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Landmark scheme for New Forest makes great strides - Wednesday, July 21 2010

Europe’s largest agri-environment scheme designed to restore and enhance internationally-important habitats in the New Forest has begun to make a real difference on the ground. The Higher Level Stewardship (HLS) scheme – £16m of European money over 10 years – was announced in March. It was the result of a successful bid from a partnership between the Verderers, Commoners, New Forest National Park Authority, the Forestry Commission and Natural England. It aims to fund: - the maintenance and restoration of internationally-important habitats for wildlife - the historic practice of commoning and the Verderers, who administer the Forest’s unique agricultural commoning practices which maintain the unique New Forest landscape - improved access to and education about the area’s unique environment. Today (Wednesday 21 July) the Verderers announced a raft of measures to bolster commoning. Official Verderer Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre said: ‘The New Forest animals are often said to be the ‘architects of the Forest’. Without commoning and grazing animals, the landscape would go back to scrub and the benefits to wildlife would be dramatically reduced. The unique New Forest habitat – much of which is important on a global scale – is supported by this ancient practice of commoning, but these days commoning is not commercially viable. So I’m delighted that we can make these improvements, helping to ensure the New Forest is cared for now and for the future. ‘These first year projects are an ambitious and promising start to the 10 year HLS programme, and our intention is not only to help conserve the landscape and biodiversity of the Forest through supporting grazing, but also to leave a legacy after 10 years that will benefit the next generation of practising commoners.’ The measures include: - A scheme to upgrade the Beaulieu Road Sale Yard where commoners auction their ponies (without these improvements the current basic facilities would soon be in breach of trading standards regulations) - £340,000 - Continuation of the grazing payment scheme where commoners are supported in putting their stock on the Forest and to help manage the landscape and preserve traditional practices - £400,000 - Reflective pony collars worth nearly to help prevent animal accidents on the roads - £9,000 - New stock trailers for the Agisters who help manage the stock on the Forest - £22,000 - A grant towards a Land Advice Service to help land managers increase environmental measures - £10,000. Alison Barnes, New Forest National Park Authority Chief Executive, said: ‘Commoning underpins the whole delicate balance of the New Forest -supporting the wildlife, tourism and the local economy. It’s impressive to think what we can achieve with the HLS and I’m delighted to see such practical action with tangible results so early in the scheme.’ Graham Ferris, Chairman of the Commoners' Defence Association, said: 'We are very pleased that at this early stage of the Higher Level Stewardship scheme there are a number of projects with significant long-term benefits for the future of commoning - exactly in line with the criteria established by the partners for approving HLS projects.'

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, July 19 2010

Week commencing Monday 12th July 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 13/07/2010 ~ Black+White Cow - Nothing Found ~ Burley Road, Thorney Hill ~ J R Gerrelli 16/07/2010 ~ Chestnut Mare - Injured & Destroyed ~ Claypits - B3078 ~ P Rix 18/07/2010 ~ Bay colt foal - Killed ~ Latchmore - B3055 (E) ~ R Maton

Charlotte's I Believe I Can - Charity Dance - Sunday, July 18 2010

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, July 12 2010

Week commencing Monday 5th July 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 08/07/2010 ~ Cow - Nothing Found ~ Ipley Crossroads ~ A Napthine 08/07/2010 ~ Bay Foal - Injured ~ Rhinefield Road Brock ~ R Maton 09/07/2010 ~ Black Mare - Uninjured ~ Brookley Road, Brock ~ J R Gerrelli 11/07/2010 ~ Brown Filly Foal - Killed - HIT & RUN ~ B3058 Wootton ~ J R Gerrelli

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Wednesday, July 7 2010

Week commencing Monday 28th June 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 28/06/2010 ~ Bay colt foal - Injured & Destroyed ~ Marlpit Oak - B3055 ~ J R Gerrelli 29/06/2010 ~ Grey pony - Nothing Found ~ Marlpit Oak - B3055 ~ R Maton 04/07/2010 ~ Bay colt foal - Injured & Destroyed ~ Thorney Hill ~ A Napthine

Think Twice on Flying Lanterns - Wednesday, July 7 2010

New Forest Commoners and horse-owners join groups warning of high risks to the New Forest A Joint Statement from the New Forest Commoners Defence Association, Forestry Commission, Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service, National Farmers Union, and the New Forest Equestrian Association The Forestry Commission, Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service, and the National Farmers Union (NFU) have already warned over the risks from flying lanterns. Now the New Forest Equestrian Association (NFEA) and the Commoners Defence Association are adding their voices to call for people to be particularly alert to the dangers in the New Forest. The organisations are now issuing a joint warning. Fiona Macdonald, Chairman of the NFEA said: “The risks within the New Forest area are particularly high, because there are so many typical smallholdings, with hay barns and timber and thatch outbuildings, close to New Forest towns and villages” Graham Ferris from the CDA added: “The wire remains of these lanterns are now turning up on the open Forest. This puts commoners’ livestock at serious risk, needlessly adding to the risks that they already face”. It is these risks, and the fact that lanterns have already killed livestock elsewhere, that led the NFU to call recently for a complete ban on flying lanterns, and the Forestry Commission to raise a local alert, A spokesperson from the Forestry Commission said; “Chinese-style flying lanterns are obviously very attractive and becoming ever popular. However, the risk to heathland habitats in an area like the New Forest is extremely high as they can land or catch on something while still burning.. The current extreme dry weather accentuates this risk.” As a result of these fears they have asked local tourism businesses to alert their visitors to the dangers. The warning from the organisations is clear: “We would urge people to think twice before setting lanterns off in the New Forest. The risks are simply too high a price to pay”.

Chris Evans is made Ambassador of Tourism for The New Forest - Friday, July 2 2010

Chris Evans was delighted to receive an honorary award during his charity visit to Chewton Glen Relais & Châteaux on July 1st 2010. The radio and TV celebrity was made an ‘Ambassador for New Forest Tourism’ and presented with a framed certificate by Anthony Climpson OBE, Tourism Manager The New Forest, and Tim Howell, Chairman of the New Forest Tourism Association (NFTA). The honorary Ambassadorship was awarded in recognition of Chris’s constant support of The New Forest in his broadcasting and charitable activities. Chris was staying at the hotel with his BBC Radio 2 team and 14 members of the public (7 drivers and their partners) as part of the 2-day Magnificent 7 Ferrari Drive, one of the BBC Children in Need charity appeal lots. The members of public had bid more than £250,000 to drive 7 different Ferraris during a 2-day tour of southern England including one night of sublime luxury donated by Chewton Glen. The presentation was made on the croquet lawn of in front of the 5-star luxury hotel; on receipt Chris simply thanked Anthony and Tim and said: ‘We love it down here…’ Chris Evans, TV & Radio presenter; Anthony Climpson OBE, Tourism Manager The New Forest; Tim Howell, Chairman of the New Forest Tourism Association.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, June 28 2010

