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Riding Safely
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News for September, October, November & December 2007
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The
UK's only Equestrian Safety Newsletter
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Riding Safely is not responsible for the content of external internet sites
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In this Edition...
· Winter fire safety
tips for the stables – from Harry Paviour
· The Queen makes Christmas donation to
the BHS and AHT's Strangles Appeal
· Government guide on fire risk assessment
for horse keepers published
· Tim Stockdale masterclass for Health and Safety with
Horses students
· Training is crucial for equine welfare
· Council promotes health & safety at riding schools
· Injured equestrians highly experienced
- new study reports
· Safety
heroes recognised at The British Horse Society Sefton Awards
· The British Horse Society awards 'unsung
heroes' of horse world
· No further reports or updates from the
BHIC at present...
· What do you think of health and safety?
· Equine dental technicians and barefoot trimmers’ survey
· Consultation of the code of practice for the welfare of equines – Scotland and
Wales
· Flooding Lessons Learned Review
· Defra publishes contingency plan for
exotic animal diseases
· British young rider killed in Florida
International three-day event
· FEI looks again at eventing safety following
another death
· Revised Highway Code launched amidst
concern from riders
· The BHS wins royal safety award
· No reports at present...
· Warrant issued for arrest of Essex
woman who breached ban
· Surrey horse abuser arrested, fined and
banned for 10 years
· Spotlight
on Dartmoor pony safety after more deaths
· Defra/AHT/BEVA equine quarterly disease surveillance report - Volume 3, No 3 now available
· Twenty-six horses die in barn fire
· Woman
rider dies in a fall at stables
· Wiltshire man dies from kick
· Jouster dies after being speared through
eye in freak accident
· Crash injures man and kills horse
· Champion
rider,11, is seriously injured by kick to head
· Horse lucky to be alive after
becoming trapped in cattle grid
· No reports at present...
· Driver wins £1.25m pay-out after hitting runaway horse
· No reports at present...
· Workplace health, safety and welfare:
a short guide for managers
· No reports at present...
· Australian toddler tossed, killed by horse
· Equine businesses chance
to shake up industry education and training - the equine consultation event - 30 January 2008 – York
· Equine businesses chance to find out
about funding - Somerset - 15 February 2008
· BETA International, NEC, Birmingham 17-19 February 2008
· Timetable of other events
· Foot and
Mouth Disease (FMD)
· Australian Equine Influenza outbreak
· Breaking
the Strangles Hold - campaign update
· ILPH tackles obesity in horses
· BETA's Body Protector
Survey Continues...
· Gee Guards - protective padding for structural
hazards within equine facilities
·
Information
·
Training Resources
·
Sources of Help
· London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic
Games - BEF unveils “Hoof” initiative
· Sarah hoofs it to hospital after
horse play
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Winter Fire Safety tips for the Stables – from Harry Paviour
With the long dark and cold winter nights there will always be the temptation to
introduce portable and temporary heating appliances to the inside of buildings that do not normally have heating arrangements.
The only safe type of heaters are those that are fixed at high level, are provided
with suitable guards to the heating elements and do not create heat by way of live flame, or incandescent electrical coils.
Ideally, heaters that produce a 'Black' heat should only be used. The practice of using summer LPG gas fired patio heaters
should not be considered.
On inclement weather days when the farrier arrives to carry out hot shoeing, he
should not be permitted to work inside buildings unless he has a clear and clean working space free from all combustibles
and on a concrete floor.
The temptation to reduce the amount of combustible rubbish by burning should be
resisted. However, if absolutely necessary, restrict any burning to daylight hours, and then only well away and downwind of
any buildings, barns or outside combustible storage. Extinguish the fire completely
as darkness falls.
Dark winter months are also attractive times for the arsonist to strike. Carry out or review your arson risk assessment and secure or remove all readily accessible
combustibles - solids, liquids and gases. Make sure that you secure all buildings and vehicles at night.
Stay safe for the winter months.
Harry Paviour
Riding Safely
adds – before burning any waste check with your local Environmental Health Officer that you're allowed to do so.
Also make sure that your fire risk assessment assesses and controls the additional risks created by your winter heating requirements. Particularly vulnerable areas include tack rooms where heaters are often introduced
and used during the winter months.
Harry Paviour is Fire Advisor
to the British Horse Society and the Association of British Riding Schools. He
is the author of the British Horse Society’s book “Guidelines for Fire Safety in Equine and Agricultural Premises” and has been the driving force behind the Government’s publication “Fire Safety Risk Assessment - Animal Premises and Stables”. With a distinguished fire service career that began in 1962, and progressing
through various roles, including that of Divisional Commander, he has recently retired from the Fire Service College. Harry now acts a consultant to the equine industry and adds “if horse
owners or proprietors would like further help of information they are welcome to contact me”. Harry can be contacted at h.paviour@btinternet.com
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Your Concerns
The
Queen makes Christmas donation to the BHS and AHT's Strangles Appeal
Her Majesty
The Queen has dug into her own pocket to make a donation to The British Horse Society and The Animal Health Trust's Strangles
Appeal.
Her Majesty
sent a cheque to the BHS, of which she has been Patron for 60 years, to help the charities fight the terrible disease that
attacks horses.
The generous
gift, from the Privy Purse Charitable Trust, was made with the proviso that its size remains undisclosed. Her Majesty decided to donate after talking about Strangles with BHS Scotland Development Officer Helene
Mauchlen, to whom the cheque has been sent.
BHS Chairman
Patrick Print said: "We are very grateful to our Patron The Queen for making this gift. We are striving to raise £250,000
by the end of next year to fund research to find a fully effective vaccine against Strangles. I have no doubt Her Majesty's
example will encourage other horse lovers to give to this worthy cause."
Anyone can
donate to the Strangles Appeal by posting a cheque to Strangles Appeal, Animal Health Trust, FREEPOST CB360, Lanwades Park,
Kentford, Newmarket, Suffolk, CB8 7BR or phoning the AHT to make a donation credit card or direct debit on 08700 502380.
Source British Horse Society 19 December 2007
Government guide on fire risk assessment for horse keepers
A new guide has been published to help employers, managers, occupiers and owners
of animal premises and stables to minimise the risk of fire. It tells you what
you have to do to comply with fire safety law, helps you carry out a fire risk assessment and identify the general fire precautions
you need to have in place.
Fire Safety Risk Assessment - Animal Premises
and Stables was published on 23 October by the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).
For more details and for a free download of the guide go to: http://www.communities.gov.uk/publications/fire/firesafetyanimal
Tim Stockdale masterclass for Health and Safety with Horses course
students
“I don’t know my pass-age
from my saus-age” leading International show-jumper Tim Stockdale joked when
he presented a masterclass at Warwickshire College on 27 November to students who recently completed the nationally accredited
NPTC Health and Safety with Horses course.
There were over 250 attendees at the event, with over half having successfully
completed the course. The remainder of the keen viewers were guests of the students, exhibitors, and national media.
But Tim’s no comedian when it comes to the serious business of his horses
and riding. He began his masterclass in an informal and welcoming manner, introducing himself, his horse and his groom to
the audience. During the first part of the hour long demonstration Tim showed some essential seating tips and some basics
of the understanding between horse and rider. He covered techniques including
the key points to riding and training horses for show jumping including the practical aspects for the safety and comfort for
both horse and rider. At the end of the first half Tim gave the audience some
advice on the correct position over fences; he demonstrated this both on and off the horse, entertaining the audience with
his impression of commonly made position errors. For the second half of the masterclass Tim introduced the audience to one
of his most recently acquired horses, a six year old Irish Sports horse by the highly successful jumping stallion, Cruising.
Lacking experience, Tim relished the opportunity to give the horse the benefit of an outing; he worked with the horse to demonstrate
walk to canter transitions and good technique over single fences.
In conclusion to the demonstration Tim rode a course of five jumps, all the
time explaining to the audience about correct jumping position and the quality of contact with the horse’s mouth.
Tim then answered the audience’s questions which included; his opinion
on jumping safely in bad weather conditions and on less than perfect going, and his plans for the future.
After the masterclass the enthusiastic attendees were escorted up to the sports
hall at Moreton Morrell where they were formally congratulated by Tim for successfully achieving their NPTC Health and Safety
with Horses Award and had their photographs taken with him.
Riding Safely spoke to some of the award winners. A group of three horse owners told how their livery yard owner had recommended the course to them. They added that after completing the course their safety awareness is now considerably
greater; they’re identifying hazards and contributing to the overall safety of the yard.
Two experienced qualified riding instructors from the same riding school said while they had pre-existing knowledge
of some of the areas covered; others were new to them – particularly the Control of Substances Hazardous to health (COSHH). Finally, a head girl identified one of the greatest risks as being the varying levels
(and sometimes complete absence) of safety knowledge on a yard.
All said that they had enjoyed the course, and felt comfortable with the pace
and the amount of effort required. Although pushed, they couldn’t find
any areas that they didn’t like or anything that they would like to see changed in the course.
The afternoon was also complimented by a selection of trade stands enabling
the guests to shop at their leisure. Exhibitors included; Treehouse Saddlery,
V-Bandz, The British Horse Society, Gee Guards and Charles Owen and Mac Wet Gloves, some of whom also sponsored additional
individual student prizes. Plaques were presented to riding and livery centres who qualified as ‘Approved Training Locations’
for the Safety with Horses Course.
