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NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, July 22 2008

Week commencing Monday 14th July 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 15th July ~ Blue roan filly destroyed ~ Balmer Lawn Road B3055 ~ R Maton 18th July ~ White cow – nothing found injured ~ Nomansland +roads B3078 ~ J R Gerrelli

POLICE CAMPAIGN TARGETING SPEEDING NEW FOREST MOTORISTS CONTINUES - Thursday, July 17 2008

A campaign to reduce animal deaths and injuries on New Forest roads continued this week with an operation on Monday, July 14 at Vereley near Burley. A total of 13 motorists were stopped during the two and a half hour Stay Under 40 operation, involving officers from the Roads Policing and Country Watch teams. All 13 were found to be exceeding the 40mph speed limit. The fastest speed recorded was 56mph. All drivers exceeding the speed limit received a £60 fixed penalty notice and three penalty points on their licence. This is likely to result in each of them having to pay more for their vehicle insurance. The 13 motorists were given information about the Stay Under 40 campaign and the dangers of driving at excess speed. New Forest District Chief Inspector Gary Cooper said: “It is disappointing that we continue to have to stop drivers exceeding the 40mph speed limit on New Forest roads, in the majority of cases those speeding are local motorists. It is clear that the campaign must continue to educate motorists that the speed limit is in place not just to protect the animals, but also them and their passengers. “The number of deaths and injuries to animals has reduced since the campaign began earlier in the year, however we will continue to conduct these operations targeting areas of concern and ‘hot spots’ identified by members of the public.”

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, July 15 2008

Week commencing Monday 7th July 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 8th July ~ Pony hit – nothing found ~ B3054 Beaulieu ~ M Lovell 13th July ~ Pony hit – nothing found ~ B3055 Furzey Lane junction ~ M Lovell

The BHS releases Welfare Code of Practice for Shows - Tuesday, July 15 2008

The British Horse Society, in conjunction with the British Equestrian Federation’s Welfare Group, has launched a voluntary code of practice to set out acceptable welfare standards for horses at shows and events. The Code was devised as a result of the number of concerns reported to the BHS Welfare Department regarding the treatment of horses at shows, and feedback from show organisers who often feel unable to act when welfare breaches are reported to them. BHS Welfare Senior Executive, Lee Hackett said: “We often receive calls to our welfare hotline about incidents at shows but there is rarely anything we can do, as the calls arrive after the event. From discussions with show organisers we’ve found that they often feel powerless to take action, as there have previously been no clear standards set. “Hopefully, these guidelines will provide the back-up that show organisers need as well as making things clear for competitors and, most importantly, improving horse welfare”. Although the Code of Practice was originally intended for use solely at unaffiliated shows, it has now been adopted by many of the members of the BEF Welfare Group and is the first key development to come out of this innovative new body. British Dressage Chief Executive, David Holmes said: “As part of our role we are keen to work with unaffiliated Dressage to improve riders’ competitive experience and enjoyment across the whole sport. This Code of Practice aims to support show organisers in running good quality shows and we’re delighted to offer the BHS Welfare department our input and support with this initiative.” Lee Hackett went on to say: “The BHS is delighted that so many BEF member bodies are backing this Code of Practice. Hopefully this will be the first of many collaborative initiatives to improve horse welfare”. The Code includes guidelines on all aspects of the welfare of horses at events such as transport, use of the whip, conduct in and out of the show ring and the provision of feed, water and shelter. If a show organiser finds that a competitor is in breach of the Code, they will then have firm grounds to issue a formal warning or disqualify that individual from their classes. In severe cases, individuals may be asked to leave the showground or be reported to a welfare agency. The BHS Code of Practice for the Welfare of Horses and Ponies at Events is available to download from the BHS website, http://www.bhs.org.uk. Show organisers are invited to state that their event is being run under the BHS Code and request that competitors read the full code. A shorter version is also available and could be incorporated into show schedules. For further information and pictures, please contact: Lee Hackett, Welfare Senior Executive, The British Horse Society, 01926 707804 or l.hackett@bhs.org.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, July 7 2008

Week commencing Monday 30th June 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 1st July ~ Donkey – nothing found injured HIT & RUN ~ B3055 Sway ~ R Maton 3rd July ~ Brown pony – nothing found injured ~ B3054 Hatchet ~ RMaton 6th July ~ Grey jenny donkey injured ~ Pitmore Lane, Sway ~ R Maton