Week commencing Monday 21st June 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 27/06/2010 ~ Angus heifer - Injured & Destroyed ~ Deadmans Hill - B3078 ~ J R Gerrelli

Volunteers fight Forest Invaders - Friday, June 25 2010

Exploding seed pods and toxic sap are just some of the things being targeted by a Forest-wide project to tackle invasive plants that threaten to wipe out our native countryside. Over 60 officers from the New Forest National Park Authority, Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, Natural England, Forestry Commission and the Environment Agency joined forces today (Friday 25 June) to help fight these foreign invaders. The volunteers targeted Warren Farm and Bridge Farm in Brockenhurst and parts of Boldre where their aim was to pull-up as much Himalayan balsam as possible. Alison Barnes, Chief Executive of the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘All the volunteers from the partner organisations worked hard in pulling up as much Himalayan balsam as possible. This is a really important project and it is good to see partner organisations and volunteers getting heavily involved.’ The Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust’s New Forest Non-Native Plants Officer, Catherine Chatters, added: ‘We are asking farmers and landowners to help us track down these plants and let us know if they’ve found any on their land. ‘We are developing a record of where the plants are growing in the river valleys and we can also offer advice and arrange for work to dispose of the plants or control their growth.’ Himalayan Balsam grows vigorously on river banks, especially on the Lymington River. Its seeds shoot out of explosive seed pods and are carried along rivers causing problems downstream. Other foreign plants that being targeted by the non-native plant project in the New Forest are: Japanese knotweed, Giant hogweed, American skunk cabbage and New Zealand pygmyweed. The New Forest Non-Native Plants Project is jointly funded by the New Forest National Park Authority through its core funds and Sustainable Development Fund, the Hampshire and Isle of Wight Wildlife Trust, the Environment Agency, the Forestry Commission, Defra and Natural England. For more information about the project or to find out how you can get involved visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/non_native_plants or www.hwt.org.uk/pages/new-forest-non-native-plants-project.html

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Wednesday, June 23 2010

Week commencing Monday 14th June 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 19/06/2010 ~ Pony - Injured & Destroyed HIT & RUN ~ Burley Street - C10 (W) ~ J R Gerrelli/P Rix 20/06/2010 ~ Foal - Nothing Found ~ Deadman Hill - B3078 ~ A Napthine 20/06/2010 ~ Jenny Donkey - Killed HIT & RUN ~ Matley Ridge - B3056 ~ M Lovell

BHS welcomes rider’s damages claim against bus company - Monday, June 21 2010

The British Horse Society has welcomed the decision to award damages to a rider in Cambridgeshire who suffered a terrifying accident when a bus failed to slow down sufficiently. The equine team at Jacksons Law Firm has been successful in pursuing a claim on behalf of Helen Retallick, 37, for damages against a bus company whose bus failed to slow down sufficiently whilst passing her when she was out hacking her horse Rocky along a Cambridge country lane. Sadly Rocky was badly injured and had to be put down at the scene: and Helen sustained a fracture to her right arm, together with soft tissue injuries and severe trauma rendering her psychologically unable to return to riding. When liability was denied by the coach company because their vehicle was travelling within the speed limit, the case went to trial in Cambridge on 9 June 2010 where the Court took particular note of Rules 214 and 215 of The Highway Code relating to animals and horses. After listening to all of the evidence the judge found that although the driver of the bus had slowed down, he had not slowed down sufficiently. It was further decided that, as Helen had signalled for him to slow down, he should have either stopped or slowed down to nothing more than a crawling pace in order to pass Rocky safely, even though Rocky was on the opposite side of the country lane. Mark Weston, Director of Access, Safety and Welfare at The British Horse Society, said: ‘Sadly this is an all too familiar story – traffic not slowing down sufficiently when passing horses on the road. As demonstrated by this case the consequences of this can be fatal and can have lasting psychological effects not only on the rider concerned but on the vehicle driver and passengers. “It is so important that vehicle drivers should stop or slow down to crawling pace when passing horses on roads and that riders thank them for doing this.’

5% budget cut for New Forest National Park - Friday, June 18 2010

The Department of Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) confirmed this week that the New Forest National Park’s grant will be reduced by 5% to £4.2m as part of the £6.2bn public sector savings – a cut in real terms of £200,000. The Authority’s new Chief Executive Alison Barnes said the Authority had been preparing for a likely reduction in its central government grant and had identified efficiencies over the last year, she was confident it could still fulfil its obligations. She said: ‘Our grant to the New Forest Centre this year will go ahead; all our visitor services such as events and ranger activities will still run; our education team will continue to visit around 5,000 children a year, our planning team will continue to handle over 1,000 applications a year. ‘Defra announced that the Sustainable Development Fund - which has allocated over £750,000 to 80 projects with Forest communities over the past four years - will not be affected this year. ‘We are obviously disappointed at the reduction in our grant but appreciate the difficulties being faced by all public bodies. We were anticipating cuts and have planned accordingly for this year to protect our delivery. However, it will be difficult to absorb any further reductions going forward without it having significant impact.’ The 5% budget cut applies to all English National Parks. Defra has also reduced its funding for a move to shared premises with New Forest District Council at Lymington to £1.8m, but the move will still go ahead. Ms Barnes said: ‘We are unable to continue in our current premises at Everton as the planning permission expires soon. The refit of the Lymington Town Hall buildings will now have to be scaled down but we are confident we can still get a good solution for our visitors, staff and tax payers.’ In addition the National Park Authority, like all other planning authorities, has had its Planning Delivery Grant of £110,000 removed.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, June 15 2010

Week commencing Monday 7th June 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 11/06/2010 ~ Grey Mare - Injured & Destroyed - HIT & RUN ~ Beaulieu Road - B3056 ~ R Maton 13/06/2010 ~ Brown pony - Nothing Found ~ Crockford - B3054 ~ R Maton

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, June 7 2010

Week commencing Monday 31st May 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 04/06/2010 ~ Chestnut mare - Killed - HIT & RUN ~ Black Gutter - B3078 ~ J R Gerrelli 06/06/2010 ~ Bay 3 yr old filly - Killed ~ Howen Bottom - B3078 ~ J R Gerrelli

NEW FOREST HIT & RUN Saturday 29th May - Tuesday, June 1 2010

We are seeking information and/or witnesses as respects the Hit and Run on the 29th May. The pony was found dead at 7.00 a.m. but we do not know what time the accident happened. Vehicle parts were collected from the scene. The vehicle involved is a grey BMW which would have front-end damage. The Police vehicle examiner is working on identifying the model. The Verderers’ Hit & Run Reward Scheme (jointly funded with the New Forest Commoners’ Defence Association and the New Forest Pony Breeding and Cattle Society) will pay up to £1,000 for information leading to the successful conviction of the driver responsible for this accident.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, June 1 2010

Week commencing Monday 24th May 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 26/05/2010 ~ Donkey foal - Uninjured - HIT & RUN ~ Pitmore Lane, Sway ~ R Maton 27/05/2010 ~ Grey pony – Nothing Found ~ Marlpit Oak ~ R Maton 27/05/2010 ~ Bay mare - Injured ~ Marlpit Oak-Sway - B3055 (E) ~ R Maton 28/05/2010 ~ Pony - Nothing Found ~ Howen Bottom - B3078 ~ A Napthine 29/05/2010 ~ Bay Filly - Killed - HIT & RUN ~ Black Gutter - B3078 ~ A Napthine

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, May 25 2010

Week commencing Monday 17th May 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers I am pleased to report that there were no accidents involving Forest stock during week commencing Monday 17th May 2010.

