Equi-Trek is delighted to be supporting Dinky Ponies, who provide animal therapy to care homes residents and children in educational settings.

The team of six adorable Shetland ponies will travel to and from their visits in an Equi-Trek Apollo horse trailer that has been specially adapted to accommodate the needs of the ponies.

Equi-Trek’s dedicated engineers have designed and fitted two custom built partitions to create a layout suitable for safely transporting four Dinky Ponies.

Horses have always been a part of owner, Sarah Woodland’s life and she was a freelance groom for top event riders including Sir Mark Todd. When Sarah ended up with six Shetland Ponies that had been given to her, she knew that they needed a purpose, and the Dinky Ponies team was born.

Sarah began doing enrichment visits to care homes helping to promote wellness and happiness to their residents, which soon became incredibly popular.

For residents with dementia, a visit from a Dinky Pony can make such a difference as their eyes light up and they engage and interact with the pony.

More schools and education providers are also seeing the benefit and the positive impact of animal therapy on children’s mental health, wellbeing, self-esteem and development of communication skills, empathy, independence, and relationships.

Each pony has a different job and specialise in certain visits. Some of the ponies are better with the elderly and others are better at coping with children where there might be unexpected noise and wheelchairs.

Said Sarah: “I was so pleased to take delivery of the newly adapted Equi-Trek Apollo, the team at Equi-Trek have been incredibly helpful to come up with a design and internal layout in the trailer that suits the needs of the ponies.

“I love getting out and about, meeting people with the Dinky Ponies and seeing the joy they bring to people, which makes all the hard work worthwhile and now we will be arriving in style in the Equi-Trek Apollo.”

The Equi-Trek Apollo horse trailer is available on Flexi-Tow, Equi-Trek’s most affordable transport solution for just £250 including vat per month, on a rolling contract that only requires one months’ notice to cancel.

For further information on Flexi-Tow click here.

Q. What was it like to prepare for the Badminton Grassroots BE90 Championships?
A. I’ve never been the most competitive person; I compete for fun more than for prizes/podium finishes. But after qualifying in 2022 for the 23 Grassroots Championships and sadly having to withdraw last minute due to illness, I made it my mission to qualified again for 2024. I was determined, dedicated and disciplined… I was going to train hard and give it my all.

Hand on heart, I have never enjoyed training so much, it’s been awesome, I’ve learnt loads, and we are both the fittest we’ve ever been too!

I do need something else to aim for now though as having no training or clinics in the diary is making me feel a little sad!!

Q. How did Banksy cope with the special Badminton atmosphere?
A. Do you know what I was so proud of him. He can be a tense and spooky horse, but he certainly rose to the occasion and just looked proud as punched to be there.

He was the most rideable I have ever had him at an event for the Dressage. It’s like he knew how important it was! For the Showjumping warmup he was a little less relaxed and definitely knew the jumping phases were coming. He focused on what I was asking as soon as we got into the Main Ring. On the Cross-Country course, he was just a dream, this is by far his favourite phase!

Q. Were you nervous ahead of competing?
A. I am normally a very nervous anxious competitor, I overthink/over analyse what could go wrong, and have a massive fear of messing up and letting my boy down But, as soon as we left Cornwall on that Monday morning, I was nothing but excited.

I was extremely lucky that my coach surprised me by helping me in all three warm-ups, which massively helped my focus and desire to give it my best shot. So, a huge shout out and thanks to Alex Bragg for giving up his time when he was also extremely busy himself competing in the 5*.

Q. Do you have a standout memorable moment from the competition?
It’s got to be crossing that finish line in the cross-country. It was actually pretty overwhelming the amount of people that were there to support us and cheer for us at the finish.

It’s still a bit of a blur but thankfully I have lots of photos and videos to look back on!

Q. How pleased were you to secure a top 10 place?
Elated!! However, I will be honest at the time I was very cross with myself for missing out on the prizegiving in front of the house by 1 second, as we gained .4 time XC which sadly dropped us two places from 5th to 7th.

Banksy gave it his all and so deserved to be in that top 6 line up for a pretty picture!

Q. Did Banksy have a comfortable journey in the Equi-Trek Sonic?
A. He sure did… he loves it, you don’t hear a peep out of him!! He has spent a lot of hours in “Sonique” the Sonic over the last few months travelling out of Cornwall for training and competitions. We are so very grateful to Equi-Trek for their support and assistance in enabling us to comfortably and safely cover all of these miles.