An interactive voting area, careers advice and the opportunity to ride ‘Gavin’,
a mechanical horse were also offered throughout the afternoon. Gavin is used
by Warwickshire College’s students to monitor and improve seat position.
The day was a huge success, Tim’s demonstration was both informative
and excellently performed, his relationship with the audience encouraged a lively response and guests were actively involved
with the afternoon activities.
The NPTC ‘Health and Safety with Horses’ course, which was initiated
and developed by Karen Tolley of Warwickshire College focuses on promoting good practice within equine environments. It is
suitable for both leisure riders and also those working in the equine industry. Recommended for anyone involved in the riding
or handling of horses, the course has become a phenomenal success with more and more people enrolling every day. To date there
are over 750 enrolled, making this the most popular course offered by Warwickshire College.
The programme
is funded through the Learning and Skills Council and the course is offered for just £40. It is one of seven equine
courses that can be taken through ‘Equi-Study’; the distance learning provider. Students
can learn from home and fit education in to their daily lives without having to travel. Established
in 1994, Equi-Study has gone from strength to strength creating new courses, carrying out project work and developing exciting
new learning materials; including computer aided learning and assessment programmes.
Warwickshire College also offer a developed range of full-time further and higher education courses, including blacksmithing
and farriery that are studied at college.
Riding Safely has had some minor
involvement with the course over the years and unreservedly recommends it to anyone involved with horses.
“Safety with Horses”
Safety with Horses
is a cost effective, award winning equine health and safety training programme, leading to an accredited Vocational Qualification.
The Level 2 programme
is suitable for all those involved in any equine related activity including full or part-time students, clients, trainees,
school work placements as well as those employed working with horses.
Find out more about
the Safety with Horses training programme at: http://www.warkscol.ac.uk/equistudy/coursepage.asp?courseid=9 |
Training is crucial for equine welfare
A leading academic in equine welfare has said that combined practical and theoretical
training is crucial if the industry is to meet equine welfare standards.
Professor Derek Knottenbelt OBE, senior lecturer at the University of Liverpool
said: "Training for its own sake is of no value. It is no good knowing the theory
and not the practical, and it's no good knowing the practical and not the theory. If
you can put the two together then you get something really positive and this is what this conference is doing."
Prof. Knottenbelt was keynote speaker at an event on the 4th of December
Wroxall Abbey near Warwick, hosted by Lantra Sector Skills Council and the National Equine
Welfare Council. The event was held to launch an agreement that will address
skills and training issues in the industry. The Sector Skills Agreement brings together for the first time employers, voluntary organisations, learning providers and governments across the UK to
ensure that training and subsequent funding meets the needs of businesses.
Prof. Knottenbelt added: "I'm still learning every day of my life. To have the same situations always arising would be a great help, but the only predictable thing about
a horse is that it is unpredictable. This means that we have to keep learning,
so that hopefully we will have enough not to make so many mistakes."
Lantra Industry Partnership Manager, Lisa Jarvis said: "Training can help businesses and organisations meet many of the challenges the industry faces.
This new skills agreement is a positive step to ensure that training is relevant
and helps horse owners stay in line with new legislation."
Also speaking at the event, Nicolas De Brauwere MCRVS, head of welfare at Redwings
horse sanctuary, said: "Although no one willingly neglects the needs of their
horse in this country, I think there are a lot of people who unwittingly compromise the welfare of their horse by just doing
what they have been taught, or told by someone who doesn't actually know any better themselves."
There is a lot of value in experience handed down from generation to generation,
when it is based on good practice. Passing on bad practice is hugely damaging
and I think that is where the training sector has a massive responsibility to provide accurate evidence that we all agree
on."
Executive Secretary of NEWC, Elaine Cannon, added:
"In order to deliver good horse health and welfare, everyone involved needs to ensure that they update their knowledge
regularly to meet current requirements of horse care standards and the skills needed to meet those requirements.
"The Equine Health and Welfare Strategy has already brought these issues to the fore and Lantra's Sector Skills Agreement will play a crucial role in assessing the
current quality and availability of educational material and qualifications.
Owners and keepers of horses need to be fully aware of their responsibilities
under the Animal Welfare Act 2006 and the concept of 'duty of care'."
More about Lantra...
· Lantra, the Sector Skills Council for the environmental and land-based sector, is licensed by the UK government to
drive forward the skills, training and business development agenda for the sector's 17 industries, which are: agricultural
crops, agricultural livestock, animal care, animal technology, aquaculture, environmental conservation, equine, farriery,
fencing, fisheries management, floristry, game and wildlife management, land-based engineering, landscape, production horticulture,
trees and timber and veterinary nursing.
· Lantra is an employer-led organisation representing 280,000 businesses and 1.5 million employees in the environmental
and land-based sector. For more information see www.lantra.co.uk
· Lantra is part of the Skills for Business network comprising Sector Skills Councils (SSCs) which are independent UK-wide
organisations developed by groups of influential employers in sectors of economic significance. SSCs give responsibility to employers to provide leadership for strategic targeted action to meet their
sector skills and business needs. |
More about the National Equine Welfare Council...
· NEWC has evolved to become a united voice for the industry on equine welfare matters and its work includes support
for small welfare organisations, making representations to Government and advising individuals. For more information see www.newc.co.uk/home/
· NEWC produces a Code of Practice for those organisations involved in the keeping of horses, ponies, asses, mules and donkeys, and supports members by providing
up to date information, running annual seminars and representing them to Government and other bodies. |
Council promotes health & safety at riding schools
Health and safety at riding schools and livery yards was the main aim of an event
organised by St Albans City and District Council.
Working in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) at Luton and
KEITS, a training provider, a free event was put on promoting health and safety at riding schools and livery yards.
Following some issues raised during local inspections and a discussion at the Herts
and Beds Health and Safety Group Meeting, all livery yards and riding schools across the Herts and Beds local authorities
were invited to attend the event. Around 20 businesses from different industry areas attended including racing yards, riding
schools, livery yards and studs. The event was held at KEITS training centre, a livery yard in St Albans, Herts where employees
are trained in practical health and safety.
Read more from St Albans City and District Council
(20 December 2007) at: http://www.stalbans.gov.uk/pressroom/newsful.php?Id_No=876
See also some answers to frequently asked questions
about riding schools and livery yards from St Albans City and District Council at: http://www.stalbans.gov.uk/business/healthsafety/livery_yards.htm
Injured equestrians highly experienced
A new study of serious injuries among Alberta’s adult horseback riders finds
that the vast majority were seasoned riders, whose injuries were not due to any lack of experience. The 10 year study, published
in the American Journal of Surgery, notes that equestrian activities are an important part of life in Alberta – and
a common source of severe injury.
Those injured were typically recreational or working riders who owned horses, rode
Western style and had an average 27 years of experience when injured. Most commonly,
patients experienced chest injuries (54%) and head injuries (48%). Only 9% wore
a helmet (riding hat).
Two-thirds of the riders believed their injuries were preventable. Close to half said they had changed their riding practices as a result of the trauma, including always
wearing protective equipment.
The report contrasts with the United Kingdom mentioning that there has been a 40%
absolute risk reduction in head injuries observed after the increase of riding hat use and improved design.
Helmet (riding hat) and vest (body protector) use will be targeted in future injury
prevention strategies.
Read more from SMARTRISK at
http://www.smartrisk.ca/ContentDirector.aspx?tp=5109
Further reporting from the New York State Horse Council July/August/September Newsletter (Page 6)
at
http://www.nyshc.org/newsletters/Jul%20Aug%20Sept%2007.pdf
Safety heroes recognised at The British Horse Society Sefton Awards
Heroes in the field of equestrian safety were honoured at The British Horse Society’s
Sefton Awards, which were held at the Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment's Barracks, Knightsbridge, London on Monday, 22 October
2007. The awards were presented by Lt Col Ralph Griffin LG, Commanding Officer of The Household Cavalry Mounted Regiment.
They mark outstanding contribution in the field of riding and road safety and can
go to anyone who, through their achievements, has raised awareness of the need for riding and road safety.
The 2007 Sefton Awards were awarded to:
Claire Aldridge
Claire Aldridge has been a strong supporter of The British Horse Society, and particularly
of the Riding and Road Safety programme, for over 20 years. She is an examiner,
trainer, Regional Representative and BHS National Safety Advisory Committee Chairman.
Claire has used her considerable skills and knowledge to further the cause of Riding
and Road Safety locally and nationally, and has been an important link with the Army, as Hyde Park Barracks fall within her
local area. Claire has brought commitment, energy, dedication, calmness and a
willingness to grasp every opportunity to advance the cause of safety.
Jane and her late husband Michael started the Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund after their son was killed in an accident at Burghley Horse Trials. At that time no support was available for those injured
in horse related accidents apart from a single fund for professional jockeys.
Jane’s determination to help injured riders saw the fund develop into a national
charity. Many riders involved in serious accidents have been supported at a time
when life seemed bleak. The fund has provided equipment and ensured that expert
medical, legal and financial advice is available. Jane takes a leading role in
issues relating to the welfare and safety of riders, playing a major part in areas such as head protection and cross country
fences, where she was responsible for starting the work on frangible pins before it was taken forward by British Eventing. Jane has an acute sense of what is right and fair and the energy and passion to make
a real difference to the lives of those who have suffered injury. The award was
received by Mrs Sarah Bullen of the
MDIRF on behalf of Jane Davies.