WELFARE TOUR OF THE NEW FOREST THURSDAY 13TH MAY 2010 - Monday, May 17 2010

Our spring welfare tour took place last Thursday and was attended by local and national animal welfare organisations such as the RSPCA, The British Horse Society, World Horse Welfare, The Horse Trust and The Blue Cross, as well as veterinary officers from the government’s Animal Health Agency. Over 500 animals were inspected in both the north and the south of the Forest. Despite the very harsh conditions during the winter, and the prolonged cold and dry spring, all the representatives of the welfare organisations expressed their collective general satisfaction with the condition of the animals. In addition they were satisfied that the system of removing animals from the Forest when their condition deteriorates generally works well, and their particular thanks were expressed to the Agisters for their hard work over the winter months. The Official Verderer, Oliver Crosthwaite Eyre, said: “Obviously the last six months have been hard for the ponies, but they have come through, thanks in no small part to the vigilance of our Agisters. This winter has shown that our system works, but we will remain ever vigilant; there is no room for complacency when you are monitoring animal welfare.”

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, May 17 2010

Week commencing Monday 10th May 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 14/05/2010 ~ Grey mare - Injured - wearing reflective collar ~ Hatchet Moor - B3054 ~ R Maton

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, May 10 2010

Week commencing Monday 3rd May 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 03/05/2010 ~ Jenny donkey in foal - Injured & Destroyed HIT & RUN ~ Bramshaw - B3079 ~ A Napthine 06/05/2010 ~ Jenny donkey – Killed ~ Hawkhill Car Park - B3055 (E) ~ R Maton

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, May 4 2010

Week commencing Monday 26th April 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 30/04/2010 ~ Charolais cow – killed HIT & RUN ~ Hilltop - B3054 ~ M Lovell

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, April 26 2010

Week commencing Monday 19th April 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 19/04/2010 ~ Donkey foal - Injured ~ Pitmore Lane, Sway ~ R Maton 19/04/2010 ~ Donkey - Injured Wittensford ~ A Napthine 21/04/2010 ~ Cow - Nothing Found ~ Roundhill, Brook - B3078 ~ A Napthine 25/04/2010 ~ Calf - Uninjured ~ Beaulieu - B3056 ~ M Lovell

BHS launch new rehoming scheme - Wednesday, April 21 2010

The British Horse Society is pleased to announce its new rehoming scheme established to assist horse owners to find safe new homes for their horses. The British Horse Society receives many requests for help from horse owners urgently seeking new homes for their horses. For most, the prospect of parting with their horse is heartbreaking but unavoidable. As many equine rescue centres are running at, or near to, capacity, finding a safe, experienced and knowledgeable home – and doing so quickly – is not always easy. The BHS has therefore established a rehoming scheme to help existing owners find suitable new homes for their horses. If you are currently looking for a new horse there is also the opportunity to register your details with the BHS. This can either be for a ridden or companion horse or pony. The BHS will then aim to match up a horse wanted with those in need of a new home. Graham Cory, Chief Executive said: “At a time of economic difficulty like this there are many horse owners who find themselves no longer able to care for their animals. It is crucial that horses in this situation are rehomed responsibly and safely. No organisation is better placed to assist with this than the British Horse Society and we are very excited to be launching our new rehoming scheme”. For further information on the scheme please contact 01926 707791 or e.hannelly@bhs.org.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, April 19 2010

Week commencing Monday 12th April 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers I am delighted to report that for the second week running, there were no road accidents involving Forest stock during week commencing Monday 12th April! Long may it last! Regards, Sally

The Commoners’ New Forest - A Photographic Exhibition - Friday, April 16 2010

A stunning exhibition is coming to Lymington this summer in celebration of the Centenary 1909-2009 of the New Forest Commoners’ Defence Association and its members - the commoners, who have done so much to make the Forest the way it is today for the nation. The exhibition will be at the St. Barbe Museum & Art Gallery, Lymington 8 May– 5 June 2010. It features Sally Fear’s collection of glorious New Forest photographs, together with historical photographs loaned by the commoners themselves. It is a tribute to the ongoing skill, hard work, and passion of the New Forest commoners; for it is their animals who are the true Architects of the Forest. Introduced for the first time will be the beginning of her new document on the New Forest Keepers - many of whom are commoners too. Employed by the Forestry Commission, the Keepers have many vital roles; control of deer and other Forest mammals including vermin, management of the rare heathlands, wildlife surveys and conservation work. They also have unique powers to deal with civil offences on the Forest. Talking about her new exhibition, Sally commented “The browsing and grazing of the commoners’ animals plays a central part in the ecology of the New Forest. It is depressing to witness the tragic results of careless driving and I hope that this exhibition will help raise awareness of the role that we all play in helping to preserve this important environment”. The exhibition includes some of the consequences of careless driving, and shows the important role of the New Forest Hounds in the life of the New Forest. Sally lives on the Forest, runs ponies on the Forest and has spent fourteen years documenting the people, the animals, the ecology and the sustainable land management. The Commoners’ New Forest is a remarkable record of the real life behind the public image of the New Forest, which is one of the most beautiful areas of Europe. Sally Fear comments: “We owe the commoners an enormous debt of gratitude. It is through their skill, their care for their animals and their knowledge of the fragile ecology of the Forest that the Forest has survived almost unchanged for hundreds of years and will, hopefully, flourish for many years to come.” “We also all owe a great deal to Lord Arthur Cecil who recognised the need for the New Forest Commoners’ Defence Association a hundred years ago, thus ensuring the maintenance and protection of Forest as it is today.” There is also a book The Commoners’ New Forest to accompany the exhibition.

