Clydesdale Bank's involvement with the Bicton Horse Trials, which takes place at the Clinton Devon Estates' Bicton Arena in April 2006, coincides with a period of continuing rural and private business growth for the bank throughout the South West region.
This has included the expansion of its dedicated agribusiness team in the area from one person to eight during the past two years, the opening of a specialist farm and rural business centre in Exeter and the development of new financial centres in Bath, Taunton and Plymouth.
David Bird, managing partner at Clydesdale's Exeter office, said: "The top level status of these trials reflects the growing importance of equestrian sport and its supporting industry to the South West economy.
"The event displays both the fun side of horse ownership with the combined disciplines in dressage, show jumping and cross country; as well as the professionalism with which the organisation is run."
Arthur Stevens, organiser of Bicton Horse Trials, added: "We are delighted to welcome Clydesdale Bank to the sport of eventing, especially at a time when the Great Britain team retained the European Championships title for the sixth successive occasion and the individual and team gold medal being won by Zara Phillips."
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