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Wednesday, July 2 2008

Week commencing Monday 23rd June 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 23rd June ~ Bay Filly - destroyed ~ B3054 Hatchet Pond ~ R Maton 25th June ~ Pony – nothing found ~ B3078 Crows Nest ~ P Rix 25th June ~ Black yearling filly – killed ~ B3055 Sway ~ J R Gerrelli 26th June ~ North Devon cow – injured ~ B3054 Crockford Clump ~ R Maton

New Forest Ponies in Oil at the White Horse, Romsey - Wednesday, June 25 2008

Sway artist Claire Kitcher has just completed her largest ever painting. The 5’ x 4’ oil was commissioned by the newly formed Silk Hotel Group to feature in the reception of their flagship hotel ‘The White Horse’ at Romsey. This beautiful 15th century coaching Inn which has been totally refurbished by the group reopened on Monday 23rd June. Claire’s brief was to produce a painting featuring a gentle calm grey mare (the white horse), and include an oak tree within a New Forest setting. Colour swatches were supplied, shades of which were to be incorporated in the painting. The painting features three of the artists own registered New Forest ponies and two belonging to friends Luke Blomfield and Agister Robert Maton. The scene is a view along Longslade, with an additional oak tree added using artistic license! The ponies are.. Grey: Moonrakers Mist aka Betty (Luke Blomfield) Bay: Mallards Wood Goddess (Robert Maton) Chestnut: Yewtree Slipaway aka Briar (Claire Kitcher) Distant Roan & Bay: Longmead Katie & Longmead Holly (Claire Kitcher) Claire is next exhibiting in the Art Pavilion at the New Forest Show along with many other local artists. Claire is a practicing commoner. She designed the logo for both the New Forest Livestock Society & New Forest Pony Publicity Group. She has been a member of the Woodlanders Art Group for several years, but is currently taking time out to concentrate on other projects. She was featured in the Meridian TV program “The New Forest” & BBC 2's “Wild Autumn Day”. http://www.ckart.co.uk

New NFED Classifieds Server - Tuesday, June 24 2008

Due to the amazing success of the classifieds we have now separated them from the rest of the site by moving the whole system to a new server. This was carried out overnight and all links have been updated so all being well, you will not notice any difference at all. If you do find the classifieds are unavailable, please refresh the page by pressing control/F5 or better still clear your temporary internet files and browser history to ensure that only the new pages are viewed. If you don’t know how to clear your temporary files, here are a couple of useful links. http://www.microsoft.com/windows/ie/ie6/using/howto/customizing/clearcache.mspx http://www.clearallhistory.com/delete-temporary-internet-files-deleting.html This change will take the pressure off of the rest of the site, which should allow everything to run more smoothly. It has also increased the available bandwidth which has been causing problems as the site has become more popular. With the new hosting package, came yet another domain name. The NFED can now be reached by using any of the following: http://www.nfed.co.uk http://www.newforestpony.co.uk http://www.southernhorse.co.uk http://www.newforestequinedirectory.co.uk If after doing all of the above, you still have problems viewing the classifieds, please contact us. It is possible that one of the links has been missed. Steve

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, June 23 2008

Week commencing Monday 16th June 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 18thJune ~ Grey Jack donkey destroyed ~ Hyde School ~ A Napthine

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, June 16 2008

Week commencing Monday 9th June 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 9th June ~ Skewbald filly killed ~ C10 Picket Post ~ M Lovell

WITNESSES SOUGHT Hit & Run Foal at Long Cross 5th June - Tuesday, June 10 2008

Witnesses are sought following a Hit and Run road traffic accident in which a foal was killed having been hit and dragged along the road. The accident happened just after 5.30 a.m. on Thursday 5th June on the B3078 at Crows Nest (close to the B3078 junction with the road to Nomansland). The driver failed to stop and has not reported the accident. Anyone who can assist with information is requested to telephone WPC Alison Tilbury on the usual police number 0845 045 4545, quoting 44 08 0244822. A reward of up to £1,000 may be payable for information that leads to the conviction of a driver responsible for a hit and run RTA. NOTE:Please would the gentleman that called the Verderers office regarding this incident call back, as you did not leave your contact details. For further information please contact Sue Westwood Clerk to the Verderers 023 8028 2052

