Bicton One Day Event

Bicton Horse Trials, the largest equestrian event in the South West, has announced a core sponsorship agreement with Clydesdale Bank Plc covering next year's trials at its traditional parkland venue at the Clinton Devon Estates' Bicton Arena, East Devon from 28 to 30 April 2006. 

Clydesdale Bank's involvement with Bicton Horse Trials coincides with a period of continuing rural and private business growth for the Bank throughout the South West.  This has included the expansion of its dedicated agribusiness team in the area from one person to eight during the past two years, the opening of a specialist farm and rural business centre in Exeter and the development of new financial centres in Bath, Taunton and Plymouth; all of which is geared to providing South West customers with a fresh and integrated approach to rural business and private banking.

"The top level status of these trials reflects the growing importance of equestrian sport and its supporting industry to the South West economy" said David Bird, Managing Partner, Exeter office.

"The event displays both the fun side of horse ownership with the combined disciplines in Dressage, Show Jumping and Cross Country; as well as the professionalism with which the organisation is run.  This is definitely one occasion when we're delighted to be able to mix business with pleasure".

Arthur Stevens, Organiser of Bicton Horse Trials, added: "We are delighted to welcome Clydesdale Bank to the sport of Eventing, especially at a time when the Great Britain team retained the European Championships title for the sixth successive occasion and the individual and team gold medal being won by Zara Phillips, daughter of The Princess Royal, who won the individual gold 31 years ago when she was 21".