Horse riders urged to have their say on dangerous dogs - Thursday, April 15 2010

The British Horse Society is encouraging horse riders and owners to respond to a consultation document issued by the government on dangerous dogs. Defra is consulting on a number of options as to how the current situation regarding dangerous dogs might be improved. The British Horse Society is keen to see as many equestrians as possible respond to the consultation. The Society has been collecting information from the victims of dog attacks over the last 10 years in an effort to demonstrate the impact of dangerous dogs on horse riders and owners. During that time, more than 97 reports have been received from victims of dog attacks – 74 of which have occurred in the last three years – and this only covers those that have been reported to the Society. Ten of these attacks proved fatal for the horse and another 42 resulted in injury to a horse. Alongside this, 43 riders and owners have suffered injury, demonstrating that dangerous dogs have serious implications for equestrians. The BHS believes the consultation on dangerous dogs raises many pertinent issues to owners and riders of horses, proving their vulnerability to attacks by dangerous dogs. Mark Weston, Director of Access, Safety and Welfare at the BHS, said: “The number of reported incidents is continuing to rise and steps to make dog owners responsible for their animal’s behaviour would be welcomed by the Society. Any new legislation should cater for dog attacks on horses and riders as they, as proven by our reports, are increasing.” Further information on the consultation can be found on The British Horse Society website, www.bhs.org.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, April 13 2010

Week commencing Monday 5th April 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers I am pleased to report that there were no accidents involving Forest stock during week commencing Monday 5th April 2010. However, there was an accident on Wednesday 31st March 2010 which we failed to include in that week’s report. Details are as follows:- Wednesday 31st March at 10.30 a.m. Grey Mare destroyed Burley Street Agister Robert Maton Incident No. 296

BHS Rockbourne Ride 11th April - Accepting Entries on the Day - Wednesday, April 7 2010

BHS Hants have decided to accept entries on the day for the Rockbourne Fun Ride on Sunday 11th April. Participants need to enter with the Secretary between 9am and 11.30am. Entries will be £25 per rider, cash only. Entry forms can be downloaded from the NFED Schedules page or www.BHSHampshire.org.uk

New Forest Equestrian Association AGM - Saturday, April 3 2010

New Forest Equestrian Association Annual General Meeting to be held at Lyndhurst Community Centre at 8.00 pm on Thursday 15 April 2010. Guest speaker Barrie Foley (Interim Chief Executive of the NPA). Refreshments are free. All donations received will be forwarded to the Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service.

British Horse Society’s concerns over Animal Health Bill - Thursday, April 1 2010

The British Horse Society has today issued the key points of its proposed response to the Government’s draft Animal Health Bill. The draft Bill would establish a new Non-Departmental Public Body (NDPB), the 'Animal Health Organisation' (AHO), to take over responsibility from Defra for animal health policy and delivery in England. However, this would not include welfare, which would remain with Defra. Mark Weston, Director of Access, Safety and Welfare at the BHS said: “The Society has grave concerns that the separation of animal health and animal welfare functions, for reasons which have no rational justification, will have a detrimental overall effect on the health and welfare of equines. The formation of a new NDPB imposes an expensive layer of unnecessary bureaucracy. “While there have been many years of consultation with the livestock industry on responsibility and cost sharing there has been insufficient consultation with the horse industry. This has resulted in a set of proposals that will not be in the interests of the horse industry. “The livestock industry is significantly different to the horse industry. As a consequence, proposals relevant to that industry will not always be appropriate to the horse industry, which is primarily a leisure pursuit, the cost of which is paid out of taxed income of the majority of equestrians.” The BHS believes that because of the vast differences between the two industries equine health issues may be marginalised and that proposals relevant to the livestock sector will be inappropriately applied to the horse industry. Furthermore, the Society points out that the proposed cost of collecting the horse tax, estimated to be in the region of £2.3 million, represents a disproportionate amount against the Defra estimation of £4.5 million which will be raised. Mark Weston added: “The draft Bill is premature. The cross sector advisory group, set up by the government to advise it on responsibility and cost sharing, is not due to submit its report to the government until the autumn. In addition, the draft Bill in the main applies only to England. It does not make sense to pursue such proposals solely in England when England, Scotland and Wales are one epidemiological unit. “The European Community has no proposals to consider or implement such responsibility and cost sharing proposals until at least 2012. Proposals for responsibility and cost sharing should only be developed in accordance with the European Community timetable. “The decision to reserve the cost sharing proposals to a future Finance Bill could mean that there will be inadequate consultation on any such proposals. “I would urge everyone involved in the horse industry to send their views on the consultation to Defra either by email, to animalhealthbill@defra.gsi.gov.uk or by post to Animal Health Bill Team, Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs, Area 5E, 9 Millbank, c/o Nobel House, 17 Smith Square, London SW1P 3JR by Monday 19 April.”

Changes to driving legislations will impact on horse industry warns BHS - Wednesday, March 31 2010

New driving licensing legislation revoking ‘grandfather rights’, to accompany learner drivers in small lorries, buses and vehicle plus trailer combinations will have a profound impact on the equestrian industry according to The British Horse Society. From 6 April 2010 drivers who passed their car driving test before January 1997 will no longer be able to act as ‘supervising’ drivers to those learning to drive small lorries, buses and vehicle plus trailer combinations (but not car/horse trailer combinations i.e. Category B+E). Crucially for the equestrian industry this will include 7.5 tonne horse boxes. In a response to questioning by The British Horse Society, the Driving Standards Agency stated: “Drivers who passed their car driving test before January 1997 were granted implied entitlement, sometimes known as ‘grandfather rights’, to drive small lorries, buses and vehicle plus trailer combinations. These are classed as categories C1, C1+E, D1 and D1+E and subject to certain restrictions. “It should be noted that it was never the intention to allow learner drivers to drive a vehicle on public roads unless being supervised by a qualified driver who had passed a test for that category of vehicle. “Clearly there are road safety issues involved where a person who has never passed the relevant driving test will act as the supervisor for a driver in these categories. “These changes will not affect the person’s existing entitlement to drive C1 or D1 vehicles or vehicle plus trailer combinations. They will however make it illegal for anyone to act as a supervising driver in such vehicles if they only hold pre-1997 implied entitlements.” The new legislation has not been widely publicised and the BHS is concerned that many drivers will not be aware that they will be affected when the changes come into place on 6 April 2010. Sheila Hardy, BHS Senior Executive Safety said: “It is concerning that this legislation has not been more widely publicised. It has left people no time at all to prepare themselves.” A detailed description of the changes from the DSA is available on The British Horse Society website. For further information, please contact: Alison Coleman, The British Horse Society, 01926 707737 or a.coleman@bhs.org.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, March 29 2010

Week commencing Monday 22nd March 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 23/03/2010 ~ Pony - Nothing Found ~ Marlpit Oak, Sway - B3055 (W) ~ J R Gerrelli 26/03/2010 ~ Donkey - Uninjured ~ Sway Rd, Brockenhurst ~ M Lovell

Greenwich Park Approved as the Venue of the 2012 Olympic Equestrian Events - Wednesday, March 24 2010

Last night (Tuesday, 23 March) the Greenwich Council's Planning Committee voted in favour of the planning application submitted by the London Organising Committee for the Olympic Games (LOCOG) for the temporary use of land at Greenwich Park, the National Maritime Museum, the Old Royal Naval College and Blackheath Circus Field for the London 2012 Equestrian and Modern Pentathlon events. “The FEI is thrilled by the decision of the Greenwich Council's Planning Committee in regard to the planning application for Greenwich Park,” FEI President HRH Princess Haya declared. “Greenwich Park is a spectacular venue which places equestrian sport right at the heart of the 2012 Olympic Games. With just over two years left until the Games open we are looking forward to working with LOCOG to showcase the sport to the world from this spectacular location in London,” FEI Secretary General Alex McLin further commented.