Keith Grant
Keith Grant’s responsibilities within Devon County Council primarily embrace
environmental issues, so his involvement with equestrians may have surprised him as much as it did others. But it was because
he listened to the concerns of riders who had suffered from the poor laying of Stone Mastic Asphalt road surface dressings
that a solution was eventually found.
Keith took the problems to his colleagues in the County Surveyors Society and,
working in partnership with The British Horse Society, a guidance booklet was issued.
This has been adopted nationally by local authorities and riders, leading to safer riding on the roads.
The BHS wishes to thank Keith for taking their problems seriously and for making
such a valuable contribution to their resolution.
Tarquin Trophy
The Tarquin Award, which recognises organisations, businesses or business associates
who have made a significant contribution to equestrian safety, was presented to Roy Burek from Charles Owen & Co by Patrick Print, Chairman and a Fellow of The British Horse Society.
Roy Burek has been a strong supporter of equestrian safety for many years. Through his company Charles Owen & Co, Roy was the force behind the BHS accident
reporting form which has now been in use for some 20 years.
Perhaps not surprisingly, Roy has strongly supported the call for all riders to
wear approved riding hats. He has produced and manufactured hats to suit all
riders’ requirements and in a variety of colours, perhaps in the hope that more riders will accept that wearing a hat
is not only good for them but can also be fashionable.
A Royal Warrant to supply protective headgear to the Royal Mews and Buckingham
Palace was a further endorsement of helmets produced by Charles Owen, under Roy’s leadership. His dogged determination to see VAT removed from riding hats resulted in research that gave a definitive
size range to children’s hats, and proved that most adults will fit into one.
Roy has been generous with his support and advice, and has worked closely with
the Society to educate young riders. His encouragement through a unique awards system has educated many youngsters who would
otherwise have remained ignorant.
Background to the Sefton Awards
In March 1990 the Road Safety Policy Committee agreed to introduce
awards to mark outstanding work in the field of riding and road safety.
Peter Cannon approached the Household Cavalry for sanction to call
them the Sefton Awards. This was readily agreed and the association endorsed. There
was no limit as to the number of awards each year and this has varied from two to four awards dependent on the nominations
and achievement.
The criterion for the award is that it should mark outstanding contribution
in the field of riding and road safety. Over the years this has been awarded
for a great variety of reasons and to a wide band of the community who have raised awareness of the need for riding and road
safety through their achievements.
In July 1990, it was agreed that the first awards would be presented
at Hyde Park Barracks in 1991. |
The British Horse Society awards 'unsung heroes' of horse world
The British Horse Society's new President Desi Dillingham spoke of her pride
in being part of a "winning team" - at the Society's annual awards ceremony on Thursday, 15 November 2007.
Desi, who became President at the Society's Annual General Meeting in June, made
an off-the-cuff speech after presenting 26 awards to individuals or organisations who have made an outstanding contribution
to the BHS's work, at the prestigious event at Saddlers' Hall in the City of London.
She said: "I like being part of a winning team and this team at the BHS is as good
as any I have worked with.
"Congratulations to all the winners and all who have worked so hard. We love you! Please keep it up!"
The awards highlighted the dedicated work that goes on behind the scenes on behalf
of Britain's horses and riders.
Patrick Print, Chairman and a Fellow of The British Horse Society, said: "These
award winners are the unsung heroes of equestrianism - people who quietly and ceaselessly graft away for the good of all riders
and drivers. Their achievements are immense and we thank them for all they have done."
Picking up the President's Award, Robert Sullivan-Tailyour, with typical modesty,
played down his own remarkable contribution to praise the BHS's volunteers and staff as a whole.
And veteran campaigner, ex-Trustee and former long-standing Member of Parliament
Dr Harry Greenway, who won the Sefton Award, recalled how he had presented the first Sefton Award to the horse Sefton, who
had been badly injured in a terrorist bombing.
Dr Greenway said: "I think it is fitting that Sefton is an inspiration for this
special award which I am so glad to receive."
Those receiving the 2007 award were:
Robert Sullivan-Tailyour - President's
Award - For the person who has given truly outstanding service to the Society over a period of years.
Adrian and Margaret Bigg - Access Award
- For the BHS member who has done most for equestrian access.
Adrian and Margaret have worked energetically for access and rights of way on legal
and technical, campaign and local bridleway group matters. They have both been County Access and Bridleway Officers for Cornwall
for four years, and they have invested countless hours of dedication and commitment to extending equestrian access routes
for riders and carriage drivers throughout Cornwall. They have done this in a
variety of ways including the creation of a number of Bridleway Groups aimed at promoting, defending and extending the Public
Rights of Way Network. The Cornish Access website (http://www.bhsaccesscornwall.org.uk/) is a testament to their determination to preserve riding and carriage driving opportunities, and to improve the bridleway
and ridden and driven routes in the county.
Ministry of Defence, Sennybridge - Access
Award - For the public agency which has done most for equestrian access
The Ministry of Defence's declared presumption is in favour of safe public enjoyment
of its estate "wherever this is compatible with operational and military training uses, public safety, security, conservation
and its tenants". With this objective and with the passing of the Countryside Rights of Way Act in 2000, the Army Training
Estate ("ATE") undertook an extensive review of public access on its land throughout the United Kingdom. The Sennybridge Training Area was identified by ATE (Wales) as having the greatest potential for development. The Epynt Way is a circular route following the boundary of the training area. It
covers 90 km and links existing rights of way, many of which stopped at the range boundary.
John Clifford has helped to create a path that will benefit riders, walkers and cyclists. He has ensured that this
route remains a permissive bridleway and has encouraged and installed horse corrals, lorry parking sites and rider-friendly
gates and latches.
Caerphilly County Borough Council - Access
Award - For the Local Authority most active in opening up equestrian routes
Caerphilly County Borough Council has promoted the interests of equestrians for
a number of years. They have endeavoured to provide new riding routes in many areas of the county, as well as improving the
existing network of bridleways. Working
closely with other agencies and organisations such as Forestry Commission Wales and Caerphilly Groundwork Trust, as
well as local riders and groups such as the Bridleways Group SAFE (Safety and Facilities for Equestrians) they have researched
possible routes and then developed these paths. They are also initiating cross border discussions with adjacent local authorities
to extend the riding routes throughout the South Wales area. In addition to their
own financial input, they work with these other organisations to obtain grant aid for their projects. One route currently nearing completion is the 18 mile long Caerphilly Ridgeway Path in the south of the
county. This will link with other routes further north. This work was done in co-operation with SAFE and Forestry Commission
Wales from whom they had also obtained a grant of £75,000.
Sally Whittaker and Nikki Moore - Bodynfoel
Award - For those who people who have done the most to promote the work of The British Horse Society.
Somerset County Farms - The Lady Elizabeth
Kirk Award - In recognition of the voluntary dedication of a bridleway.
Margaret Peverley - Leo Harris Award (presented
by British Riding Clubs) - For services to affiliated Riding Clubs and Area Liaison.
Kathleen Fiske - Overseas Award - In
recognition of service to the BHS overseas.
Terry Jones - Safety Award - Community
Award to person, persons or group who have contributed to promoting road safety particularly in their community.
Terry Jones, Road Safety Officer for Ceredigion County Council since 1980, carries
out the duties of Riding and Road Safety Trainer and Examiner. He is responsible
for the Council's Community Safety Unit, which attends many events during the year.
This unit is specifically designed to encourage young people in particular to discuss with staff the issues relating
to road safety, and the importance of understanding why it is necessary to be aware of others on the road. It also ensures
a greater understanding of the rules and regulations whilst riding on our roads today.
A bi-lingual leaflet featuring 'Ceredig the Cob' has been published by Ceredigion County Council, reiterating the advice
given by the BHS. The higher profile of road safety has encouraged increasing
numbers of local riding clubs and establishments to organise training and examinations for the Riding and Road Safety Test.
Sarah Fitton BHSII - BHS Silver Stirrup
- In recognition of support for young riders.
Sue Payne FBHS - Trainers Award - For
the person who has made an outstanding contribution to equestrian training.
Sue Payne FBHS is a dedicated trainer of the highest quality who shows that she
can empathise with her pupils. She is renowned for her excellent work with exam candidates, and regularly trains and mentors
candidates for their BHSI and Fellowship Exam. Sue has trained many eventers
at different levels, and supports them at competitions whenever she can. She also trained Anna Ross Davies, a key member of
the GB dressage team. Sue has been a Where to Train Inspector since
1994, and was instrumental in the development of the high standards required for Where to Train inspection. A life member of the Society, Sue has been training for a considerable number of years.
She passed her Fellowship examination in 1987, and is now one of only a handful of Fellows who examine for the Fellowship.
The Horse Trust - Welfare Award - For
contribution to equine welfare over many years.
Originally known as The Home of Rest for Horses, The Horse Trust was established
in 1886 and is the oldest equine charity in the world. Due to the steady decline
of working horses in the UK after the war, it was decided to extend the Home's role to establish a foundation with the purpose
of giving grants to other charitable organisations concerned with equine welfare. The
Home had several locations in its early years, but in 1971 it moved to its present site in Speen, Buckinghamshire where it
continues to provide a safe and permanent retirement home for around 100 horses. To date, nearly £20 million has been invested
in a wide variety of projects to benefit the health and welfare of horses. Not
only has the Trust provided a retirement safe-haven for many old equine friends and soldiers but, through its funding of education
and research it has improved the lives of many thousands of equines all over the world.
