UNGRATEFUL

Sir — Having worked tirelessly at Somerford Park Horse Trials this summer, poo-picking the warmup and showjumping arenas, I feel fortunate that the organiser Millie King and her team looked after us well and appreciated our efforts. It’s a far cry from the attitude of many competitors and their helpers.

Despite the hi-vis we wore, we were apparently invisible to many and the downright rudeness we experienced from some was unacceptable. Invisibility I could cope with, but a “good morning”, a “please” or a “thank you” would have been appreciated.

Am I old fashioned or is that not basic civility? Out of the 200plus riders and helpers who were there, only three ladies thanked us for the work we were doing. It is gratifying that the organisers of such events appreciate what we “lesser mortals” do and look after us so well. But to the competitors and helpers who were so rude to those of us doing a less than glamorous — but necessary —job, shame on you.

Beverley Ashton

Holmes Chapel, Cheshire