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, June 10 2008

Week commencing Monday 2nd June 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 3rd June ~ Chestnut colt foal – killed HIT & RUN ~ B3080 Turf Hill ~ P Rix 5th June ~ Bay colt foal – killed HIT & RUN ~ B3078 Crows Nest ~ P Rix 5th June ~ Donkey - uninjured HIT & RUN ~ Rhinefield Road, Brockenhurst ~ R Maton 5th June ~ Black Hereford heifer – injured ~ B3055 Marlpit Oak ~ R Maton 5th June ~ Pony – nothing found injured ~ Ipers Bridge to Hilltop ~ M Lovell

The British Horse Society advises horse owners to be vigilant - Thursday, June 5 2008

The British Horse Society is advising horse owners to be vigilant and take the necessary precautions to ensure the safety of their horses and equipment. The BHS has received many reports over the last few days of stolen horses and people acting suspiciously around them. Internet forums are buzzing with speculation and text messages reporting incidents have been circulating widely. These incidents usually involve photographs being taken of horses in fields with unknown individuals showing a high level of interest in particular animals. While such activities in isolation may not appear suspicious, the descriptions of the vehicles and of the people involved are remarkably consistent. In many cases, the reliability of the reports is hard to confirm and there is no doubt that many false rumours are circulating. There are no police records for a number of the alleged horse thefts and it appears that at least some of the text messages involved are not genuine. However, there is sufficient, consistent and confirmed information to cause concern to all horse owners. The BHS is advising people not to panic but to remain vigilant and take extra steps to ensure their horses remain safe. There are many simple precautions that can be taken. Horse owners are advised to ensure their fields and property are secured to make the removal of horses as difficult as possible. Such precautions must be sensible and not put horses at risk in the event of fire. Tack and other equipment should be locked safely away and, where possible, kept at a separate location to the horses. Horse owners are advised that it is a good idea to vary the times of their visits to their horse and to have an unpredictable routine. Where possible, owners should work together to keep an eye on one another’s horses and it may be useful to ask friendly local residents to join in. Freeze-marking and microchipping are both excellent deterrents to horse theft although, as microchips are not externally visible, signs should be displayed to advertise that horses are microchipped. Tack and other equipment can also be chipped or marked to prove ownership. BHS Welfare Senior Executive Lee Hackett said: “We absolutely do not want people to panic or over-react to what are, in many cases, unsubstantiated rumours. However, there are certainly some grounds for concern and horse owners should take this opportunity to review their security measures. If this furore causes horse owners to take more precautions then it will at least have one very positive outcome”. The BHS advises anyone who observes suspicious activity around horses to note down as much detail as possible and report it to the police. Time, date, vehicle registration details and descriptions of any persons involved are particularly helpful. BHS Welfare will be happy to offer further security advice to anyone who requests it. For further information please contact: Lee Hackett Senior Executive Welfare, The British Horse Society, 01926 707804 or email l.hackett@bhs.org.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, June 3 2008

Week commencing Monday 26th May 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 29th May ~ Foal destroyed ~ B3054 Hilltop ~ M Lovell 1st June ~ Foal injured ~ Plantation Road, Wellow Common ~ A Napthine

Scottish Workshop offers hope that Equine Strangles could become a disease of the past - Wednesday, May 28 2008

