Claire Williams (pictured) is executive director of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA).

BETA executive director recognised for support of the equine sector during the pandemic.

Executive director of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA) Claire Williams has been presented with this year's National Equine Forum (NEF) Special COVID-19 Sir Colin Spedding Award 2021 by HRH The Princess Royal.

Ms Williams was nominated for the Award in recognition of her hard work to support the equestrian sector during the COVID-19 pandemic.

This included analysis of Government guidelines and development of protocols which allowed feed merchants, as well as tack shops selling feed and horse care products, to trade legally and continue providing essential safety services.

She was presented with her award by HRH The Princess Royal, who is President of the NEF,  during a special ceremony at Gatcombe Park on 29 April 2021.

Ms Williams said: “I feel deeply honoured, not only to have won the award but also for it to have been presented to me by HRH The Princess Royal. The past 12 months have been a challenge for the industry and I was pleased to have been able to play my part in providing support to BETA members and members of the wider equestrian community through this difficult time.

“This award actually belongs not just to me but to my colleagues at BETA, whose support has been invaluable.”

The annual Sir Colin Spedding Award was introduced in 2013 to recognise someone working in the equestrian world who has gone above and beyond in their work.

The NEF Organising Committee have adapted this year's award to celebrate those who provided support and guidance during the pandemic. It will return to its original format in 2022.

Nominations are now open for the 2022 Award. The closing date is midday on Saturday 31 July 2021. To find out more please visit the NEF website.

Image (c) Bob Langrish.