding on an arena roof for Mount Mascal Stables, a top London riding school.


Members of the London Horse Network were invited to apply for the last-minute funding from a £50,000 pot, secured for the City from Sport England in November 2010. Mount Mascal itself invested the remaining amount needed for the fruition of its proposal. As a result, the venue now boasts a light, airy and dry outdoor school with a difference - a £78,000 roof.

John Window, Director of Mount Mascal Stables explains, "The outdoor school surface was too deep in the summer and too wet in the winter. So, for much of the year, our riders were limited to sharing the indoor arena, while the outdoor space stood idle and empty."

From modest beginnings, 45 years ago, with two horses and one small paddock, John has devoted himself to growing Mount Mascal Stables into a thriving equestrian centre. The complex now combines a 50 equine strong riding school, full livery services, stabling and 70 acres of pasture. John says, "We were so thrilled to be awarded funding and very grateful to HOOF. This is first time we've ever received any financial help and it is absolutely marvellous. My daughter, Alison put in an enormous effort to present our bid and we are delighted to be already seeing the benefits of our new outdoor facility."

London Representative of the British Equestrian Federation explains, "Mount Mascal's bid showed how a relatively small investment could deliver a substantial increase in capacity and participation, to broaden the range of people riding, improve standards and help change the elitist view of equestrianism, which meant it fitted well into the funding criteria set by Sport England."

John explains, "Our philosophy at Mount Mascal is that riding should be accessible to everyone. Our new space means we can continue and further develop our community links to enable more people to learn and enjoy riding - especially those who may be disadvantaged or discouraged by their perception of the sport. They can now benefit from a safe and attractive outdoor riding environment, all year round. This is especially important in our ever increasingly urban society. And, with 2012 just around the corner now, we are looking forward to encouraging new fans of our sport, inspired by the Olympic equestrian events in Greenwich, to convert from spectating to participating."

Polocrosse joins ‘Jump UP!’ HOOF - Olympic Legacy coaching day

A polocrosse demonstration is to captivate the audience at the latest London Horse Network coaching day being supported by HOOF, the Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation.


Polocrosse joins ‘Jump UP!’ at Reigate’s Littleton Manor Equestrian Centre on Monday 18th April with David Gadsby, London Representative of the BEF explaining, “The focus of the day is to inspire centres to maximize the facilities they have available to encourage new participants and enthuse existing riders.”

With Britain hosting the 2011 Polocrosse World Cup from 8-17th July in Warwickshire, CEO of the United Kingdom Polocrosse Association, Iain Heaton says, “Once they’ve witnessed the game from the sidelines, we are aware of players taking up the polocrosse without ever having shown an interest in horses before and so we hope our demonstration at ‘Jump UP!’ will show the potential of introducing polocrosse to more London centres to increase participation in equestrianism.”

The main focus of the day will be on the Olympic discipline of eventing with renowned BE accredited trainer and former Open European three-day-eventing champion, Lucy Thompson delivering coaching techniques to teach both show jumping and cross-country skills in the confines of an arena, making this Olympic sport relevant to city centres.

Volunteer chair of the London Horse Network, Jodie Maile concludes, “The day promises to be a great way of developing the sharing of resources and expertise within the Network and we’re very grateful to Littleton Manor, Lucy Thompson, and the UKPA for their generosity along with Sound Riding who is to provide the PA system for the day.”

BEF Legacy supports London Business

On 28th March 2011, the day David Cameron launched his Start Up Britain campaign to encourage entrepreneurs, the British Equestrian Federation’s London Olympic Legacy project, HOOF, was supporting a ‘Business Essentials Day’ for members of the London Horse Network.


Delivered by Mike Lynch of GBSport, the day, that was generously hosted by Maggie Cox at the fantastic facilities at Newham Riding School, gave delegates and insight into their responsibilities as seen through the eyes of the taxman.

Warning that ignorance is not bliss and that the costs for unintentional errors are immense – bankrupting a business or an individual, Mike impressed where responsibilities lie, what provisions should be in place and the importance of having a good accountant and tax inspection insurance.

Mike said, “Unfortunately sports are nicknamed ‘Del-Boy trades’ by tax inspectors and they are therefore an easy target to finding lost revenue.”

After an interactive test demonstrated how guidelines can be easily misinterpreted, leaving delegates having a slightly reduced appetite at lunch, Mike progressed to offering tools to build ones confidence and improve business practices.

One such element was to use the HMRC’s ‘Employment Status Indicator’, answering questions from the client’s point of view to give a good indication as to whether you, or your staff member truly is self-employed – with any queries then being directed to your accountant.

Repeating the test, delegates showed improved understanding though the competition winners included a former tax inspector turned riding instructor.

