To: BHS Trustees, President, Vice Presidents, Regional & County Chairmen, Chairmen of Advisory Committees, Vice Chairmen, Committee Secretary, all BHS staff.

September 2021 Monthly Report- September

Table of Contents

Chief Executive’s Report ....................................................................................... 2 1. Access and Rights of Way – Heather Clatworthy ...................................... 3 2. Approvals – Sarah Dale ............................................................................... 4 3. British Riding Clubs – Rachael Hollely-Thompson ................................... 6 4. Communications / Press – Seona Shuttleworth ........................................ 6 5. Education – Megen Alsop ........................................................................... 7 6. Merchandising – Karen Irving ..................................................................... 8 7. Membership – Emma Day ............................................................................ 8 8. Safety – Alan Hiscox .................................................................................... 9 9. Volunteers – Sally Gardner ....................................................................... 10 10. Welfare – Gemma Stanford ....................................................................... 10 REGIONAL MANAGERS..................................................................................... 11 11. East of England - Janet Wilson ................................................................. 11 12. East Midlands - Sally Andrews ................................................................. 12 13. Ireland - Susan Spratt ................................................................................ 13 14. London and South East – Sonia Wilkes ................................................... 13 15. North of England – Claire Maddison......................................................... 15 17. North West – Lyndsay Dring ..................................................................... 18 18. Scotland - Helene Mauchlen & Julie Hanna ............................................. 19 19. South – Hannah Marsh .............................................................................. 21 20. South West - Julie Garbutt ........................................................................ 22 21. Wales and The Channel Islands Area -Kathryn Stewart.......................... 23 22. West Midlands - Andrea Jackman ............................................................ 26

Please circulate this Monthly Report to your Committee Members

2

Chief Executive’s Report Hello and welcome to the September monthly report. It’s been another busy month for the BHS and I’m sure you’ll enjoy reading all about it as you make your way through the report. Personally, it was an excellent month for me as I got out to several shows with my youngest Shire, Annie – we were so pleased with how relaxed she was at the shows, and how she took everything in her (rather long) stride! I started the month with a visit down to the South East to meet with the County Chairmen and our Regional Team, as a welcome to our new Regional Manager for London and the South East, Sonia Wilkes. We are very pleased to have Sonia join us to support the South East region, and we’re sure she’s going to add great value and impact to the activities in the region. Later that week we had a Chairman’s Consultation Committee meeting which took place on a blended basis, with many of the Regional and National Chairmen coming together at BHS HQ. It was great to have some of the Team back together, and we had an excellent meeting. The following week I joined a CPD day with the Merseyside Police in the North West – I

really enjoy attending these events as it gives me the chance to meet with our stakeholders and get feedback on what we’re doing well and what we can improve upon, from those on the ground. Later that week we held a Finance Committee meeting and covered the budget setting process for 2022 – our great performance in 2020 and 2021 has allowed us to be agile in terms of using our charitable reserves to support all of our stakeholders and create impact across the Society – we’re very much looking to take this forward to 2022 and continue with our initiatives for the BHS community. We finished the week with a meeting of the BEF Council at RDA’s Lowlands Farm – these meetings give us great opportunity to directly input to and influence governance of equestrianism for the benefit of our members and stakeholders.

I was fortunate enough to visit two brilliant Approved Centres in the West Midlands later in the month – Cottage Farm Stables, and Hole Farm Riding Centre. Both businesses have done very well to make it through the pandemic, and it was very encouraging to see them back up and running. It was really interesting learning more about Cottage Farm’s work with disadvantaged children, and it was great to hear how they’ve used the BHS Bounce Back Grant to help diversify their activities and increase participation by purchasing a set of indoor cross-country jumps. It was very nice to meet Carol and the Team at Hole Farm, who operate a Local Authority owned riding school with a very specific rider community of young children from diverse backgrounds; they’ve done a fantastic job of bouncing back from the pandemic.

3

The last week of September was a very busy one! On Monday we were at Pony Magic in Southampton for the launch of Pony Stars, and what a fantastic day it was - Martin Clunes OBE was there to support us, along with Laura Collett of the Olympic Eventing Team, and she even bought along her medal. It was great to have the support of Martin and Laura on the day. On Tuesday we held an outdoor reunion for the whole employed team of the BHS; it has been almost two years since the Team had come together, and we felt it important to bring everyone together, meet our new colleagues and reacquaint ourselves with old colleagues. The following day we held a Board Meeting on a blended basis, and it was good to see so many of the Trustees in person again; although we don’t see them every day, the Board have done an excellent job of guiding and supporting us through the past 20 months and their skills, support and challenge to our work is vital. We finished up the week at Ashford Cattle Market for a Healthcare and Education Clinic,

with our Vice Patron, HHR The Princess Royal in attendance. The Welfare Team work incredibly hard to put on these innovative and collaborative events, supported by many of our peer welfare organisations and the BEVA Trust; we were delighted that HRH The Princess Royal was able to attend and see the Clinic in action. From her engagement throughout

the visit, and from the photos, we can tell that The Princess Royal was both interested and impressed by the work we are doing to both educate horses owners, improve equine welfare, and help prevent future indiscriminate breeding.

1. Access and Rights of Way – Heather Clatworthy Access Field Officers We have now held the interviews for the East Region post and for the Wales post and hope to be able to report shortly on the outcomes of these. Lobbying We have submitted a response to the Autumn Budget or Spending Review Consultation 2021 in respect of access, making the following funding points: 1. The new Environmental Land Management Scheme should provide financial assistance to landowners to protect and enhance existing bridleways and byways, and for the creation of new links to join up the existing disjointed network 2. Funding should be provided to ensure that National Trails are available for use by equestrians and cyclists as well as walkers 3. Funding should be provided for publicising the Highway Code and the Countryside Code to ensure responsible use of routes and the countryside 4. Active travel routes should provide for recreational use and not just commuter use. 5. Social prescribing should include equestrian activities. Mark Weston and Kathryn Stewart met with Joel James Member of the Welsh Parliament to discuss the impact of active travel measures on equestrians.

4

The BHS Riding Out in Northern Ireland video was soft launched on Wed 22 Sep and has been received positively by the outdoor community and our stakeholders in Northern Ireland so far. It is a short video promoting responsible use of routes shared with horses, supported by Outdoor Recreation NI and can be viewed here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7DlkErSE_d0 The BHS Ireland Access & Rights of Way web page has also been updated to reflect the recent successes and progress: https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-work/access/ireland There have been 25 ROUK events held to date, with an estimated £9,453.00 raised till the end of August. September figures pending. Rideathon continues to gain sign ups even as the challenge is nearing the finish line. We have had 89 sign up, and so far 18 finishers raising £1,626.00, not inc. sign up fees. Given that much of this year has been unknown territory with variable restrictions and challenges in place, the Access Team are incredibly grateful to all those involved in making the events happen and raising such brilliant amounts towards the Ride Out Fund. Project 2026 - 52 applications logged in September 2021, 1691 cumulative by 30/09/21 (target 1900). New training module on “Making DMMO Applications correctly” delivered for first time to 15 delegates, feedback v positive. BHS photographer increasing output at TNA. Some archives are gradually reopening but with restrictions on their operations. It is not known at this stage how this will impact on research for the project. BHS Affiliated Equestrian Access Groups - Find out more about our Equestrian Access Groups and which ones are operating in your region, and how to start a group - visit https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-work/access/equestrian-access-groups Public Advice and Support – We continue to respond to access queries on a frequent basis. Popular queries can be answered through the great selection of advisory leaflets we have online which are free to download at bhs.org.uk.

