Our involvement is not just with the agricultural sector, but also with the many equestrian and other businesses whose livelihoods depend on normal rural activity. Indeed, many of our own clubs are struggling to survive a dramatic loss of income from events and training activity. Those with premises, staff and other overheads are in particular difficulty. Many of our members are farmers or live on farms. Many more keep their horses on farms some of them haven t been allowed near their horses since the outbreak started.
Many clubs rely on farmers for the land on which they hold their events.
Several clubs have expensive property and other overheads to support. Several weeks after the outbreak started, these are still our recommendations. We know that some organizations hope to be able soon to resume limited competitive activities in areas without foot and mouth restrictions. We hope they are able to do so successfully. Indeed, if clubs in unrestricted areas feel that they can comply with the regulations by carrying out risk assessments , disinfecting vehicles, horses and competitors, and operate certain activities without losing the goodwill of their local community, then we will respect their judgment.