Blue Cross appointed charity of the year

The Blue Cross 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. 

"Honour to be chosen"

Kerstin Alford, director of equine welfare at The Blue Cross, says: "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."

The charity is supported by leading international event rider and Olympic competitor Mary King, who has a great affinity with the three-day event at Badminton.

Mary says: "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.

Hugh Thomas, Director of Badminton Horse Trials, adds: "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."

November 2007