2. Approvals – Sarah Dale BHS Bounce Back Grants: Phase 2 saw 40 more applications from Centres. We are just finalising who has been successful this time and Centre’s will be notified early next week.

SEIB Awards: BHS Approved Centres were very well represented in the Riding School, livery yard and RDA centre award categories this year, with 10 Centres either being shortlisted or winning awards! Of the 5 categories, BHS yards won 3 and were highly commended in all 5.

Second Chance: Our second chance project continues to tick along with 81 ponies finding homes in BHS Approved Centres. Two of the Centres who rehomed 4 ponies and horses will feature very soon in a British Horse article. We’re receiving lots of updates and videos of some of the ponies which is wonderful;.

Submission of documents for inspections: Now that inspections are back up and running we are also asking centres to submit the majority of their documentation prior to their visit, this was due to strong feedback from Centres saying they would prefer this as it would allow the inspector to focus on things they felt to be more important such as horse welfare and standards of teaching. We have been busy supporting Centres through this new process and ensuring they have the templates they need.

MP Visits: We have picked back up with our MP visits to highlight the issues caused by increasing business rates within the industry. Last week MP Richard Holden met with

5

Holmside Hall in Durham and proved to be a very positive visit with Richard agreeing to keep in touch regarding the rating of equestrian businesses. We also have MP Dr Luke Evans visiting Newbold Verdon Equestrian Centre in Leicestershire next month.

Riding School Virtual Championships: All regional qualifiers have now taken place, and centres are busy preparing for and filming their Championship video entry to submit online for judging. Results are due to be announced during the October half term week. Changing Lives Through Horses It has been a busy start to the academic year for the Changing Lives Through Horses Programme. The new resources that have been in development for the last few months have been finalised, printed and sent out to 28 centres with active participants. The resources have been well received by coaches in on line update sessions. As we start the academic year, we have 221 children and young people registered on the CLTH programme. Many new participants will be starting this term. Interest in the programme is strong, with new enquiries from centres, parents and schools. Four new centres have started their training this month and two centres have completed their training and looking forward to welcoming their first CLTH participants. It has been good to get out and about in person this month to train, support and share the new materials. One of these visits being combined with the welfare team who were running a horse health day at New Leaf Triangle in Leicestershire – the young people engaged really well with Nicola; weighing horses and learning about horse health and fat scoring! We have continued to hold virtual coffee mornings for centres to come together, network and support each other; introducing Alison in her new role as head of CLTH as well as starting to develop new informal CPD sessions to support coaches to gain increased knowledge around the social, emotional and mental health needs of their participants. Alison has been working with different local authorities to support centres with commissioning and to understand how alternative provision is utilised across different localities. Alison has also attended an alternative provision conference where she was able to raise awareness of the programme within the AP sector as well as using social media to make new connections.

September 2021 Coding F Facility HW Horses Welcome L Livery RH Riding Holidays RS Riding School S Showing R Retraining New The Cavalier Centre Shropshire RS

Tower Farm Riding Stables Scotland RS/L

Gleneagles Equestrian School Scotland RS

Reinstated

6

Hall Lane Stables Yorkshire L

East Durham College Durham RS/L/F

Alstone Court Riding Establishment Somerset RS/L

Barleylands Riding School Essex RS

IPPIC (formerly known as Caprilli School Monte Oro)

Italy RS

Deleted Wellsfield Farm Livery Scotland RS/L

Flying Cat Livery Yard Hertfordshire L

Hallingbury Hall Equestrian Centre Hertfordshire RS

Leadon Stables Gloucestershire L

3. British Riding Clubs – Rachael Hollely-Thompson

The BRC NAF National Championship took place 4 & 5 September at Lincolnshire Showground and was a great success. Over 1200 competitors travelled from all over the UK, from as far away as Scotland and Cornwall, to take part in dressage and show jumping classes for seniors and juniors, teams, and individuals. Other BHS teams were also in attendance, the BHS Welfare team weighed a number of horses over the weekend and chatted with their owners. The team is now preparing for the Dressage to Music Championships at the start of October.

4. Communications / Press – Seona Shuttleworth BHS in the media - Summary Press enquiries: 19

Coverage: 175

BHS mentions: 260

In total, we had:

• National: 26 • Broadcast: 14 • Trade: 14

• Regional: 116 • International: 4

Reach for the month: 277,327,340 Highlights • Dead Slow campaign statistics We received press enquiries following the Pass Wide and Slow rides which took place across the country. All their regional press coverage included our Dead Slow statistics, either taken directly from our website or through press enquiries. Several of the journalists changed their focus slightly by just covering the Dead Slow campaign. In addition, Horse and Hound journalist, Eleanor Jones joined Alan Hiscox on a close pass operation which she reported in both the print and online editions. We also continued to work with local authorities and partners on the erection of Dead Slow signs in hot spot areas.

7

• CIPR (Chartered Institute of Public Relations) Pride Awards – Silver winners! We won silver in the Midland region in the transport or automotive campaign, for our 2020 Dead Slow press coverage.

• National press coverage One of our BHS Award winners continued her 800-mile trek by horseback, resulting in national press coverage and mentioning our awards. Our welfare advice was also included in various features about the end of life for pets. • Pony Stars launch The team have been planning the official Pony Stars press launch which will take place on 27 September. British Horse Magazine We are now working on the Winter edition of British Horse Magazine, due out in November.