The eyes of the veterinary horse world are on Scotland’s capital city this week as a two day conference, organised by The British Horse Society and the Animal Health Trust, brings together the scientists and vets at the forefront of combating equine Strangles – the world’s most commonly diagnosed infectious disease of horses. Meanwhile, just 20 miles away, a riding school in Stirlingshire is currently in the grip of a Strangles outbreak where they have employed the latest diagnostic techniques and a massive biosecurity effort in an attempt to keep this devastating and economically disastrous disease under control. On the first day of the conference a prestigious Dorothy Russell Havemeyer Foundation workshop is being held at Dundas Castle, where scientists and researchers from all over the world will be presenting their work, exchanging research results and fostering new collaborations. The day will concentrate on advances made possible through the completion of the Streptococcus equi and Streptococcus zooepidemicus genome sequencing projects and their implications in the prevention of Strangles. Day two will concentrate on the clinical problem and will consider the best diagnostic and preventive techniques that can be adopted during an outbreak. The conference includes consideration of carrier status, case management and the prospect of an effective vaccine. Openness in the event of an outbreak will be shown to be the main defence against the spread of Strangles and the conference endorses STEPS, the “Strategy to Eradicate and Prevent Strangles”, which promotes increased awareness of the disease, the importance of early diagnosis and communication within the equine community alongside proper biosecurity as vitally important. Havemeyer Workshop Chairman, Dr Andrew Waller, said: “The progress that has been made in combating Strangles over the last 12 months is unprecedented. The genome sequencing has enabled scientists to develop a rapid and effective blood test, the equine industry has brought forward a new voluntary code in the management of outbreaks, and as a result of comparing S. equi with S. zooepidemicus we’ve got a real chance to produce an effective vaccine”. Meanwhile, at nearby BHS approved Kingsbarn Equestrian Centre, they are currently experiencing the horror of a Strangles outbreak and Centre Manager Debbie McCormack said: “I really wish the Conference and workshop the best of luck because it is a terrible realisation that we have had a Strangles carrier in our midst and now the effects of an outbreak are costing us money, work and worry. “However, we’ve had superb veterinary support from David Sutton at Clyde Veterinary Group and we’ve been able to use swabs, the new blood test developed by the Animal Health Trust and guttural pouch lavage to help manage the outbreak. We are confident that thanks to this good veterinary support we have everything under control and will be re-opening very soon. It is just shocking to realise that this infection came undetected into our yard.” Dr David Sutton of Clyde Veterinary Group, Lanark, commented: “It is good for Scotland to be hosting such a prestigious conference and workshop centred upon efforts to combat a disease that presents a significant welfare concern, with deep economic and social impacts, that seems to be reaching endemic status in the UK. “At Kingsbarn one of the school horses was noted by staff to have developed clinical signs of the disease. As soon as this was detected the horse was moved into isolation stables, together with immediate in-contact horses. The most pressing further requirement then was to find the source of the disease and prevent further spread. “The temperature of every horse on the premises was measured three times daily, and any horse showing a high temperature was moved into isolation as a precautionary measure. In order to identify a possible carrier of the disease, suspect horses were examined using an endoscope to look into their guttural pouches – pouches at the back of the throat. Chronic pus was found in the pouches of one such horse, which was then submitted for laboratory testing – including bacterial culture and PCR. “Further horses on the premises have also had guttural pouch flushes and blood tests to reveal whether or not they have been exposed to the bacteria causing Strangles. No new cases have been seen at the Centre in the last two weeks. This is a great testimony to the efforts and dedication of the staff. “Thanks to the quick isolation of the affected horses and appropriate laboratory testing, I am confident that the outbreak is under control.”

The search begins for The BHS Young Instructor of the Year 2008 - Wednesday, May 28 2008

There is a fantastic opportunity available to young people passionate about coaching as the BHS launches its quest to find this year’s Young Instructor of the Year. This competition has been developed by The British Horse Society to offer aspiring young instructors and coaches an opportunity to display and develop their coaching skills as well as to continue with their own professional development. The competition is open to anyone who is 30 years of age or under on 1 January 2008, who holds a minimum of the BHS Preliminary Teaching Test and is actively involved in the equine industry. BHS Director of Standards, Margaret Linington-Payne says: “This competition is ideal for young coaches and instructors who wish to highlight and improve their existing coaching work within the equine industry”. Last year’s title went to 24-year-old Tom Searle BHSII from Gloucestershire. Tom, who runs a small private yard and is a freelance instructor and eventer, found the competition extremely worthwhile. He says: “I think the BHS Young Instructor of the Year competition gives much needed direction to people like myself and I am delighted to have won it. It was only right at the end when things had gone well and I had enjoyed the day, that I allowed myself to hope I could win.” The competition is split into ten regional qualifiers across the country. Each qualifier is used as a training day for selected applicants and allows them the opportunity to question, discuss and debate coaching and teaching skills with a Fellow of the BHS. Mary-Ann Casey won last year’s Ireland qualifier. She says: “I loved the qualifier, it was absolutely fantastic. I found it so interesting and it was great to meet other people involved in the industry” All qualifiers still have limited places available. If you are interested please contact the Training Department for further details and an application pack. For further information and pictures, please contact: Alison Skyers, Senior Executive Training, The British Horse Society, 01926 707820 or a.skyers@bhs.org.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Wednesday, May 28 2008

Week commencing Monday 19th May 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 21st May ~ Bay filly foal destroyed ~ B3054 Beaulieu Aerodrome ~ R Maton 22nd May ~ 2 mares both destroyed ~ HIT & RUN ~ B3079 Brook ~ P Rix 23rd May ~ Bay colt foal destroyed ~ Ipley – Beaulieu ~ J R Gerrelli

