Big crowds expecte at Lackham horse trials

6:56am Saturday 17th May 2008

More than 2,000 spectators are expected at Wiltshire College Lackham for the annual two-day British Eventing Horse Trials on Tuesday and Wednesday May 20 and 21.

This year's event, which has already attracted over 500 competitors, is for horses and riders at the Open Pre Novice standard and will require competitors to compete in dressage, show jumping and cross country riding; the ultimate challenge.

The cross-country course has been built and prepared by past event rider, Adrian Ditcham and his team from DHA Equestrian.

Ditcham said: "We designed the course a few years ago and have had great feedback from past competitors. It's a nice course to build and the weather is perfect. There are a few changes to some of the jumps but the overall layout will be the same."

Last year the event attracted some of the top riders, including Olympic rider William Fox-Pitt and top local rider Harry Mead, who is based in Chippenham.

It is expected that again some of the well known riders will be attending for the two day event as it offers a great opportunity to try out younger and less experienced horses.

Students have played a large role in organising this year's horse trials and have been responsible for the project management and delivery.

"By tasking our students with the organisation of events such as the horse trials the students learn a great deal more and as a result are much more prepared for the working world" said Philip Grant, head of equine at Wiltshire College.

He continued: "We have managed to attract new sponsorship from Awdry Bailey and Douglas Solicitors alongside the fantastic support we get from Mitsubishi Motors which has helped to improve the overall event. I am extremely pleased that we are able to provide a professional and well respected event."

Students from around the college are all getting involved with the event.

With floristry students providing displays, catering students providing food and refreshments and students from animal care helping maintain the jumps for the show jumping section; as they did a Badminton Horse Trials a few weeks ago.

The doors will be open to the public between 8am and 6pm on both days.