NEW CKArt - NFED Shopping Cart System - Wednesday, March 24 2010

The NFED now has a brand new shopping cart system and we have passed PCI DSS accreditation. New legislation comes in to affect in September this year which requires all businesses accepting credit or debit cards to become PCI DSS compliant. The changes were necessary to allow us to become compliant and continue trading online. Although our old cart system exceeds all existing security standards it required modifications beyond our hosting company’s ability to pass the very stringent PCI DSS security test to become compliant. All payments links have been changed to point to the new system. If you had an account on the old system, I’m afraid that you will have to reregister on the new system, which is just a case of entering contact details and choosing a password. You only need to do this once. If you use the Paypal Express option registration is not required. Card payments are still processed by Sagepay, but the new shopping cart system also offers new options including Paypal Express, Bank Transfer (BACS) payments. The quick Paypal payment options have been removed from the NFED pages as the new Paypal Express on the shopping cart removes the need for a CK Art account, but still provides us with an order and the customer with a receipt, which is all far better for book keeping. To use Paypal. From the classifieds payment page, just click on the "Pay Online" button go to the shopping cart. Add an advert to your cart then go to checkout where you will see a "Checkout with Paypal" button. Click that and log into your Paypal account as normal to make the payment. The new system comes highly recommended by Sagepay and is used by BBC, ITV, O2 merchandising and many other well known names, so should be fine for our very small business. The new shopping cart address is www.ckshop.co.uk If anyone would like to log into their old CK Art account to download invoices, the old cart is still online at www.cksecure.co.uk/shop but all items have been removed to save any confusion. As ever, if you have any questions, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. Steve

Signs that the New Forest landscape is being improved - Monday, March 22 2010

Distracting signs which clutter the historic New Forest are about to meet their match thanks to a jointly-funded New Forest National Park Authority and Hampshire County Council initiative. The County Council’s Highways Team will be working with the National Park Authority to improve the landscape and road safety as part of a one-year pilot project. Nigel Matthews, Head of Visitor and Recreation Services at the National Park, said: ‘There are a lot of unsightly, redundant and damaged signs around the National Park which detract from the beautiful landscape and some need a fresh approach. We really welcome this partnership with Hampshire County Council – which is the Highway Authority for the County. ‘Obviously there are many essential signs which need to stay and we won’t be touching the traditional fingerpost signs in New Forest villages which fit in very well.’ Hampshire County Council’s Executive Member for Environment, Councillor Mel Kendal, said: ‘We are pleased to be working with the New Forest National Park Authority on this pilot. The County Council is looking into the concept of shared space, of which sign clutter is one aspect, and it has previously trialled a reduction in sign clutter in some other areas of Hampshire. ‘There is a balance to be struck between preserving the appeal of the rural landscape whilst ensuring road users have helpful information sign posted on their route to enable them to reach their destination safely.’ The project will include: Finishing work to improve signs on the B3054 and put up new-look animal accident warning signs at either end of the route near Dibden Purlieu and Norleywood. Improving signage on the B3078 between Fordingbridge and Brook, the, B3079 between Landford and Cadnam and the B3080 between Woodfalls and Bramshaw Telegraph. Looking at other roads within the National Park to identify at least four other ‘sign clutter hotspots’ to be improved, but not to the detriment of road user safety. Part of the project will be to conduct a survey this summer to ask residents and visitors their views on a range of signage issues in the National Park. Meanwhile, you can report any damaged or vandalised signs via Hampshire County Council’s website: www3.hants.gov.uk/highwaysenquiries.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, March 22 2010

Week commencing Monday 15th March 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers I am very pleased to inform you that there were no accidents involving Forest stock week commencing Monday 15th March 2010!

NFPB&CS LOOSE JUMPING TRIAL - Monday, March 15 2010

Sunday 28 MARCH 2010 (following the NFPEC Stallion Parade, commencing at 2 pm) FORD FARM, BROCKENHURST (indoor arena) Loose Jumping is an established part of stallion licensing and grading procedures on the continent and in the sports pony sector and is used to assess temperament and attitude as well as scope, agility and technique. The aim of this event is to establish a test that can be used for a voluntary Loose Jumping Grade, aimed as an aptitude test particularly for 3/4-year-old colts. We are asking for 3/4-year-old colts, or stallions inexperienced under saddle, to be put forward to take part in this trial – numbers will be limited as at least 10 minutes per pony is needed. We hope that some of the Forest-run stallions will be put forward, especially as they will be awaiting the inspections on 10 April. No particular training or preparation is required. The ponies are introduced to popping over poles on the ground before progressing to a simple combination to show their jumping ability - each pony is worked individually. The pony and its handler will be under the supervision of Robert Lemiuex and Suzanne Kempe Everyone is very welcome to come along and watch and your feedback will be most useful. Please contact the office as soon as possible if you want to know more about what is involved or would like to bring your pony. For more details please contact the office: NFPBCS, The Corner House, Ringwood Road, Bransgore, Hants BH23 8AA Tel/fax: 01425 672775 Email: info@newforestpony.com Any queries about the loose jumping contact Suzanne on 01590 675854 or email Suzannekempe@uwclub.net

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, March 15 2010

Week commencing Monday 8th March 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 12/03/2010 ~ Skewbald Shetland - Killed ~ Crockford - B3054 ~ R Maton

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, March 8 2010

Week commencing Monday 1st March 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 01/03/2010 ~ Cow - Nothing Found - HIT & RUN ~ Bull Hill - B3054 ~ R Maton 01/03/2010 ~ Jenny donkey - Uninjured ~ Beaulieu - B3054 ~ R Maton 04/03/2010 ~ Brown pony - Nothing Found ~ Marlpit Oak - B3055 (W) ~ R Maton

NFPEC present a PARADE OF REGISTERED NEW FOREST STALLIONS - Monday, March 8 2010

BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS MEETING - Wednesday, March 3 2010

BOVINE TUBERCULOSIS – a meeting has been arranged at which representatives of Animal Health (the Government’s Executive Agency responsible for ensuring the health and welfare of farmed animals in Great Britain) will give a presentation and answer questions on the management of TB in the Forest and the forthcoming change to an annual TB testing regime. All cattle owners with animals in and around the New Forest are welcome to attend. The meeting will take place on Friday, 12th March 2010 at 7.30 p.m. in the Linden Hall, Lyndhurst Community Centre. Any enquiries please to Sue Westwood, Clerk to the Verderers, on 023 8028 2052 or email enquiries@verderers.org.uk

The BHS supports the Scottish Government proposal to ban the use of hot branding - Tuesday, March 2 2010

The British Horse Society has expressed its full support of the Scottish Government’s proposal to ban hot branding. Acknowledging that further research on physical and mental stressors would be useful, in matters of equine welfare the BHS prefers the precautionary principle: “If we do not know whether or not an act is injurious to the overall detriment of the welfare of a horse, but have good reason to believe it may be, then for the horses’ sake we will assume that the act is injurious until the contrary is proved.” In the case of hot branding the BHS believe there is little doubt that the application of hot irons to an animal causes unjustifiable pain. The BHS notes that the arguments in favour of hot branding for the purposes of identification are weakened by the limitations of the method: a brand may be difficult to read from a distance and can be obscured by the thick winter coat grown by horses during the winter. On the other hand, a microchip implanted in the nuchal ligament offers definitive identification, with the insertion of such microchips perceived to be less of a physical stressor than the process of hot branding. Graham Cory, British Horse Society Chief Executive, said “Whereas some will point to the practical difficulties inherent in other methods of identification, The British Horse Society cannot condone a practice which elevates the convenience of the owner to a position above the welfare of the horse.”