5. Education – Megen Alsop Pony Stars We are delighted to have officially launched Pony Stars! On Monday 27th September we held our press launch event at BHS Approved Centre Pony Magic, in Southampton. Our President, Martin Clunes, and Laura Collett, a member of our Gold medal winning Eventing Team at the Tokyo Olympic Games, were there to help us launch with a bang! We also invited classes from a local primary school to join in the fun. Martin and Laura were great champions for Pony Stars and had the children mesmerised with a question and answer session; unsurprisingly lots of questions about Laura’s gold medal were asked! Pony Magic helped showcase some of the many activities delivered as part of the Pony Stars programme, and we were even able to meet Strider the Shetland and Wizz the Welsh Pony! There was a mix of riding and crafting activities taking place with bird boxes, plant pots and horse shoes being painted which helped to bring to life the wonderful breadth of learning and creativity that Pony Stars can bring. National and Regional press were in attendance and the engagement we had on the day was really positive. We’re looking forward to supporting our APCs and Approved Centres generate interest in Pony Stars from current and new clients. Read the full press release here: https://www.bhs.org.uk/our-charity/press-centre/news/2021/september/pony-stars-launch Challenge Awards Following on from the success of the Pony Stars being available on the website. The Challenge Award and Horse Explorer packs will also be available on the website via a hidden web link, like the Pony Stars- https://britishhorseshop.com/challengeawardsresource What does this mean? You will no longer need to send in the registration form into the Education Team, you can easily purchase any pack online. If you order by 2pm Mon-Fri the orders will be sent out the next day! We hope this will help everyone to manage their Challenge Award courses more efficiently and make better use of the bulk discounts. You also do not need to email us when the participants have completed the awards, with the exception of the Silver awards. You can easily submit via the achievement tracker form here This is particularly important for those that want to transition onto the Professional Pathway.

8

We always enjoy receiving updates on how you and your participants are doing so please do keep us up to date with your pictures and comments. Participants still do not need to become members to take our Challenge Awards. Horse Explorers We have also been working really hard to create a ‘teenage’ version of our Challenge Awards which is recommended for 12-18 year olds. The Introduction, Bronze and Silver Awards are available on our website, the Gold and Platinum will be available from next year. The Horse Explorer awards have the same content as our adult Challenge Awards however the language and pictures will differ to be more targeted to the audience. Back in Touch Days We are out on the road at the end of the year. We will be showcasing the new Ride Safe ‘Train the Trainer’ Award and training APCs, as well as updating you on Pony Stars, Explorers, and all the other developments in Education over the past 18 months. Please do spread the word, we would love to see our members out there. To book, click on the dates below: Avon Riding Centre- 18th October 2021 Bicton College- 19th October 2021 Coleg Sir Gar- 20th October 2021 Ingestre Stables- 2nd November 2021 Kirklevington Riding School- 8th November 2021 Swinhoe Riding Centre- 9th November 2021 Valley Farm- 15th November 2021 Scotland Hub- 22nd November 2021 Assessor Training 2021 We will also be going out on the road to deliver our Assessor Training face to face. We will be catching up on developments in Education over the past 18 months and doing some standardisation as well as consolidating assessor skills. These days are only open for our Stages Assessors, dates below: Trent Park- 21st September 2021 Ecclestone Riding Centre- 5th October 2021 Talland School of Equitation- 11th October 2021 Ingestre Stables- 1st November 2021 Gleneagles Hotel- 23rd November 2021

6. Merchandising – Karen Irving To follow

7. Membership – Emma Day Highlights • We ended the month of September with a net loss of 68 members taking the overall

membership figure to 119,003. (Note we remain close to our target for the end of the year which is 119,085 members).

• Note that we grew in the UK by 171 members and internationally by 29 but we lost 268

members in the Republic of Ireland. • The total net growth for this year is now to 2,683 members. That is a growth of 2.30%.

9

• If we look at the UK only, we have seen our membership grow by 5,140 members, which if continued at the same pace for the rest of the year would be a 6.13% annual growth.

The current membership type breakdown is as follows:

Start of 2021 End of Sept 2021 Growth in numbers

Life & Founder Members 1,193 1,172 -21

Friend 53 53 0

Gold Family 25,541 26,200 659

Gold Adults 73,123 74,335 1,212

Gold Junior 12,473 12,903 430

Silver 1,120 1,117 -3

Silver Candidate 0 177 177

Helping Horses 195 183 -12

Overseas Full 135 195 60

Overseas E-Membership 108 127 19

Professional Gold 2,379 2,362 -17

BHS Pathway (Ireland) 0 156 156

BHS Supporter (Ireland) 0 23 23

Total 116,320 119,003 2,683 8. Safety – Alan Hiscox

Incident Total since launch 31.08 - 30.09 Dog incidents 2092 35 Road incidents 7417 317 Fireworks 617 7 Low flying/drones 436 6 Slippery roads 390 6 Cycle incidents 293 0

The Safety Team met/attended: Goodwood Revival Alan and Des attended Goodwood Revival to promote the BHS Dead Slow campaign to the non-equestrian public. It was also great to speak and listen to our BHS members and some potential new ones at the show. Operation Close Pass Supported Thames Valley Police, Surrey Police, Sussex Police and Hampshire road safety along with other agencies in Close Pass Operations on the outskirts of Windsor, New Forest, Sussex and Surrey. Dead Slow Signs

o Dead Slow signs were put up in ‘hotspot’ areas as identified on the horse incidents map in Bedfordshire, Staffordshire and Northamptonshire this month.

o Attended several events for Project Edward. Every day without a Road Death. o Gave a Dead Slow presentation to Driving Instructors in Harrogate. o Took part in filming for “Look Out for Laura”. This film is being filmed in partnership

with Cycling UK, with a grant from the Road Safety Trust.

10

9. Volunteers – Sally Gardner

The growth in interest in volunteering with the BHS has exceeded all targets. During September 2021, an amazing 43 new volunteers joined our team, with 1119 registered volunteers as at the end of September, that’s a growth of 6% for our regular volunteering roles and an overall growth (including occasional volunteers) of 13% in the last 12 months!

Key Activities: • Sally met with the South East county chairmen and also helped out at the Richmond

Michaelmas Ride for ROUK. • The team have attended Herefordshire, Lincolnshire, and Scotland national virtual

committee meetings. • We enjoyed an in-person meeting with the Chairman’s Consultation Committee, it was so

lovely to see you! • We have made further improvements to the volunteer recruitment process with the

introduction of an online reference form. • Arrangements are now in full swing to celebrate achievements at the BHS Annual Awards

in November.

10. Welfare – Gemma Stanford Royal Visit! At our Healthcare Clinic in Ashford, Kent, we were honoured to be joined by HRH, The Princess Royal. Having just had one of her own stallions castrated, she took a particular interest in the veterinary procedures and also loved hearing the stories from the horse owners who attended. We also held a clinic in Lancashire - at the first of our 2

autumn clinics we had 70 horses attend – which translates to lots more passport applications for our passport team to work through!

Throughout September the Welfare Team attended 7 events with our

11

Healthcare Vehicle and helped 194 horses and engaged with 163 people. We have now been to 27 events with the vehicle since 1st May!! Hard to believe it now given the gale force winds as I am writing this..but September was a hot one and our new Welfare Education infographic went down a treat on social media:

Our October diary for Colin is looking as follows…. Sunday 4th October Weight management advice - ROUK Beach Ride, Formby, North West Saturday 9th October Horse Health Day - Approved Centre - Country Treks, Worcestershire Sunday 10 October Stable Mates Launch – Approved Centre, Bubbenhall Warwickshire

Fri 15 - Monday 18 October Isle of Wight (Saturday - fun ride; Sunday – show)

Wednesday 20th October Healthcare and Education Clinic, South Wales Equestrian Centre, Bridgend

Welfare Field Operations Spotlight • Vicky has been busy planning our next clinic in South Wales being held in October –

she has 41 booked in for castration and 35 for passporting – its going to be a busy one! • Lydia has received 9 new volunteer applications this month. • Dawn held 5 virtual CPD sessions on welfare concern scenarios for our Volunteer

Welfare Advisers – 28 volunteers from across the UK attended. • Cathy attended court as a witness for a big welfare case she has been involved with -

defendants pleaded guilty to two charges and not guilty to a further two. Due to the serious nature of the offences this will now proceed to Trial in January 2022.

