A local rider is set to represent England in a prestigious equestrian event.
Tim Smith, 63, has been selected to compete at the Home Internationals in Scotland, marking the fulfilment of a lifelong ambition.
He will be riding his 10-year-old Arab gelding, Tannasg Alif, in the endurance riding event.
The competition, taking place from September 4 to 6, will see Mr Smith embarking on a nearly 500-mile journey to participate.
Endurance riding, an equestrian discipline, involves horse and rider teams completing a long-distance route, which can extend up to 160km in a single day.
The welfare of the horses is prioritised, with mandatory veterinary checks carried out before, during, and after the ride to ensure each horse is fit to continue.
Mr Smith said: "To represent England is a great honour and something I thought I would never have the opportunity to do, so I am very excited to be going to Scotland.
"Alif is a fantastic horse to ride; I've always felt at home with him.
"After seven years, I still say thank you to his breeder for letting me have him."
Mr Smith has built with Tannasg Alif, a horse he has owned since the age of three.
A former food retail manager, he now works as a contract cleaner, which gives him the flexibility to dedicate more time to his passion for horses.
His journey into endurance began through Arab racing, but he found his true calling in the camaraderie and challenges of endurance riding.
His primary goal for the Home International is to enjoy the experience, complete the ride safely with Tannasg Alif, and contribute to the team's success.
Mr Smith credits his field sharer, Sally McIlwaine, for helping to start Tannasg Alif's training and building a strong foundation.
He also thanked his farrier, Jack Gardner, and McTimoney practitioner, Melissa Cooper, for keeping his horses in top form, and Tannasg Alif's breeder, Seonaid Paterson, for her ongoing advice and support over the years.
Endurance GB provides opportunities for everyone to get involved, from local pleasure rides to the thrill of competition, celebrating the deep connection between horse and rider, the stunning British countryside, and a supportive community.
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