Hoof Ride London News

Equestrian film featuring Sister Mary-Joy Langdon

2012-08-07T16:34:00.004+01:00

Featuring London Horse Network member, Sister Mary-Joy Langdon (founder of the Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre) and Olympic torchbearer (!), along with President of the British Horse Society, Martin Clunes and sculptor, Nic Fiddian-Green it gives a wonderful insight into the impact horses have on individual lives.

http://www.britishmuseum.org/channel/exhibitions/2012/horse/video_my_horse_and_me.aspx

Hoof helps children Jump Ahead

2012-07-06T09:02:00.002+01:00

Hoof helps children jump ahead

The John Roan School at Maze Hill welcomed Hoof to its ‘Jump Ahead’ event on 3July 2012.

Run by the social enterprise MakeBelieve Arts, the day forms part of a programme to help junior school children make the transition to their chosen secondary school.

With the school gates bordering Greenwich Park, home to equestrianism at London 2012, so Hoof set out to introduce the children to the sport.

All but a handful of the 1200 pupils had never seen, let alone touched, a horse before, so two gleaming grey Shetland ponies, Pedro and Peregrine, from Vauxhall City Farm, grazed the school lawn beside the main entrance and children taking part in Jump Ahead delighted in petting them.

And, a buzz of excitement was created by the children - and teenagers - wanting to experience the thrill of cantering – albeit on a horse simulator with Sam Martin, assisting in offering the ‘riders’ hints and tips.

London-born Sam was first introduced to riding at Vauxhall City Farm as a five year-old and the memory remained.

He inspired pupils with a glimpse into how horses have changed his life as the confident, well-spoken gentleman described how responding to an advert to work with horses changed his life from being a teenager living rough and in regular trouble with the police.

Today, Sam has a career in horses, competing in dressage and indeed has hopes of representing his country in future Olympic Games.

“The kids’ jaws were dropping listening to Sam’s speech”, said Gill Barham, a representative of the British Equestrian Federation, adding, “And it’s great to hear head teacher, Des Malone, would like the school to work with Sam again.”

For his part, Sam says, “The mechanical horse showed just how much inner city girls, and especially boys, want to learn to ride – they reminded me of me.”

While 90% of horse riders are female, the balance is much more equal in inner city riding schools, and indeed many boys, including older teenagers, were exceptionally keen to have a go on the mechanical horse and receive an horse-riding and Pony Club information pack.

One such participant was 14 year-old Blake Holden who says, “It was a great experience – at the same time therapeutic and thrilling – and although I’ve never ridden or even touched a horse before, after this experience, the first opportunity I get to ride, I’m riding!”

Local riding stables, Willowtree Riding School, Newham Equestrian Centre and Mudchute Stables who all offer special school group sessions gave their details while the school was informed of the Emile Faurie Foundation charity.

Set up by dressage Olympian, Emile Faurie, the foundation funds riding lessons for disadvantaged children and is inundated with requests.

Volunteer administrator, Mary-anne Horn, says, “We’d love to welcome pupils John Roan School onto our programmes and are desperately seeking more funding to be able to cope with increased demand.”

Concluding the day, Alice Edwards of Makebelieve Arts says, “It has been a fantastic day and the ponies really made the event – the children were excited that they would be riding a horse simulator and seeing ponies – but taking part exceeded even their expectations.”

ENDS

Notes to editors

www.hoofride.co.uk

For further information on any of the BEF legacy projects please contact the BEF Press Office on 02476 698877 or at pippa.wade@bef.co.uk

ANNA BRUCE meets British dressage team gold medallist Emile Faurie

2012-07-04T10:15:00.002+01:00

ANNA BRUCE meets British dressage team gold medallist Emile Faurie to uncover what motivates the man behind a charitable foundation offering disadvantaged children the chance to ride.

Download the PDF of this article (1.9 MB)
bit.ly/NkPefM

ANNA BRUCE meets former international event rider Charlotte Steel

2012-06-15T10:07:00.000+01:00

ANNA BRUCE meets former international event rider Charlotte Steel who is helping to educate deprived youngsters in London.

Download the PDF of this article (1.1 MB)
http://bit.ly/Nx49kX

See us on Sky Sports!

2012-05-29T15:13:00.001+01:00

Get Involved presenter Rachel Wyse visited the Ebony Horse Club, in Brixton, and Mount Mascal Stables, in Kent, and found a very different picture.

Around 4.5m riders are thought to take part in equestrian activities in the UK, according to the British Horse Society, with those living in the city participating in equal numbers with those in rural areas.

Watch the video

Press invitation to the inaugural ‘Introduction To Eventing’ day at London’s Deen City Farm with London 2012 cross-country course designer Sue Benson

2012-04-03T11:31:00.003+01:00

PRESS INVITATION

to

THE INAUGURAL ‘INTRODUCTION TO EVENTING’ DAY

at

LONDON’S DEEN CITY FARM

With

LONDON 2012 CROSS-COUNTRY COURSE DESIGNER

SUE BENSON

MONDAY 9TH APRIL 2012

10am-3.00pm (approx finish)

Deen City Farm Riding Stables, Merton Abbey, London. SW19 2RR

Watch the competition, meet Sue Benson, discover how the Olympic legacy is coming alive.

RSVP: Anna Bruce at eventerprise pr
Tel: 07970 285781; email: annabruce101@googlemail.com

The inaugural ‘Introduction to Eventing’ day at Deen City Farm celebrates Sport England funding being secured by the British Equestrian Federation’s Olympic Legacy project, Hoof, and the London Horse Network..