“Cheltenham Fever” online auction to raise money for Injured Riders - Tuesday, March 2 2010

As ‘Cheltenham Fever’ mounts, a couple of items are now up for auction on-line in aid of The Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund which helps all those injured by horses. The lots are: ‘Cheltenham Fever’ Auction lot 1 – Original jockeys breeches signed by all the jockeys who rode in the Paddy Power Open 2009 including: AP McCoy, Ruby Walsh, Timmy Murphy, Paul Carberry, Choc Thornton and Andrew Thornton. Originally Andrew Thornton’s breeches and kindly donated by Andrew. ' Cheltenham Fever’ Auction lot 2 – A visit to Kim Bailey’s yard for four people, including a morning on the gallops and breakfast. Date and timings subject to availability. Bids can be made at www.mdirf.co.ukuntil 4pm on Monday 22 March 2010. All proceeds will go towards The Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund’s 21st Anniversary Poundcatcher campaign which aims to raise at least a pound from every rider to ensure it can continue to support all injured riders in genuine need. The ‘Cheltenham Fever’ auction is just one in series of on-line auctions of ‘money-can’t-buy’ experiences and items which will be on offer through The Mark Davies Injured Riders Fund website over the coming year.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, March 1 2010

Week commencing Monday 22nd February 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 27/02/2010 ~ Shetland mare - Killed ~ Janesmoor Pond ~ A Napthine

Final consultation phase for National Park planning strategy - Thursday, February 25 2010

The final consultation on the New Forest National Park Authority’s Core Strategy will take place between Thursday 25 February and Monday 12 April for six and a half weeks. The Strategy will provide the overall vision, strategic objectives and planning framework for the National Park until 2026. They cover areas such as renewable energy development and affordable housing and a number of planning policies for other forms of development, such as domestic extensions and new dwellings. Steve Avery, Director of Strategy and Planning at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘Following this consultation the Core Strategy and all the comments received will be sent for a Public Examination by an independent Planning Inspector who will decide if the Core Strategy is consistent with national policy and whether it has complied with legislation.’ Once adopted, the Core Strategy will be used by the Authority for determining planning applications and it will be the first time there has been a series of dedicated planning policies for the National Park. To comment on the Core Strategy visit www.newforestnpa.gov.uk/corestrategy. Comment online or download a response form and email it to corestrategy@newforestnpa.gov.uk or post it to Policy and Plans, New Forest National Park, South Efford House, Milford Road, Lymington, SO41 0JD. Comments can also be made in writing. The documents are also available to view at the National Park Headquarters (Monday – Friday 8:45am–5:00pm), The Reference Library at the New Forest Centre, Lyndhurst (Wednesday – Saturday10:00am–4:30pm), and The Cottage, Queen’s House, Lyndhurst (Thursday 9:00am – 1:00pm).

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, February 22 2010

Week commencing Monday 15th February 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 19/02/2010 ~ Dark Shetland mare – Injured HIT & RUN ~ Crockford - B3054 ~ J R Gerrelli

THE EUROPEAN EQUESTRIAN FEDERATION FORMED - Thursday, February 18 2010

International horse sport has a new European association, the European Equestrian Federation (EEF). The new body was established today (18th February) by 27 European National Federations present at a meeting in Warendorf (Germany). This process commenced at a meeting of European National Federations in Deauville (France) in March 2009 and was agreed in principle in Antwerp (Belgium) in September 2009. The Federation was officially formed today (18th February 2010), following the signing of the Statutes by National Federations. It is anticipated that other European Federations and other representative groups, who could not be present at the meeting, will also adopt the new Statutes. The European Equestrian Federation (EEF) will represent the interests of European horse sport within the FEI. It will also liaise with the European Union and other decision making bodies on matters of concern to the horse community. Speaking after the meeting, the newly elected President Dr. Hanfried Haring (Germany) said „The EEF will help to ensure that European countries have a clear voice within the FEI. Our goal is to contribute positively to the FEI by improving communication, cooperation and understanding. EEF will try to ensure that the needs of all Federations and stakeholders in the European equestrian community are properly taken into account.” Other elected members of the interim Board are Christian Paillot (France) and Ulf Helgstrand (Denmark) as Vice Presidents as well as Manuel Bandeira de Mello (Portugal), Andrew Finding (Great Britain), Michal Wroblewski (Poland) and Armagan Özgörkey (Turkey). "The FEI welcomes this development," said FEI President HRH Princess Haya. "Like the regional associations already established in Asia and the Americas, this reflects the natural evolution of representation of the sport's interests at the regional level. We expect it to help address the numerous specific needs of European National Federations."

Official FEI Dressage Tests? There is an App For That! - Thursday, February 18 2010

The Fédération Equestre Internationale (FEI) is happy to announce the launch of its first ever official mobile application. “FEI EquiTests”, developed in close cooperation with Canada-based e-learning and visual communication design specialists Numen Communciations Inc., is a mobile application designed to help riders learn, reference and practice FEI Dressage tests. “FEI EquiTests”, is available worldwide through the Apple iTunes store under FEI license. For each test, the application allows iPhone and iPod users to: - read the test instructions along with the marking criteria; - view Dressage animation diagrams that outline the movements of the test; - record and play readings of the test that are perfectly timed to match the user’s individual horses and the arena in which they are practicing; - reference the official Dressage test score sheet to see where the judges’ emphasis is; - get better understanding of the FEI Rules as PDFs of the rulebooks on topics such as movement definitions, competition rules, dress code, judging and veterinary inspection are available; - keep up-to-date with the latest Dressage news through the FEI news feed. FEI EquiTests 1 is available for free, so that riders and coaches may evaluate the features available. This application includes all features related to one sample test: the globally used FEI Young Riders Individual Competition Test. FEI EquiTests 2 includes all the most recent 2009 FEI Eventing Dressage Tests and is available for only USD 9.99. Additional versions of FEI EquiTests featuring FEI Dressage and FEI Para-Equestrian Dressage tests will be launched later this year. ”Publishing the FEI Dressage test content for the iPhone and iPod Touch is a success story for EquiApps.com as it illustrates the quality and real-world functionality we are interested in publishing," said Tanya Heins of Numen Communications Inc. "Our goal is to establish EquiApps.com as the leading equestrian mobile application developer and provide digital learning and reference tools that make sense to an active outdoor equestrian lifestyle.” ”This exciting development is a perfect example for FEI’s ambitions to proactively use the various opportunities today’s digital media are offering to introduce the sport and its fascination through new channels to new and younger audiences,” FEI Executive Director, Commercial Carsten Couchouron commented. “FEI EquiTests provides riders and coaches with a valuable and user-friendly tool for the further development of individual riding skills” For more details visit the official websites at http://www.www.equiapps.com

