A Window on ... Horse Riding Sources of Information

	Where to Look Information and advice is available from: Books and Magazines Riding and Equestrian Centres Specialist shops National organisations The Internet: Web links
	Books and Magazines There is usually a range of books about horses and horse riding in the local library. These can provide interesting background reading. Ask the librarian to help you find the titles that suit you (they could be in the children or adult sections). 'Simply Horses' is a magazine aimed at new riders and horse owners. There are regular features and competitions plus special topics. The magazine was launched in April 1996 and is published every two months. It costs £1.90.
	Riding and Equestrian Centres There are many local riding schools to help you get started and most will be advertised in yellow pages. With so much choice available it is worth asking your friends or local people for their recommendations. You should also check with your Local Authority to make sure the school has been inspected and approved. Always visit the riding school beforehand to make sure that there is a good atmosphere, that the school is well organised, that the facilities are well-kept and that the horses are healthy. If you need further advice, contact the British Horse Society for a copy of 'Where to Ride'. (See below).
	Specialist Shops A good equestrian or saddle shop will be able to advise you about the equipment you need and many are starting to advertise some of their services on the Internet. Before you buy, always ask your local riding school instructor for their advice. Over the summer, you will find many equestrian stands at the County Shows where you can view and buy equipment. At these events there are also many horse riding displays and competitions to watch. This can be a good opportunity to ask for advice from many specialists on one day.
	The British Horse Society The British Horse Society is the largest and best known national organisation for horses and their owners. It provides a range of services for its members and is an important source of advice for horse owners and riders. Part of its job is to train instructors and inspect and approve riding schools. It has a comprehensive list of pony and riding clubs and a register of instructors. It can be contacted at its headquarters: The British Horse Society Stoneleigh Park Kenilworth Warwickshire CV8 2LR Web site: http://www.brucepub.com/bhs/
	Internet: Web links The British Horse Society http://www.brucepub.com/bhs/ Trot On http://www.wotsit.co.uk/horse.htm Horse Photo Album http://www.horses.co.uk/ The Kids Pony Page http://www.abdn.ac.uk/~src011/pony.html Equine Glossary of Terms http://www.abdn.ac.uk/~src011/glossary/index.html Equine Web Link http://www.flair.co.uk/ewl/index.htm Arab Horse Society http://www.arabian.demon.co.uk/ahs/
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Last modified on: Tuesday, July 1, 1997.