The rain and storms which has hit the area over recent weeks caused an impact to horse riders too. It led to a busier-than-normal time for the Equine Therapy Centre at the College of West Anglia’s Cambridge campus. Riders hoping to keep their animals exercised found it more difficult to do so on sodden pathways. Instead many used the treadmill, which is one of the features of the Equine Therapy Centre at the Milton campus as they endeavoured to get their animals prepared to take part in competitions. Leanne Brooks-Harley said: “This time of year we do see an increase in clients. The eventing season is about to start so everyone is working to get their horses fit by doing fast work and hill work. “Besides the fact there few hills in the area, the current wet weather has made the ground too soft and muddy. It’s unsuitable for horses to work on. “Although the aqua treadmill is slow and controlled, the water gives enough resistance to really build up strength in the horse creating a good alternative for fast work and the lack of hills. “The Aqua treadmill is also good being used as part of combined exercise regime to help maintain fitness and strength throughout the eventing season.