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, February 15 2010

Week commencing Monday 8th February 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 10/02/2010 ~ Pony - Uninjured ~ C10 Vereley - C10 (E) ~ P Rix 12/02/2010 ~ Grey filly - Injured & Destroyed ~ B3054 Dock Lane, Beaulieu ~ M Lovell 12/02/2010 ~ Pony - Uninjured ~ Ibsley ~ J R Gerrelli 12/02/2010 ~ Bay filly - Injured & Destroyed ~ Latchmoor - B3055 (W) ~ J R Gerrelli

3 Geldings found at Hale - Wednesday, February 10 2010

On 18th January, the Agisters caught and removed three New Forest type geldings from the Forest at Hale. None are branded or microchipped and the Verderers are trying to find out who they belong to. Local enquiries have so far drawn a blank. All the ponies are in good condition. There is a chestnut, a bay and a liver chestnut. They appear to have received some handling as they are reasonably confident around people. They are all thought to be around 4 or 5 years of age. It has been suggested that someone new to the area may think that ponies can just be turned out onto the Forest without compliance with the Forest regulations. If this is the case, the Verderers will not seek to prosecute under their byelaws for illegally depasturing the animals onto the Forest, but they will require their reasonable costs for the keep of the animals to be met. It is a legal requirement that all equines should have a passport and the Verderers will also expect anyone wishing to claim these ponies to be able to produce their passports – or have a very good explanation as to why they can’t! In the absence of passports, some other satisfactory proof of ownership will be required. If anyone can throw any light on where these animals have come from please contact the Verderers’ Office. Sue Westwood Clerk to the Verderers 02380 282052 Email: enquiries@verderers.org.uk

FEI ROUND TABLE CONFERENCE RESOLVES ROLLKUR CONTROVERSY - Tuesday, February 9 2010

Following constructive debate at the FEI round-table conference at the IOC Headquarters in Lausanne today (9 February), the consensus of the group was that any head and neck position achieved through aggressive force is not acceptable. The group redefined hyperflexion/Rollkur as flexion of the horse’s neck achieved through aggressive force, which is therefore unacceptable. The technique known as Low, Deep and Round (LDR), which achieves flexion without undue force, is acceptable. The group unanimously agreed that any form of aggressive riding must be sanctioned. The FEI will establish a working group, headed by Dressage Committee Chair Frank Kemperman, to expand the current guidelines for stewards to facilitate the implementation of this policy. The group agreed that no changes are required to the current FEI Rules. The FEI Management is currently studying a range of additional measures, including the use of closed circuit television for warm-up arenas at selected shows. The group also emphasised that the main responsibility for the welfare of the horse rests with the rider. The FEI President HRH Princess Haya accepted a petition of 41,000 signatories against Rollkur presented by Dr Gerd Heuschman. The participants in the FEI round-table conference were: HRH Princess Haya, FEI President Alex McLin, FEI Secretary General Margit Otto-Crépin, International Dressage Riders Club Representative Linda Keenan, International Dressage Trainers Club Representative Sjef Janssen, Dressage Representative Frank Kemperman, Chairman, FEI Dressage Committee (by conference call) François Mathy, International Jumping Riders Club Representative David Broome, Jumping Representative Jonathan Chapman, Eventing Representative Roly Owers, World Horse Welfare Representative Tony Tyler, World Horse Welfare Representative Ulf Helgstrand, President, Danish Equestrian Federation John McEwen, Chairman, FEI Veterinary Committee Dr Sue Dyson, Veterinary Representative Dr Gerd Heuschman, Veterinary Representative Prof. René van Weeren, Veterinary Representative Jacques van Daele, FEI Honorary Steward General Dressage Graeme Cooke, FEI Veterinary Director Trond Asmyr, FEI Director Dressage and Para-Equestrian Dressage John Roche, FEI Director Jumping and Stewarding Catrin Norinder, FEI Director Eventing Carsten Couchouron, FEI Executive Director Commercial Richard Johnson, FEI Communications Director The Federation Equestre Internationale (FEI), founded in 1921, is the international body governing equestrian sport recognised by the International Olympic Committee (IOC) and includes 133 National Federations. Equestrian sport has been on the Olympic programme since 1912 with three disciplines - Jumping, Dressage and Eventing. It is one of the very few sports in which men and women compete on equal terms. It is also the only sport which involves two athletes - horse and rider. The FEI has relentlessly concerned itself with the welfare of the horse, which is paramount and must never be subordinated to competitive or commercial influences.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, February 8 2010

Week commencing Monday 1st February 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 01/02/2010 ~ Pony - Nothing Found ~ Beaulieu Heath - B3054 ~ R Maton 01/02/2010 ~ Bay 2 yo filly - Injured & Destroyed ~ Crow Road, Burley ~ P Rix 02/02/2010 ~ Bay mare – Injured ~ Main Road, E Boldre ~ R Maton

HIT & RUN ACCIDENT - Friday, February 5 2010

On Monday 25th January 2010 at approximately 9.30 p.m. a pony was hit and badly injured approximately midway between Hill Top and Ipers Bridge. The pony’s injuries were so severe that he had to be humanely destroyed by the agister. There were several witnesses some of whom stopped at the scene. The driver of the vehicle which hit the animal drove off and failed to report the accident. The vehicle involved in the accident is a metallic quartz grey Audi A6. From the wing mirror of the vehicle found at the scene it has been established that it was registered some time after the 30th September 2008 and would therefore have either a 58, 09 or 59 registration number. The vehicle would have been damaged in the accident and we are requesting anyone with information, particularly local garages, to contact Crimestoppers on 0800 555111 or the Police, WPC Tilbury, on 0845 045 4545 quoting the reference 44100032676, or the Verderers' Office on 023 8028 2052. There is a reward of up to £1,000 payable to anyone who provides information that leads to the successful conviction of a driver responsible for failing to report an accident with a commoners' animal. Several payments have been made under the scheme and the rules are available on request from the Verderers' Office. Sue Westwood Clerk to the Verderers Email: enquiries@verderers.org.uk