New Welfare Concerns REGIONAL MANAGERS

11. East of England - Janet Wilson News, Events and Meetings:

• The Coaching CPD day with Jo Winfield was attended by 30 Coaches this month. The demo riders were excellent and the feedback from the day was very good.

• The AHAR Clinic was low on numbers this month, but those who came very much enjoyed their sessions.

• The Cambridge Team led by Chairman Beth Callus put on a fabulous ride at the Wimpole Estate. The ride was blessed with a lovely sunny day. We had a 124 booked with 112 able

June 126 concerns involving 379 horses July 129 concerns involving 387 horses August 2021 114 concerns involving 365 horses September 91 new concerns involving 248 horses

12

to get to the venue and enjoy the ride. Although we are still finalising the numbers, we anticipate in the region £1,800 was raised for access to be split between ROUK and local access projects. The feedback has been delightful, the team worked hard to pull this event together after last year’s cancelation.

Forthcoming Events and Meetings • On Saturday the 2nd of October we have our first Cambridgeshire Access Networking

Event. With guest speakers this event aims to build strong local access connections and grow the team.

• There is AHAR Clinic’s with Caroline Meads, this now only have three places left. • Our ever-popular Sponsored ride in aid if East Anglian Air Ambulance and the BHS is on

Sunday 3rd October in Southill Park (near Bigglewsade). • On the 26th of October the Suffolk Team will be holding their rescheduled evening with Alan

Hiscox. The Secret life of a mounted police officer. • On the same day Suffolk are also running a Stage 3 Training Day at Hemps Green. There

is also an exam bursary on offer. • There is a ROUK Ride taking place at Spring Hall Farm, Suffolk on the 30th of October.

12. East Midlands - Sally Andrews

News, Events and Meetings: • It was good to get out and join the BHS Education Team who came to Derby College

Equestrian Centre for their first ‘Back in Touch Day’ where they were showcasing the new Ride Safe ‘Train the Trainer’ Award, Challenge Awards and Pony Stars, while updating you on all the developments in Education over the past 18 months…. Plus, an opportunity to catch up with contacts from around the region.

• Following agreement from Northampton Safer Road Alliance, more Dead Slow signs

have gone up in Nether Heyford in Northamptonshire.

• BHS Derbyshire held their first blended Committee meeting – with some volunteers meeting in person for the first time since January 2020 and others who live further afield still joining virtually. It worked well! BHS North and South Lincolnshire have also held virtual meetings.

Wendy Bannerman – Access Field Officer Midlands Lincolnshire

• A local rider contacted the BHS about damage to a bridge on Tetford Bridleway 29 and was supported to report this to the highways authority on 21 September. Lincolnshire County Council have now confirmed the repair of the bridleway bridge for all to enjoy safely.

Forthcoming Events and Meetings

• We’ll be joining the Leicestershire Police Rural Crime team with a BHS information stand at their Rural Policing and Crime Prevention Event at Hall Farm, Spring Lane,

Packington on 9 October. • There are still a few spaces left on the ‘Looking at the latest Tack and Equipment’ with

Jo Winfield FBHS at Harley Equestrian in Northamptonshire on 16 November: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/bhseastmidlands/548505

13

• 1 Dec: Road and Rider Awareness evening at Gayton-le-Marsh, Lincolnshire: https://www.tickettailor.com/events/bhseastmidlands/581836/

Wendy Bannerman, Access Field Officer East and West Midlands • Site visit to development in Northampton has prompted further investigation of a route

used by equestrians which could be an opportunity for a creation order • New Project 2026 volunteer researcher joined in north Lincolnshire • Maintenance to byways in North and South Leverton has been completed thanks to the

efforts of Nottinghamshire CC Countryside Access Team, a local rider and BHS Access and Bridleways Officer

• Byways in Northamptonshire damaged by MPV’s have been closed for maintenance works after funding was secured by the RoW Officer in response to a local rider and BHS ABO raising the issues.

• Response made to the Amber Valley Local Plan Review, Derbyshire

13. Ireland - Susan Spratt I have spent this month:- • organising training opportunities and events for 2021 and promoting online training

opportunities and the key BHS messages on Facebook. • Online Safeguarding starter and refresher courses are available through Sport NI. • 1 Face to Face BHS First Aid Refresher Course took place. • The following visits and Meetings took place with:-

- One Equine - Meeting with Coillte (Forest Service in Republic of Ireland) - Trec Ireland - Interim Equine Forum with DAERA - BHS Northern Ireland Committee Meeting - Meeting with PSNI - Meeting with DAERA - National Outdoor Recreation Strategy Access Subgroup - Comahirle Subgroup Meeting

• The Balmoral Show took place from 22 to 25

September 2021. We sponsored the Irish Draught Ridden Class on the Thursday. It was great to be out and meet people again!

• Our first BHS Ireland camp of the year took place from 30 September to 3 October at Castle Irvine Equestrian Centre.

14. London and South East – Sonia Wilkes

South Downs Escorted Ride On Sunday 12th September Malcolm McKemey from the West Sussex Committee organised an escorted ride across the South Downs. All riders were catered for, with both a fast and a slower ride option. A huge thank you to Oliver Coombe-Tennant, Fran Hall and Jenny Perryman who escorted the rides and made sure all the riders had an enjoyable and safe ride. Everyone said how much they enjoyed themselves and, having now ridden the route, will most certainly return to hack our again there in the future. It was also nice that two riders who live close to each other met for the first time and are planning to hack out together in the future.

14

East Sussex Close Pass Operation On 14th September I was fortunate to join Alan Hiscox at Plumpton College for a Close Pass operation which he had organised with Sussex Police. Alan rode a horse kindly loaned by Plumpton College. Several motorists were identified as passing either too close or too fast and pulled over. They were all very receptive to speaking with the police team who were set up within the college grounds. It was a successful operation helping to raise awareness of how to

pass horses safely on the road.