Jim Green and Anton Philips - Welfare Award
- For best achievement to advance welfare of all equines
Hampshire fire-fighters Jim Green and Anton Phillips have set a national standard
for large animal rescue, as well as developing a specialist role as Animal Rescue Advisors. Their dedication and enthusiasm
continue to help protect the lives of fire-fighters, owners and their horses throughout Hampshire, as well as inspiring other
Fire and Rescue Services to seek their advice and undergo large animal rescue training themselves. Their expertise and equipment has enabled the safe rescue of large, unpredictable animals, including horses,
that may have become trapped or involved in accidents. Jim has also taken on the role of Rural Safety Officer, as well as
co-ordinating the Animal Rescue Team. Jim and Anton have also played an important
role in the development of the Emergency Services Protocol for incidents involving equines. The protocol, launched at Buckingham
Palace by HRH The Princess Royal, aims to ensure appropriate first actions when the emergency services arrive at an incident
and minimise delays in injured animals receiving appropriate veterinary care following accidents. This maximises the chances
of a positive outcome for the animal, and ensures the safety of all involved.
Carol Shoopman - Award Of Merit - For
excellent service to the Society over a period of years.
Dr Harry Greenway - Sefton Award -
For services to the cause of equestrian safety
Dr Harry Greenway actively promoted the importance of good quality riding hats
for all riders. As one of our most distinguished Members of Parliament, he introduced a Private Members' Bill which later
became the Horses (Protective Headgear for Young Riders) Act 1990 (known as the Greenway Act). This made it compulsory for
riders up to 14 years of age to wear a riding hat. This Act has undoubtedly saved many young riders from suffering serious
injury. Harry, a Trustee of The British Horse Society until 2006, has always
promoted rider safety, particularly when it affects young or disadvantaged riders. Given his undimmed commitment to equestrian
safety, and in particular his determination to ensure that all riders should wear suitable protective head gear, it is entirely
fitting that Harry should receive the public thanks and formal recognition of the Society for all the work and support he
has given over many years.
Long Service Awards
30 Years
Tricia Brook (South-West Herefordshire District Representative); Margaret English
(Access Assistant, Devon); Pen Greenwood (West Sussex Committee); Donald Kear (West Sussex Committee).
25 Years
Brendan Byrne (Chairman, London Area 1); Diana Russell (Chairman, Shropshire);
Gill Storrs (Road Safety Representative, Avon); Sally Whittaker (Chairman, Somerset).
20 Years
Carol Shoopman (Secretary and DABO, Dorset).
Riding Safely has highlighted those
award winners associated with access, health, welfare and safety. Further detail
on all the award winners can be found on the BHS website.
No further reports or updates from the BHIC at present...
What do you think of health and safety?
If you have an interest in health and safety the Better Regulation Executive
in the Government's Business, Enterprise and Regulatory Reform department (BERR) wants to hear from you.
Your
responses will be fed into ‘Improving outcomes from Health and Safety: A Call for Evidence’, a review that is
looking for ways to make sure health and safety requirements on business are sensible so that everyone can enjoy safer and
healthier working lives.
·
Improving Outcomes from Health and
Safety: A Call for Evidence [PDF 509KB, 40 pages]
The
review is about how the system works as a whole and is looking at the roles of employees and their representatives, insurers,
customers, consultants, trade bodies, lawyers and G.Ps as well as health and safety and environmental health inspectors.
The review wants to hear your views and experience of the health and
safety system.
For
example:
· What
are the main things that influence health and safety in your business? Could government do anything to make it easier to get
things right?
· In
general, how well are people at work protected?
· Are
there particular health and safety requirements that do not make sense to you? What are they? Why?
· Would
you rather government told you exactly what to do? Or do you want Government to leave the detail for you to sort out?
· Have
you found any particular initiatives especially helpful, e.g. example risk assessments?
If
you have comments prompted by those questions, any other thoughts please contact Ben
Davison at Ben.Davison@berr.gsi.gov.uk or:
Review of
Health and Safety Better Regulation Executive BERR 1 Victoria Street, 3136 London SW1H 0ET
or
call +44 (0)207 215 0278.
Information
about the review, the regime, more detailed questions and details of BERR’s confidentiality policy can be found in the
above document ‘Improving outcomes from Health and Safety: A Call for Evidence’.
This review is not being done by the health and safety inspecting bodies
– no information about individual businesses will be passed on to them, unless it is in the public interest to do so.
The
project team will not respond to individuals about their views. The team cannot deal with complaints about the way the inspection
bodies have dealt with individual cases – any complaints should be taken up by the normal channels. If you want advice
or information about health or safety then the Health and Safety Executive or Business Link are good starting points.
Although the closing date for comments is the 31 January 2008, the review
team are happy to take responses after that date until the spring who add “we hope you are able
to contribute”.
More
Details from BERR at: http://bre.berr.gov.uk/regulation/reform/health_safety/index.asp
Equine
dental technicians and barefoot trimmers’ survey
How many
equine dental technicians and barefoot trimmers work in the industry? The first
online survey into the industry now aims to find out.
Lantra Sector
Skills Council is carrying out the survey on its website to find out the numbers working as paraprofessionals, their background
and the challenges they face.
Lantra Equine
and Professions Allied to Veterinary Science Industry Partnership Manager, Lisa Jarvis said:
“We estimate that around 500 dental technicians and barefoot trimmers work in the UK, but it is an emerging area
and very little is known about it.”
Training
is an essential way to overcome challenges and plan effectively for the future. As
the representative body for the equine industry, Lantra works to ensure that training and qualifications meet the needs of
employers and industry. It also represents the industry at government level to
shape funding policy, so that areas where there are skills gaps and a training need are prioritised.
Lisa adds: “In order for Lantra to work with the para-professionals and Defra to develop
frameworks for training and qualifications we urgently need equine dental technicians and barefoot trimmers to take part in
this research.”
The survey
questions are grouped into eight main themes:
·
Current numbers employed in the
industry
·
Entry route into current job role
(i.e. school, college, university)
·
Training route used (length of
training, type of training, accreditation)
·
Predicted numbers entering the
industry
·
Job roles – tasks, competencies
·
Business – number of clients
and horses treated
·
Membership of organisations
·
Links to other professionals (e.g.
veterinary surgeons, farriers)
If you are
a paraprofessional, or a client or colleague of a paraprofessional, please take the time to log onto the business section
of the Lantra website www.lantra.co.uk/businesses/equine/ to take part.
If you
would prefer to receive a copy of the survey by email, please contact Lantra Connect on tel: 0845 707 8007 or email connect@lantra.co.uk. The closing date is 31st March 2008.
Flooding Lessons Learned Review
The Secretary of State for the Environment announced in July 2007 that the Government
was to conduct a review into the flooding that occurred in England during June and July 2007.
The Review is being led by Sir Michael Pitt, Chair of the South West Strategic
Health Authority and is being carried out by the Cabinet Office with support from the Department for Environment Food and
Rural Affairs (Defra) and the Department for Communities and Local Government (DCLG).
It will examine both how to reduce the risk and impact of floods and the emergency response to the floods. The full
Terms of Reference for the review can be found on the Flooding Review website.
As part of the review process, the Review team is seeking the views of affected
communities and local businesses as well as other key stakeholders such as the emergency services, professional associations,
local authorities, voluntary organisations, industry associations, public and regulatory bodies, and is providing the opportunity
to contribute and shape the direction of the review's recommendations.
The Review team welcomes comments, ideas and suggestions from all sections of the
community regarding the review, as well as feedback on the experiences of those affected by the floods in June and July 2007
or whose home or business is susceptible to the risk of flooding.
The deadline for comments before the interim report is 26 October 2007. Comments
added after this time will still inform the final report.
More details from: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/floodingreview.aspx
Foot and Mouth Review: 2007
Following the recent outbreak of foot and mouth disease identified in Surrey in
August 2007, the Prime Minister has asked Dr Iain Anderson to look at the Government's response to the outbreak (Dr Anderson
chaired the previous Inquiry into the 2001 outbreak). The terms of reference for the Foot and Mouth Review: 2007 are:
To conduct a review of the Government's handling of the outbreak of foot and mouth
disease during 2007, in order to:
· establish
whether relevant points from the Lessons to be Learned Report on the 2001 outbreak were implemented;
· establish
whether new lessons might be drawn from the handling of the 2007 outbreak;
and to make recommendations by the end of 2007 to the Prime Minister and the Secretary
of State for the Environment, Food and Rural Affairs on the future handling of foot and mouth disease outbreaks.
The independent Review is now beginning its formal programme of work. Dr Anderson
will be supported by a small secretariat of staff chosen from across Government and externally. The Review welcomes views
from everyone about the recent outbreak of foot and mouth disease.
The Review will be independent. Its central objective is to establish those areas
where lessons identified in the 2002 Inquiry were learned and implemented as well as whether new lessons might be drawn from
the handling of the 2007 outbreak.
The closing date for comments is Friday 16 November 2007.
More details from: http://www.cabinetoffice.gov.uk/fmdreview/
Some of the consultations listed above may now have closed, however
Riding Safely will keep you updated on how their outcomes might help horse owners and the industry in the future.
Defra publishes contingency plan for
exotic animal diseases
Defra's Exotic Animal Disease Generic Contingency Plan was laid before Parliament
on 10 December 2007.
The plan is amended annually and is produced for Defra by the Animal Health agency.