The leading lights from South Yorkshire's manufacturing sector were celebrated at the Made in Sheffield Awards 2024.

We are delighted to announce that Equi-Trek was awarded the Made In Sheffield Award and is now a Made In The UK 2024 finalist. Congratulations to the team at Equi-Trek for all their hard work and dedication.

This year marks the 25th anniversary of Equi-Trek, which has grown to become the largest horsebox and horse trailer manufacturer in the UK.

Equi-Trek operates from a 75-acre site in Stocksbridge and has 50 dealerships worldwide, with plans to expand into new markets. The judges said that Equi-Trek exemplifies the manufacturing talent here in South Yorkshire and is "going places" thanks to its impressive growth both nationally and overseas.

International endurance rider, Nicki Thorne, upgraded her transport last year when her husband, Andy, surprised her with an Equi-Trek Valiant.

Nicki frequently travels around the world to compete, and with temperatures hitting record levels aircon in the horse area was a must have in the new lorry.

Nicky explains: “The horses need to arrive in the best condition possible to minimise journey recovery time before they compete. Aircon is vital to keep them at a comfortable temperature to prevent sweating and therefore the loss of electrolytes.

“We compete all over the UK, Europe and further afield, so the Equi-Trek Valiant is the perfect lorry for the horses, and ideal for me and Andy to have a good night’s sleep and to relax and prepare meals. The horses travel really well backwards and arrive cool and relaxed, regardless of the temperature outside.”

The Valiant is a 5000kg horsebox designed for the competitive owner who requires a horsebox to carry two horses safely and economically combined with spacious overnight living accommodation.

The unique tri-axle layout provides a more spacious living area than can normally be achieved in this style of vehicle. The Valiant is fully equipped for overnight stays, complete with a comfortable L-shaped seating area which converts to a double bed, a fitted kitchen unit with sink and gas hob, plus a separate bathroom area.

The Valiant is powered by a HDI diesel engine which complies with the latest emission standards, giving effortless performance and outstanding economy. Aircon is a popular optional extra and the Valiant is also available with a Leisure Vehicle Pack which benefits the private owner in the following ways:

• No speed limiter – the vehicle is only restricted to national speed limit and can travel up to 70mph on the motorway. This is only advisable when travelling without horses.
• Can use the third lane of the motorway – this is particularly useful at times of traffic congestion in the middle lane, especially due to slow moving HGV’s. Operators can also safely overtake slow moving traffic in the centre lanes. This can reduce journey times and stress for the horse.
• No tachograph - vehicles that are for private use do not need a tachograph fitted.
• No MOT required for the first three years and thereafter the vehicle can be tested at a normal MOT testing centre and does not have to go to a DVSA testing station for a HGV.

Nicki has represented county and country numerous times at top level endurance competitions, including the European Championships in Holland and the Endurance World Championships. Currently competing four, Nicki is also bringing on a string of youngers which were bred at her stud in Argentina.

Welfare has always been a top priority for the Akala Stud horses, not only do they travel in luxury, but they also receive five-star care and enjoy their retirement back at the stud when they finish competing.

The Equi-Trek Elementary Gold and Silver Championships were hotly contested at the British Dressage Winter National Championships, held at Hartpury.

Dannie Morgan riding Kristina Rausing’s, Vive la Reinne VH was victorious in the Equi-Trek Elementary Gold to round off a hugely successful week, taking his fourth title at the championships.

The Southampton based rider praised the talented mare following a fantastic performance in a difficult test to finish on a score of 74.84%.

“She showed a lovely way of going today, I think the Elementary 59 is quite a tricky test for inexperienced horses because there’s lots of transitions. I was really pleased with her, she was slightly tired on the day, so it was amazing to get that score,” said Dannie.

Virginia De Senneville riding Claire Wyatt’s, Fire Kracka took the Equi-Trek Elementary Silver Winter Championship title on 71.20%, with the stallion certainly living up to his name.

The six-year-old has been a rising star on the circuit since 2022 and the win marks a step in the right direction as the duo look to rise up the ranks, following their success at the 2022 championship.

“I’m super proud of him, he gives his best every single time. As soon as I get on he’s so focused, he’s fully there and he never looks at anything,” said Virginia.

