The pressures and opportunities facing the equestrian sector will be some of the topics under discussion at the 33rd National Equine Forum (NEF25).
NEF25 will take place at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE) in London on Thursday 6 March 2025.
Industry leaders, veterinary professionals and charity representatives will address a number of subjects in a packed day of talks in front of an in-person and online audience.
The programme will include the following discussions:
The Equine Industry in a Changing World will include a Parliamentary view of the status of the sector. In addition, the British Horse Council will provide an update and there will be a review of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games.
Equine Health Updates will include the latest news on some of the most serious disease threats to horses in the UK.
Equine feeds will look at feed safety and legality, the fundamental role of forage and where to find reliable as well as appropriate nutrition advice.
Equine Assisted Services will take a close look at the partnership role horses play, both ridden and on the ground, from their inclusion in the Paralympic Games to how they facilitate learning and positively impact lives.
Audience participation
Q&A sessions will take place at the end of each discussion to allow members of the audience and livestream viewers the opportunity to have their say.
The day will also include the Memorial Lecture, which will explore how charities are working together to combat equine welfare challenges in Britain, and reveal the winner of the Sir Colin Spedding Award. The award is presented annually to an exceptional unsung hero or heroine of the equestrian world.
“In this year’s programme we have picked some of the most pertinent areas presenting opportunities or threats to the sector,” said NEF chairman Tim Brigstocke.
“We will be addressing these in our inimitable, balanced style, for which NEF has become renowned. We look forward to welcoming you either in person or via the livestream.”
Early bird tickets priced at £90 (instead of the full price of £110) are available until Wednesday 8 January. Tickets to watch the livestream will be released later this month.
Click here to book your ticket.
Main image (c) National Equine Forum