This city farm offers pony rides from £1, and provides numerous opportunities for people, who would otherwise never have the chance, to get close to horses.

Linking to the Olympics, this funding has assisted Deen City Farm Riding School in the purchase of portable cross-country style fences so as to give new riders a better chance of understanding the challenges of the Olympic discipline of eventing.

London 2012 cross-country course designer, Sue Benson, will be in attendance to spur the riders on and congratulate them on their performances as dressage, show jumping and cross-country disciplines are attempted - as well as to offer an insight into the challenges she has faced in designing the cross-country test for the Olympics.

Sue will be joined by David Gadsby, London representative of the British Equestrian Federation who will be available for interview on the day, as will volunteer chair of the London Horse Network, a Hoof- supported initiative which helped facilitate Deen City Farm accessing funding.

London-born Jo Henbrey, BHS II SM, the inspirational yard manager and instructor at Deen City Farm will also be on hand to discuss the ambitions and achievements of Deen City Farm Riding School.

No stranger to success, on their first outing beyond the farm gates, the Deen City Farm dressage team consisting of three ‘homebred’ riders took the bronze medal at the Team London Riding School Dressage Championships last year.

And, despite having just a small stableyard, Deen City Farm’s Tarron, a horse rehomed to the farm by the Blue Cross charity, was a favourite among competitors there.

The Easter Monday event will have a bespoke format to allow for the restricted facilities and equines available but will nonetheless offer an experience worth kicking on for.

We look forward to welcoming you and your photographers.

Direct contacts: Deen City Farm, 39 Windsor Avenue, Merton Abbey, LONDON SW19 2RR. Tel Jo Henbrey 0208 543 5858. Joanna.henbrey@deencityfarm.co.uk. co.uk www.deencityfarm.co.uk/Catalyst_Site/0E_Find_the_Farm/0E_Find_the_Farm

For more details regarding HOOF, visit www.hoof-in-town.com or contact Anna Bruce at evenerprise pr on 07970 285781 or email annabruce101@googlemail.com.

BEF bucks funds for Sport Relief

2012-03-27T15:02:00.002+01:00

The British Equestrian Federation joined a host of sporting disciplines including BMX and Badminton to raise money for Sport Relief at Westfield Stratford City on 24-25th March 2012.

With a donation to Sport Relief in return for a chance to experience the feel of riding aboard Herbert the mechanical horse, so £950.00 was raised over the weekend.

David Gadsby, London representative of the British Equestrian Federation said, “Pro-active East London and Westfield Stratford City provided us with an amazing opportunity to raise money for a worthy cause, join in with other sports and encourage equestrianism within sight of the Olympic Park.”

Much of the success of the weekend was down to great team work with volunteer chair of the London Horse Network, Jodie Maile, helping to bring different equestrian disciplines and riding centres together.

Jodie explained, “Having representatives from British Vaulting, British Showjumping, Mounted Games and the British Horse Society was fabulous”, adding, “A London city farm is now seriously looking in to developing a riding project and of the 120 children and adults to try out the mechanical horse, several took information on riding lessons away with them.”

On the spot prizes were kindly donated by Waitrose, Pony Club, Trent Park Equestrian Centre, Aldersbrook Riding School and Local Rider, Eventing and Your Horse magazines, all adding to the celebratory feel of the Sport Relief event.

David added, “Particular credit must go to Martine Dawlings from Trent Park Equestrian Centre who talked herself hoarse from teaching the children and advising the parents and to Westfield Stratford, who could not have been more welcoming and have even invited us back!”

Myf Ryan, General Marketing Manager, Westfield UK said, “It was wonderful to see our shoppers interacting with the British Equestrian Federation, giving generously and ‘having a go’ – many for the first time. Having a mechanical horse in the centre was especially appealing for our younger visitors and we’d definitely like to work together again!”

Thankfully, Aivly Country Store, www.aivly.com kindly donated riding hats and so the stage is set for future riding roadshows as the Olympics approaches and beyond.

To find out more about BEF activities in London visit www.hoof-in-town.com.

Techies showcase systems to spur on London’s equestrians

2012-03-27T11:13:00.000+01:00

You might know your fetlocks from facebook but how to make the latter help the former became part of a technology workshop hosted by the London Horse Network at the prestigious 6 Mitre Passage building near the O2.

Internet marketing expert, Christina Jones, carefully guided the audience through the power of facebook and explained, “The aim was to show the members how to get more bums in saddles, improve their connection with their clients and generate more a better bank balance using the biggest social network in the World.”

Director of Stable Management, Ian Phillips also joined in the computerized debate with a demonstration of bespoke software that not only assists in lesson planning but also offered a powerful tool for daily administration, to record keeping to providing statistics when seeking funding.

Somewhat outnumbered by technophobes, the meeting, supported by Hoof, the Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation, nonetheless drew an audience of interested members of the London Horse Network.

Newcomers to the network, Gail Jupp from Golds Green Riding School said, “It was nice to be part of a friendly group all familiar with the challenges one faces in the equestrian industry but to also leave with new ideas.”

And Gail’s daughter, Katie, added, “I realised there were many opportunities I’d never have thought of and although we’ve used facebook before we’ll now use QR codes for vouchers and coupons.”

Martine Dawlings, administrator at Trent Park Equestrian Centre, compared the software booking system to the diary system currently employed at this, the largest equestrian centre in London.