BHS declares policy on use of hyperflexion - Friday, February 5 2010

As the debate over the use of hyperflexion as a training technique continues, The British Horse Society has published its official stance: The British Horse Society strongly recommends that all riders training horses on the flat and over fences should adhere to the official instruction handbook of the German National Equestrian Federation. Whilst we appreciate that horses are as individual as humans, and that some may require corrective schooling, the BHS’s stand on hyperflexion (by which we mean the extreme flexion of the horse’s head and neck beyond normal limits) remains clear: it is an unacceptable method of training horses by any rider for any length of time. We recognise that the scientific evidence is conflicting, and likely to remain so as each party seeks determinedly to prove its case. For this reason we doubt that science will ever provide a single, clear, unambiguous and unarguable answer. It therefore falls to humans to do what the horses cannot, namely to follow the precautionary principle: as nature provides no evidence of horses choosing to move in hyperflexion for an extended period of time; and as hyperflexion can create tension in the horse’s neck and back which has no justifying necessity; and as the horse in hyperflexion is, by definition, unable fully to use its neck; and as the psychological consequences of such treatment remain latent (perhaps in an analogous position with horses which are whipped aggressively but which can still pass a five star vetting), we should take all appropriate steps to discourage the use of this training technique, for the horse’s sake. For further information, please contact: Alison Coleman, The British Horse Society, 01926 707737 or a.coleman@bhs.org.uk

Local Riders 75 Mile Ride Around Brecon for Charity - Monday, February 1 2010

A group of local riders from around the New Forest are getting together with the aim of completing a 75 mile Charity Horse Ride around the Brecon Beacons in May 2010 They are trying to raise money for Charlotte’s I believe I can Fund of Hope. The fund was set up in order to raise money for research into the treatment of Brain Tumours and is supported by the Brainstrust charity. A local New Forest girl, Charlotte was only 16 when she died from an aggressive brain tumour in May 2007. It was her wish that her Fund of Hope was established so that her battle will not have been in vain. To support the ride and donate to this very worthwhile local charity, please go to http://www.justgiving.com/rion-the-horse If you do not have internet access but would still like to donate, please call Jane on 01425 612207. The Lyndhurst Antique Centre at 19/21 High Street, Lyndhurst, is also acting as a collection point for donations. We would be very grateful for any contributions no matter how small. Thank you :o)

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, February 1 2010

Week commencing Monday 25th January 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 25/01/2010 ~ Bay yearling colt - Injured & Destroyed - HIT & RUN ~ Hill Top - Ipers Bridge ~ M Lovell 26/01/2010 ~ Brown Jenny yearling - Uninjured - HIT & RUN ~ Sway Road, Brockenhurst ~ R Maton 28/01/2010 ~ Angus cow - Injured & Destroyed ~ Roundhill - B3078 ~ A Napthine 31/01/2010 ~ Bay filly - Injured & Destroyed ~ Burley Rd, Hincheslea ~ J R Gerrelli 31/01/2010 ~ Bay 2 yo gelding – Killed ~ Burley Street - C10 (W) ~ P Rix

BHS celebrates reaching 1,000th Approved Establishment - Monday, February 1 2010

Hurstwood Farm Equestrian Centre in High Hurstwood, East Sussex has become the 1,000th equestrian establishment to receive British Horse Society approval. Michael Pocock, proprietor at Hurstwood Farm, was thrilled to receive his BHS plaque of approval. He said: "It has always been my intention to create a livery and training yard where the welfare of the horses is paramount. Now we have received the accolade of BHS Approved Livery Yard status we have achieved our goal. “Our business is going from strength to strength and we must thank organisations like the BHS for creating the standards which we must all work and aspire to. We were very excited about the whole prospect of being approved; now this "1,000th approval" accolade is just the icing on the cake!” For more than forty years the BHS approvals scheme has offered proprietors and managers of equestrian establishments a way of promoting their good practices and high standards to the public and horse owners. The scheme includes establishments across the UK and worldwide. Chief Executive of The British Horse Society, Graham Cory, who presented Mr Pocock and his team with their approved livery yard plaque, is delighted with how the scheme has grown: “During 2009 we have seen a jump in the number of establishments applying to join the BHS Approval programme both in the UK and overseas. Being a member of the largest scheme for equestrian establishments gives proprietors peace of mind knowing they are supported and recognised.” Nicky Dyszkiewicz manages Kingston Riding Centre in Surrey, which has been approved by the BHS since 1961. She believes the scheme gives their clients confidence in their service: “BHS Approval gives our clients reassurance that they are going to be learning to ride in a safe environment and taught by people that are knowledgeable and well-trained themselves.”

New Forest Pony Enthusiasts Club Film Evening 12th February - Thursday, January 28 2010

National Park Authority holds recreation drop-in session - Tuesday, January 26 2010

The New Forest National Park Authority is inviting people to a drop-in session to find out more about its draft Recreation Management Strategy. The draft strategy sets out how outdoor recreation in the National Park might be managed over the next 20 years. The drop-in session will take place on Tuesday 2 February at The Pine Room, Lyndhurst Community Centre, from 2pm to 10pm. People will have the chance to talk to National Park staff about the draft proposals and to complete a feedback form. No appointment is necessary. Barrie Foley, Interim Chief Executive at the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘We’re keen to give as many people as possible a chance to find out about this draft strategy in detail and to have their say. Here people can have direct access to the staff involved and can get a personal response to their specific question. ‘This public drop-in session is another step in the process of revising the draft. We’ve already taken on board a large number of comments from the last round of consultation which includes the discussion of the RMS at the public meeting in September 2009. ‘Our aim is to produce a way forward that protects this special landscape but enables people to enjoy it too.’ Consultation so far on the draft RMS has included: 500 detailed comments Photocopied circular from around 1500 people. Four stakeholder working groups Since October we’ve held more than 16 meetings with external stakeholders and interested parties that have also fed into this revised draft. The New Forest National Park Authority would like to reassure people about some key points: The National Park does not own campsites but supports the existing Natural England policy to consider the idea of relocation The National Park Authority doesn't own any car parks, is not introducing car parks and therefore couldn't introduce car park charges in the Forest. The RMS does not refer to car park charges at all The New Forest is extremely busy in the peak season and some roads cannot cope. We are proposing to those who own car parks that the number of spaces should not be increased. Those unable to attend the drop-in session are invited to view or download the draft Recreation Management Strategy from the National Park website: www.newforestnpa.gov.uk. People can then give their feedback in the following ways: Email: rms@newforestnpa.gov.uk Post: RMS, New Forest National Park Authority, South Efford House, Milford Road, Everton, Lymington, Hampshire, SO41 0JD. Tel: 01590 646600 Fax: 01590 646606 The deadline for comments is 12 February 2010. Following amendments as a result of the consultation feedback, National Park Authority members will consider the strategy for approval on 25 February.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, January 25 2010

Week commencing Monday 18th January 2010 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 22/01/2010 ~ Pony - Nothing Found ~ Godshill - B3078 ~ A Napthine

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