Winner’s efforts helped businesses continue to trade legally through the pandemic.
Claire Williams, the executive director of the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA), has been recognised for supporting the equestrian industry during the coronavirus crisis.
She was presented with the National Equine Forum (NEF) Special Covid-19 Sir Colin Spedding Award by HRH The Princess Royal at Gatcombe Park.
Claire was nominated in recognition of her tireless work to advise, support and maintain morale across the equestrian sector during the pandemic.
Her efforts included analysis of Government guidelines and the development of protocols to allow feed merchants and tack shops selling feed and horse care products to trade legally and continue with essential safety services such as hat fitting.
Claire 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 Sir Colin Spedding Award is presented annually to an exceptional unsung hero of the equestrian world.
It was adapted to reflect Covid-19 for 2021 and will return to its normal format in 2022.