Martine explained, “I couldn’t get over how simple the computer system is and I can really see its value for any size of equestrian establishment for invoicing, veterinary tabs, lessons etc”, and admitted, “It would certainly ease the updating methods compared to our current paper lesson-booking system that takes time as you copy around a hundred names from the old hand-written sheet to the new!”

Vauxhall City Farm is already an exponent of Stable Management and Linda Hinds said, “I needed some convincing at first but I couldn’t live without it today and it is invaluable for identifying trends.”

However, since the meeting Vauxhall City Farm has set up a facebook page and Linda says, “We were so proud of ourselves and it really was as simple as Christina said but I hope we’ll be able to take this further with interactive workshops later on in the year.”

Both Ian and Christina offered their services for such and Ian added, “Using technology is all about having the confidence to try so it is like turning the tables on the instructors who are more used to encouraging riders to push their boundaries!”

Although the London Horse Network may be busy with promotional activities surrounding the London 2012 Games, London representative of the British Equestrian Federation, David Gadsby, indicated hope and said, “One of the key strengths of the London Horse Network, chaired by volunteer, Jodie Maile, is that not only has it been able to obtain the services of industry experts such as Christina and Ian, but that it responds the feedback from network members.”

If you would like to join the London Horse Network or are interested in learning how you can help drive equestrianism forward in the capital, contact Jodie Maile at jodievm@aol.com.

Or, to find your Regional Hoof Network, contact your BEF Regional Representative via www.bef.co.uk.

Christina Jones can be contacted at christina@internetmarketingthatworks.info or visit www.internetmarketingthatworks.info.

Ian Phillips is a director of www.stable-management.co.uk and www.southerncreative.co.uk. Mobile - 0781 805 5691.

Public Relations Fellow leads London Horse Network into magic of Marketing

2012-02-06T11:14:00.000+00:00

A leading public relations professional, Jane Howard FCIPR, FPRCA, introduced members of the London Horse Network to the magic of marketing at a meeting held at Ebony Horse Club, Brixton, on 30 January 2012.

A horse-rider herself, Jane used analogies from within the audience’s equestrian experiences to help them understand how to use public relations and marketing to reach their aims.

Supported by Hoof, the London 2012 Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation, the London Horse Network aims to increase participation and professionalism in equestrian sports in the capital with marketing and pr one of a series of ‘toolkits’ identified as being of value to the members.

The informative and pro-active day covered the basics of marketing and PR, SWOT analysis, the Elevator Pitch, opportunities for marketing and the must haves to writing a good press release.

Network member, Alison Window of Mount Mascal Stables, a riding school in Bexley, said, “I am always looking for new and interesting ways to promote our sport. Jane’s holistic approach to PR really gave me a better and broader understanding. I shall certainly be trying to benefit my business by putting her knowledge into practice.”

Gill Barham, Regional Development Coordinator for the BEF in the East and East Midlands – the latter yet to have sourced a volunteer chair for its own Regional Hoof Network - also attended the day.

Coming to the capital and to the Ebony Horse Club – a recently completed community riding school, part-funded by Hoof - Gill noted, “I was so impressed with the Ebony Horse Club and by the dedication and tenacity of the staff there who have to continually raise funds to support all the great activity that they offer there to so many children from this deprived area. And I was also thrilled to see the London Horse Network in action and experience the support the members have for one another.”

Volunteer Chair of the LHN, Jodie Maile, explained, “A wide range of the equestrian industries were present including riding schools, freelance coaches, and discipline representatives from British Dressage and British Equestrian Vaulting, yet Jane demonstrated that the techniques she showed can be used to help any business flourish."

And indeed, as an outcome of the meeting, British Dressage is to offer ‘An introduction to dressage’ at Mount Mascal Stables, to demonstrate how the sport seen on the TV, or thought to be inaccessible, is something anyone can take part in or be involved with.

“This is a simple example of how PR – creating and managing reputations – should work”, said Jane, a founding Fellow of the Public Relations Consultancies Association and a visiting lecturer at Greenwich University, adding, “I thought the Network group was terrific: thoughtful, interested and interesting and it was a pleasure to be able to apply my professional skills to contribute to the sport that is my hobby.”

To find out more about equestrianism in London visit www.hoof-in-town.com or contact Jodie Maile at jodievm@aol.com

Scrubs up well – London horse stars on Strictly Come Dancing

2011-11-22T09:00:00.010+00:00

What more could a girl want than for Strictly Come Dancing's Brendan Cole to leap on top of her?

But it was actress and singer, Holly Valance to benefit as Brendan used Purdey, a 16hh, 12 year old part-Arab mare with which to be Holly's 'knight in shining armour', rescuing her so she could perform a spectacular rumba after her usual professional partner, Artem Chigvintsev had to bow out due to a back injury, with a clip of Brendan's 'rescue' being shown on Saturday's show.

Sister Mary-Joy Langdon, founder of Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, which offers riding and horse activities chiefly to disadvantaged and disabled people, said, "Brendan was charming and knew exactly how to handle Purdey."

Perhaps Brendan will also be a knight in shining armour for the centre which relies on charitable donations and volunteer support with Sister Mary-Joy saying, "I was really impressed with the BBC which donated £200.00 to the centre."

The centre is part of the British Equestrian Federation's Hoof Olympic Legacy project and Sister Mary-Joy added, "We now realise just how much more potential there is for the centre to reach out to the community and be of benefit to equestrianism in London too and really hope to find people with fund-raising or marketing skills and planning or project-management experience will be able to support the centre on a voluntary basis."