Richmond Park Michaelmas Ride On Friday 17th September, by kind permission of Adam Curtis, Manager of Richmond Park, the London Committee organised a pleasure ride in Richmond Park. The event was well supported with approximately forty

riders signing up to complete either the medium or the long route around the outstanding parkland. The riders had a fantastic time with great horse-riding tracks, amazing views within the park and photo opportunities against the iconic city backdrop. Many of the riders also enjoyed seeing some of the six hundred plus resident deer during their ride. Lots of other Park users came over to the BHS tent during the day. Many expressed how much they enjoyed seeing so many horses using the park and a couple signed up to become BHS members. Proceeds from the ride will go to the BHS Ride Out UK fund, as well as a donation to the Royal Parks. The success of the event is a huge credit to the amazing BHS volunteers, without whom it could not have happened. We look forward to running the ride again next year. Surrey Hills Challenge I attended the Surrey Hills Challenge on 26th September. The annual event is clearly a great opportunity to engage with cyclists, dog walkers and car drivers from a safety awareness perspective. As a non-equestrian event, I was surprised by how many people did come over to chat and find out more. The car stickers were really popular. Incredible to see people completing the ultra-run and the Canicross looked great fun. Congratulations to 10 year old Zachary and 8 year old Samuel who I met on the day, having completed the 10k run to raise £660 for Horsley, Bookham and Leatherhead RDA. The “Raise the Roof” campaign is a fundraiser for a new indoor school which will enable the centre to accept more riders all year round.

15

Committee News Nearly all committees met in September, with North and East Kent being the first to meet in person. This was well attended, and everyone said how great it was to see each other face to face after such a long time. Sarah Rayfield, Access Field Officer London and South East 05-Aug Site Meeting re diversion of BW AE667A with landowner and KCC

06-Aug Meeting regarding Lower Thames Crossing

10-Aug Meeting with Highways England regarding Lower Thames Crossing

16-Aug Meeting with Aldi and representatives regarding development at Waterbrook (affecting AE667A - see above)

28-Aug Contacted KCC Highways regarding footbridge over River Medway 19-Aug Responded on behalf of BHS to KCC Budget consultation 17-Aug Breach of planning condition to protect NMUs on minor road.

Reported to Council and asked Highways for response (Note 28/9 still awaiting a response) and breach has recurred several times

Aug-21 Liaising with contractors regarding works on Storrington bridleways as discussed with WSCC and SDNPA

16-Aug Advising and assisting a Surrey rider complaining about the surface and condition of a local bridleway and overgrown vegetation.

16-Aug Liaising with a local rider regarding mounting blocks either side of a level crossing in Surrey. Put her in touch with Bob Milton who has been addressing issues with this crossing with NR

11-Aug Liaising with a charity organising a car rally in Kent including using off road tracks through woods (with landowners' permission which cross bridleways) Maps and approx. times sought and publicised to make as many riders aware as possible

11-Aug Response to SDNPA Design Guide Consultation on behalf of BHS

11-Aug Supporting A West Sussex ABO working to gain a bridleway bridge over the A281 following a cyclist fatality last year

11-Aug Assisting and advising a rider near Findon regarding gate problems 11-Aug Advising rider with problems surrounding overgrown and blocked

bridleway 10-Aug Responded on behalf of BHS to a planning application which will

render a quiet lane used by several stables much busier than currently Aug-21 Ongoing communication regarding the Rise Farm bridleway in Iford Aug-21 ongoing communication regarding Epsom Downs permissive ride Aug-21 ongoing communication regarding Lower Thames Crossing NMU

provision 03-Aug Responded to planning application EDC/21/0120

15. North of England – Claire Maddison News, Events and Meetings: • BHS Northumberland and Murton Equestrian Centre continue with their BHS Stage 2 &

4 training, which is a mixture of practical and virtual. • BHS Cleveland held their annual charity show at Robinson’s Equi Teach. It was great

to see so many combinations come forward to take part in such a

16

relaxed show environment. Thanks to Highview Photography for the official photographs. Also, a big thank you to the committee who made this day a great success and to Claire Robinson for use of her facilities.

• Rob Lovatt FBHS was

back in the region again for his ‘Flatwork and Show Jumping Clinic’ and BHSI Performance Coach training both at Holmside Hall Equestrian Centre. Thank you to the demonstrator riders who gave up their time to ride in our training session to help our coaches train towards their BHS Coaching exams. Without their help these days couldn’t take place.

Forthcoming Events and Meetings • BHS Northumberland and Murton Equestrian Centre continue with their BHS Stage 2 &

4 training, which is a mixture of practical and virtual. • Alistair Love BVSc Cert AVP (EP) MRCVS RCVS Recognised Advanced Practitioner in

Equine Practice of Clevedale Vets will be hosting our ‘Recognising Lameness in Horses’ event at Robinson’s Equi Teach. This event is open to everyone but will count towards CPD for BHS APCs.

• On the 17th October we will be hosting our ‘Angel of the North Ride’ in support of Ride Out UK. The ride will start and finish at Headley West Farm on their private fields and tracks before continuing on local bridleways and tracks before returning via more private farmland. This ride is taking place by kind permission of John and Carol Swinburn and John Coxon.

• On the 18th October Rob Lovatt FBHS will be hosting another ‘Flatwork and Show Jumping Clinic’ at Holmside Hall Equestrian Centre.

• On the 19th October 2021 Rob Lovatt FBHS will be delivering our CPD event ‘Lateral Work to Improve the Horse’s Jump at Holmside Hall Equestrian Centre.

• BHS Northumberland are in the process of organising a lecture demonstration with Jane Bartle Wilson on Tuesday 26th October 2021 at Northumberland College (Kirkley Hall).

Victor Pogson, Access Field Officer North & North West A strong focus on Cumbria this month. Following earlier reports of problems near Helton, I was able to carry out a site visit with a local campaigner and start work on tackling the challenges faced by riders on the bridleway. Whilst it may take time, we are hopeful that the problems can be resolved. The A66 Northern Trans Pennine statutory consultation is now underway and we have attended both online and face to face meetings as part of the Walking, Cycling and Horse Riding Focus Group. A number of suggestions and recommendations have been made and it is pleasing that National Highways have been keen to consider equestrian needs and engage in discussion as to how these can be accommodated. Delighted to welcome a new 2026 historical research volunteer who has already prepared one very impressive application in Cumbria, with more in the pipeline.

16. Yorkshire - Amy Clements

News, Events and Meetings: • Our sponsorship of Richmond Horse Trials

included a fantastic XC fence in the Intermediate section, it was great to be back out on the trade stand again. We also visited Penistone Show where we helped local riders with access queries

17

and signed up some new members too! (photo of our fence) • Cloughfields Equestrian Centre in Sheffield hosted our CPD training day – Dressage

Through the Levels, presented by Rob Lovatt FBHS. Feedback from coaches was very positive with many saying it was great to be back out interacting with people and seeing some lovely horse and rider combinations. (photo from the day)

Forthcoming Events and Meetings • We are excited to be back again with our annual ROUK pleasure ride at Bramham Park

Estate. Over 100 people are booked to enjoy this fabulous ride otherwise inaccessible to horse riders and raising a huge amount for our Ride Out fund.

• Our first Northern race day is being held at the end of October at Wetherby Racecourse with our very own Rosie Harris taking part. Tickets are just £65 for the day which includes a 2course lunch – visit our website to book.

