HORSES ON ORKNEY

There are lots! Getting on for a couple of thousand I think. There are very active riding, driving and pony clubs. A couple of years ago Orkney gained two indoor schools, one managed by the riding club, the other is part of a riding school/livery yard. There is good cross country course with a newly added water jump where One Day events are held. The riding club holds a two day show in June and horses do feature strongly at the County show in August. There are a number of people who travel south to compete fairly seriously, particularly in jumping and eventing.

The local veterinary practices are very well equipped. There is a farrier based on mainland Orkney who does come over to Shapinsay if there are enough horses to do. There are some twenty horses and ponies now on Shapinsay and three trophies on offer at the Agricultural Association show in August. The second week of August is Show week with the smaller shows being held during the week, culminating in the County Show on the second Saturday in August.