You can donate to WSPC through the website www.wormwoodscrubsponycentre.org

For information about Hoof, the BEF Olympic Legacy Project, visit www.hoof-in-town.com where you’ll also find Sister Mary-Joy Langdon’s top tips for fire safety. For further editorial opportunities relating to HOOF, please contact Anna Bruce at Eventerprise PR anna@annabruce.co.uk or Tel: 07970 285781.

For more details regarding Wormwood Scrubs Pony Centre, email wspc@btconnect.com www.wormwoodscrubsponycentre.org

HRH The Duchess of Cornwall opens BEF-backed London Riding Centre

2011-11-14T16:18:00.000+00:00

Today, 26 October 2011 HRH The Duchess of Cornwall visited Brixton, South London, to
formally open Ebony Horse Club Community Riding Centre, part-funded by HOOF, the Olympic
Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation.

As inner London’s first purpose built riding centre for more than 30 years it will bring sporting
opportunities to young people in one of London’s most disadvantaged areas.

Founded by Ros Spearing, Ebony Horse Club has been bringing the benefits of horse riding to
young and troubled people for 15 years, but was limited by not owning its own facilities.

The Duchess toured the new centre which includes stabling for eight horses, a paddock, an
arena as well as a classroom and offices, built after Ebony Horse Club raised £1.7m, thanks
to key supporters including Sport England and, specifically, a £200,000 grant from British
Equestrian Federation.

Andrew Finding, Chief Executive BEF said, “The new facilities at Ebony are a key part of our
legacy plans; while we are excited about staging the Games it’s also important to remember
those for whom the horse can bring a great and positive influence. It’s wonderful to see the
support provided by so many, including those with their own equestrian interests, for those in
need. This is a very important part of our own Olympic Legacy.”

Local parent, Karen Reid, who has three children at the Club said, “The whole family has waited
so long to hear this news. Ebony has really supported my children especially my son, through
some quite difficult times. The children love going to the stables after school and at weekends.
It’s great that so many more children from the area will benefit and have access to this support.

While the open day demonstrated just how many individuals, families, companies and
organisations have supported and will continue to support Ebony, it is the tenacity of one
woman, Ros Spearing, that has turned a dream into a reality.

Ros says, “We now have a modern community riding centre that will help us to meet the needs
of many more children and young people. I am immensely grateful to all our supporters without
whom this new riding centre in the heart of Brixton would not be possible. The riding centre
has been in development for eight years and is a testament to the young people, all of whom
have inspired our work.”

Although not directly a memorial to a former member of Ebony Horse Club who was killed in a
gang-related crime, his absence was keenly felt by many of the long-standing supporters of the
Club, and for newcomers, this very real tragedy appeared a far cry from the community spirit
exhibited at the Club.

The Duchess watched displays of horsemanship by the Club members and commemorated her
visit - the third since she became President in 2009 - by unveiling a plaque.

NOTES TO EDITORS

The British Equestrian Federation is the recognised governing body of horse sports in the UK.
Through its eighteen members the BEF represents and works to promote the interests of the
4.2 million riders and carriage drivers in Britain.

Ebony Horse Club is one of many equestrian establishments in the city to be benefitting from
the support of HOOF, a legacy project inspired by the London 2012 Games which aims to attract
funding, improve standards and increase participation in equestrian sports from all sectors of
the community.

For details about HOOF, the BEF Olympic Legacy Project, visit www.hoof-in-town.com.

For further editorial opportunities relating to HOOF, please contact Anna Bruce at Eventerprise
PR anna@annabruce.co.uk or Tel: 07970 285781

For more information on Ebony Horse Club and interviews with spokespeople
please contact: colleen@colleenharris.co.uk or call Colleen on +44 (0)7802 296 737.
www.ebonyhorseclub.org.uk

Emile Faurie visit to Vauxhall City Farm

2011-11-14T14:23:00.001+00:00

Central London families muck in with Emile Faurie at Vauxhall City Farm

Twenty London families were able to receive free horse riding and stable management lessons led by Britain’s Team Gold Medalist from the recent European Dressage Championships, Emile Faurie, over the October half term holidays.

Funded by Westminster Council’s ward budget programme and in partnership with the Emile Faurie Foundation, London families were given the opportunity to learn how to ride and look after horses for free at Vauxhall City Farm.

David Gadsby, London representative for the British Equestrian Federation said, “At the BEF we are generating a legacy from the London 2012 Games and welcome this wonderful initiative thanks to Westminster Council. This is an opportunity for new riders to meet an Olympian, and to realise that riding, and just being around horses, is something everyone can enjoy. Even inthe centre of London it is possible to truly escape into another world.”

Founded in 2006 by one of the UK’s leading equine sportsmen, The Emile Faurie Foundation is a unique collaboration of schools, riding establishments and fundraisers whose aim is to help as many children as possible experience the joys and benefits of horsemanship.

Having reached the top of his game, during his visit, Olympian Emile talked to the young people about his achievements with horses to inspire them to reach for their goals.

Emile Faurie, said: “I am delighted that The Foundation has teamed up with Vauxhall City Farm to provide children and their families with the opportunity to ride and care for horses.

“I am grateful to Westminster City Council for their financial support and it was great to visit the farm.”

Cllr Melvyn Caplan, Westminster Council’s Cabinet Member for Customer Services and Transformation, said: “This is a fantastic example of how Westminster’s ward budget programme can provide unique opportunities for all members of the community.

