SEDGEFIELD side saddle rider Jane Forster is the side saddle association's adult national performance rider of the year for 2003.

The veterinary nurse rode side saddle against astride riders in working hunter, showing, show jumping, dressage and one-day event competitions, and against other side saddle riders in showing classes.

She will receive her award at Newmarket racecourse at the side saddle association's annual general meeting.

Jane collected the junior title in 1999 and won the performance versatility section a year later.

Last year she won the side saddle national equitation points award and the BSPS national horse of the year at Peterborough, as well as taking victories at the Great Yorkshire, Durham County and Cleveland County shows.

Other area two side saddle members have also come out near the top in the awards. Laura Gray, from Brafferton, was second in the junior section and won the versatility section, while Erica Williams, from Barnard Castle, was fourth.

Samantha Davies, from Darlington, was fourth in the adult section and won the dressage award.