HURSTWOOD FARM Equestrian Centre in High Hurstwood, East Sussex has become the 1000th 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 over 40 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.”