Blue Cross Rolleston launches summer dressage series

A series of dressage competitions for horse riders of all levels is to be held at The Blue Cross equine welfare centre in Rolleston-on-Dove, Staffordshire, throughout the summer.

The first event will take place on Wednesday 4th July and local people are being encouraged to sign up. Two further events will take place on 18th July and 8th August. Entrants must register at least four days before the events and the entrance fee is £6 per class.

Kath Urwin, Blue Cross centre manager at Rolleston, said: "Our new dressage days will be great fun for riders of all levels, who will hopefully be able to pick up some tips at the same time. Money raised through entrance fees will go towards the ongoing care and rehabilitation of our horses and ponies, giving them a second chance in life in active, fulfilling new homes."

The first dressage competition will consist of four classes aimed at novices through to intermediate dressage riders. Horses and riders will be expected to perform set routines based on four British Dressage tests: Prelim 4, Prelim 13, Novice 24 and Novice 30. British Dressage judge Fiona Shipley will score each horse and rider combination based on qualities such as accuracy, timing, rhythm and suppleness.

Rosettes will be awarded up to sixth place. For more information, please call 0845 260 5505 or send entry forms to Pat Williams, 1 Wallheath Lane, Stonnall, Walsall, WS9 9HP.

The Blue Cross is funded solely by public donations so it relies on the support of equine lovers to care for its many needy animals. The charity takes in horses or ponies whose owners can no longer cope with them for a variety of financial, personal or behavioural reasons. After a period of assessment, training and rehabilitation if necessary, The Blue Cross rehomes its horses and ponies into worthwhile, fulfilling and appropriate new homes.

If you need the help of The Blue Cross or think you can offer a Blue Cross horse a new home, please phone the Rolleston equine welfare centre on 0845 260 5505, email rolleston@bluecross.org.uk, or drop in to the centre at Dovecliff Road, Rolleston-on-Dove.

Media contact: Laura Dobson
Direct line: 0207 932 4065
Mobile: 07917132698

Notes to editors

· Photographers are welcome to attend - please call the press office for further details.

· The Blue Cross equine welfare centre at Rolleston was opened in October 2006. It has practical facilities for the intake, rehabilitation and rehoming of up to 35 horses, and experienced staff are on hand to provide advice and support to horse owners.

· The 60-acre site includes a specially designed indoor stable block with a dedicated horse wash box and specialist veterinary treatment unit. It also has support facilities including a tack room, feed room, drying room and a yard office.

· The Blue Cross provides practical support, information and advice to pet and horse owners nationwide. Through its network of animal adoption centres it rehomes thousands of companion animals and horses each year. Its animal hospitals provide veterinary care for the pets of people who cannot afford private vets' fees. For more information, please visit www.bluecross.org.uk.