Sharon Edwards, a self-employed freelance instructor and employer of staff said, “The course was really useful and clarified that I wasn’t up to date on the guidelines but I now know how to handle staff if they request to become self-employed”, adding, “I’d have travelled a lot further to attend a course like this!”

Other delegates confirmed they would now be spending many days in the office getting things in order and with a free CD containing the course content to remind them of the various pitfalls and a specially produced sport-specific employment contract, they have some help in doing so.

Mike said, “A frequent problem we find in sport is that coaches are trained to coach but have very little business support and so it is great to see equestrianism embracing the challenge. We have information on the GBSport website and also recommend people look to resources like Business Link, the Sports Partnership network and to other sports web sites such as the excellent Rugby Union NGB and Sport Scotland Help for Clubs online resources.”

Jodie Maile, chair of the London Horse Network, concluded, “The London Horse Network is really determined to drive up standards and professionalism, not just within coaching but for the business element too and we are very grateful to HOOF to helping to fund this excellent day”, adding, “We also hope to have GBSport return for a marketing essentials day later in the year.”

If you are interested to find out more, visit http://www.hoof-in-town.com/ or contact Jodie Maile at Jodievm@aol.com

Banana skins to Best Practice – equestrian business benefits from BEF Olympic Legacy project

Elite riders may be the main focus for many in the build up to the London 2012 Olympic Games yet equestrianism at large is also able to benefit from the HOOF Ride London Olympic Legacy project of the BEF.


Responding to requests from members of the London Horse Network, the latest HOOF-supported day enabled delegates to attend a complimentary ‘Health and Safety and Employment Law’ interactive workshop on 28th February, with experts able to specifically utilize their experience of equestrianism.

Martine Dawlings, of Trent Park Equestrian Centre, the largest training and examinations centre in London said, “I was really impressed by the fact that HOOF had listened to what our needs were and had pitched the presentations at exactly the right level”, adding, “I was also impressed by the speakers who were not only of a high calibre, but also were hands-on, practical and approachable people”, concluding, “I learnt a lot and went back to the yard feeling much more confident and educated.”

The day began with Ray Hipkin, a Chartered Safety Practitioner delivering an unexpectedly fun and factual talk discussing the sense - and nonsense - of ‘Health and Safety’, to enable centres to prioritise their Health and Safety policies in order to avoid ‘banana skins’ and costly practices.

After a welcome lunch break at the Hilton Olympia hotel, delegates returned to hear from Lucy Katan, Chief Executive of the British Grooms’ Association - a recent addition to the British Equestrian Federation.

Lucy explained the role of the British Grooms Association, highlighting how it can help both grooms as a collective, and their employers.

Courtesy of a grant received from the Worshipful Company of Saddlers, the British Grooms Association, has produced an ‘Equine Employers Handbook’, in conjunction with Morrish LLP Solicitors and delegates were able to submit their own questions and hear answers to some of the frequently asked questions from Nicole Seaman, Assistant Solicitor from Warner Goodman LLP and a keen rider and former yard staff member herself.

The meeting then developed to an enlightening workshop that demonstrated the potential disparity of opinion between employers and their employees when discussing their specific role.

Linda Hinds, Equestrian Centre Manager at Vauxhall City Farm generously offered to be questioned regarding ‘best practice’, and indeed she was able to report from having done a similar study with her own staff, and her interview offered an example at to how she handles employing staff; from advertising vacancies to interviewing and selecting staff, to maintaining motivation with targets, assessments and opportunities and how to deal with a real life disciplinary procedure to avoid pitfalls.

Concluding the day with some final questions from the floor, Volunteer Chair of the London Horse Network, Jodie Maile wrapped up the meeting and invited delegates to take a complimentary copy of the Equine Employers Handbook home with them for reference purposes.

Jodie then reminded delegates to sign up for the ‘Business Essentials Workshop’ to be run by GB Sport at Newham Riding School on 28th March 2011, and again to be heavily subsidized by HOOF, by sending their cheque for £15.00 to David Gadsby at the BEF.

Did you know International Polo is coming to London this week!

Did you know International Polo is coming to London this week...?

Book your tickets via http://www.theo2polo.com/  and support equestrianism in the capital.  The Have A Go Polo and 'Cycle Polo' sounds somewhat unique... the only question is, what to wear for a glamorous event, surrounded by polo players, champagne and celebrities, shopping and sweaty horses.....!

HOOF supports Legal Advice Seminar for LONDON HORSE NETWORK

HOOF, the British Equestrian Federation’s Olympic Legacy Project is supporting a free Health and Safety and Employment Law seminar for the London Horse Network.

The London Horse Network which consists of riding school managers, livery yard owners and freelance and retained instructors and grooms will benefit from the workshop being held at the Hilton Olympia Hotel on Monday 28th February.

