Peter, I think it's probably me confusing the issue and bringing AQHA and BR (popular topic!) into a thread that was originally about WES - although for most of us, the three are interwoven and dominate our lives!

Billywhiz - I wholeheartedly agree with your endorsement of all those named, and would like to add Bruce Lawrence to the list who has given my husband so much support and encouragement, even when presented with a horse more bloody minded than me ( husband's description, not Bruce's!)
Perhaps cut throat was too sweeping a description, but cut me some slack, I had been writing about snowploughs alll morning (day job!)
I thnk we all agree that BR is not a particularly unified camp at the moment.

John - the PR initiatives sound really promising. Let me know if there is anything I can do t help on the writing side - I have some contacts with UK equestrian press and would be happy to help.

To move slightly away from the main vein of this thread, I wanted to let you all know about the first Western Horsemans Association related event of the season.

There will be a trail ride ( with pub stop ) on the Ickneild Way, near Luton, on the 24th February 2007. Please look at the events section for more details.

You do not have to be a member to participate and the hacking in the area is fantastic with miles of varied trails and very little road work.

You can be assured of a warm welcome and a great time.