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

Sir Colin Spedding award presented to Claire Williams
Claire Williams (pictured) is executive director of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA).

BETA executive director recognised for support of the equine sector during the pandemic.

Executive director of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) Claire Williams has been presented with this year's National Equine Forum (NEF) Special COVID-19 Sir Colin Spedding Award 2021 by HRH The Princess Royal.

Ms Williams was nominated for the Award in recognition of her hard work to support the equestrian sector during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This included analysis of Government guidelines and development of protocols which allowed feed merchants, as well as tack shops selling feed and horse care products, to trade legally and continue providing essential safety services.

She was presented with her award by HRH The Princess Royal, who is President of the NEF,  during a special ceremony at Gatcombe Park on 29 April 2021.

Ms Williams said: “I feel deeply honoured, not only to have won the award but also for it to have been presented to me by HRH The Princess Royal. The past 12 months have been a challenge for the industry and I was pleased to have been able to play my part in providing support to BETA members and members of the wider equestrian community through this difficult time.

“This award actually belongs not just to me but to my colleagues at BETA, whose support has been invaluable.”

The annual Sir Colin Spedding Award was introduced in 2013 to recognise someone working in the equestrian world who has gone above and beyond in their work.

The NEF Organising Committee have adapted this year's award to celebrate those who provided support and guidance during the pandemic. It will return to its original format in 2022.

Nominations are now open for the 2022 Award. The closing date is midday on Saturday 31 July 2021. To find out more please visit the NEF website.

Image (c) Bob Langrish.

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

Webinar to explore history of KC breed registers

News Story 1
 A free webinar exploring the development of the Kennel Club's registration system and the evolution of closed breed registers has been announced.

Hosted by Dr Alison Skipper, veterinary and research advisor at the Kennel Club, the webinar will delve into the development of the registry and how the changing landscape of scientific knowledge has shaped breeding practices. It will also look at what this means for the future of pedigree dogs.

The session will culminate with a look at The Kennel Club's ongoing and future engagement in this area, with a chance for attendees to put forward their thoughts and questions for discussion.

This event takes place on Microsoft Teams on Tuesday, 10 June at 7pm. To learn more, visit events.teams.microsoft.com  

Click here for more...
News Shorts
UK's BSE risk status downgraded

The WOAH has downgraded the UK's international risk status for BSE to 'negligible'.

Defra says that the UK's improved risk status recognises the reputation for having the highest standards for biosecurity. It adds that it demonstrates decades of rigorous animal control.

Outbreaks of Bovine Spongiform Encephalopathy, also known as mad cow disease, have previously resulted in bans on Britain's beef exports.

The UK's new status could lead to expanded trade and better confidence in British beef.

Christine Middlemiss, the UK's chief veterinary officer, said: "WOAH's recognition of the UK as negligible risk for BSE is a significant milestone and is a testament to the UK's strong biosecurity measures and the hard work and vigilance of farmers and livestock keepers across the country who have all played their part in managing the spread of this disease.