“These subjects may seem rather dry on paper but have sparked some serious debate during previous London Horse Network meetings”, explained Volunteer Chair of the London Horse Network, Jodie Maile, adding, “We are very grateful to HOOF Ride London for offering to support a day where the Network can learn from the experts.”

The British Grooms Association, recently appointed as a member body of the BEF, will be introducing its role within the industry and presenting the ‘Equine Employer’s Handbook’, produced by the BGA to the audience.

Regarded as a ‘must have’ for all equestrian establishments, 30 copies of the £39.95 Equine Employer’s Handbook are generously being donated to the Network by HOOF Ride London.

Career Grooms, sponsors of the BGA will also conduct a workshop to aid understanding of the problems and solutions when recruiting, training and retaining staff, and Nicole Seaman LLP, an Employment Law solicitor from Warner Goodman will be on hand to answer any specific questions from the London Horse Network.

London Representative of the BEF, David Gadsby said, “Between HOOF and the London Horse Network, we have a comprehensive line up of professionals that will aim to introduce their expertise, answer specific questions on the day and indicate various channels through which Network members can access continued support.”

The day will also include a workshop with Ray Hipkin CMIOSH, MEWI.

Health and Safety Officer for British Eventing, Ray manages safety issues at Blenheim, Bramham and Weston Park International Horse Trials, he is also Chairman of the National Farm Attractions Network and an independent advisor on Health and Safety Issues to a wide range of commercial clients.

Jodie concludes, “It’ll be great to have an industry expert on hand who understands the challenges faced in equestrianism especially the demands placed on centres and instructors when dealing with young, old, nervous and otherwise vulnerable, disadvantaged or disabled people in a high risk environment.”

To find out more about the London Horse Network or to register a question for the experts to answer, email jodievm@aol.com . For more details on the BEF Olympic Legacy Project, HOOF Ride London, visit www.hoof-in-town.com.

The LHN Health & Safety and Employment Law Seminar, 10am-3pm, Monday 28th February 2011, Hilton Olympia Hotel, London. Contact jodievm@aol.com for more details.

Inspirational speakers give the London Horse Network coaching insights

A training forum supported by the British Equestrian Federation’s HOOF Ride London Olympic Legacy project, gave the London Horse Network an opportunity to understand the complex and powerful role of the riding instructor as coach, trainer and mentor.


Andrew MacFarlane offered a unique view, having experience of many different teaching styles as he learns to ride himself and in his experiences as a coach, particularly when using horses at liberty to encourage team building, harmony and leadership in the corporate workplace through his company Lead Change.

Inviting participants who ranged from newly qualified instructors to equestrian centre managers to first identify the perceptions and pressures, motivations and challenges faced by riders of all levels and to identifying their different learning styles, Andrew then moved on to applying this understanding to help coaches become more effective.

After considering the psychological aspects behind coaching, Minette Rice Edwards, trainer at the ABRS-approved Ham House Stables, Richmond, offered an insight into coaching from a more physiological standpoint.

Taking the seat, the torso, alignment, feel and awareness as five indicators in riding effectively, she also ran through a physical ‘imagery’ checklist to encourage a balanced position.

The combination of these two excellent speakers, identifying how the coach can influence the rider and how the rider can influence the horse, was inspiring.

Although the main feature of the day kindly hosted by Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, volunteer chair of the London Horse Network, Jodie Maile, also used the occasion to canvas opinion from members as to their priorities for the Network and encouraged feedback as to how the Network could come together to improve training provision and standards.

Vice-Chairman of the Greater London region of the British Horse Society, Janet Coe, outlined the anticipated provision of amateur and professional training awards to be made available from the British Horse Society to riders at London equestrian centres.

Jodie Maile, who took over the chair in the summer of 2010 said, “It was great to have the BHS able to give the London Centres the heads up on these awards and an example of how these Network meetings can get people together. Already existing members who have found freelance instructors to hay suppliers through the network and it is exciting to see the Network develop to suit the aims of those involved.”

In line with the concerns raised during this latest workshop with regard to employment law, health and safety and child protection considerations, HOOF Ride London has also offered to help support a legal workshop.

London Representative of the BEF, David Gadsby explained, “The Network is very much run by its members, for its members and it was great that Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre volunteered to act as host for the training day”, adding, “Supporting the London Horse Network fits well with our Olympic legacy project aims, HOOF Ride London, as the tools and skills developed by the Network members today can be shared among them and spread.”

If you are a rider, horse owner, trainer, equestrian centre or other equestrian enthusiast and would like to join the London Horse Network, or offer your expertise towards developing equestrianism in London, please contact Jodie Maile on jodievm@aol.co.uk or 07815670035.

Happy New Year

Happy New Year from HOOF Ride London