“I know the families of Tachbrook thoroughly enjoyed their visit to Vauxhall City Farm and taking part in this fun activity together over the half term holidays.”

Linda Hinds, riding manager at Vauxhall City Farm, said: “This is a great opportunity for us to reach our local community, introduce them to the farm and let them enjoy our oasis in the middle of the city.”

David adds, “Many equestrian centres and city farms cater for disabled and disadvantaged riders and Emile’s visit will help increase awareness of the many opportunities there are within our sport - volunteering to viable careers in and out of the city.”

The scheme is being funded by the Tachbrook ward budget.

Ward budgets were first introduced as a two-year pilot in 2008. A total of £50,000 was allocated to each of the 20 wards within Westminster for 2010/11 and also for 2011/12.

NOTES TO EDITORS

Photos are available from the following photosales website where you can view and buy if you wish.
Please visit www.buyaphototms.co.uk and in the keyword search box enter wl20110677 or vauxhall
Thanks for your interest.

Chris Berry
Multimedia Editor Photographic
Trinity Mirror Southern
89 Eastworth Road
Chertsey
Surrey
KT16 8DX.
Tel : 01932 561111

This press release is brought to you by HOOF, the British Equestrian Federation’s legacy project for the London 2012 Games. Vauxhall City Farm is one of many equestrian establishments in the city to be benefitting from the support of HOOF, a legacy project inspired by the London 2012 Games which aims to attract funding, improve standards and increase participation in equestrian sports from all sectors of the community.

The British Equestrian Federation is the recognised governing body of horse sports in the UK. Through its eighteen members the BEF represents and works to promote the interests of the 4.2 million riders and carriage drivers in Britain.

For details about HOOF, the BEF Olympic Legacy Project, visit www.hoof-in-town.com. For further editorial opportunities relating to HOOF, please contact Anna Bruce at Eventerprise PR anna@annabruce.co.uk or Tel: 07970 285781.

Hoof in the Ranconteur on Equestrian Times

2011-10-11T11:32:00.005+01:00

Full story:

http://np.netpublicator.com/netpublication/n37076560

Vote for RDA Centre to win £6000 Natwest Award

2011-10-11T10:12:00.003+01:00

With just two weeks’ left for votes to be cast in the annual Natwest Community Force Awards, your chance to support New Lodge RDA Centre, Near Eltham is nearly over.

Founded 30 years ago, New Lodge RDA provides a service for children and adults with physical and sensory special needs and learning difficulties and currently has 12 horses and ponies and a team of volunteers helping to provide lessons six days a week to approximately 100 regular riders.

Thanks to votes cast last year, New Lodge RDA benefitted hugely from a £3000.00 award last year, helping to pay for tack and equipment for a new horse.

Now bidding for £6000.00, manager, Hilary Crawford explains, “New Lodge started 30 years ago and many of the fixtures and fittings are original. We’ve raised £5000 already towards the £20,000 required to repair the pot-hole filled driveway and replace old post and rails but adding another £6000 to these funds through the NatWest Award will really help get work underway.”

Members of the London Horse Network, an Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation have already added their support, and David Gadsby, London representative of the BEF explains, “New Lodge really brings many London boroughs, including that of the Olympic Park in Greenwich, together spreading its work to many children and young adults and drawing volunteers from across the region. Visited by Lord Sebastian Coe and Lee Pearson CBE earlier this year, the centre demonstrated how the London Olympics has inspired the centre – funding sourced through the London Horse Network enabling volunteers to help train youngsters to reach the RDA National Championships this year. And, winning this funding will mean all those at New Lodge can be proud of their facilities, not just the work within the centre, and create a safer environment from which to support their community.”

Whether New Lodge is part of your local region or not you can add your votes online by visiting communityforce.natwest.com/project/2343 - you just need to register and verify your email address to vote. But hurry, voting ends 23rd October 2011.

London Horse Network Celebrates First Birthday

2011-10-04T13:41:00.000+01:00

London Horse Network Celebrates First Birthday

The London Horse Network celebrated its first birthday on 26th September with drinks and canapés on the 11^th floor of 6 Mitre Buildings, Greenwich Peninsula, overlooking many of the Olympic village sites for 2012.

Supported by HOOF the Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation, BEF London Representative, David Gadsby says, “The London Horse Network owes its success to development funding and assistance from the BEF and Sport England and the invaluable contribution of volunteer chair, Jodie Maile and contributing members of the Network.

From the first meeting in which the network agreed priorities of accessing funding, generating links with County Sports Partnerships, schools and local government, improving standards and providing affordable training in the region to increase participation, much has been achieved.

David says, “We held a funding workshop enabling six centres to achieve £50,000 in facilities funding between them and a further six centres successfully applied for Mayor’s Legacy funding to subsidise training for new or existing riders and staff, in return for volunteering.”

Kevin Butchart of Woodredon Equestrian Centre says, “We have already achieved well in excess of 100 new young riders attending our centre who have never ridden before due to HOOF projects with additional interest from their parents to start riding on other HOOF initiatives.”

Members of the London Horse Network include representatives from BEF member bodies such as the BHS and ABRS, riding school proprietors, livery yards, competitive riders, and grooms and encompass various disciplines from RDA to carriage driving, polocrosse to eventing.

Linda Hinds, manager of Vauxhall City Farm Riding School says, “Just meeting and getting ideas, sharing problems and feeling less alone has been hugely beneficial.”

