The British Dressage event scheduled for June 24-25 at Aintree Equestrian Centre has been cancelled due to extreme temperatures forecast to reach 38°C. Organisers made the decision "in the interests of the welfare of our horses, ponies, riders & officials" following an amber weather warning from the Met Office for Merseyside.
Amber Warning in Effect
The Met Office issued an amber weather warning for Merseyside from midnight on Wednesday until 11:59pm on Thursday, stating: "Hot and humid weather is expected to continue through the middle of the week, with exceptionally warm temperatures both day and night."
Statement from Aintree Equestrian Centre
In a statement shared on Instagram, Aintree Equestrian Centre said: "Following the latest amber weather warning and forecast extreme temperatures, we have made the difficult decision to cancel the show in the interests of the welfare of our horses, ponies, riders & officials. While we know this will be hugely disappointing, we feel it is the most responsible decision given the conditions expected."
Refunds and Future Events
Refunds will be processed automatically via Horse Monkey over the next few days, with no need for attendees to contact the office. Entries remain open for upcoming shows on July 16, 17, and 19, and the RoR and Side Saddle Show on July 18-19 is currently still going ahead.
Widespread Heat Warnings
Red and amber warnings for extreme heat have been issued across the UK, affecting nearly 100 areas including London, South East England, East of England, North West England, South West England, the Midlands, Yorkshire and the Humber, and Wales. The extreme temperatures are likely to cause population-wide adverse health effects.