It includes an overarching plan for dealing with a range of exotic animal diseases, as well as plans for responding to specific
diseases including Foot and Mouth Disease, Avian Influenza, specified types of Equine Exotic Diseases and, for the first time,
Rabies and Bluetongue.
The plan draws on lessons learned from disease outbreaks earlier this year including
the Foot and Mouth disease outbreak during the summer, the outbreaks of Avian Influenza in February and May and the ongoing
Bluetongue outbreak which began in September.
Animal Health and Welfare Minister Jeff Rooker said: "Our revised Contingency Plan
reflects Defra's commitment to mounting an effective response to disease outbreaks. It is important to learn lessons from
our response to every disease outbreak and our experiences this year have made an important contribution to the revised plan."
The Contingency Plan is subject to ongoing revision based on the latest scientific
advice, developments in policy and comments from stakeholders and operational partners together with lessons identified from
disease outbreaks.
Further Information
· The Contingency Plan can be accessed on the Defra website at www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/control/contingency/index.htm
· The Contingency Plan is comprised of two parts:
o An Overview of Emergency Preparedness which provides details of how we have prepared for the operational response;
and
o The Framework Response Plan which is an operational manual for those involved in managing the response and policy
information by specific animal disease, setting out current policy on how each of these diseases will be dealt with. |
Reference Information
· Find out more about Equine Notifiable Diseases and when they last occurred in the UK at www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/notifiable/index.htm |
British young rider killed in Florida International three-day event
A British young rider has been killed during the Florida International three-day
event.
Eleanor Brennan, aged 21, suffered head and chest injuries when her horse, Mister
Barnabus, struck a fence and fell to his death.
Eleanor was rushed to hospital, but died shortly afterwards.
Read more from Horse & Hound online
(Vanessa Lambert) 19 November 2007 at: http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=157835
FEI looks again at eventing safety following another death
A new cross-country design advisory group has been launched by the International
Equestrian Federation (FEI) in response to this year's exceptional number of eventing tragedies. Eleven riders have died since
January this year.
Read more from Horse & Hound online
(Charlotte White) 23 November 2007 at: http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/397/163212.html
Reference information - Australia
Monitoring Falls During Eventing - Establishment
of a national surveillance system to monitor injury to riders and horses from falls during the cross-country phase of eventing
in Australia.
A report for the Rural Industries Research and
Development Corporation by Raymond A. Cripps and Denzil O’Brien - Flinders University - December 2004.
Read the report at: http://www.rirdc.gov.au/reports/HOR/04-171.pdf |
The first revised Highway Code in eight years was launched by Road Safety Minister
Jim Fitzpatrick on the 28th September 2007. The updated Code offers the latest road safety rules and advice, as well as promoting
greater courtesy and understanding among all road users, particularly those who are most vulnerable. The Code applies to England, Scotland and Wales.
Road Safety Minister Jim Fitzpatrick said: "The Official Highway Code is for life,
not just for passing your driving test. It is a crucial tool for all road users - car drivers, motorcyclists, cyclists, horse
riders and pedestrians alike - and applies to every stage of your life. Road safety is a responsibility we all share and everyone
should have a copy of the Code to keep their knowledge up-to-date.”
The Code has also been updated to include new legislation that has been introduced
on vehicle emissions and smoking in vehicles that are work places, as well as the provision of new stopping/directing powers
to VOSA and Highways Agency Traffic Officers. Alongside this, it references new
initiatives like Quiet Lanes, High-occupancy Vehicle Lanes, Home Zones and Active Traffic Management schemes that people should
be aware of, as well as increasing, re-writing or enhancing existing advice to promote greater co-operation between road users
and further promote safety.
Worries about Rule 53, part of which stated “...you should...never ride more than two abreast, and ride in single file on narrow or busy
roads and when riding round bends” were voiced and fed back by riders and industry organisations in response to the
consultation.
In addition, nearly 20,000 people signed an online petition to the Prime Minister by the closing date of the 13th of August, voicing further concern:
“The BHS is asking for last-minute
amendments to the new Highway Code, which could be in force in August.
The BHS suggested amendments to the new
Highway Code to the Secretary of State back in February 2006. But according to BHS Director of Access, Safety and Welfare,
Mark Weston, some have apparently been ignored.
The Code will forbid riding two horses abreast
on narrow and busy roads and when riding around bends. It will also exclude horses from all cycle tracks. There can be many
valid reasons for riding two abreast: groups of riders, nervous horses, novice riders, and defensive riding on winding country
lanes where there is insufficient room for a car to pass a single horse safely.
Breaches of the Highway Code could potentially
be used in evidence in any court proceedings under the Traffic Acts in order to establish liability in an accident. There
are many cycle tracks which have been specifically designed for use by horse riders, and the loss of these would be very serious
for those who rely on them.”
The Government responded on the 31st of August:
“The new edition of the Highway Code
will not forbid riding horses two abreast under any circumstances. It will contain advice in rule 53 that horse riders should
“never ride more than two abreast, and ride in single file on narrow or busy roads and when riding round bends”,
but this is not a legal requirement and it does not place any compulsion on riders to ride in single file. It remains their
decision whether or not they follow this advice. The distinction between legal requirements and advisory rules is made clear
in the Introduction to the Code.
Similar advice is contained in rule 39 of
the current edition of the Highway Code, first published in 1999, which says “never ride more than two abreast, and
ride in single file where the road narrows or on the approach to a bend”.
We have discussed the concerns of the British
House Society (BHS) with them and have agreed to keep the operation of this rule under review and to provide further advice
on its operation in the BHS Riding and Roadcraft Manual.
The new edition of the Highway Code will
not exclude horses from all cycle tracks. Rule 54 will advise that horse riders “should not take a horse onto a cycle
track". This has been changed from the equivalent rule 40 in the current (1999) edition, which says "You MUST NOT take a horse
on to a footpath, pavement or cycle track”. This change is in recognition of the points made by the British Horse Society
(BHS) during the 2006 consultation.
However, not all paths that are used by
cyclists are cycle tracks, although they may be physically similar if not identical. A “cycle track” has a specific
legal meaning as set out in section 329(1) of the Highways Act 1980. Cycle tracks are generally shared with pedestrians but
can also be segregated paths for cyclists and pedestrians. Cycle tracks provide a right of way for cyclists with or without
a right of way for pedestrians. It is therefore appropriate to advise horse riders not to use cycle tracks and it is, indeed,
an offence under section 129(5) of the Roads (Scotland) Act 1984 to ride a horse in a cycle track in Scotland.
Where paths are intended for mixed use,
including horses, then they should be designated either as bridleways, all purpose highways or byways open to all traffic
rather than cycle tracks. Where a local authority wishes to create a highway for horse riders, pedestrians and cyclists the
correct choice of facility would be a bridleway.”
In the August BHS Chief Executive’s Report, Graham Cory wrote: “During the past few weeks I have been interviewed
on several occasions on the matter of the new Highway Code and, in particular, on the advice that riders should ride single
file on narrow roads and approaching bends. I pointed out that there are circumstances in which this advice could put riders
in harm’s way, and said that the BHS had repeatedly pressed the Department for Transport to amend the advice. Unfortunately,
once the Minister had signed off the text drafted by his officials (which, to give him credit, he may well have read) it appears
that a redraft would have looked too much like an admission of error. But error it was and error it remains.”
The last significant revision to the Code was in 1999. The Code is only “substantially updated” every 8-10 years.
Further Information
The Official Highway Code is published by The
Stationery Office Ltd (TSO) and is priced at £2.50. Visit http://www.tsoshop.co.uk/highwaycode or call 0870 600 5522. Copies are also available from all good High Street and online bookstores.
An adapted online version of the Code is available
at http://www.direct.gov.uk/highwaycode.
For the first time TSO are publishing The Official Highway
Code on CD-ROM. The new, interactive version, launching in November 2007, will feature a range of interactive quizzes and
games to test knowledge and understanding of the rules of the road.
Department for Transport Website: http://www.dft.gov.uk |
The
BHS wins royal safety award
The British
Horse Society has won a Prince Michael International Road Safety Award (PMIRSA) for its Riding & Road Safety Training
programme.
Chief
Executive, Graham Cory, accompanied by Claire Aldridge (Chairman of the Safety Advisory Committee) and Sheila Hardy (Senior
Executive Safety), received the prestigious award on 11 December at The Savoy Hotel in London.
The award
honours those who have contributed at the highest level to help in reducing road casualties. This is the third time that advancement
in the Society’s Riding & Road Safety Test has received a top award through PIMRSA.
Each
year the most outstanding examples of international road safety initiatives are given public recognition through the scheme
– this year recipients also included organisations from both Singapore and Russia.
Mark Weston, BHS Director of Access, Safety & Welfare, said: "It cannot be underestimated
what an achievement it is for the British Horse Society to be recognised for the third time, by this award.
"It highlights
the importance that the road safety industry places on our riding and road safety test programme which has recently received
further recognition as it has been accredited by the Qualifications & Curriculum Authority as part of the National Qualification
Framework. The need for riders to take responsibility for their safety when they
ride out on the road cannot be ignored."
Injured horse put down
When Hampshire Fire and Rescue crews attended a horse reported stuck in its stables
it became clear the animal's predicament was more serious.
A vet diagnosed that the animal had broken its leg several days previously and
had to put it down.
