BRITISH Riding Clubs hopes to have a horse welfare adviser in every affiliated club by the end of 2003.

Fort Dodge Animal Health, which manufactures horse wormer Equest, has agreed to give sponsorship to allow the BRC to re-launch the scheme previously known as the horse care advisers scheme.

Helen Barnes, the company's equine business unit manager, said: "Owning a horse is a huge responsibility, as well as a significant financial investment, so the last thing any horse owner wants is to have an unhealthy horse they cannot ride.

"We see this adviser scheme as a great opportunity to educate horse owners and riders on equine healthcare, including the importance of regular worming".

Currently there are around 150 horse welfare advisers and that number will increase to around 400 by the end of next year.

They offer support to club members and advice on latest practices and thinking on many aspects of equine management.

They are intended to be a first port of call and will not be duplicating the work of the British Horse Society.

To qualify, you must hold the RC Horse Welfare 3 or Phase 3 certificate and be prepared to attend relevant training sessions.

The Worshipful Company of Saddlers are helping with the development of the scheme this year