Weather forces horse trials to be abandoned
THIS year’s Belsay International Horse Trials 2024 has been abandoned following heavy rain.
The five-day event, sponsored by Barbour, was due to start in Belsay Castle in Northumberland yesterday and last until Sunday. However, following an inspection, it has now been abandoned.
Organiser Laura de Wesselow said the persistent rainfall over the last week has left the ground saturated with standing water across the site.
She said: “Following an inspection this morning by BE and FEI officials, it is with great sadness that we announce the abandonment of Belsay International Horse Trials 2024.
“After an unusually wet winter and spring, intermittently persistent (and sometimes torrential) rain over the last week has left the ground saturated with standing water across the site.
“Entrance gateways are already turning to mud and while we have looked at additional hardcore and even temporary tracking, it would be very difficult to get lorries and emergency vehicles on site safely.
“Furthermore, with standing water on the cross country course and all around the show jumping arena, the event would be seriously compromised for competitors and spectators alike.”
Belsay Horse Trials was started in 2013 by Laura and Peter de Wesselow, who live at Belsay and represent the current generation of the Middleton family, alongside a committee of volunteers.
Laura added: “We certainly do not take this decision lightly, after 10 years of building the horse trials, with the help and support of all our sponsors, officials, contractors, volunteers and competitors. We are insured and will be processing refunds. Please bear with us while we deal with the insurance company.”
Belsay Hall, Castle and Gardens are open to the public and managed by English Heritage. The estate has been owned by the Middleton family for more than 800 years.