More details from this is Hampshire.net
(17 December 2007) at http://www.thisishampshire.net/display.var.1910951.0.injured_horse_put_down.php
Warrant issued for arrest of Essex woman who breached ban
An Essex woman, who was banned from keeping equines for 20 years, after she neglected
a pony in one of the worst cases the International League for the Protection of Horses (ILPH) has seen, has been found guilty
of breaching her ban.
Sandra Carpenter, from the South Ockendon area of Essex, was found guilty in her
absence at Basildon Magistrates Court on Monday 15th October 2007 and a warrant has been issued for her arrest.
Mrs Carpenter was found guilty in 1993 of causing unnecessary suffering to a pure
bred Exmoor pony mare called Annie, a case that shocked the ILPH and the general public alike. Annie was discovered in June
1992 emaciated, barely able to walk, and only a few days from death. Mrs Carpenter was given a 20 year ban and 180 hours community
service. Then in a separate case in March 2002, Mrs Carpenter was given a two month prison sentence and a further 10 year
ban for causing unnecessary suffering to a grey broodmare. On appeal this was increased to a 12 year ban and a four month
suspended prison sentence.
On 1st March 2006, ILPH Field Officer Michael Smith found Sandra Carpenter in breach
of her ban again in the Billericay area of Essex, where she was keeping a horse and pony. He immediately contacted the RSPCA
who caught Sandra Carpenter two days later in control of an equine without supervision and thereby breaching her ban.
Michael Smith said: “This is a fantastic outcome which should hopefully result
in Sandra Carpenter being given a custodial sentence. This was indicated by the Chairman of the Bench on Monday 15th October.
“I will never forget the day in 2001 when I was shown a photograph of Annie.
In my 6 years with the ILPH it is the worst case I have seen where the equine has recovered. Sandra Carpenter has repeatedly
flouted her ban and I hope this will finally be a lesson to her.”
ILPH Annie made a full recovery and was happily re-homed through the ILPH loan
scheme as a companion pony. Anyone who is concerned about the welfare of a horse or pony can call the ILPH welfare line in
confidence on 0870 871 1927.
Source: ILPH (19 October 2007) –
www.ilph.org
The ILPH
The International League for the Protection of Horses (ILPH) is one
of the world’s leading equine welfare charities - working for a world where the horse is used but never abused.
About the ILPH:
· Founded in 1927 to prevent British horses being exported for slaughter. Succeeded in achieving this in 1937 and this
situation remains in place today.
· Continues to campaign with some success in Europe to stop the long distance transport of horses for slaughter.
· Lobbies to achieve major input into all welfare legislation impacting on horses.
· Operates four recovery and rehabilitation centres in the UK rescuing and rehabilitating over 250 horses a year. The ILPH has around 2,000 horses in its ownership at any one time, either in farms
or in loan homes.
· Deploys 16 Field Officers, recruited at a senior level, to investigate more than 1,500 individual welfare concerns
a year.
· The Operations Department deals with 30,000 calls a year seeking advice or informing of welfare problems.
· Transforms the lives of many working horses and their owners in many countries in the Developing World with five year
courses designed to leave behind an ever-expanding knowledge base in basic horse husbandry.
· Few other organisations in the world do as much for horses as the ILPH. |
Surrey horse abuser arrested, fined and banned for 10 years
A Surrey woman who failed to show at Guildford Magistrates Court on Monday 26th
November, charged with causing unnecessary suffering to three ponies, has been banned from keeping any more horses for 10
years.
A warrant was issued for the arrest of Mrs Michele Alcroft of 37 Hamesmoor Road,
Mytchett, after she failed to turn up and Surrey Police later caught up with her at her home on Friday 7th December where
she was arrested and taken to court that afternoon.
At Guildford Magistrates Court Michele Alcroft was given a 10 year ban, ordered
to work 80 hours unpaid community service and pay costs of £2000 to the RSPCA within 14 days. The Judge used the phrase ‘appalling’
three times when summing up what he described as the ‘gross dereliction of her animals.’
ILPH Field Officer Ted Barnes commented: “This is a fantastic result and
is one of the best outcomes of any case I have been involved with. Michele Alcroft’s three horses have thrived in the
care of the ILPH and will eventually be rehomed through our loan scheme.”
If you are concerned about the welfare of a horse or pony, please call the ILPH
Welfare Hotline on free phone number 08000 480180.
Source ILPH - 11 December 2007
Related Information
Avoiding the risk of fire
A fire in a stable yard is a terrifying prospect,
but there are a few simple steps that can be taken when planning a yard to significantly reduce the risk, says Horse &
Hound
Read more from Horse & Hound (Carla Passino - 25 April 2005)
at http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/best/396/63405.html |
Woman rider dies in a fall at stables
Heartfelt tributes were paid to a woman who died following a fall from her horse
on 16 October 2007.
Georgia Hill, 31, was pronounced dead in hospital two hours after the tragedy which
happened at stables at Manor Farm, Old Hollings Hill, Guiseley. She is believed
to have been riding her horse in the stables' ménage when her foot slipped on the stirrup and she fell, banging her head.
Read more from the Bradford Telegraph and Argus
(19 October 2007) at http://www.thetelegraphandargus.co.uk/news/newsindex/display.var.1774228.0.woman_rider_dies_in_a_fall_at_stables.php
Jouster
dies after being speared through eye in freak accident
A professional
jouster died after a lance splintered in his eye in a freak accident during a re-enactment for Channel 4's Time Team.
The HSE is
investigating the accident. A spokesman said “"During the course
of an investigation, we visit the site of the accident, interview witnesses and look at the risk assessment prepared by the
people in charge".
Read more from thisislondon.co.uk (23 October 2007)
Crash injures man and kills horse
A man has been seriously injured and a horse was killed after being hit by a car
in Newland Common Road, Droitwich, Worcestershire on Saturday 29 December.
It is understood that a 4x4 vehicle hit the man who was walking behind the horse
with another pedestrian.
Source: BBC
News Online 30 December 2007 - Read the full report at http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/uk_news/england/hereford/worcs/7164816.stm
Champion rider, 11, is seriously injured by kick to head
Junior British Endurance Champion Dean Brown, 11, has been left seriously injured
after being kicked in the head by a pony. He had been bringing in prized pony
Razzina when he slipped and was struck by another pony trotting close by.
He was rushed to Dorset County Hospital by the Portland Coastguard rescue helicopter
after the accident on Portland.
Dean was subsequently transferred to Southampton Hospital where a spokeswoman said
he was 'doing okay'.
Read more from the Dorset Echo Online (Sarah Goldthorpe) 22 December 2007 at
http://www.dorsetecho.co.uk/mostpopular.var.1923405.0.champion_rider_11_is_seriously_injured.php
A 16-hand Welsh Cob cross Shire and Hanoverian horse is lucky to be alive after
becoming trapped in a cattle grid in the New Forest. 12-year-old Flash Gordon
was being ridden by his owner along a forest road, near Brockenhurst on Monday, December 31.
As they tried to negotiate a cattle grid so Gordon stumbled and fell, lodging his front hooves firmly in the grid. His hooves were too large to manipulate out and Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service
were called to assist, along with their specialist Rural Safety Officer, Jim Green.
|
Click on picture to enlarge |
Watch Manager Green said: “Flash’s hind hooves were free, but trapped
by his front hooves which were too big to get out of the grid. Historically many of these incidents end badly with a horse
thrashing so much to get free they often break limbs. “Fortunately Brockenhurst
fire-fighters kept the scene as quiet and as stress free as possible until the animal rescue team arrived.” Watch Manager Green worked closely with Vets Jenny Leckenby and Alasdair Bath to sedate and then anaesthetise
Gordon so fire-fighters could spread the cattle grid enough to release the two hooves.
|
Click on picture to enlarge |
He added: “These cattle grids are very tough and it took a little while to
create enough clearance to enable the legs to be freed. After his release, fire-fighters used a backward drag method
to slide Flash to a safe area where he could be brought round from the anaesthetic.
“Flash is now back on his feet and being treated at a veterinary clinic.
A good bit of teamwork and increased expertise in this specialist area of rescue enabled a successful outcome for Flash.”
|
Click on picture to enlarge |
Two crews attended the incident which
happened at 10:08 on Monday, December 31 at Tilebarn Lane, Setley, in the New Forest. Crews
were from Brockenhurst and Eastleigh along with Rural Safety Officer, Jim Green.
Large animal rescue however is
recognised as one of the most dangerous activities a firefighter will be engaged in and so to protect firefighters and members
of the public, specialised training and equipment is essential. Hampshire Fire
and Rescue Service introduced its team of Rural Safety Officers in 2006 to meet increasing demands for assistance at large
animal rescues. But not only do they respond to horse, cow or pig rescues but
they also turn their hand to wild animals and last year rescued approximately 170 animals – large and small. The Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service Rural Safety Team are widely regarded as leaders in their field and
are involved in training programmes for Fire and Rescue Services around the country.
Source: Hampshire Fire and Rescue Service (www.hantsfire.gov.uk) 31 December 2007
Related information
Emergency Services Protocol
· Guidelines to help the emergency services cope better with equine incidents were launched in May 2007.
· The guidelines aim to ensure that any horse involved in an accident receives proper care as quickly as possible. They
cover everything from how a 999 call should be dealt with to advice on identifying horses and coping with a large animal in
an incident.
· An Emergency Services Protocol Fund has also been set up by the BHS and BEVA, to help minimise delays for injured horses
receiving veterinary care when their owners cannot be traced. The fund will also pay for rescue training and specialist lifting
and rescue equipment for the emergency services.
