Horse care course a big success

AN Oldham equestrian centre is the first in the country to pilot a new recreational qualification in horse care.

Since it opened 17 years ago, Croft End at Knotts Lane has been dedicated to equestrian sport and is taking the lead again thanks to recognition from the British Horse Society.

A group of students has successfully achieved a 100 per cent pass rate in the Essential Horse Knowledge certificate — a first for England.

The qualification is awarded by the BHS in collaboration with the British Equestrian Federation and Sport England. The BHS approached Croft End directly to ask bosses to run the pilot.

Chief assessor of the BHS, Sue Pimbley said: “I have worked with Croft End for many years now. I have always been very impressed with the standards. The staff are friendly, well-trained, up to date and always valued.”

The qualification aims to increase participation in the sport and is intended for first-time horse owners or parents, or anyone with an interest in horse care. The scheme will now be introduced across the UK

Croft End instructor Lisa Sharp said: “Candidates were examined on all areas of horse care and it really did get a variety of interested people working together.”