• All Yorkshire county committee meetings are taking place in October. Mark Corrigan, Access Field Officer Yorkshire Planning responses:

• Ripon LCWIP Cycling Route responses. • Selby District Local Plan additional development sites. • Ref CLT/Wood Lane Orders LS15 4DP. Bridleway Creation Leeds. • PA/21/Y/KK/59576 Land at Green Acres Close, Emley, Huddersfield. • Planning Application No. 21/06332/FU Objection to a Helipad, adjacent to a bridleway. • PA 21/05617 FU Planning, Housing Leeds • Tilhil Forestry Consultation, The Soil Association. • Site Meeting St Ives country Park Baildon Bradford. AFO met with councillors, rangers, Strategic Routes Officers, Pennine National Trail Manager, friends of St Ives country park, and the onsite livery Yard owners, developing a plan to Improve and create new bridleways by adding missing links & upgrading footpaths to bridleways whereupon a circular route will be available around this 550-acre park. Designing a new layout for dedicated horse box and trailer parking along with a new coral, mounting blocks to be improved, Canter/gallop track to be added in a 20 acre field. • Great collaborative working with cyclists and local horse riders have helped to get this

bridleway improved in Bradford.

Before After • Continuous pressure being applied by BHS AFO and Northwest Yorkshire CABO along

with a local resident and BHS member have resulted in an impossible to open gate, finally being removed in North Yorkshire.

18

• Trans-Pennine Trail general members meeting. • York outer ring road, duelling scheme. Supporting the York riding school. • Several one to one sessions have been held virtually with volunteers to assist and

review DMMO applications, New ABO Jane Stuart has now submitted her first one!

Before. After • 2 DMMO applications submitted and registered for the Yorkshire area by the Access Field

Officer.

17. North West – Lyndsay Dring We had a fab day of CPD training the horse and rider thanks to Merseyside mounted police and this year’s winner of our freelance coach award Lindsay Gaven. Thanks also to James Hick for joining us for a very fun and hands on day! You can see some great videos and photos here I went along to support Greater Manchester police at this month’s ‘close pass’ operation on Radcliffe Road in

Bolton. Quite a quiet day as not many road users but I happened to capture some interesting footage of a driver overtaking several cars waiting patiently behind the horses whilst revving

the engine and on a blind bend! Check out the footage here Cross organisational support this month included supporting the fab work of the welfare team along with the other equine organisations at the Healthcare clinic at Clitheroe, Lancashire. My passport drawing skills were put to the test with the number of coloured ponies but all very enjoyable including my favourite from the day… Gavin! I also supported the show team and Hannah

Marsh at the beautiful Blenheim, speaking to lots of lovely people and signing up my biggest family membership yet, a family of 5!

North West I am delighted to report that the Ride Out UK event at Formby is going ahead with around 100 participants registered following successful negotiations with the National Trust and a great effort by a number of volunteers clearing some fairly challenging hurdles along the way. A real team effort which will contribute significantly to our Ride Out objectives. Thanks to Rosemary’s liaison with Wyre Council, the new “Share the Space” signage including horses has now been installed at Wyre Estuary Country Park DMMO work continues and it is encouraging to have new volunteers getting involved in Tameside (Early Bank Road) and further progress on the Crankwood route near Leigh

19

18. Scotland - Helene Mauchlen & Julie Hanna Access Meetings of Scotways, Scottish Outdoor Access Network and the National Access Forum were all attended this month where the sudden unfair and unjustified closure of the Ben Alder level crossing at Dalwhinnie was the main topic of conversation. BHS Scotland joined the Ramblers, the mountaineer council of Scotland, ScotWays and others in promoting a protesting petition on the matter. A redraft of Cycling By Design was published. BHS Scotland is part of a NAF subgroup looking at the Roads Scotland Act. Our access case load is a continual challenge with queries and advice being brought to us every week. Welfare Issues including Brexit and the movement of equines, Scot Equine, disease control and Equine Grass Sickness. Safety BHS Scotland has been working with the safety dept on setting up research into the effects of electric cars on equine hearing. We are also working with Scottish Fire and Rescue Service on Large Animal Rescue Training. Lobbying A great deal of time this month has gone into organising a meeting at a BHS approved Riding School with Mairi Gougeon the Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and The Islands on digitising Equine ID and registering or licensing all equine establishments in Scotland. September has been a busy month for BHS Scotland out at events. Ayrshire Partnership Against Rural Crime: great to be back to meeting our partners involved in the Ayrshire Partnership Against Crime group on the 3 September hosted by APARC Chair Alan Thom at Goosehill Farm. West Lothian Partnership Against Rural Crime (WLPARC): BHS Scotland was represented at Beecraigs Country Park Visitor Centre on the 4 September. Drumhead Service: BHS Scotland was honoured to attend a Drumhead Service at the Palace of Holyroodhouse - part of a series of events to celebrate 50 years since the formation of The Royal Scots Dragoon Guards. The BHS is working with the regiment and Tower Farm Riding Stables to provide spurs courses which sees soldiers go from non-rider to rider quick time. It was great to see the beautiful grey horses on parade today. Preswalski Experience Day: thanks to Bonny Mealand and Highland Wildlife Park for an excellent and very informative day.

Borders Partnership Against Rural Crime: BHS Borders attended the Scottish Borders Partnership Against Rural Crime press launch on the 10 September at the Kelso Ram Sales.

20

Scottish Riding Club Championships: the BHS Lorry attended the Scottish Riding Club Championships at Auchlishie on the 11-12 September. It was a great opportunity to catch up with our members (lovely to see our BHS Orkney members). Scot Equine joined us on the second day and riding club members had the chance to sign up for their equine ID card.

The BHS Lorry was then at the Stirling Agricultural Centre on Monday 13 September for a drop in session.

BHS Scotland Camp 2021: brilliant 3 days at BHS Scotland Camp at Lindores Equestrian with our coaches Sam York FBHS, Diana Zajda, Jen Morris and Debbie Rodwell. Thanks to our great inspiring coaches and the encouragement and support amongst the riders was so lovely to see. Congratulations to all the trophy winners: Best Condition Horse: Caroline Vance Runner up: Frances Pearson. (Picked by Dodson & Horrell) Best Helper: Jenny Adams and Gwen Peddie Most Improved: Janet McKay Most Favourite Horse: Anne Fowlie Best Turned Out: Katie Nisbet. Great opportunity for a couple of BHS Accredited Professional Coaches to have CPD shadowing the XC lessons with Sam York FBHS.

Clinic with Sam York FBHS at Gleneagles Equestrian School: super sessions and such great improvements with all combinations. Another opportunity for some CPD for our BHS Accredited Professional Coaches.

21

BHS Stand at the Scottish Game Fair: thanks to the BHS Tayside committee for all their efforts with the BHS Stand at the Scottish Game Fair at Scone Palace, Perthshire. Congratulations to Andi Bruce, BHS Tayside Chair for winning one of the vouchers for completing the BHS Volunteer Survey.

