Following the announcement by the Countryside Alliance that the next Countryside March will be held in London on the Sunday 22nd September, British Dressage has changed the dates of the Mercedes-Benz National Dressage Championships which were due to take place over the same weekend from 19th - 22nd September. The Mercedes-Benz National Dressage Championships will now be held 1 week later from Thursday 26th to Sunday 29th September 2002 at the National Agricultural Centre in Warwickshire.

The Championships were already due to see significant changes in 2002 as the show will grow from three to four days and the arena layout will change to benefit spectators. There will be two arenas instead of three bringing spectators closer to the action.

In an exciting new deal this year's Mercedes-Benz National Champion will scoop a Mercedes-Benz SLK-Class Roadster to drive for a year. Some riders hoping to compete in the World Equestrian Games in Spain have already indicated that the extra week may make it possible for them to return to England to compete for this coveted prize.

Speaking about the change of date British Dressage Chairman Desi Dillingham said : "The March is a vital statement from all those involved in rural life and countryside issues. Even with much of the planning in place we had no hesitation in taking steps to make it possible for members, competitors, spectators and officials to attend both these important fixtures."

Commenting on the news Countryside Alliance Commercial Director Roger Loodmer said : "I can imagine all the hard work you must have had to go through to change the date for your Championships. This is very much appreciated by everyone at the Countryside Alliance, and I hope that both the Countryside March and the Mercedes-Benz National Dressage Championships are a great success."

Diary Date Amendment

Mercedes-Benz National Dressage Championships
Thursday 26th - Sunday 29th September 2002
National Agricultural Centre, Stoneleigh Park, Kenilworth, Warwickshire

www.britishdressage.co.uk

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