THIS time last year horse owners were dealing with low temperatures and severe flooding - horses had to be rescued from fields and stables had to be evacuated. This winter has been mostly mild and interchangeable at times.

Grass is growing and senescing in the winter. According to figures from Pasture Base Ireland (PBI) from August right through to the end of November, daily grass growth was above average. Grass carried over winter with dead and decaying material in the base will reduce grazing potential in the new season.