A child recently fell from a horse at Severnwye Equestrian, an equestrian centre near Lydney that continued to provide riding lessons despite failing a veterinary inspection and losing its licence to operate. Forest of Dean District Council revealed that the centre failed to renew its licence due to “flaws in the premises where the horses were kept,” yet it continued trading unlawfully.
Following the licence refusal in November 2023, Severnwye Farm Limited, which operates the equestrian centre, neither appealed nor reapplied for the licence. In June 2024, reports emerged of a child falling during a riding lesson. An investigation by the council’s counter fraud and enforcement unit confirmed that Severnwye Equestrian was providing lessons without the necessary authorisation.
Despite receiving repeated warnings from licensing officers, the centre continued operating until August 2024. The business even displayed an expired 5-star licence on its website, misleading the public about its status.
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Forest of Dean District Council’s legal team considered prosecution under the Animal Welfare Act 2006. However, after the company’s directors admitted to the offence, Severnwye Farm Limited received an official caution and paid £1,500 in costs to the council.
The company has since addressed the issues highlighted during the initial inspection, reapplied for a licence, and was granted a 2-star licence to operate going forward.
Cllr Adrian Birch, Leader of Forest of Dean District Council, emphasized the importance of compliance: “This case demonstrates the council’s commitment to enforcing regulations and protecting public safety. Businesses must ensure their licences are valid and up to date, or face investigation and potential sanctions.”