Photo Credit: © Kevin Sparrow Photography / British Dressage

Equi-Trek is looking to a sustainable future with the launch of the all-electric Evolution horsebox.

Probably the world’s first all-electric horsebox, the electric Evolution is built on a brand new 7,200kg Iveco electric chassis.

The all-electric Evolution boasts a jaw-dropping 189 mile range on a single charge, making it a serious option for professional riders and amateurs alike.

With a worldwide commitment to reducing greenhouse gas, diesel vehicles will soon become a thing of the past meaning companies like Equi-Trek will be embracing electric powered vehicles as the route to zero emissions travel.

The advantages of electric travel include being more environmentally friendly, lower maintenance costs and better performance.

The all-electric version of the Evolution will still include all the fantastic features of the standard lorry which is stalled to carry three horses or four ponies (subject to size and weight) as well as the exceptionally spacious living area that sleeps four people.

Equi-Trek CEO Tom Janion said: “As a company we are looking to get ahead of the game in manufacturing sustainable transport solutions for our customers. We hope that the introduction of the first all-electric vehicle to enter our range will prove a real game-changer.

“Although the initial cost is undoubtedly more expensive than our diesel model the operating costs are considerably lower making the electric Evolution a real investment for the future.”

The all-electric Equi-Trek Evolution is the must-have horsebox for anyone with an environmental conscience that is looking to reduce their carbon footprint.

The Equi-Trek sales team will hit the road in the next few months visiting shows and events up and down the country with the trade stand.

If this is the year that you are looking to buy a horsebox or trailer, visiting the trade stand provides a great opportunity to view the current range of horseboxes and trailers.

The team will be on hand to answer any questions to ensure you choose the right vehicle or trailer to suit your requirements. Whether you are looking for an easy to drive horsebox that can be driven on a car license, a vehicle with a touch of luxury or a trailer with overnight accommodation, Equi-Trek has a transport solution for you.

Visit the Equi-Trek trade stand at the following shows with more events being added soon:

• National Equine Show – 4^th – 5th March
• British Dressage Winter Champs – 19^th – 23^rd April
• Badminton Horse Trials – 4^th – 8^th May
• Royal Windsor Horse Show – 11th – 14th May
• Chatsworth Horse Trials – 12^th – 14^th May
• Bramham Horse Trials – 8^th – 11^th June
• Royal Cheshire Country Show – 20^th – 21^st June
• Hickstead Derby Meeting – 22^nd – 25^th June
• Great Yorkshire Show – 11^th – 14^th July
• Royal International Hickstead – 25^th – 30^th July
• Blair Castle Horse Trials – 24^th – 27^th August
• Gatcombe Festival of British Eventing – 4^th – 6^th August
• Burghley Horse Trials – 31^st August – 3^rd September
• Chatsworth Country Fair – 1^st – 3^rd September
• National Dressage Championships – 14^th – 17^th September

Alison Sweetman from Preston was thrilled to be announced as the lucky winner of a brand new Equi-Trek Apollo trailer, having entered a competition on the Equi-Trek trade stand at The Great Yorkshire Show.

Horses have been a massive part of Alison’s life since she begged her parents for a riding lesson at the age of five and enjoyed her teenage years riding her own pony before going off to university, which meant she had to sell her pony.

As life became busy Alison took a break from riding but her passion for horses was still as strong as ever and seven years ago a special horse came into her life.

Alison and Victor, a stunning a 17.3hh bay Shire X with four white socks enjoy many hours of happy hacking with friends as well as taking part in pleasure rides and schooling clinics.

Every year Alison and Victor also like to go on a riding holiday with their equine friends so are very much looking forward to travelling in style next summer in their very own Equi-Trek Apollo.

Said Allison: “When you enter these competition’s you never expect to win so I was over the moon when the marketing team from Equi-Trek contacted me to give me the good news.

“Having our own transport will mean we can do so much more, so I am already planning the diary for next year.”

The Equi-Trek Apollo trailer is an aerodynamic trailer with a spacious and light horse area that offers enough headroom to accommodate horses up to 18hh.

It features aluminium flooring and lightweight ramps that are finished with a durable rubber, as well as closing fixtures that glide securely in place and a window on each side for excellent ventilation. The removable breast bars can even be collapsed from the outside in case of an emergency.

