EASTLANDS Mighty Mark has once again qualified for the Shetland Grand National at this week's Olympia International Horse Show.

The feisty little bay gelding from the Knix Stud was ridden by up and coming star Lucy Burke from Spigot Lodge, Middleham.

The 12-year-old, daughter of ex-jockey and now trainer Karl Burke, has racing in her blood. Her mother, Elaine Burke, also had a few winners and her sister Kelly had a winner with her first ride.

Lucy qualified 11-year-old Mighty Mark in style on the first day of the Kent County Show earlier this year, luckily for them as the final day was cancelled due to very heavy rain.

The ponies are again campaigning for funds for Great Ormond Street Hospital for Sick Children in London. Over the 25 years of the competition's existence, they have raised in excess of £300,000.

The pair have been sponsored by Middleham owners Laundry Cottage Stud of Stevenage and Equine Developments of Middleham and the Knix Stud have been fortunate to secure sponsorship for the near future from Hickstead Horse Feeds, who also sponsor show jumpers Billy Twomey and Guy Williams.