MANY of the many of the country’s best farriers will gather for a weekend of special events in Suffolk next month.

The Suffolk Agricultural Association’s Eastern Counties Spring Championship takes place on Saturday, March 3 and follows a special training event which will give farriers the chance to hone their skills and learn from one of the country’s leading experts, Dorset-based farrier Andrew Reader-Smith, who will be showcasing his award-winning tool making and maintenance skills.

The Eastern Counties Spring Championship sees entrants competing against each other in the hope of being awarded a silver or bronze medal from the Worshipful Company of Farriers, as well as a prize purse totalling more than �1,800 with a first prize of �500 for the open Hunter Shoeing class.

These events are part of SAA’s continued commitment to the farriery industry by investing in facilities and training, giving farriers from the area and further afield a first class venue to train and continue to develop their skills and thereby support the equine industry which is important to the region.

David Nunn, of the SAA, said: “The first Championships and Training Day held last year was a huge success, where we had over 60 apprentice and qualified farriers complete a very impressive 133 rounds of shoe-making.

“This year we are delighted that participants will benefit from working in our newly extended farriery building. Currently still under construction, the extended facility is on schedule to be completed for our big weekend in March and will double the size and capacity of the original structure.

“We would like to say a huge thank you to AJN Steelstock of Bury St Edmunds for very generously donating the steel required for the farriery extension.

“We are also delighted that the event will be extended to include a ball to bring the two days to a fun and celebratory close.”

The Farriery Championship weekend comes to a close with a glamorous ball which is open for all to attend. The inaugural Farriers Ball will take place at Trinity Park and guests will enjoy a two-course meal and musical entertainment for just �25.

Tickets are now on sale at www.suffolkshow.co.uk or by telephoning Elizabeth Payne 01473 707115.