British Equestrian News: British Equestrian Federation Announces New Member Bodies

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has today announced that two organisations will be joining the 16 independent equestrian member bodies that are already part of the BEF. The British Grooms Association (BGA) and The Showing Council will work closely with the BEF to co-ordinate policy on a wide range of issues.


Chair of the BEF Council, Jane Holderness-Roddam commented on the announcement; “I am delighted that these two organisations have joined us and look forward to working with them both closely in the future”.

BEF Chairman, Keith Taylor commented; “To welcome two prestigious organisations, in the BGA and The Showing Council, into the BEF is wonderful for the equestrian industry. The knowledge and experience they both bring adds breadth and depth to the Federation, they are a very welcome addition”.

The two new member bodies are as follows:

British Grooms Association

The BGA is a professional membership association set up on a not-for-profit basis and is the world’s only professional association for grooms. The BGA aims to increase national and international recognition of grooms, and the work that they do, providing them with a united voice. The Association currently has in excess of 700 members across all disciplines.

Executive Director of the BGA, Lucy Katan commented; “This is a major step forward for grooms. Being invited to join the BEF is further demonstration of the vital role the BGA holds within the industry. We hope that even more grooms will recognise the importance of this development and join their professional association. With the support of the Federation, the BGA can continue to make a real difference for grooms and their employers.”

The Showing Council

The Showing Council represents an amalgamation of key showing bodies which has come into being with the support of Graham Suggett and Jan Rogers. The aims of The Showing Council are to ensure that breeding, welfare, education and health and safety standards are kept high for the benefit of its participants.

Brian Williams of The Showing Council commented on the announcement; “I am absolutely delighted that the Showing Council has become a member of the British Equestrian Federation. This is a significant leap forward for the Showing Council and it presents a huge opportunity for the world of showing. The Showing Council very much looks forward to working with BEF to the mutual benefit of both organisations.”

ENDS