Dressage success at Northiam

The Blue Cross Equine and Small Animal Adoption Centre at Northiam in Sussex held a hugely successful dressage day last Sunday, that gave novice horse and rider combinations the chance to gain some competition experience in a friendly and informal environment.

The competitors benefited from Northiam centre’s spacious facilities that  include an extra large warm up arena as well as a full size school with a sand and rubber surface.

Louise Rodruigez, riding Remus, won the walk and trot test and was also awarded the additional prize of a year’s subscription to Horse & Hound magazine, generously donated by the magazine, for gaining the highest score of the day.

Preliminary dressage test 4, the most popular class of the day, was won jointly by Katherine Lynn riding Dick and Jane Weightman riding Clonatin Lady. Jane also won the Preliminary 10.

The Blue Cross Northiam Centre hopes to hold a similar event this autumn and plans to run a series next summer - for further details telephone 01797 252243.

Two horses from The Blue Cross Northiam centre took part on the day as a part of their ongoing training programme, in preparation for being placed on the charity’s loan scheme. Hamish is a 12-year-old, 14.3hh, bay gelding. He is a very affectionate pony with a kind temperament. He works well in the school and jumps willingly. He has the potential to become an excellent all rounder but does need an experienced home where he can gain confidence in both his ridden work and on the ground.                     

Dressage success at The Blue Cross Northiam centre

Daisy is a seven-year-old, 13.1hh Arab x native mare. She is a willing, forward going pony who would ultimately be ideal for all Pony Club and Riding Club activities. Daisy has the potential to be shown at local level and would also be suitable for endurance. She needs an experienced home with a rider capable of bringing her on.

The Blue Cross is funded solely by public donations and relies on the support of equine lovers. Facilities and resources are not infinite, which means that needy horses can only be admitted to the centres once rehabilitated horses have been rehomed.

If you feel you can provide an experienced, long term home to a horse or pony in the charity’s care, contact Debbie Heaver on 01797 252243, email d.heaver@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 Roberts 020 7932 4065 (direct)
07917 132 698 (out of hours)