In response to requests, the London Horse Network has hosted business skills days from book-keeping and allowable expenses to employment law and customer care, and coaching clinics have been carefully chosen.

Jodie says, “The Network aims to respond to the needs of the region and hence we hosted coaching clinics that demonstrated what can be achieved to bring new people in to the sport, fill quiet times and keep current riders challenged.”

Open European Eventing Champion, Lucy Thompson, demonstrated cross-country training in a confined area, the UK Polocrosse Association gave an insight into setting up this exciting sport, Andrew MacFarlane who runs Lead Change, offering business professionals the chance to analyse their leadership and team skills by being around horses on the ground, spoke of the influence a coach has on their pupil and, acclaimed coach, Minette Rice-Edwards, discussed how the rider can affect the horse.

The London Horse Network also supported the inaugural Team London Riding Schools Dressage Championship, bringing in sponsorship to the summer competition and increasing competitive opportunities has since been drafted in to the wish list of Network members.

Intent on building on the enthusiasm generated over the past year, the first birthday and AGM also gave those present the chance to put forward their views for the coming year, particularly how this Olympic Legacy project should capitalize on increased tourism, and interest in equestrian sports, thanks to the Games coming to Greenwich Park.

David concludes, “It was thanks to Greenwich Council that we were able to enjoy the fabulous venue beside the O2 arena for our birthday and it felt like we’d come a long way from a yard portacabin where people barely knew one another at our first meeting. It was a great way to celebrate the contributions of many individuals of all age and experiences and to thank professionals who have generously given their time to seeing the Network succeed.”

Notes to editors:

For more details regarding HOOF, visit www.hoof-in-town.com or contact Anna Bruce at evenerprise pr on 07970 285781 or email annabruce101@googlemail.com.

London Rider At HOYS

2011-10-04T13:21:00.001+01:00

Look out for London’s Shari Butchart, competing at Horse of The Year Show tonight.

No stranger to championships, Shari rode at HOYS, the World’s most famous horse show, as a junior show jumper before going on to represent Britain at international level as a young rider.

Now 27, Shari, and her aptly named horse, Olympic, will be up against leading international event riders.

Shari switched to take up eventing four years’ ago and has ambitions to win one – or all – of the major British events and compete in an Olympic team.

Alongside this, Shari is yard manager and a BHS II instructor at the family run, Woodredon Equestrian Centre – which, as a member of the London Horse Network, is supported by HOOF – the Olympic Legacy project of the British Equestrian Federation.

And, Shari is involved in encouraging old and new riders to take up the sport through projects such as Mayor’s Legacy and is piloting the ‘Take Back The Reins’ initiative for the British Equestrian Federation.

Shari says, “I love teaching”, but on being under the spotlight for the Express Eventing competition, Shari says, “I’m excited about the whole experience and just thinking about riding in to the arena with the crowds!”

For more info visit www.hoof-in-town.com

Seb Coe and Lee Pearson visit riding centre for enthusiastic young disabled people

2011-09-22T10:40:00.001+01:00

Seb Coe, Chair of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games (LOCOG) and nine-time gold medallist Lee Pearson CBE today visited a riding centre which specialises in providing riding facilities to both adults and children who have a range of special needs.

New Lodge Centre in Eltham caters for about 75 and 100 regular riders who have a range of special needs including physical, sensory, and learning difficulties.

As well as watching one of the riding lessons, Seb Coe and Lee Pearson had the opportunity to meet some of the riders and find out why riding is such a beneficial activity for them.

Lee Pearson, who has won nine gold medals at three Paralympic Games also provided advice and guidance to budding riders. He will be competing in his fourth Paralympic Games next summer and people who would like to witness him potentially win his tenth gold medal can now apply for tickets to the Equestrian event which will be held in Greenwich Park.

Tickets for the Paralympic Games are now on sale until 6pm on 26 September and people are encouraged to apply at www.tickets.london2012.com. Approximately 2 million tickets will go on sale to the public between now and Games-time, with 1.5 million being available in the first phase.

Prices start at £10 for adults and £5 for those who are 16 or under and 60 or over on 29 August 2012. 50% of tickets are £10 or under, 75% are £20 or under and there are also day passes which will enable people to see more than one sport in a day. There are also Group Organiser tickets which will allow groups to purchase 20 tickets and receive two additional tickets at no extra charge, groups of thirty receiving three extra tickets and so on up to 50 tickets.

Seb Coe, Chair of LOCOG said: ‘It’s been fantastic visiting this centre and seeing how much these young disabled riders are benefiting from the activities provided by New Lodge Centre. We want to leave a lasting legacy with the Games and centres like this one will help inspire young people to give a new sport a go. The Paralympic Games are a chance for people to see sport like never before and I'd encourage people to come and experience it for themselves by applying for tickets.’

Lee Pearson CBE said: ‘I've really enjoyed meeting some of the young riders and seeing how inspired they are. This is what the Paralympic Games are all about - inspiring young people and demonstrating what they can do. When I was growing up, I would have benefited from centres like this so I’m thrilled to see the legacy the Paralympic Games will leave in London.’

