Blenheim's official charity

The Blue Cross has been chosen as charity of the year  at the 2005 FEI Blenheim Petplan European Eventing Championships 8-11 September 2005.

The Blue Cross will have a stand at the event and will be involved with a number of fund raising initiatives including a superb raffle with some high value prizes.

First prize options are a saddle from Thorowgood, and a Lawnflite Lazer Mini Buggy from E.P Barrus Ltd. In addition there is the chance to win a weekend break for two at The Witney Four Pillars Hotel, and a day at the races for two at Cheltenham and also Newbury racecourses. Countrywide farmers in Witney and Allen & Page horse feeds have generously donated £100 worth of vouchers each and there is a fabulous selection of other prizes from Puffa, Joules and many other leading brands.

The Blue Cross promotional stand can be found at (add site reference) and the raffle will be drawn on Sunday afternoon.

This year Blenheim is hosting the European Championships, with competitors from over 15 nations taking part.  Eventing’s European Championships began in 1953 and are held every two years.  The last European Championships held in England were staged at Burghley in 1997.  This is the first time a senior eventing championship has been held, other than in Burghley, since 1962. 

For further information on The Blue Cross or if you feel you can provide an experienced, long term home to a horse or pony in the charity’s care, contact Rebecca Wadham on 01993 822454, email rebecca.wadham@bluecross.org.uk or visit the website at www.bluecross.org.uk  Visitors to the site can also request a copy of the new Blue Cross equine welfare newsletter Equine Matters. 

Note to Editors
The Blue Cross is Britain's pet charity, providing information, advice and practical support for pet and horse owners. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets fees. For further information visit the Blue Cross website at www.bluecross.org.uk

Media contact: Sam Cordwell 020 7932 4063