Equi-Trek is now offering ‘Flexi-Tow’ on Apollo horse trailers to give customers ultimate flexibility for just £200 plus vat a month on a rolling contract requiring only one month’s notice to cancel.

Yes, it is that simple, you get a brand-new horse trailer for as long as you want it, for a simple monthly fee and nothing more than one month’s commitment that includes the following:

• Lifetime warranty
• All servicing and maintenance costs (excluding tyres)
• Insurance (Ts&Cs apply)

In the uncertain times we now live in, Flexi-Tow has been introduced to provide customers with peace of mind that should their circumstances change they are not tied into a long-term hire or finance contract.

Not only that but the trailer is covered under warranty for the full duration as well as all servicing costs. The only additions you would have to pay for is damage up to a limit of £1,000.00 plus vat.

Unrivalled for its strength and performance, the Apollo has a spacious and light horse area with exceptional headroom to accommodate horses up to 18hh. Horses travel forward facing and are unloaded with ease using the extra wide front ramp.

Featuring aluminium flooring and ramps with a durable rubber finish, the hard-wearing trailer maintains the popular Equi-Trek aesthetic to ensure that the Apollo stands out.

Both the rear and front ramp are easy to operate thanks to their lightweight design and the closing fixtures that glide securely into place. The Apollo has removable breast bars which can also be collapsed from the outside of the trailer in case of an emergency, a strong central partition and removable breech bars. The back portion of the partition can be moved for loading giving the horse a wide and inviting space to move into.

Available for collection from Sheffield, Epworth, Bury St Edmunds or Worcester, to secure your Apollo on the Flexi-Tow deal simply pay an initial rental of £200 plus vat on order and your first month’s hire fee of £200 plus vat on collection.

You will then pay the monthly fee on a rolling basis and can give your one month notice at any point after the first 30 days.

For full Ts&Cs or to order your Apollo now on Flexi-Tow please contact your local Equi-Trek hire centre:

 Equi-Trek Lincolnshire 

Tel: 01724 706900

hire@lincolnshiretrailers.co.uk

Equi-Trek Suffolk 

Tel: 01284 387000

hire@suffolktrailers.co.uk

Equi-Trek Three Counties

Tel: 01684 311811

hello@threecountiestrailers.co.uk

Equi-Trek South Yorkshire

Tel: 0114 288 4411

hire@hire-trek.com

Did you know that you no longer need to take a test to tow a horse trailer?

This change to the law, combined with the cost of living rising at an unprecedented rate, has led to horsebox and trailer manufacturer, Equi-Trek, seeing a huge increase in the demand for trailers.

Years ago most horse owners dreamed of owning a horsebox with living accommodation so that they could stay away at shows and have plenty of room for all of their kit.

Fast-forward to 2022 and the standard of trailers that are now available are often much better options as they have excellent overnight accommodation, generous payloads and can be significantly cheaper to purchase, run and maintain.

Most 3.5 tonne horseboxes don’t have living accommodation or adequate payload to transport two large horses. However, there are several Equi-Trek trailers available that do and they also come without the expense of tax and MOTs.

Managing Director, Tom Janion said: “The standard of living in our trailers is excellent so many owners now find it much more affordable not to run a horsebox when there are trailers that have everything they need, including a bathroom, kitchen area and bed.

“Since the law on towing changed in December 2021people can now legally tow without having to take a test which has also been a further incentive for people to swap their horsebox for a trailer. We always recommend training before people start towing on the road if they have no previous experience.” 

The Equi-Trek range of trailers leads the way when it comes to choice and innovation. From the new lightweight, spacious and wood free Apollo to the luxury Star-Treka with exceptional living accommodation, there is a transport solution to suit every owner’s needs and budget.

Another popular trailer is the Space-Treka III which carries up to three horses or four ponies (depending on size and weight) whilst remaining compact and easy to tow. It also has a totally separate tack and changing area that provides ample space for equipment.

Equi-Trek trailers offer market leading payloads due to their design which utilises superior strength lightweight panels and aluminium flooring. Their ability to efficiently and cost effectively design for parameters such as space utilisation, comfort and light-weighting has become a key market differentiator.

Equine welfare is the top priority for Equi-Trek which is why the trailers are spacious and provide a comfortable experience for travelling horses, whether that is rear-facing, herringbone or forward-facing.