Tickets now on sale for the National Equine Forum
If you want to hear the latest news and views within the equestrian industry, stay up-to-date with scientific research, debate hot topics with the experts and network over lunch then the National Equine Forum (NEF), to be held on 8 March 2011 at The Royal Society, London, is a ‘must’ for your diary.
The NEF provides an unparalleled opportunity for all sectors of the UK’s equestrian industry to come together for a day of diverse lectures and discussions, led by some of the country’s most knowledgeable and influential vets, politicians, riders, teachers and business leaders.
This year James Paice MP, Minister of State for Agriculture and Food will be providing an update on what has been achieved for the industry since he spoke at the Forum in 2010. In terms of international representation it is hoped that either the President or the Vice President of the FEI will be attending to talk about Clean Sport and its global impact.
The political slot will carry an update from Professor Tim Morris on what the British Horse Industry Confederation has been up to, with particular reference to the Equine Health and Welfare Strategy, and a presentation contrasting how the organisation of the horse industry relates to Government in the UK, Sweden and the Netherlands. Georgina Crossman PhD Research Student at the Centre for Rural Policy Research, University of Exeter, will go on to cover disease surveillance and management in the EU.
On a more commercial theme Tim Smalley of Bedmax will be discussing the pros and cons of various bedding materials and their disposal, Paul Bentham of Robinsons will deliver his thoughts on how to run a successful business in a recession and Duncan Brown of the Association of British Riding Schools will explore new opportunities for riding centres.
Those with an interest in racing and veterinary science will be particularly keen to listen to the Royal Agriculture Society of England Eqvalan Duo Equine Thesis of the Year winner: Declan Ryan, a former student of the University of Limerick and the first male winner of this prestigious competition, will be discussing how sex and age have an effect on certain blood parameters in Irish thoroughbred horses.
Olympic dressage rider Emile Faurie will be providing an insight into his foundation which aims to show children how enjoyable and fulfilling equine sports and careers can be while helping them to develop personal and social skills along the way.
The national media is constantly scrutinised for the equestrian coverage it delivers. Channel 4 racing presenter Alice Plunkett will discuss how the broadcast media works, while Horse & Hound editor Lucy Higginson will explore the role of print media.
Veterinary topics will include a presentation from Professor Charlotte Maltin on the maintenance of the equine gene pool and Nick Thompson MRCVS and Dr Simon Baker MRCVS will discuss the question ‘homeopathy – science or alchemy?’ which should provoke some lively debate from those on either side of the fence.
A couple of shorter topical spots will look at the National Equine Crime Database and also the availability and price of Olympic and Paralympic tickets. The day will close with concluding remarks from HRH The Princess Royal, if she is able to attend.
The National Equine Forum is organised by a committee of individuals reflecting various sectors of the equestrian industry, many of whom have been members since the Forum’s inception 19 years ago. It is chaired by Professor Sir Colin Spedding, convened by Miles Williamson-Noble and has as its President HRH The Princess Royal.
It is supported by the Association of British Riding Schools, Bedmax, The Blue Cross, British Equestrian Federation, British Equestrian Trade Association, British Horse Society, British Horseracing Authority, Darby’s Solicitors, Dodson and Horrell, Donkey Sanctuary, Equine Products UK, Fort Dodge, Horse Trust, Jeffress Scholarship Trust, Lippizaner Society, NFU Mutual Insurance, South Essex Insurance Brokers and World Horse Welfare.
Tickets are available to equestrian trade delegates and equestrian professionals at a cost of £100 per person, which includes lunch and refreshments throughout the day. To apply please contact the Hon Secretary, Mrs Tracy Allen, at Warwickshire College, Moreton Morrell, Warwick, CV35 9BL email teallen@warkscol.ac.uk. For further information on the NEF visit www.bef.co.uk
