Horse show is produced with the right spirit

I normally agree with June Flemings ideals regarding the welfare of animals and concur with her regarding the use of wild animals in circuses. However I do not agree with her sentiments regarding the Spirit of the Horse show (Letters, August 3).

As one who learnt to ride before she could walk, I can assure Mrs Fleming that one cannot generally make a horse do something it doesn't want to do!

Whilst there is training involved with this show, this applies to all activities involving horses including showjumping, eventing and dressage.

Would she consider the Spanish Riding School in Vienna, one of the premier equine training centres in the world, a circus? Their Lipizzaner Stallions are trained to the highest standards of dressage, performing movements that most equines can only dream of, and they travel the world performing for the public.

These travelling horses are doted on and are kept immaculately, often in better accommodation than their human carers. Horses have had a multitude of uses in the past and present, and I for one hope the Spirit of the Horse lives on in the future, not just in this show but in all equine activities.

Sarah Hinchley, The Loan, Loanhead, Edinburgh