British horse owners and riders spend around £4 billion per year on what has become a growing leisure activity, according to the National Equestrian Survey (NES) newly commissioned by the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA).
The second and final phase of the survey, in which BETA has invested more than £70,000, was launched at the National Equine Forum on 22nd March.
“The figures show that conventional wisdom may have underestimated just to what extent the industry has grown since BETA last reported in 1999,” said BETA’s executive director Claire Williams.
“The report’s findings will contribute significantly to the debate surrounding the structure of the industry, its role in Britain today and its strategic development in the future.”
The new survey reveals that the number of horses in Britain, including those kept by private owners and in professional establishments, has reached 1.35 million. They are owned or cared for by 720,000 people, or 1.2% of the UK population.
Around 2.1 million people ride at least once a month, with a further 2.2 million having done so during the last year, making a total of 4.3 million participants. The previous estimate was that 2.4 million people had ridden during the last 12-months.
“These figures are particularly encouraging, especially if infrequent riders can be persuaded to take to the saddle more often,” said Ms Williams.
Research for the first part of the NES, published in February, found that a shortage of places to go riding and lack of opportunity were often-cited deterrents.
BETA, which represents about 800 manufacturers, distributors and retailers of equestrian goods and services, is currently promoting riding as a leisure activity that can be enjoyed by all ages and on a wide range of budgets.
When the trade association sought views on the coming of the Olympic Games to London in 2012, more than 90% of respondents believed that the ‘Olympic effect’ would raise the profile of horse sports and generate more interest in riding.
BETA also asked researchers to find out what the more dedicated riders and owners do with their horses.
Although leisure riding remains the main activity, up by 5% since the 1999 survey, the number of riders who school their horses has almost doubled. The amount of competition riding, both affiliated and unaffiliated, has also increased; while riding has become less seasonal with more riders remaining active all year round.
Hunting was also found to have attracted more followers, with the number of mounted participants increasing from 10% to 18% of regular riders over the last six years. Yet the number keeping horses mainly for hunting has gone down by around one third.
The National Equestrian Survey, with additional specialist sections, will be available to purchase. Contact BETA on 01937 587062 or visit www.beta-uk.org
Related Links
Dutch Version BETA press release at Horses.nl (in Dutch)
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