BLUE CROSS BADMINTON CHARITY OF THE YEAR 2008

Animal welfare charity The Blue Cross today announced that it has been chosen as the 2008 Charity of the Year at one of the world's most famous equestrian events, the Mitsubishi Motors Badminton Horse Trials.

As tradition serves, one of the well-known cross-country fences at the event will be named in the charity's honour.  The Blue Cross will also be given the rare opportunity to lead out the competitors' parade at the end of the three day event in May 2008. 

Kerstin Alford, director of equine welfare at The Blue Cross, said: "The Blue Cross is honoured to be chosen as Charity of the Year at such a prestigious event.  It is an exciting opportunity to tell people about our work rehabilitating and rehoming unwanted horses and ponies across the country.  It will also help us to reach a wide range of current and future horse owners with advice on equine welfare, which is at the heart of everything we do."

Hugh Thomas, Director of Badminton Horse Trials, added: "The Blue Cross perfectly fits our criteria in being a major national charity with strong local connections.  We are lucky to have their horse ambulances here every year, staffed by very well trained people.  It is particularly good to be able to recognise the dedicated work of people who help us in such a practical way."

The Blue Cross is supported by leading international event rider and Olympic competitor Mary King, who has a great affinity with the three-day event at Badminton.  Her highly successful eventing career was inspired by a trip to Badminton Horse Trials at the age of twelve and she has since gone on to twice collect the trophy herself, amongst many other impressive equestrian achievements. 

Mary King said: "I think the work of charities like The Blue Cross is truly commendable.  They help hundreds of horses every year to fulfil their potential in happy, secure homes.  Some people mistakenly think that charities only deal with elderly or companion horses, or those in poor health.  But I've seen first-hand that The Blue Cross works with some fine riding horses that any owner would be proud to take on."

To help celebrate The Blue Cross's appointment as Charity of the Year at Badminton 2008, Mary made a trip to the stunning Gloucestershire estate to meet and try out for herself some of the charity's horses that have found success in new homes.

Sheridan, a striking 16.2hh piebald, first came to The Blue Cross as a troubled young horse at seven years of age.  His previous owner lacked the experience to bring him on and as a result he was very tense and nervous when ridden.  Blue Cross staff devised a training programme to build his confidence and he responded well, becoming a good all-rounder.   He was then able to be placed in a new home with young rider Alice Bennett, who now competes him regularly at Pony Club events and local competitions.

Handsome chestnut gelding William was an unbroken three-year-old when he arrived at The Blue Cross.  His previous owner had failed to back him as he was aggressive and difficult to handle.  After first calling in the vet to ensure his behaviour wasn't caused by pain, The Blue Cross started a gradual training programme with lots of ground work.  With time and patience, William became a good natured all-rounder who excelled at dressage.  He was rehomed with riding groom Monika Barna who continues his schooling and competes locally.

Kerstin Alford continued: "Badminton Horse Trials is a world-renowned equestrian event that inspires young riders to strive for success.  The Blue Cross wants to give every horse and pony the chance to shine, too.  Next May, our horses will have the chance to walk out with some of the finest horses in the world, which just goes to show that anything is possible!"

The Blue Cross rehabilitates and rehomes hundreds of horses every year at its three equine centres in Burford (Oxfordshire), Rolleston (Staffordshire) and Northiam (East Sussex).  The charity does not receive any government funding so it relies on the generosity of the public to continue its vital work.  For more information please visit http://www.bluecross.org.uk/. 

ENDS

Notes to Editors

 Images available: Mary King riding Blue Cross Sheridanat Badminton

Badminton Horse Trials, sponsored by Mitsubishi Motors, takes place from 1 to 4 May 2008.  For more information, please visit http://www.badminton-horse.co.uk/.

The Blue Cross provides practical support, information and advice for pet and horse owners. Through its network of small animal and equine adoption centres it rehomes thousands of animals each year. Its hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees. 

Media contact: Laura Dobson, Senior Press Officer - 020 7932 4065 / 07917 132 698