RDA Charity Sale - Tuesday, May 20 2008

Pony/Horse jumble in aid of Brock RDA to be held at the Rotary Charity Market on Mon 26th May at Lymington Council car park 7.30am to midday.We welcome any donations of horsey stuff .Phone Wendy on 01590 676888 who will be happy to collect.There will be fantastic bargains.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, May 19 2008

Week commencing Monday 12th May 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 12th May ~ Brown cow uninjured ~ Wilverley ~ J RGerrelli 14th May ~ Bay mare destroyed HIT & RUN ~ B3056 Denny Corner ~ R Maton

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, May 13 2008

Week commencing Monday 5th May 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers I am pleased to report that there were no accidents for week commencing Monday 5th May 2008.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, May 6 2008

Week commencing Monday 28th April 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 4th May ~ Bay mare killed ~ B3054 Hilltop ~ M Lovell

VERDERERS’ SUCCESSFUL PROSECUTION - Thursday, May 1 2008

Mr Colin Barnes of Penn Common, Bramshaw, was found guilty of breaching the Verderers Byelaws today after a trial in the Southampton Magistrates Court. Mr Barnes was charged with not marking his cattle in 2007 to the satisfaction of the Verderers ( byelaw 14 ), and after hearing evidence the magistrates found the case proved. Mr Barnes was fined £100 and ordered to make a contribution of £2,000 towards the Verderers’ legal costs in bringing the prosecution. After the hearing the Official Verderer, Mr Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre, said: “ We cannot have unidentified animals wandering about on the Forest. We need to know who they belong to so that if there is an accident, or an animal is unwell, we can contact the owner and ensure that the animal is properly cared for. That is why it is so important that all depastured stock are properly marked so that our Agisters can immediately identify who is responsible for them. Mr Barnes regrettably chose to persistently ignore this fundamental requirement, and we had to take action in the best interests of the welfare of his animals. Prosecutions are an expensive exercise, so I am particularly glad that Mr Barnes has been ordered to pay £2,000 towards our costs.”

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, April 28 2008

Week commencing Monday 21st April 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 22nd April ~ Liver chestnut mare injured ~ Sway Road, Brockenhurst ~ R Maton 25th April ~ Bay mare killed HIT & RUN ~ B3079 Brook ~ P Rix

National Park Authority takes tough stance on illegal mobile homes - Wednesday, April 23 2008

The New Forest National Park Authority is taking a tough stance on illegal mobile homes on private land in the National Park. In the past two months the National Park Authority has won two successful court cases after residents flouted enforcement notices by not removing unauthorised mobile homes from their land. In a case in Sway, the two defendants were ordered to pay a total of £800 in fines and court costs, after they sited a residential mobile home on agricultural land without planning permission, and then failed to comply with an enforcement notice which required the removal of the mobile home. In Landford the defendants were prosecuted for breaching an enforcement notice which required them to remove an unauthorised mobile home from their land in Latchmore Drove; it should have been removed by the end of August 2006. The court took a clear view that the defendants had continually failed to comply with the enforcement notice, despite repeated warnings from the National Park’s enforcement team. The defendants were fined £6,000 in fines and court costs. Sandy Tolmay, Senior Enforcement Officer, said: ‘Both these cases illustrate that we take a strong stance against illegal dwellings in the New Forest National Park. ‘Failing to comply with the requirements of an enforcement notice is a very serious matter. The public’s confidence in the planning system is quickly undermined if we fail to intervene in such cases. The Authority has recently enhanced its enforcement role with the appointment of a compliance officer and it will continue to make sure that the requirements of all enforcement notices are fully met.’

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, April 21 2008

Week commencing Monday 14th April 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 14th April ~ Roan yearling filly killed ~ Ipers Bridge to Hilltop ~ M Lovell 15th Apr ~ Brown pony uninjured HIT & RUN ~ Ipers Bridge to Hilltop ~ M Lovell

New Forest organisations urge commoners and farmers to vaccinate against Bluetongue - Wednesday, April 16 2008

