Star of ‘The Story of Ted’ at HOYS 2013

December 14, 2012 at 4:01 PM

Popular Clydesdale gelding Ted, star of Sally Anne Oultram’s book The Story of Ted, will spend the week delighting visitors at Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) from 9th – 13th October 2013, when the show returns to celebrate its 65th Anniversary at Birmingham’s NEC.
Ted, owned by Sally, will be based in the Think Like a Pony Interactive Feature Area at “The World’s Most Famous Horse Show”, alongside some other rare breeds. Situated in the Retail Village, this area offers the perfect opportunity for visitors of all ages to get up close to the horses and learn more about the different breeds.
Sally, Equine Ambassador for The Rare Breeds Survival Trust, purchased the Clydesdale foal from auction in 1998. However, when Ted suddenly fell ill, it was a critical first 48 hours for the pair. Fighting back against all odds, Ted’s story inspired Sally to write the children’s book, in which she portrays the exciting adventures of the young foal in the Cheshire countryside, during the following year.
Since the launch of The Story of Ted, Ted has also starred in a DVD of his story, filmed at Woburn Safari Park by kind permission of the Duke of Bedford. Appearing at many shows and events up and down the country while raising money for good causes, the now 14-year-old gelding has captured the hearts of many.
Sally’s latest book, When Sally Met Ted, will be launched at Horse of the Year Show. Visitors to the show will also be able to see Ted make a special appearance in the International Arena during the Sunday daytime performance.
Sally commented: “Dreams really can come true, if you really want them to. Ted the Clydesdale and I wrote a letter to Father Christmas and our wish did come true. It’s the best Christmas present of all to be returning to the greatest horse show in the world to celebrate the life of this incredible horse.”
Helena Pettit of Grandstand Media Ltd, organiser of Horse of the Year Show, added: “We’re thrilled to have Ted joining us at next year’s show and I’m sure visitors, both young and old, will be delighted to see him.”
As Horse of the Year Show reaches its 65th anniversary, the 2013 show promises to be an equestrian spectacular with plenty to entertain every spectator. The show hosts the finals of the most highly regarded national showing and show jumping championships; top-class international show jumping, and a full line-up of unbeatable entertainment, which makes for an unforgettable day out.
Tickets are on sale now, with prices starting from just £28. Concession rates and discounts for group bookings are available. With popular performances selling out in record time in 2012, visitors are advised to secure their seats early to avoid disappointment.
Standard tickets, season tickets and hospitality bookings can now be made online at www.hoys.co.uk.
Standard tickets can also be booked through the Box Office on 0844 581 8282. Visitors who are interested in hospitality and wish to speak to someone about their next HOYS experience can call 01582 711 411.