BETA has welcomed its return visit to Blair Castle International Horse Trials, where the trade association supported the Scottish Grassroots Eventing Festival and organised the Best Stand Awards.
BETA executive director Claire Williams said: “We have enjoyed two contrasting Blair experiences. Last year’s début was rather wet and cold, while this time we had the very best weather that a British summer can offer. The one remaining constant, however, was the incredible equestrian experience on offer.
“The organising team had done a great job, the trade stands welcomed a significant amount of footfall and visitors were thrilled to see such competition, from top level to grassroots. The event allowed us to promote the work of BETA and our members, and to hear about the issues that are important to riders and owners.”
The BETA stand welcomed visitors throughout the event’s four days, with many bringing their riding hats and body protectors along for a free safety check. In return, they received a discount voucher worth 10% off the price of a new safety garment when bought from a participating BETA retailer.
Blair visitors were also invited to join the BETA National Equestrian Research Panel, where they could share their views on all things horsey with the industry.
The Best Stand Awards were divided into three categories – Equestrian & Saddlery, Lifestyle, Pet & Fashion and Food & Beverages, with each stand judged according to BETA’s set criteria and awarded either a gold or silver standard.
In Equestrian & Saddlery, Equikro, Voltaire Design – which also won Best in Show – Joshua Jones, Horse Direct and Wychanger were awarded gold, while silver went to Ayr Equestrian, Libby’s International, Coltsfoot Equestrian and Bareback Footwear.
In the Lifestyle, Pet & Fashion section, gold was won by Old Barn Leather, with silver going to Collared Creatures, Scotia Cabins and Hanbury Watches.
Food & Beverages saw gold go to Clootie McToot Traditional Dumplings and Pizza Box, and silver go to Bruadar, Smoky Brae and Aelder Elexir.