The New Forest National Park Authority, the Verderers and the National Farmers’ Union are urging commoners and farmers in the New Forest to vaccinate their stock against the Bluetongue virus. The New Forest is already in the Bluetongue Protection Zone and a case was discovered in the Forest at the end of March. Bluetongue is a serious disease that can affect the health and welfare of live stock. Without vaccination animals such as cows, sheep and goats could become very sick or even die. This is why three New Forest organisations are working together to ask people to vaccinate their stock. Stephen Trotter, Director of Conservation, Recreation and Sustainable Development, said: ‘We understand that for commoners it may be difficult and time-consuming to retrieve their animals from the Forest once they have been turned out for the summer. However, unless everyone gets their stock vaccinated the potential benefits of the vaccination could be undermined as the transmission of the virus through unhygienic practices cannot be ruled out. We understand the vaccine will be available in May; we encourage all owners to register with their Vet to secure their supply now. ‘We have been working closely with the Verderers who feel it would be beneficial for commoners to know where to find information on the disease and to explain the benefits of vaccination.’ All commoners will soon be receiving an information pack from the National Park Authority which explains Bluetongue and its effects and the advantages of vaccinating against it. More information about Bluetongue can be found online at http://www.defra.gov.uk/bluetongue and at the Joint Campaign Against Bluetongue http://www.bluetongue-info.com

BHS delighted at decision against immediate return of Amersham horses - Monday, April 14 2008

The British Horse Society has expressed its delight at the legal decision to put a stay in place until a High Court appeal is heard, which prevents the return of any of the horses rescued from Spindles Farm, Amersham. An initial hearing took place on 4 April, when it was ruled by Deputy District Judge Sandeep Kainth at Oxford Magistrates Court that 11 donkeys and 18 Shetland ponies should be returned to Jamie Gray from whom the animals were seized in January. While Deputy Judge Kainth did not have the power to reverse his original decision, the stay means the horses, ponies and donkeys will be able to remain in the care of the charities that rescued them until an appeal by the RSPCA against his original ruling is heard in the High Court. BHS Welfare Senior Executive Lee Hackett said: “This is fantastic news. We are delighted that Deputy Judge Kainth has done everything in his power to ensure that the animals involved remain in the best possible hands for the foreseeable future. “It is an enormous relief that the animals will be able to remain in the care of the numerous charities who have worked so hard to rehabilitate them until the RSPCA appeal is heard. We are fully behind the RSPCA in their appeal and offer our unconditional backing and support.” The January rescue of more than 100 horses, ponies and donkeys from the premises of Jamie Gray was one of the largest equine welfare operations ever to have take place in the United Kingdom. It saw many different horse welfare organisations working together to seize and subsequently rehabilitate the animals involved. For further information, please contact: Lee Hackett, Senior Executive Welfare, The British Horse Society, 01926 707804 or l.hackett@bhs.org.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, April 14 2008

Week commencing Monday 7th April 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers Amazingly we have had another week without accidents! This makes three in a row!!

Minstead Manor Commoner’s Crown Court Appeal Fails Conviction Re-instated - Monday, April 7 2008

At the Lyndhurst Magistrates Court on Friday 4th May 2007 Mr Robert Cooper of Acres Down Farm in Minstead, Lyndhurst was successfully prosecuted by the Verderers for non-payment of his annual marking fees due under the Verderers’ byelaws. Mr Cooper was fined £200 (the maximum fine allowable for this type of offence) and ordered to pay £2,500 towards the Verderers’ legal costs in bringing the prosecution. He was also ordered to pay £680 compensation in respect of the unpaid marking fees for 2006. Mr Cooper subsequently exercised his right of appeal to the Crown Court, and his case was finally concluded this morning before His Honour Judge Boggis QC sitting in Southampton. Having heard legal argument from Mr Malcolm Gibney, who represented Mr Cooper, the Judge dismissed the appeal and re-instated the original fine and costs imposed in the Magistrates Court. Judge Boggis also ordered Mr Cooper to pay the Verderers’ full legal costs of the numerous Crown Court Appeal hearings. The Judge made it plain in his judgement that he could find no legal reason why Mr Cooper should not be subject to the Verderers’ Byelaws once his animals entered the Forest from the neighbouring Manor of Minstead, and accordingly a marking fee is due and must be paid. He went on to remind Mr Cooper that the marking fee is not a charge for grazing, but a fee that is paid by all commoners. The fee goes towards the costs of providing the valuable skills and services given by the Agisters, which benefit all the owners of animals lawfully turned out on the open Forest. The Official Verderer, Oliver Crosthwaite-Eyre, stated after the hearing: “As I have said before, this case was brought about by Mr Cooper’s persistent refusal to pay on the totally misguided basis that, simply because his animals come onto the Forest from Minstead Manor, he is somehow exempt from paying marking fees. Once again his arguments have been proved wrong. Naturally I am pleased that this appeal against conviction has failed, and that Mr Cooper has also been ordered to pay our legal costs.

