THE mood at BETA International 2004 - simply buzzing!

That was the response from both exhibitors and visitors to the biggest and the best equestrian and country clothing Trade Fair in Europe.

With attendance figures up and trade reaching a new scale, this year's Trade Fair was the place to be for those serious about supporting their industry and meeting visitors from all over the globe.

Organiser Nick Wood of EMC said: "From what people are telling us they are very happy with this year's Trade Fair which we hope ran smoothly for most and was a great success."

Claire Williams of the BETA said: "Throughout the three days our stand was very busy with many new enquires regarding membership.

"The newly update What to Wear book drew a lot of interest and we couldn't be more pleased with the three days."

The New Product Gallery, this year sponsored by DJ Murphy, publishers of Horse and Rider, and Pony Magazine s saw visitors constantly searching for more information on the latest innovations and designs.

Once again managed by Sue Moxon of R&R Country the new format met with approval, with the allround visibility of the products on display working well.

Muriel Tafts of John Partridge said: "For us one of the highlights was definitely the fashion show.

"The response has been great for our Short Check Duffle, Ladies Cord Trench Coat and Mens Cord Reefer."

On the Embassy stand an order of more than £50,000 for an overseas client had the team in buoyant mood.

Lucy Hibbert at Comfort Zone Equestrian said their new Walker Rug and Transit Range of rug and boots had gone down a storm.

Rupert Fairfax of Thorowgood said: "As always there were plenty of serious buyers and we had a lot of invaluable feedback on our new products and concepts. We were delighted to win the Saddlery and Tack section of the BETA Innovations Awards."

While Nikki Smart of teque-style said: "We are thrilled with the amount of interest shown in our shirts which are now keeping riders comfortable and dry all over the world."

John McGowan of longtime exhibitor's Aerborn said: "We have been consistently busy everyday and the quality of exhibitors has been excellent."

At Equenox Jane Williams' ever innovative range included new clothing, rugs, bandages and casual gear. The trend setting Gulliver rug in pink and blue certainly caused a reaction.

Phil Duff of the SMD Group said: "We are delighted with the professional standards maintained at BETA International. By the end of the second day we were already 25 per cent up on business from the previous year. I wouldn't miss the experience of exhibiting at BETA International."

www.beta-uk.org

.