Clubmark achieved by two Equestrian Centres

Clubmark, introduced in 2002, is the Sport England mark of high quality clubs, reassuring both parents and participants that the club is a high quality, welcoming environment for young people. The mark is awarded to clubs that can satisfy minimum operating requirements in the four areas of the playing programme; duty of care and child protection; sports equity and ethics and club management.

The mark is an accreditation scheme covering a variety of different sports and is specifically designed for clubs with junior sections.

The BEF is the approved agency and delivers the Clubmark scheme in partnership with the BHS. Clubmark is available to all clubs and centres who are accredited or approved by a British Equestrian Federation Member Body.

Margaret Linington-Payne, Director of Standards at the British Horse Society said "We are delighted that both BHS Approved centres have achieved Clubmark Accreditation. We believe that both centres and their clients will benefit thoroughly from the scheme."

Maggie Still, head of Regional Development at the British Equestrian Federation said ‘"Participating in a quality environment is a key factor in ensuring a good experience and retaining riders, drivers and vaulters within the sport. The BEF encourages clubs from all Member Bodies, especially those with Junior Sections to link with the BHS, find out more about Clubmark and explore the potential benefits for themselves".

Beth Davies of Quob Equestrian centre said, "The process of applying for the Club Mark Accreditation was straight forward and we had great support from the BHS.  We found most of the principles of the Clubmark Accreditation were already in place at Quob Stables, but it enables us to re-evaluate all areas of the Club. Since applying for the Clubmark Accreditation we have forged stronger links with the local schools."

Ruth Dowie of Runningwell Equestrian Cente said, "Runningwell Equestrian Centre are extremely proud to have achieved the Clubmark Accreditation. The staff at the British Horse Society proved very helpful and informative on the portfolio process, which at first did seem daunting!