‘When can we get back to normality?'

Mark Phillips makes plans to alter cross-country courses later in the year

- Mark Phillips

THESE are strange and stressful times for all, with experiences that none of us have ever seen before or want to repeat.

Despite the tragic spiralling death toll, the rapid spread of the virus and the unprecedented strain on the NHS, I can’t help wondering if we are doing the right thing. In Sweden, older and more vulnerable people are isolating, with gatherings of over 50 people banned, but life otherwise carries on as normal.

The UK lockdown will be responsible for bankrupting thousands of businesses and putting the country into a debt situation that will take generations to recover from.

I’m currently in Florida, although hoping to be home before the end of April. In the US, all horse shows are cancelled until 3 May, subject to a two-weekly review. The situation varies from state to state, but most areas are not on as stringent a lockdown as the UK.

No one can come into yards from off-site for lessons, so professionals can’t teach unless they have the horses in their care. Horse sales have dried up because many don’t have the disposable income; this won’t change for some time after the lockdown is lifted as businesses will take time to recover.