Insights gained from this year’s National Equine Forum (NEF) have been used to shape the programme for the forthcoming event on Thursday 5 March 2020, to give the equestrian industry the topics they most want to hear about.

This year the event organisers have used feedback from delegates, together with social media activity, live stream and podcast views to identify what the equestrian industry particularly like.

Programme Convener Georgina Crossman said: “From feedback received and from what you have watched via our online streaming we are going to give you more of the same in terms of research-led presentations.”

To date Dr Rachel Murray’s 2019 presentation on what cardiovascular fitness, core stability and muscle development of the horse has received more than 5,400 views on the NEF YouTube channel. In 2018 the NEF website details on Dr Sue Dyson’s Landmark pilot study on the effects of rider weight on equine performance received around 3,500 unique page visits as well as international media attention. This year Ashleigh Wallace’s talk on rider asymmetry and its impact on the horse, and Dr Andrew Hemmings, observations on Equine Stereotypic Behaviour proved to be highly popular.

“Given the enthusiastic response we have had to these presentations the key focus of our 2020 programme will be on research-led aspects of equine health and welfare,” said Georgina. “High profile vets, scientists and industry experts will be sharing their knowledge and views on disease, welfare, human behaviour and global welfare issues.”

NEF, held in March each year, is an important annual event uniting diverse elements of the equestrian industry for friendly, non-partisan debate. The aim is to inform, educate and help the industry to speak with the strength of one voice on topical matters affecting the current and future management and wellbeing of the horse. It is organised by a committee of volunteers representing various sectors of the equestrian industry and has as its President HRH The Princess Royal.

Details of the NEF 2020 programme will be announced towards the end of the year and a limited number of Early Bird tickets will be available from December. To apply or to find out how you could enjoy the privilege of becoming a sponsor of the Forum please email info@nationalequineforum.com.

For further information on the NEF and to view past presentations visit https://www.nationalequineforum.com.