A RIDING school has announced its closure following more than 30 years after bosses were left fearing it was “no longer viable”. 

Shopland Hall Riding School in Shopland Road, Rochford, is set to close in June after new rules were put in place for the licensing of riding schools.

The increase in costs over the last two years for feed, bedding, electricity, wages, and bills, has also contributed to the closure.

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Jenny Murrell, owner and centre manager, said it had been a “difficult decision” to close.

She said: “It is very sad to have to close a business that could have continued under different circumstances.

“The unfortunate combination of health and safety regulations, licensing requirements, the mountains of paperwork, spiralling business rates, recruitment issues, lack of affordable horses, and the increase costs in feed, bedding, shoes, and electricity, creates a tsunami of reasons why it is not viable to run a riding school anymore.

“We have so many memories from so many people who owe their current equestrian lives to their lessons with us.

“But, despite our years of experience, it did not prepare us for the trials of Covid nor the new rules set by DEFRA for the licensing of riding schools.

“So it is with a very heavy heart that we see no other possible route but to finally close the riding school for the last time in June.”

Shopland Hall Riding Shop first opened in November 1991.

It was originally a cattle farm, but the Murrell family slowly converted the buildings into stables and indoor schools.

Years later, as the business grew, a shop, and cafe were soon added.

A cross country course was also built which saw the family host their own competitions as well as pony club events.

Many riding schools across the country have faced the similar issues following the changes to the licensing system, and increased amount of paperwork now needed, following the changes to the Animal Welfare Act in February 2021. 

The includes a requirement to take the temperature every day and “weight measure” the horses every day.