For further information please contact the London 2012 Press Office on +44 (0)203 2012 100 or visit the website at www.london2012.com. Find out the latest from London 2012 HQ on our blog http://www.london2012.com/blog or follow us on Twitter http://www.twitter.com/london2012

Notes to editors

As it heads towards its £2bn budget for staging the Olympic and Paralympic Games, LOCOG has seven domestic Tier One Partners - adidas, BMW, BP, British Airways, BT, EDF and Lloyds TSB. There are seven domestic Tier Two Supporters – Adecco, ArcelorMittal, Cadbury, Cisco, Deloitte, Thomas Cook and UPS. There are now twenty-eight domestic Tier Three Suppliers and Providers – Aggreko, Airwave, Atkins, Boston Consulting Group, CBS Outdoor, Crystal CG, Eurostar, Freshfields Bruckhaus Deringer LLP, G4S, GSK, Gymnova, Heathrow Airport, Heineken UK, Holiday Inn, John Lewis, McCann Worldgroup, Mondo, NATURE VALLEY, Next, Nielsen, Populous, Rapiscan Systems, Rio Tinto, Technogym, Thames Water, Ticketmaster, Trebor and Westfield.

There is one domestic Tier One Paralympic Games Partner, Sainsbury’s and one domestic Tier Three Paralympic Supplier, Otto Bock.

The Worldwide Olympic Partners signed up for London 2012 are Coca-Cola, Acer, Atos, Dow Chemical Company, GE, McDonald’s, Omega, Panasonic, Procter and Gamble, Samsung and Visa.

Take Back The Reins kicks off in London

2011-09-19T16:27:00.000+01:00

Visit http://www.hoof-in-town.com/take-back-the-reins/index.php to find you how you, new or lapsed riders can take advantage of a brilliant initiative from the British Equestrian Federation.

There's six of London's finest and friendliest equestrian centres waiting to encourage new and old riders back in to the saddle with a bit of socialising downtime to boot.

When you're ready, group hacks will be on offer or you could keep with the lesson, coffee and cake, or try out a specific discipline from polocrosse to show jumping there's something to suit all ages and abilities, from those seeking a sedate walk in the park or a firing up of adrenaline in their veins.

Carl Hester short film

2011-09-13T22:10:00.010+01:00

View Introductory Carl Hester short film on the Guardian site »

http://gu.com/p/3xy3f/tw

Equestrian Centres receive taster for Customer Care Masterclass

2011-09-02T10:00:00.002+01:00

Equestrian centres enjoyed a customer care seminar from Sonia Birch, founder of a chain of leisure centres and now a regional co-odinator for the British Equestrian Federation, in preparation for future collaboration with the John Lewis Partnership.
The centres from London to Yorkshire are all part of ‘Take Back The Reins’, a pilot project from the British Equestrian Federation, aimed at encouraging new and former riders to take up riding with the provision of riding accompanied by social activities and underpinned by excellent customer care.

Sonia recalls, “When I started out in business I didn’t think customer care was much more than putting a smiley person on the front desk but now it is a key element to my consultancy business and can make a massive difference to attracting clients and creating loyalty.”

In groups, the instructors and managers were able to share their experiences outside the equestrian environment - the good, bad and ugly – from missed flights leading to travelling in first class accommodation to poor communication regarding items ordered and not delivered.

Sonia says, “Our riders will want a quality experience and although we know we won’t get everything right all the time, it is about empowering staff to treat clients as they would like to be treated and creating magic moments from situations that could otherwise have produced negative feedback.”

It was clear mental notes were being made as to good companies but, Sonia warns, “If someone does give you a good review then the expectation of those who hear of it will be even higher and they will be disappointed unless they too get amazing service.”

Sonia therefore gave centres the chance to consider their ‘customer care charter’, and centres gave their own suggestions from mission statements to cancellation policies and also defining what responsibility the staff should have such as for handling challenging situations.

Centres were encouraged to involve staff in creating their customer care charter with the added benefit of employees, considered as internal customers, then taking ownership of the charter and buying in to the customer-focused culture.

There was also an opportunity to consider the customer’s journey – their feelings and solutions from arriving at an unfamiliar centre, with possibly some anxiety, to going home, and also their journey throughout a course of lessons or hacks at the stables.

Sonia says, “It’s important not to put one’s own preconceived ideas into a customer journey but to ask the customers themselves”, adding, “I never thought parking at our leisure centre was a problem until I discovered one customer was so fearful their car might be scratched they preferred to use a ‘pay and display’ down the road, so we changed the markings to give people more space to park.”

And centres were encouraged to consider the value of a customer over their life time.

Sonia says, “A department store will imagine their customer will spend approximately £20,000 at their stores, or online, over a lifetime so quibbling over a faulty ironing board cover is put into perspective and you can do the same.”

Indeed, many centres were able to share stories of clients who started to ride at the centre and became horse owners, livery clients, brought their children and grandchildren, became volunteers or even members of staff!

Generating loyalty such as this may not take more than small acts of generosity however, with Sonia saying, “With loyalty cards available for almost everything from fuel stations to supermarkets, a more personal approach – a thank you, a mention on the noticeboard, or an unexpected gift – could be all that’s required.”

Inspiring and demonstrating some great practices already being implemented by the equestrian centres preparing to pilot ‘Take Back The Reins’, a future customer care seminar is also scheduled to take place with BEF partner, John Lewis.

Natalie O’Rourke of Park Lane Stables remarked on the day, “At first I felt greedy as I brought all my staff with me today but it’s just made me realise how much time we should spend attending courses like this as the value this brings to us as individuals, as a team, and as a centre is amazing.”

