A NATURAL health product manufacturer from Helperthorpe is claiming a major breakthrough in the treatment of a common equestrian complaint.

Mud fever is characterised by a break-down of the horse's skin, similar to an ulcer, and is most often associated with damp weather conditions.

Tina Bennett, who breaks and schools horses for the show-ring at Malton, has been testing the new product since last winter, and is convinced of its efficacy.

"Once mud fever is established, it is very difficult to cure," she said. "Over the years, I have tried many approaches, including antibiotics, homeopathic products, keeping horses stabled in dry conditions and countless creams - all of which improved the condition to varying degrees but did not cure it."

Having used the new water-repellant cream on several horses, she said, it had worked every time. "The results were quite astounding," she said. "After four weeks, the skin had almost totally healed and new hair was beginning to grow."

Manufacturer John Makin, of ProVet, which specialises in the supply of natural health products to equine, agricultural and aquaculture industries, said there was evidence to suggest the active ingredient in the product had been used by the ancient Egyptians, and has more recently been investigated by researchers at Oxford University.

However, he was not prepared to reveal the name of ingredient for reasons of commercial sensitivity.

PQ-4 cream is available from the Helperthorpe firm in 60g and 400g tubs, costing £5.95 and £24.95 respectively. Contact ProVet on (01944) 738606.