Hook-up policy change amid “uncertainty around energy prices.”
High living costs are affecting horse owners across the UK, the directors of Hickstead have acknowledged.
Now the Sussex showground has frozen its entry costs at last year’s prices in a bid to “maintain accessibility” and “minimise the financial impact”.
Many riders – and trade stand holders – plug-in horseboxes or caravans to power their stays on the showground.
However, Hickstead is holding back on releasing electric hook-up prices and bookings until nearer each show “due to the continued uncertainty surrounding fuel and energy prices.”
The next major show at Hickstead is the Derby meeting on 17 – 21 June.
“In light of the ongoing global energy crisis and the rising costs to all areas of our operations, we want to reassure our customers that we are doing everything possible to absorb these increases internally,” said director Edward Bunn.
“Our priority is to maintain accessibility to our events and minimise the financial impact on those who attend and support us.”
Hickstead caters for amateur and young riders as well as international professionals, adds Edward.
“We are expecting around 2,500 horses to take part in the [Derby] show, and only a few hundred of these will be competing in the International Arena in the feature classes.
“The great majority of competitors take part in classes in the outer rings, many of whom are amateur riders.”