· To donate to the fund, contact BEVA (tel: 01638 723555).
Read more from Horse & Hound Online at http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=119785
Get detailed information on the Emergency
Services Protocol from a leaflet that can be downloaded from
http://www.beva.org.uk/files/www.beva.org.uk/ESP%20Leaflet%20Final_0.pdf
|
Doing so may save a life or a lifetime of incapacity
Useful Information
The Organisation of Horsebox and Trailer
Owners
Whether you’re trying to find out the legalities
of driving a lorry, towing a trailer or just want further information about loading visit The Organisation of Horsebox
and Trailer Owners website which is packed with helpful information.
http://www.horsebox-rescue.co.uk |
Driver wins £1.25m pay-out after hitting runaway horse
A taxi driver left with severe head injuries when his car struck a runaway horse
that was on the road has won a £1.25million pay-out in London’s High Court.
Read more from Horse & Hound Online (21 December
2007) at
http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=170353&cid=397
Related Feature
First appeared in the January/February/March 2006 Newsletter
Special Feature – Will I be successfully
sued?
Jane Phillips is the solicitor who acted for Dr.
and Mrs. Henley in the infamous Mirvahedy v Henley case. The findings of that case have had ongoing
significant legal liability and insurance implications for every horse owner in England
and Wales.
In this special feature Jane exclusively provides
Riding Safely with details of some of the cases she has been involved with over the last two years - brought in Negligence
and under the Animals Act - winning 8 out of 9.
Jane told Riding Safely “It just shows that
despite Henley and Mirvahedy we can still win cases!”
Full details can be found at: www.ridingsafely.net/legal_cases_pjmdp.html
What is Mirvahedy v. Henley? Find out more about the case, the Animals Act 1971 and a host of other related information
at: http://www.ridingsafely.net/mirvahedy_v_henley.html |
Workplace
health, safety and welfare: a short guide for managers
An updated
version of the HSE publication ‘Workplace health, safety and welfare: a short guide for managers’, INDG244,
was released on 17 December 2007. The leaflet gives a brief outline of the requirements of the Workplace
(Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 which cover a wide range of basic health, safety and welfare issues and apply
to most workplaces.
It can
be downloaded at http://www.hse.gov.uk/pubns/indg244.pdf
Myth of the Month
The HSE’s initiaitive, to promote
that the sensible management of risks protects people from real harm and suffering, but avoids bureaucratic back covering,
has taken a further step forward. HSE is running a "Myth of the Month"
campaign aimed at highlighting some of the more popular stories of health and safety, which do not actually represent the
law.
See the latest myth of the month at http://www.hse.gov.uk/myth/index.htm
A previous myth of the month, pertinent to the horse industry – May’s Myth: Risk assessments must always be long and complex can be found
at http://www.hse.gov.uk/myth/may.htm
Australian toddler tossed, killed by horse
An 18-month-old Perth boy has died after a horse picked him up with its teeth and
threw him several metres.
The toddler and his mother were in a paddock on their property in Oakford, south
of Perth, when the accident happened on Monday afternoon.
Police say the horse picked the boy up by the neck with its teeth and threw him
into the air several metres.
The boy was in a critical condition and died in Princess Margaret Hospital this
morning.
Source: foxnews.com
(12 December 2007) at: http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,316533,00.html
Equine businesses chance to shake up industry education and training
The Yorkshire Rural Academy needs equine businesses in Yorkshire to help to discuss
the future of equine education and training.
The equine consultation event, to be held on the 30th January at the Innovation
Centre in York, is being run in conjunction with the Yorkshire Rural Academy and Lantra, the Sector Skills Council
for the equine industry.
The event will provide the opportunity for equine employers to gain an understanding
of the new Animal Transportation Regulations, discuss current equine training and education provision, review courses on offer
and develop new bespoke training packages in-line with your industry requirements and discuss study methods and venue locations
where training can be delivered.
This is the first in a range of consultations to be held across the region, which
have been set up to help invigorate the delivery of today’s training and qualifications and gear it more towards the
needs and requirements of your businesses.
Businesses that attend the sessions will have the opportunity to share their views,
knowledge and experiences that will offer valuable inside information on the gaps, strengths and failures of the courses being
offered within Yorkshire.
Change and flexibility is the key to development and education must follow that
of businesses in order to meet with changing demands.
Academy co-ordinator, Caroline Williams, said:
“This is a great opportunity for rural businesses, in Yorkshire, to have their say in the development of future
training for their industry. As an Academy we can deliver educational courses,
but firstly we need to know the training needs of businesses to enable us to develop our courses to benefit the rural environment. Two way communication is what is required to push a sustainable growing educational
provision.”
If you run an equine business located in the Yorkshire and Humber region and wish
to take part in this consultation session or for more information then please contact Caroline Williams on 01904 772246 or
email info@yorkshire-rural-academy.co.uk
More about The Yorkshire Rural Academy
· The Yorkshire Rural Academy was conceived
in the heart of rural North Yorkshire by four founding organisations committed to meeting the challenge of a rapidly changing
land-based economy.
· The organizations involved are Lantra,
Craven College, Askham Bryan College and York St. John University.
· The academy showcases what training opportunities
are available and can create a specialist bespoke programme for employers and their business. |
Equine businesses chance to find out about funding
Environmental and land-based businesses, including equine, in the South West can
get free advice and information to help them as they grow at an open day to be held in Somerset.
The Business Improvement Day, to be held on February 15 2008, in Ilminster,
Somerset, has been organised by Train to Gain in partnership with Lantra, the Sector Skills Council for the environmental
and land-based industries.
The open day will provide equine businesses with an update on key issues in their
sector, as well as advice about new ways of increasing business and attracting new customers.
Funding opportunities and other new initiatives will be explored, while participants
can also learn more about ways of planning their business. There will also be an emphasis on managing, developing and motivating
staff.
The South West region has a population of over 5 million and is the largest and
most rural of all English regions. There are around 23,600 businesses or organisations
that operate wholly or principally in the land-based sector within the South West, 4.07% of which are businesses within the
equine industry (Source: Lantra Estimates, 2005).
Alison Cox from Train to Gain, said: “We are really pleased to hold this
event in conjunction with Lantra. At events such as these we focus on providing
information, support and advice that is specific to a sector and we discuss the issues people are facing.
“Somerset and the surrounding areas have a number of businesses in these
industries and we know the day will be really beneficial, not only for providing advice and information but also the opportunity
to network with others working in similar organisations.”
Lantra’s Regional Partnership Manager for the South West, Lyndsay Bird, added:
“This is a great opportunity for businesses from the environmental and land-based sector to engage with the Business
Link brokers and Train to Gain. The event gives employers the chance to access
funding for training, business guidance and assistance to help develop and grow their organisation.”
The event is free of charge and places are limited to one per company, in order
to allow the maximum number of businesses to take part. They will be allocated on a first-come, first-served basis. It runs
between 9.30am and 2.30pm at Dillington House, Ilminster, Somerset.
To find out more call 08456 047 047 or email traintogain@bldc.co.uk you can also book your place by visiting http://www.bldc.co.uk/dcevents/evnt_ttg_partner.html
Train to Gain is a unique free brokerage service, funded by the Learning and Skills
Council (LSC) and delivered by the Business Link and the training provider network. Skills Brokers offer businesses impartial
advice on their skills requirements; match the training needs of companies with training providers and help to create tailored
development packages.
More information on Train to Gain can be found via - www.traintogain.gov.uk
BETA International supports equine welfare
Redwings Horse Sanctuary has been named chosen charity of BETA International 2008.
BETA International, to be held at the NEC, Birmingham on 17-19 February
2008, is the world’s foremost equestrian and country trade exhibition. It sees the launch of many innovative
new products and is attended by the industry’s most influential retail buyers.
Redwings Horse Sanctuary, which merged with the Ada Cole Rescue Stables in 2005, provides a safe haven for more than 1,200 equines across its nine
sites. The charity also finds healthy rescued equines suitable foster homes.
Much of Redwings’ work revolves around preventing neglect through education,
while the charity has a veterinary hospital and rehabilitation centre.
Redwings’ helpline receives more than 3,000 calls and its veterinary-led
welfare team investigates over 700 reports of neglect and cruelty each year. BETA International visitors can find out more
by calling at Redwings’ stand during the exhibition.
“Redwings is thrilled to be invited to BETA International 2008. We’re
particularly looking forward to meeting key players in the equestrian industry and explaining more about our work,”
said Nicola Markwell, communications officer for the charity.
“It’s a pleasure for BETA International to have the opportunity to
make a contribution to equine welfare,” said Claire Thomas, commercial manager of BETA International organiser Equestrian
Management Consultants (EMC).
Admission to BETA International is strictly trade only. Organiser EMC is a
wholly-owned subsidiary of the BETA Group. For more details, contact Lizzy Warrington at BETA International on +44 1937 582111
or visit www.beta-int.com
Timetable of other events |
What |
When |
Why |
Animals Act 1971 (Amendment)
Bill 2007 - 2008
Private Members' Bill (Ballot Bill) introduced by Stephen Crabb MP
2nd Reading in the Commons
Related timetable |
14 March 2008 |
A Bill to amend the Animals Act 1971 to limit strict liability for
damage done by animals |
FEI Eventing Safety Forum
Copenhagen, Denmark. |
19 January 2008 |
To discuss safety across the sport.
