Tickets on sale from 1st May 2012 for the world’s best equestrian Christmas party

17 – 23rd December 2012 at London Olympia

LONDON, 18TH APRIL 2012: Celebrating 40 years of world class equestrian sport, Olympia, The London International Horse Show returns to London this Christmas with its seven day equestrian extravaganza from the 17th – 23rd December.

Billed as the world’s best equestrian Christmas party, 2012 marks the 40th year since this prestigious event was reintroduced by Raymond Brooks-Ward to Olympia in the 1970s. Following the successful introduction of international driving to the Show format in 2011, it will return in 2012, now as one of the official FEI World Cup Qualifiers for indoor driving. This means that with the inclusion of the highly acclaimed FEI World Cup Qualifiers for Jumping and Dressage, Olympia becomes one of the most important equestrian events in the UK and European calendars.

Olympia will continue with its traditional mix of outstanding sporting competition and great family entertainment. Firm favourite displays, The Shetland Pony Grand National and The Kennel Club Dog Agility will once again feature throughout the seven day event. What’s more, an exciting new circus themed display will soon be unveiled for the Olympia Finale. Top class international equestrian displays will be announced by The Organisers later in the year.

Simon Brooks Ward, Managing Director of HPower and Event Director said: “It’s hard to believe it’s been 40 years since my father reintroduced this magical event to the famous Olympia halls in the 1970’s. Today Olympia is recognised as one of the greatest equestrian events in the world and we are enormously proud to represent the outstanding riders and display teams who travel from all over the world to take part. As Olympia fans will know, the Christmas party atmosphere is what makes this event so special – you can guarantee this year’s event will be one to remember.”

The annual event attracts over 80,000 horse-loving enthusiasts from around the UK. . As well as enjoying the action in the arena, visitors can also stock up on Christmas gifts and equestrian goodies courtesy of the Shopping Village, which boasts over 200 shops and stalls selling items ranging from food, gifts, homeware, clothing, art, jewellery and much more.

This year’s official charity for the Show is The Ebony Horse Club, a charity that helps improve the life skills, education and aspirations of disadvantaged children and young people growing up in Brixton, South London, by providing access to horse riding, outdoor activities and mentoring.

Tickets for Olympia, The London International Horse Show, go on sale on Tuesday 1st May. Tickets can be purchased by ordering online at www.olympiahorseshow.com or by telephoning the box office on 0871 230 5580. Tickets are priced between £19 and £57 with various discounts available for groups, seniors and children.