The BHS condemns the return of Amersham Horses - Monday, April 7 2008

The British Horse Society has expressed its outrage at the decision to return 29 donkeys and Shetland ponies to the family at the centre of the recent rescue operation at Spindles Farm in Amersham, Buckinghamshire. The January rescue of more than 100 horses, ponies and donkeys from the premises of Jamie Gray was one of the largest equine welfare operations ever to have take place in the United Kingdom. It saw many different horse welfare organisations working together to seize and subsequently rehabilitate the animals involved. The decision made at Oxford Magistrates Court to return 29 of the ponies and donkeys to the Gray family, and to have the remainder of the animals sold at public auction, has come as a huge blow to all of those involved with the operation and to everybody who is concerned about horse welfare. BHS Welfare Senior Executive Lee Hackett said: “The BHS is shocked and disappointed by the decision to return a number of horses to the Gray family. ”Whilst we recognise that the trials of those charged in this case have yet to take place, the terrible condition of the animals at the time they were rescued should have been enough to ensure that they remain safely in the care of rescue organisations. ”This will be devastating news to everybody who has been involved in the care and rehabilitation of these animals”. Mr Hackett continues: “The decision to sell the remainder of the horses, ponies and donkeys at public auction is as mystifying as it is disappointing. ”We are appalled that these animals will now be put in a position where their future welfare cannot be guaranteed. ”We fully support the RSPCA’s argument that they should be allowed to supervise the re-homing of these horses to approved homes where knowledgeable and responsible people will care for them. This is the absolute least that these animals deserve.” For further information, please contact: Lee Hackett, The British Horse Society, 01926 707804 or l.hackett@bhs.org.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, April 7 2008

Week commencing Monday 31st March 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers For the second week in a row, there were no accidents during week commencing Monday 31st March!!! Long may it last!

The New Forest Equestrian Association AGM - Wednesday, April 2 2008

Calling all NFEA present and past members The New Forest Equestrian Association's Annual General Meeting will be held at Lyndhurst Community Centre on Monday 14 April 2008 at 8.00 pm Free refreshments - all donations to Hampshire Fire & Rescue Service Guest Speaker - Jonathan Gerrelli, Head Agister For further information contact either secretary Hilary Doe Tel: 01425 619161 e-mail: hilary.doe@tiscali.co.uk or Ros Gibbins Tel: 01590 682856 e-mail RJ.Gibbins@tiscali.co.uk

Support Ragwort Awareness Week – request your Ragfork NOW! - Wednesday, April 2 2008

The British Horse Society Welfare Department is urging people to help prevent the spread of Ragwort during the first Ragwort Awareness Week of 2008, which runs from 14-20 April 2008. The Society is calling for volunteers to organise Ragwort Pulling Parties to remove the deadly weed where it is growing on or near to grazing land. Ragfork have generously sponsored Ragwort Awareness Week and have donated 50 Ragforks to be delivered free of charge to those wishing to take part in the BHS Ragwort Pulling Parties. The BHS Welfare Department can provide advice, posters and flyers to advertise your event as well as advisory literature on the dangers of Ragwort. Defra codes of practice on how to prevent the spread of Common Ragwort and disposal options are also available. Lee Hackett, BHS Welfare Senior Executive, said: "Every year the BHS receive hundreds of calls and emails from concerned horse owners requiring advice on how to control Ragwort. This is an important time of year to control Ragwort, while it is still at the rosette stage in order to help prevent the weed spreading further.” Those holding Ragwort Pulling Parties are invited to send in a brief report about their event along with photos for inclusion in the BHS magazine, British Horse, by 30 May 2008. The BHS advises that you always wear thick, waterproof gloves when handling ragwort and to protect your skin from contact with the weed. It is also sensible to wear a facemask. Please ensure that you have permission from the owner of the land before embarking on any ragwort pulls.