National bodies from all eventing nations, including the British Equestrian
Federation (BEF), will be invited to attend and make presentations on safety, along with course-designers, trainers, riders,
officials, equipment manufacturers and vets. |
British Equine Veterinary
Association (BEVA)
Details of continuing professional development (CPD) courses and meetings for 2008 |
Various during 2008 |
|
If you know of any forthcoming equestrian health, safety or welfare related events please contact Riding Safely
07505 159979
The current situation
The situation regarding FMD is constantly changing. It’s recommended that you visit the Defra website
at regular intervals to get the most up to date information >>> http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/fmd/latest-situation/index.htm
Guidance for Horse Owners
There is a guidance for horse owners at: http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/fmd/rural/horses.htm
Explananation of the Zones
· Protection
Zones are declared in the vicinity (a radius of at least three kilometres) of an infected premises — usually,
a farm where diseased livestock have been found.
· Surveillance
Zones are declared in the vicinity (a radius of at least ten kilometres, but outside the Protection Zone) of an infected
premises.
· Outside of any Protection
Zones and Surveillance Zone, some activities are also prohibited in a Restricted Zone. During an outbreak
of foot-and-mouth disease, the whole of Great Britain is likely to be declared a Restricted Zone.
About Foot and Mouth Disease
Foot and mouth disease (FMD) is an infectious disease affecting cloven-hoofed animals,
in particular cattle, sheep, pigs, goats and deer. The disease is serious for animal health and for the economics of the livestock
industry. While FMD is not normally fatal to adult animals, it is debilitating and causes significant loss of productivity;
for example milk yields may drop or the animals may become lame. In young animals it can be fatal on a large scale.
More information from Defra at: http://www.defra.gov.uk/animalh/diseases/fmd/about/index.htm
An outbreak of equine influenza was discovered at the Centennial Park stables in Sydney on the 24th of August. It is thought to be the first time equine influenza has been found in Australia.
It has led to a complete standstill on horse movements across New South Wales and has had a devastating effect on the
racing industry. The horse industry contributes $6.3 billion annually the Australian economy highlighting the importance of
controlling the outbreak.
Its spread has been attributed partly to a lack of vaccination and partly to a lack of natural immunity in horses against
the disease.
At the 31st of August there were: 500 horses infected with equine influenza across NSW; 53 known infected
properties across NSW; another 2,335 horses were suspected of having equine Influenza on 213 properties and a total of eight
out of ten thoroughbreds from a stable at Randwick Racecourse tested positive to equine influenza.
The situation is changing frequently– for the latest information go to:
National pests & disease outbreaks website (The website was developed collaboratively across State & Territory and Australian Government agricultural agencies to
provide a single, user-friendly website through which stakeholders can find access to local, state and national information
in relation to Australian responses to current outbreaks of animal and plant pests and diseases.)
The Equestrian Federation of Australia website
The Australian Horse Council website (where you can also register on the Horse Emergency Contact Database (HECD) to receive updates by email.
The New South Wales Department of Primary Industries recommend that you stay up to date on the epidemic by regularly
visiting (each day at least) the NSW Department of Primary Industries website.
Additional information
$4 million for Equine Influenza fund
The Australian Government has established a $4 million fund to provide emergency grants to individuals suffering financial difficulty as a result of the Equine Influenza (EI) outbreak.
Related Information
About strangles - When a horse contracts the disease,
it initially loses its energy and appetite. Swelling and abscesses occur around the throat. The horse then finds it hard to
breathe and swallow – as it is being strangled (hence the name Strangles). When the abscesses rupture, in some cases
other horses can be infected. If the abscesses spread to other parts of the horse's body, the condition is usually fatal. See the strangles information leaflet www.aht.org.uk/strangles.org/strangle_leaflet.pdf and the strangles campaign website www.strangles.org/
The Animal HealthTrust - The AHT is a charity dedicated
to improving the health of dogs, cats and horses by addressing the problems of disease and injury. It achieves this by providing
specialist clinical services for animals in need and advancing veterinary science. Even if your horse or pet has never been
treated directly by the AHT, it will have benefited from the results of the Trust’s work. See www.aht.org.uk
The British Horse Society - the UK's biggest horse
charity with a membership of more than 100,000, held a Strangles Awareness Week from 15-21 May last year (2006), and BHS Scotland
has been lobbying hard in the Scottish Parliament for new measures to help to slow the spread of Strangles in Scotland.
See www.bhs.org.uk |
ILPH tackles obesity in horses
Massive increases in equine obesity and laminitis over the past two years have
prompted the International League for the Protection of Horses (ILPH) to launch a series of "Right Weight Road Shows". The
shows started in July and are designed to alert horse owners to the health risks associated with equine obesity.
Read more from Horse & Hound Online
at http://www.horseandhound.co.uk/news/article.php?aid=122439
BETA's
Body Protector Survey Continues......
If
you own a body protector then BETA (the British Equestrian Trade Association) want to hear from you!
BETA
are still conducting a survey to obtain information regarding the use and effectiveness of body protectors which in turn
will be used to assist their continued development and promotion.
Help now by getting more details from BETA and take part in the survey
Responses
to the BETA survey have already highlighted body protector issues - read the interim report from BETA
Riding Safely's always pleased to publicise new safety products to the market that appear
to be of merit with the potential to improve equestrian safety.
If you have a new equestrian safety product that you would like featured here for free, then please contact Riding Safely
07505 159979
Information
· What you must do
The Health and Safety Executive list
10 key things you must do if you are in business. Are you doing them all? Check them out and get further help from http://www.hse.gov.uk/smallbusinesses/must.htm
· Health
and Safety Guidance for Inspections of Horse Riding Establishments and Livery Yards
Published in May 2006, this document
sets out current good practice for environmental health practitioners; licensing officers; vets and animal wardens and also
provides a useful tool for both owners and managers of horse riding establishments and livery yards.
Supported by the riding industry’s
major stakeholders, the guidance aims to fill a gap in existing literature and also provides useful checklists necessary to
minimise the risk associated with such premises.
It recognises the need to strike a
practical balance to reduce hazards without hindering the sustainability of the riding industry.
Download from: http://www.cieh.org/library/Knowledge/Health_and_safety/guidancelivery_3.pdf |
Training Resources
·
“Safety with Horses”
Safety
with Horses is a cost effective, award winning equine health and safety training programme, leading to an accredited Vocational
Qualification.
The Level
2 programme is suitable for all those involved in any equine related activity including full or part-time students, clients,
trainees, school work placements as well as those employed working with horses.
Find out
more about the Safety with Horses training programme at: http://www.warkscol.ac.uk/equistudy/coursepage.asp?courseid=9 |
Sources of Help
·
Workplace Health Connect
Delivered
in partnership with the Health and Safety Executive, Workplace Health Connect is a government funded service providing confidential,
practical and free advice to small businesses on workplace health and safety, management of sickness absence and return to
work issues.
Find out
more from http://www.workplacehealthconnect.co.uk/ |
London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games - BEF unveils “Hoof”
initiative
The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) is one of the first sporting bodies to
present its plans for a lasting legacy from the London 2012 Olympic Games and Paralympic Games with the launch of “Hoof”
in London on the 17th of December.
“Hoof” is an initiative to encourage many more people to take up riding
and get involved with horses in the Capital.
Earlier this year the Federation's Legacy for London Advisory Group, led by Barbara
Cassani, former Chair of London's bid to host the 2012 Games, and BEF consultant Tim Hadaway, set out key recommendations
for how the 2012 Games might be used to increase facilities and opportunities for equestrian sports across London.
“The launch of Hoof at Olympia brings together two important strands of the
equestrian legacy: celebrating the best riders of the world in the middle of London and encouraging more Londoners to climb
on board and ride,” commented Barbara Cassani, leader of the BEF’s Legacy for London Advisory Group.
Tim Hadaway, who is heading up the initiative added: “Hoof will enable us
to create a lasting legacy from the 2012 Games, and is aimed at anyone interested in horses and riding in London. Although
many people already ride in London, Hoof will encourage others to try riding, making it more accessible and affordable to
a wide range of people and raising awareness of horse sports in general.”
Hoof will support and promote existing and new riding schools, aid the local riding
community and disabled riding groups, and establish a schools programme for children in the capital.
Mayor of London, Ken Livingstone has offered his full support to the project and
said: "Initiatives like Hoof are exactly why we wanted to bring the Olympic Games to London.” He added: "Many Londoners
are enthusiastic about riding - but getting in the saddle is a real challenge. Hoof is all about making it easier for Londoners
to climb on board."
The BEF plans to create a nationwide legacy by promoting and rolling out the ideas
and initiatives set out for London to other parts of the UK.
More details from www.hoof-in-town.com
Sarah hoofs it to hospital after horse play
When Sarah Heney agreed to take part in a photo shoot with a horse, she would have
done well to remember the old showbiz saying "never work with animals".
The Playhouse's sales and marketing manager ended up in hospital after her encounter
with Louis the Magnificent Black Stallion during a photocall for a forthcoming production of Carmen.
Mrs Heney, 43, duly complied with health and safety rules that said she mustn't
sit on the horse. But moments later she was in agony after the massive stallion stepped on her foot.
Read more from news.scotsman.com (Gemma
Fraser) 10 September 2007 at: http://news.scotsman.com/ViewArticle.aspx?articleid=3325630
The Riding Safely website is frequently updated.
The easiest way for you to check out what's been added on a day-to-day basis is to visit the website update section >>>
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