Meeting with Mairi Gougeon: On Thursday September 30 the Scottish Equine Industry held a meeting with Mairi Gougeon The Scottish Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and The Islands at Rowanlea Riding School, Carnoustie. Representatives from equine welfare charities; The British Horse Society, World Horse Welfare, Scottish SPCA and the Scottish equestrian sporting body horsescotland introduced Ms Gougeon to the horse world including the value of the equine sector to the Scottish economy and the contribution the horse makes to human wellbeing. The official visit examined the regulation of equine establishments, how the horse world could benefit from forthcoming Animal Health legislation and the ongoing implementation of an integrated future proof resilient equine ID system to build on ScotEquine that will support trade and underpin good equine health and welfare.

September was also a busy month for virtual meetings with both the BHS Scotland Committee meeting and the BHS Scotland Training committee along with other regional committee meetings planning their autumn and winter schedule of events.

19. South – Hannah Marsh Brilliant Blenheim The main event in September was Blenheim Palace International Horse Trials. It was great to be back in the spectacular parkland at Blenheim, having obviously missed last year. The event was under new management by The Jockey Club, and it was interesting to see the changes made. Our stand position had moved, but with a more compact site this year (maybe half the number of stands) it didn’t really matter as it was easy for people to walk around everywhere. It was also a really busy event compared to some previous years, particularly on Saturday. Kathryn came from Wales for Thursday and Lyndsay came down from the North West region for the rest of the weekend to help, which was much appreciated.

Project Edward Visits the New Forest Project Edward (Every Day Without a Road Death) brought a mobile speed trap operation to the New Forest. We are lucky here in the forest to have a mobile speed van, partially funded by the Verderers (the officials responsible for the management of the forest and its livestock), but of course it can only ever be in one place at a time and with roads criss-

22

crossing the 140,000acres there are always far too many speeding drivers. The morning also provided a useful opportunity to catch up with representatives from various other organisations in the area. Magical Pony Stars Launch It was fantastic to attend the launch of Pony Stars at BHS Approved Pony Magic just outside Southampton. Martin Clunes and Laura Collett, complete with her Olympic gold medal, made the event special. Somehow, I survived helping 34 seven- and eight-year-old children paint birdboxes and horseshoes – neither art nor small children being my forte! Petronella Nattrass, Access Field Officer South • Enquiries: there continues to be a steady flow of enquiries from BHS Members and

the public, ranging from the fencing-off of the verge of a rural lane to a rumoured 2-year closure of an essential bridleway.

• Welsh Drive/Eversley BW11 Diversion: the public hearing for this long-running and controversial diversion took place on 14 September, with Alan Kind representing the BHS. We expect to hear the outcome before the end of the year.

• Long Wittenham BW8: AFO South is in discussions with Sustrans and Oxfordshire CC over proposals to resurface this BW to 2.5m with flexipave, asking why it is not being surfaced to a minimum of 3m as the Definitive Statement states “Awarded width part 25ft, part 10ft”.

• East Woodhay BW 27 – BHS objection to width of diversion order (proposed as 2m) upheld at 4m. The modified order must be advertised before a final decision is made, but this is an excellent result for local ABOs who made the objection.

• Consultations: - Spatial Strategy for Oxford-Cambridge Arc – AFO South is working with ABOs for Beds and Cambs and AFO Midlands on this draft vision for a new regional strategy. - Noke BW10, Oxfordshire – response to OCC and discussions of proposed diversion route, in liaison with Otmoor Riding Group. - M3 Jct 9 improvements – ongoing engagement with National Highways and Hampshire CC over bridleway provision around. - Havant Thicket Reservoir – ongoing engagement with developers to ensure equestrian access to definitive and permissive riding routes is preserved. - A326 improvement works, New Forest – AFO and regional manager (as local horserider) attended WCHAR Stakeholder Group meeting to discuss proposals for the Totton area.

20. South West - Julie Garbutt

Due to the cancellation of Burghley Horse Trials this year, British Eventing managed to put on a brand new 5* event at Bicton in Devon where we had our regional trade stand. The weather was fabulous, the course was challenging with just 19 going forward from the cross country to the show jumping. It was great to be able to have a presence there and we had many visitors to the stand over the three days including BHS volunteers from as far

afield as Kent!

BHS Gloucestershire were very busy this month. Their first event was their ‘Have a go at Cross Country’ training where 10 horses and riders received some great, confidence giving, instruction from BHS coach Brad Trump. Many achieved so much more than they thought they would and all had a great day. Their second event, a guided ride in the Cotswolds ran in aid of Ride Out UK. Newbrook Farm Equestrian Centre were the

23

hosts and guides and also provided horses to some who didn’t have their own. Only a small event with six riders but everyone had a lovely, safe ride.

BHS Cornwall and the BHS South West Region committees met this month and had their first meetings on our new platform, Microsoft Teams. All went well with everyone managing to get connected. BHS Dorset’s Access Team held their own meeting, the first since Covid, to discuss all things access in the County. BHS Avon continued their series of higher level training for Stage 4 & 5 Care and Management with six people taking advantage of Jo Winfield’s (FBHS) knowledge and coaching on a range of topics. Philip Hackett, Access Field Officer South West • BHS Dorset Access Committee met at Milburn St Andrew to discuss countywide

access issues with Dorset Council PROW Warden Graham Stanley, who spoke of the challenges facing the team and also where resources were being directed. In a constructive way the meeting highlighted both areas of concern and where improvements were needed. A further meeting is planned in November and it is hoped to have another Dorset Council officer to attend.

• Higher Heathcombe, Somerset. Following a site visit with local riders, the Somerset County Council PROW warden, together with the BHS Access Field Officer the landowner was approached about making a bridleway accessible after being closed for over 60 years. The landowner is agreeing to SCC diverting the bridleway and carry out works. This will provide a circular route when linked into existing bridleways.

• Pitcombe, Somerset – With the assistance of the South Somerset Bridleways Association [SSBA] and the BHS, a negotiation was reached to provide a permissive route as an alternative route through Knapp Hollow, where access has been difficult to achieve for some time. A358 – Road improvements between Taunton and Southmeads roundabout, Somerset. BHS and SSBA have been working with Highways England [HE] to create the optimum access opportunities for equestrians by connecting fragmented bridleways and securing access to proposed cycle/walking routes. We have also made clear to HE that the preferred term is ‘equestrians’ rather than ‘horse riders’ as carriage driving is an important and growing community that needs to be considered when designing schemes. Additionally we have asked that all the planned overbridges have higher parapet

21. Wales and The Channel Islands Area -Kathryn Stewart

Access Officer for Wales – Interviews held at the end of September. Awareness ride Brynna Taff Ely Bridleways Group ran an Awareness Ride (which was run in aid of Ride out UK) the ride was attended by local horse riders, RCT Councillors, Senedd Members et al. BHS Wales and ITV covered this event. https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-58571596?fbclid=IwAR2Q6VTcrwPyRAgOY4nUVQzZ5bSkSQL4WPFHLhs_D-p14PKPymjdb-IuPDc . The ride was linked to the proposed dualling in Coedely to highlight its impact on horse riders. The event was coordinated by SE committee volunteers.

