British Equestrian Federation welcomes new associate member

Horse welfare in equestrian sport is to be enhanced, as equine charity World Horse Welfare becomes a member of the British Equestrian Federation (BEF).

On January 1, 2014, the charity became an associate member of the national governing body for horse sports in the UK, bringing its expertise to a wide range of welfare issues.

Andrew Finding, chief executive of the BEF, said: "Equestrian welfare is particularly critical to all we do and therefore World Horse Welfare’s role is vital to our industry. We have been highly impressed by the leadership and quality of the work of the organisation and are delighted to welcome them on board as part of our operation.

"Their coming into the Federation draws together the work we do both nationally and internationally in conjunction with the FEI (Federation Equestrian Internationale). This is a particularly important time in review of the considerable number of horses requiring care and attention.

"There is also a potential synergy for us in partnership with World Horse Welfare in finding homes for horses after rehabilitation - that will not only improve welfare but may also contribute to increasing participation."

The BEF exists to represent the interests of 4.2 million British riders, vaulters and carriage drivers, providing leadership and purpose to steer the direction of equestrianism.

Commenting on the charity's new membership, World Horse Welfare chief executive Roly Owers said: "Our membership makes good sense given our long-term support for the responsible use of horses in sport and our role as welfare advisors to the international federation (FEI) for the past three decades.

"Of course we already liaise closely with the BEF, such as through the Equine Sector Council, but this development can only help further strengthen our relationship. We fully support the BEF’s strategy, most especially the emphasis on ‘better horses’, as equine welfare is so important in all aspects of equine sport."