Shetland Pony Grand National 2008 - Wednesday, April 2 2008

The New Forest & Hampshire County Show is delighted to announce that the Shetland Pony Grand National will be held at the 2008 Show. For those of you who have not come across this spectacle before, this is a fabulous display of pony racing over miniature steeplechase fences, a high speed dash, a blur of coloured silks, flying manes and tails and the roar of the crowd – the excitement of a day at the races condensed to Shetland Pony style, daily races will be held in the East Ring. This concept was initially brought to life by famous BBC Equestrian Commentator, Raymond Brooks-Ward. Competitors battle to qualify at the Summer Agricultural Shows in order to win a place at the finals held at Olympia, the London International Horse Show in December. In keeping with the charitable status of the New Forest Agricultural Show Society, staging this event is just another way of contributing to worthy charities. The Shetland Pony Grand National has raised over £250,000 over the past twenty years, for charities such as Tommy’s Campaign and Great Ormond Street Hospital. Ponies are registered to the Shetland Pony Stud Book Society and ponies and riders are members of the National Shetland Pony Performance Scheme. Competitors have to run in display races until they are considered competent to race in the qualifiers. It is a great spectacle to watch, so make sure you obtain your tickets for the Show and join us for a great day out. The New Forest & Hampshire County Show will be held on Tuesday 29th to Thursday 31st July at New Park, Brockenhurst. For all information go to www.newforestshow.co.uk

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, March 31 2008

Week commencing Monday 24th March 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers I am pleased to advise you that there were no road traffic accidents during week commencing Monday 24th March 2008!

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Tuesday, March 25 2008

Week commencing Monday 17th March 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 18th Mar ~ Dark pony – nothing found injured ~ B3054 Beaulieu Heath ~ R Maton 23rd Mar ~ Pony hit – nothing found injured ~ Crow Road junction with C10, Burley ~ A Napthine 23rd Mar ~ Cow hit – nothing found injured ~ B3058 – Rising Sun ~ J R Gerrelli

NFPEC Events Cancelled. - Wednesday, March 19 2008

Regrettably the NFPEC Practice Show & Stallion Parade are both Cancelled due to the current Strangles situation in the local area.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, March 17 2008

Week commencing Monday 10th March 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 12th Mar ~ Pony destroyed ~ B3056 Matley Ridge ~ R Maton

SCATS COUNTRYSTORES IN LYMINGTON HOST PET AND EQUINE DAY! - Thursday, March 13 2008

The SCATS Countrystore in Lymington is hosting a Pet and Equine day on Saturday 29th March from 8.30am – 5.30pm, giving visitors to the store the opportunity to meet leading suppliers and local authorities for specialist advice and information. Highlights on the day will include tack marking by Hampshire Horse Watch, soil testing and advice, pet portraits for pet lovers and specialist feed and supplement guidance from leading supplier Red Mills Horse Feed, who will be launching a new range of feed as well supplying free samples and special offers on the day. Further attractions throughout the day include New Forest District Council Dog Wardens who will be in attendance, ready to microchip your dog for just £15.00. Fort Dodge, manufacturers of Equest horse wormers are also offering a worm count service on the day. Just bring a sample of horse dung and a £2 charity donation for the New Milton Alzheimer’s Society. Cathy Wood Equestrian Product Buyer says, “This is a fantastic opportunity for our customers to come and take advantage of great deals on both pet and equestrian products as well as the chance to get specialist and tailored advice from product experts and our suppliers.” A whole host of suppliers will be on hand to answer any product related questions including Net-tex with grooming suggestions as well as expert advice and information on every aspect of pet care from Purina. The Lymington store will also launch the latest range of Spring/Summer horse rugs available to equine enthusiasts from SCATS Countrystores. Special Event Day Offers include: - 10% off a whole range of products throughout the store. *Excludes Farm PML, event day offers and timber and bale wrap - Save £1.00 per bag on SCATS own label Horse feed - Save £2.00 per bag on Red Mills Horse feed - Special prices on fencing materials Customers will be invited to pay £1.00 to enter a prize draw to win a whole collection of pet and equine goodies including a Barbour gillet, grooming bag and Aigle jacket. All proceeds from the draw will go to New Milton Alzheimer’s Society. For more information on the event please call the Lymington SCATS Countrystore on 01590 676633.

NEW FOREST TRAFFIC ACCIDENTS - Monday, March 10 2008

Week commencing Monday 3rd March 2008 Supplied by the Clerk of the Verderers 3rd Mar ~ White gilt pig – destroyed ~ B3078 Roundhill ~ A Napthine 5th Mar ~ Pony – nothing found injured ~ Ipers Bridge to Hilltop ~ M Lovell

Free Service provided by the New Forest Equine Directory

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