24

Trenos Multiuser Bridge The first site meeting since lockdown was held with Network Rail, Persimmon Homes, Bryncae Community Council, BHS volunteers (SE Committee) and National Manager etc. The bridge will link up several ROW and increase safe access over the railway line for the whole community. Architects are currently working on the bridge design; the next meeting is planned for October.

Meeting with Senedd Minister Joel James MS, Lee Gonzalez (Researcher) National Manager and Mark Weston recently met at the Senedd to discuss Access and Safety (including Active Travel). The minister later made a speech in the Senedd chamber.

https://www.facebook.com/JoelJamesSWC/videos/2746611532303900/?__cft__[0]=AZXTGAK-oznl7LdGriaPSflLpch1T1sYhyg5ctmX9q4Jj6oneAF52Sp9peArKskzZDuWjzmfTvU8dp93L1uNYQ0V9udUsfNOvYFMk2sOD0Lk2eRZkHxvR9HCRrqNsjJZtH2-WjuCBEQbVoyqavOqyluP72UuOceKTPZsBmT8x7lLSN91EmyeYZiOvZY6u_J0adP-

gqh46qMGXZVx8-8Wvb6gs1HZ9r5u7uSTN3GMiKRxuw&__tn__=-UK-R

Liaison Group Chris Waterhouse continues to push this forward with NRW. These meetings will be for Access Volunteers (ABO/CABOs etc) to attend and raise issues, the first one is proposed for spring 2022. Mid Wales Horse Park planning for this continues, the first survey is ready and will be circulated next month on FB and by enews. A confirmed site still needs to be established.

Y Bryn Wind Farm – BHS Cymru is part of the ongoing consultation; it has been established this route passes close to the Great Dragon Ride. Other Meetings etc All Wales Group - Plans are afoot with BEF to set up an all-Wales group including Sports Wales BHS BD BS BE. BD Collaboration - Meeting BD Rep Vanessa Archer – to discuss the BEF proposal, online winter events, future collaboration etc Approved Centres Triley Fields Abergavenny won SEIB Insurance Brokers Large Riding School of the Year. Safety RAF Valley ‘Aircraft Safety Event’ proposed for spring 2022 - planning continues. Committees

25

Mid Wales Committee A proposal has been put forward for a new chair, the vote will take place in October there is one candidate. Duncan Snook and Georgina Walters attended the recent committee meeting (September) regarding capitation, expenses and spending rules within the aims and objectives of the BHS. SW Wales committee Held a face-to-face meeting at Afon Duad Inn, Cwmduad. Committee members were happy to be back together, concrete plans were made for 2022. This committee have agreed to vote for a new chair in October 2021, two candidates have been proposed. Jane Evans is standing down as SW Chair to concentrate on the Chair of Volunteers Wales/Cymru role. Events Summer Day Camp at Pant Wilkin Stables, Cowbridge (run in aid of Ride Out UK) managed by the SE Wales Committee was a great success, the event was fully booked within a week. The BHS Welfare Team (Vicky Johns) attended weighing horses, the participants were coached by Mike Whippey BHSI and Jan Evans BHSI both BHS APC’s.

Ride Out UK (SW Wales Committee) at Cross Inn Farm, Llidiad Nenog. Carmarthen, Dyfed was unfortunately cancelled due to heavy rain and fog.

Shows Builth Wales Royal Welsh Autumn Horse Show BHS Wales had a stand at this event. The National Manager and local volunteers (Mid and SE committees) had a busy/successful weekend. Plans were made with Chris Davies the Event Director of Builth Wells Showground to increase the BHS involvement/profile in July 2022 the main event/show.

October/November proposed activity Events 4th October Talk to Bridgend College HE Students – how to run events/day camps. 6th October - Coleg Cambria Mold APC CPD October Education Dept – Ride Safety Assessor Training, Challenge Awards, Pony Stars etc 20th October Coleg Sir Gar Carmarthen APC CPD October Education Dept – Ride Safety Assessor Training, Challenge Awards, Pony Stars etc 20th October Welfare/Castration Clinic SWEC - fully booked 21st October Bridgend College opening of new land-based facilities 6th and 20th October James Hick visits Wales 26th October Jonty Evans clinic Coleg Cambria BHS North East Wales Committee 4th November BHS Awards Newbury 13th November Winter Camp Bridgend College 24th November Link/Welfare Day SW Wales venue to be confirmed Committee Meetings 6th October joint meeting committee North Wales NE & NW – James Hick to attend

26

19th October SE Committee meeting The Plymouth Arms St Fagins Cardiff 16th October Channel Islands meeting online Channel Islands Approved Centre proprietor’s meeting tbc Chair and Vice Chair meeting tbc

22. West Midlands - Andrea Jackman

News, Events & Meetings

• The Warwickshire and Herefordshire Committees held virtual meetings in September. • The Dressage in History visit and demonstration organised by BHS Staffordshire was really

informative and well received. One participant, Steve, booked it as a surprise for his wife and said “It was a very interesting visit, the horses were exquisite, the presentation was brilliant, and for the first time I finally understand dressage. Anna thoroughly enjoyed the day and I earned loads of brownie points!”.

• Our annual ROUK escorted ride across the Longmynd, led by Jane Kerswell, gave riders perfect weather to explore the north eastern part of the hill. Through Bullocks moor, passing wild ponies to the ancient racehorse rings and a drink at the Yew Tree, All Stretton which fuelled an exhilarating gallop up to High Park for our picnic near the site of Winter's Gibbet. Following The Old Port Way, an ancient drovers road back towards Picklescott where the merry bunch of riders received lovely Ride UK rosettes.

• 5 riders took part in the ‘Improving Rider Alignment’ mechanical horse session at the Cavalier Centre – the first of 3 sessions we have this Autumn.

Finally, it was so good to have the Heather Lucas Memorial Mounted Games Competition, back after a 2 year gap! 7 teams competed in 7 games including: bending, the two cup shuffle, sock & bucket and flag to win the Clueso Cup. Mercia Treccies were victorious once again but they were pushed all the way by the team from Bewdley.

Wendy Bannerman, Access Field Officer East and West Midlands • Ongoing issue with equestrian access in a country park in Staffordshire being pursued

by EAG and AFO • AFO attended the first Farming in Protected Landscapes Panel Meeting for Cannock

Chase • Representation made to the hearing for a development in Herefordshire affecting a long

distance bridleway route. • CABO in Worcestershire working with RoW Officer to identify priorities for capital

funding projects RABO responding to ongoing consultations for North West Relief Road, Shrewsbury

27

* * *