The British Horse Society has suffered from a bit
of a 'tweedy' or, worse still, a 'twin set and pearls' image!
Many 'horsey' people feel that the BHS is not an
organisation, which they want or even need to be part of.
Opinions are changing however and the BHS is increasingly
seen as an organisation, which represents every interest - across
all of the equestrian community.
The British Horse Society is in a unique position, to take issues,
which affect all equestrians, right to the heart of government.
With luck, the information available on this website will help to
convince you of the importance of becoming a member. The larger
we become as an organisation - the more influence we will have.
This will mean further opportunities for off-road riding, safer
road crossings, higher standards of horse care and welfare, increased
training options, funding for projects and much, much more.
Of course image is important. That's why much has been done - and
remains to be done - to raise awareness to the fact that the BHS,
is run by ordinary people (often horse owners themselves), who have
the same interests and expectations as any other grass-roots horse
lover.
The work of Development Officers in the Regions, involves spreading
the word, so that everyone with an interest in horses, understands
the benefits of joining the BHS. Promoting the benefits of membership
to EVERYONE involved with, or interested in horses and ponies is
the main part of the Development Officer's job.
We have a current membership of almost 60,000, (just over 2000
members here in the North). Although that means we are the largest
equestrian organisation, we still represent only a tiny minority
of the three million or so people who are involved in equestrian
activities in the UK.
We have achieved a great deal, BUT, there is no doubt that we could
achieve so much more if we had ten, fifteen or even twenty times
the number of current members!
The Society quite simply could not exist without its members. Annual
subscriptions make it possible for us to support the vast range
of activities in which our volunteers are involved, up and down
the country.
The ultimate aim is of course, to really make a difference
- making life better for all horses and ponies.
So what's in it for you?
Elsewhere on this website you will find details of the many, many
activities in which we are involved. On the national website, you
will find details of our work across the UK and overseas. Most of
this valuable work is funded by subscriptions from our members.
Horses and ponies, and riders and drivers across the country, benefit
as a result.
However, membership of the Society is not just about giving. We
offer a fantastic package of Personal Benefits too!
There are three levels of membership, Gold, Silver and Bronze.
Gold Membership carries the full range of benefits through to Bronze
membership, which allows people to be a BHS supporter with minimum
outlay. There is a level of membership to suit everyone.
The PERSONAL BENEFITS for each level briefly include:
