Your data on MRCVSonline
The nature of the services provided by Vision Media means that we might obtain certain information about you.
Please read our Data Protection and Privacy Policy for details.

In addition, (with your consent) some parts of our website may store a 'cookie' in your browser for the purposes of
functionality or performance monitoring.
Click here to manage your settings.
If you would like to forward this story on to a friend, simply fill in the form below and click send.

Your friend's email:
Your email:
Your name:
 
 
Send Cancel

Hoof and Macmillan team up for Blenheim Horse Trials
Offering cancer patients free lessons to boost confidence

Hoof, the British Equestrian Federation’s Olympic and Paralympic legacy project, and cancer charity Macmillan have teamed up for the Fidelity Blenheim International Horse trials.

Macmillan, the chosen charity for the horse trials, and Hoof showcased Henry, the mechanical horse, who provided the perfect opportunity for prospective and lapsed riders to regain confidence in the saddle, offering free rides and rosettes for everyone.

Courtesy of the association between the two organisations, Lesley Newport, a 55-year-old horse rider and lung cancer patient celebrated a milestone in her treatment with a trip to the horse trials.

Two years ago, Lesley received her lung cancer diagnosis and a prognosis of six months to live. She was determined to maximise and prolong her life and was encouraged to exercise and maintain her fitness.

She discovered the Take Back the Reins programme and began horse riding at her local centre, Newton Hall Equitation Centre in Ipswich.

Take Back The Reins, a Sport England funded initiative, was developed by Hoof and equestrian centres across England to provide a structured set of fun riding lessons for new or lapsed riders to give them confidence in the saddle.

Commenting on the programme, Lesley said: "When someone says to you that you are going to die you wake up every day thinking is it today, and I think the mere fact of going to the stables, seeing the horses and creating a new group of friends that I have a shared interest with, coupled with the support from Macmillan is such an inspiration to get better."

Sara Rawnsley, Macmillan fundraising manager for Oxfordshire, said: "Lesley has so much energy and refuses to let cancer be the end of doing things she loves. Hearing how much riding has helped her through her cancer journey should inspire us all to find the time to do the things we love."

Become a member or log in to add this story to your CPD history

Animal Medicines Amnesty returns this November

News Story 1
 Veterinary practices are being urged to help owners safely dispose of any unused and expired pet medicines - not just antibiotics - during November's Animal Medicines Amnesty.

Organised by the Responsible Use of Medicines Alliance Companion Animal and Equine (RUMA CA&E), the initative is supported by a range of cross-sector organisations.

Practices are encouraged to use the campaign to engage the whole practice team and raise awareness of the safe disposal of medicines with clients. Learn how your practice can get involved at rumacae.org.uk 

Click here for more...
News Shorts
APHA launches free virtual work experience programme

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), in collaboration with Springpod, has launched a free virtual work experience programme, giving young people across the UK the chance to explore careers dedicated to protecting animal and plant health.

The on-demand programme offers a unique insight into career opportunities within APHA, showcasing how students can contribute to tackling some of the UK's most critical biosecurity and environmental challenges.

Designed for students aged 13 and over, the course includes more than 10 hours of engaging content featuring real-life industry insights, scenario-based challenges, and practical guidance on applying for jobs. To register for the course, visit the APHA website.