An impressive line-up of speakers has been confirmed for the 34th National Equine Forum, taking place in London on Thursday, 5 March 2026.
Recognised as an important UK platform for debate and discussion, the Forum brings together government representatives, veterinary leaders, industry experts and equestrian professionals to examine the most pressing issues facing the sector. The event will also be livestreamed for those unable to attend in person.
Tim Brigstocke, Chair of NEF, said the Forum continues to play a vital role at a time when regulatory change, environmental pressures and rapid technological development are reshaping the equestrian landscape.Beyond Caveat Emptor: Looking Under the Bonnet of Modern Vettings
Beyond Caveat Emptor: Looking Under the Bonnet of Modern Vettings
Chaired by David Mountford, Chief Executive of the British Equine Veterinary Association, this session will explore the realities of the modern Pre-Purchase Examination, PPE.
The panel features:
- Dr Mark Georgetti
- Dr Lucy Grieve
- Dr Sam Cutts
- Julia Martin
Drawing on expertise in clinical practice, policy, legal dispute and professional sales, the discussion will examine where vettings can go wrong, how expectations and responsibilities have shifted, and whether the PPE system can evolve to better protect horses, buyers, sellers and vets.
The Equine Industry in a Changing World
Chaired by Roly Owers, this session will consider the wider regulatory and environmental context shaping the sector.
Speakers include:
- Baroness Hayman of Ullock, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State
- Dr June Fanning, Chief Veterinary Officer for Ireland
- Dr Katie Williams, Technical Manager at Dengie Horse Feeds
Dr Williams will focus particularly on how changing weather patterns and climate pressures are affecting forage production and equine nutrition.
On the Brink: Equine Health Conditions We Cannot Ignore
Chaired by Dr Richard Newton, Director of Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance at the University of Cambridge, this session will provide key updates on equine health risks.
Contributors include:
- Dr Hattie Bell, Veterinary Epidemiologist at Equine Infectious Disease Surveillance, University of Cambridge
- Professor Jane Hodgkinson, University of Liverpool
- Dr Philip Ivens, Buckingham Equine Vets
Topics will include emerging infectious disease risks, anthelmintic resistance and antimicrobial resistance, including BEVA’s MonitorMe initiative.
Artificial Intelligence: The Future Is Here
The growing role of AI in equine health and welfare will be explored in a session chaired by Professor Tim Parkin, President of the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons.
Speakers include:
- Dr Liz Cresswell, Veterinary Lead at Vet Vision AI
- Pip Young, PhD student at Bristol Veterinary School
- Professor Sarah Freeman, University of Nottingham
- Major Graham Harvey, Army Veterinary Officer
The session will examine how AI can support positive welfare assessment, process large volumes of clinical and behavioural data, and translate into real-world application.
Bite-Sized Sessions: Special Interest Topics
Chaired by Sarah Jenkins, Editor-in-Chief of Horse & Hound, these focused presentations will cover a range of current issues:
- Abbie Bevan, Insight and Research Manager at British Equestrian, on the social value of equestrianism
- Helen Whitelegg, Campaigns and Policy Manager at Redwings Horse Sanctuary, with an update on proposed fireworks legislation
- Sally Foskett, Horse Operations Manager at Blue Cross, reviewing the success of the Blue Cross Home Direct scheme
- Cheryl Johns, founder of LiveryList and the Yard Owner Hub, explaining the livery yard benchmarking system
Memorial Lecture and Sir Colin Spedding Award
The day will conclude with the Memorial Lecture, an interview with Professor Chris Riggs, Director of the Equine Welfare Research Foundation and Chief Advisor to The Hong Kong Jockey Club. The session will be chaired by Dr Naomi Mellor, Chief Executive of the Thoroughbred Breeders’ Association.
The winner of the Sir Colin Spedding Award 2026 will then be announced.
Each main session includes Q&A opportunities for both in-person delegates and livestream viewers.
Tickets for the face-to-face event are now available, and registration for the free livestream is open. Education tickets for the afternoon session are available at £30 per person, subject to eligibility.
