A NORTHALLERTON horsebox manufacturer was called in to help ensure valuable competition horses travel more safely to international equestrian events.

Peden Bloodstock, a global horse transport specialist, was the official equestrian transport and logistics company for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

It contacted the family-run firm of JSW to help design and create an innovative new lightweight mobile ramp to ensure precious horse passengers are safely loaded in and out of aircraft.

Fiona McCormack, Peden Bloodstock veterinary adviser, said: “Many airports that we travel to were not initially designed with the needs of horses in mind.

“In order to ensure the safe and efficient loading and unloading of these precious athletes the best solution was to have the ability to take our specialist equipment with us, wherever we are undertaking airport operations in the world.

“The FEI show schedule is becoming increasingly international and horses have never had so many air miles.

We are thrilled with the ramp, which meets all our operational needs.”

Emma Watkinson, JSW codirector, said: “I think our reputation as a first-class coachbuilder and our years of engineering expertise means we can offer something out of the ordinary. In fact, we relish the challenge.”

She said the company’s order book for its range of custom- built horseboxes was very healthy.

“We are continuing to attract interest from both here in the UK and from overseas. Our ability to design to the client’s needs is something not many other horsebox manufacturers can do,” Ms Watkinson said.