Coronavirus: British Equestrian Federation urges individuals ‘not to ride

The British Equestrian Federation (BEF) has urged riders not to “add to the burden” of the emergency services and stay out of the saddle amid the coronavirus pandemic.The update today (27 March) goes further than earlier advice by the BEF on Tuesday (24 March) which advised riders to avoid “all organised equine activity”. The federation has also advised to avoid hacking out.The BEF statement said the government had not issued any restrictions on riding – but the federation urged everyone to “carefully consider the risks and what is ‘essential’ – and not ride”.“The emergency and health services are working at full capacity to combat the virus and as a community we shouldn’t add to that burden,” said the statement.“If you choose to ride, we strongly suggest avoiding activity with heightened risk and keeping to your own property.”