To find out more about Take Back The Reins visit www.hoof-in-town.com

To register your interest in attending the customer care seminar contact; Jodie Maile at jodievm@aol.co.uk

Notes to editors:

For more details regarding HOOF, visit www.hoof-in-town.com or contact Anna Bruce at evenerprise pr on 07970 285781 or email annabruce101@googlemail.com.

Gold Medalist, Emile Faurie, visits London riding school to celebrate Olympic Legacy funding

2011-08-30T10:00:00.005+01:00

Fresh from helping Britain secure its first Team Gold medal at the European Dressage Championships Emile Faurie, visited London’s Mount Mascal Stables to celebrate funding received thanks to HOOF – an Olympic Legacy project being delivered by the British Equestrian Federation.
Through its membership of the London Horse Network, a group supported by HOOF, Mount Mascal Stables was informed of an opportunity for funding, sourced from Sport England, to help riders, start, stay and succeed in the sport.

With British weather a barrier, especially in the winter months, Mount Mascal Stables applied for £25,000 of match-funding to erect a roof over its outdoor arena to offer greater opportunities for disadvantaged groups, enable more lessons to go ahead, extend opening hours and to provide a suitable area for competitions.

David Gadsby, London representative of the British Equestrian Federation says, “Our legacy programme will deliver improvements and improved access to facilities across the city to enable a new generation of riders to step into the sport”, adding, “The application from Mount Mascal Stables showed clearly that, with investment from HOOF, additional capacity could be created to enable more people to ride at this great centre..”

Kevin Butchart, regional representative for the Association of British Riding Schools concurs saying, “This development in facilities will have far-reaching benefits in helping riders to develop in their training whether that leads them to gaining qualifications, enjoying certain disciplines within equestrian sport or just simply maximizing their enjoyment when riding.”

And, Claire McCaffery-Clarke, regional representative of the British Horse Society adds, “It will also give new and existing riders more opportunities to access excellent training as supplied by all BHS approved establishments.”

Emile himself first leant to ride at 16 and now, at 47, is not just an elite member of British Dressage and a veteran of two Olympic Games with his sights set on representing the home nation in London 2012, but is founder of the Emile Faurie Foundation, a charity aimed at enabling disadvantaged children to ride and experience the magic of horses.

Emile says, “Whether you want to win a gold medal or just get out of the house, horses have the ability to develop life skills such as self-confidence, responsibility, discipline and can have a positive impact on academic performance too.”

Mount Mascal Stables welcomes this aim, with proprietor, John Window, explaining, “Our philosophy at Mount Mascal is that riding should be accessible to everyone. Our new space means we can continue and further develop our community links to enable more people to learn and enjoy riding - especially those who may be disadvantaged or discouraged by their perception of the sport. They can now benefit from a safe and attractive outdoor riding environment, all year round which is especially important in our ever increasingly urban society. And, with 2012 just around the corner now, we are looking forward to encouraging new fans of our sport, inspired by the Olympic equestrian events in Greenwich, to convert from spectating to participating."

Jodie Maile, volunteer chair of the London Horse Network also attended the day, commented: “Already, as a network, we are seeing real evidence of the impact the Olympics will have on the London equestrian community, bringing many different disciplines together, celebrating the sport, the horse and the positive influences equestrianism can bring to so many lives.”

David concludes, “The enthusiasm shown by the people of Greenwich and the surrounding boroughs at the Olympic Test Event has shown what support there is for the horse and equestrian sport in London and it’s great to know Mount Mascal Stables will now have the extra capacity it required to cater for those inspired by the World’s leading riders competing on their doorstep.”

Notes to editors:
For more details regarding HOOF, visit www.hoof-in-town.com or contact Anna Bruce at
evenerprise pr on 07970 285781 or email annabruce101@googlemail.com.

For John and Alison Window, contact Mount Mascal Stables, Vicarage Road, Bexley, DA5 2AW
www.mountmascalstables.co.uk, Tel: 020 8300 3947, email: ali@mountmascalstables.com
(Alison Window)

Lady Harris to present medals at Team London Riding School Championship

2011-06-14T12:34:00.000+01:00

Lady Pauline Harris is to present medals to the winning team and individuals at the inaugural Team London Riding School Championship 2011 to be held at Dressage at Hickstead on 22nd June and supported by HOOF – The Olympic Legacy project of the BEF.

No need to beg, borrow or steal....

2011-06-10T15:00:00.000+01:00

Since many riders competing in the Team London Riding Schools Championships to be held at Dressage at Hickstead on 22^nd June 2011, have never competed before, online retailer Cavaletti Clothing has come to the rescue.

Cavaletticlothing.com has created a special Team London site where riding schools can buy some items at special rates and receive a free pair of Hac Tac gloves with every order, in association with HOOF – The Olympic Legacy project of the BEF.

Get the (Team) London Look!

2011-06-10T14:59:00.000+01:00

In association with HOOF – The Olympic Legacy project of the BEF, TOGGI is donating celebration blousons, polo shirts and baseball caps based on their latest Team GBR collection to team medal winners at the Team London Riding Schools Championships to be held on 22^nd June at Dressage at Hickstead.

EcoComfyBed supports Team London Riding Schools Championships

2011-06-10T14:49:00.000+01:00

London Riding School horses could sleep comfortably as they are in with a chance of winning EcoComfyBed bedding in the Team London Riding Schools Championships to be held at Dressage at Hickstead on 22^nd June 2011.

Both the centre behind the winning team and winning individual rider will receive a pallet of bedding worth approximately £185.00, in association with HOOF – The Olympic Legacy project of the BEF.