LOFTUS rider Daniel Neilson enjoyed a successful weekend of competition at the Talk of the North equestrian centre recently.

The 12-year-old won the national 138cm competition on his new pony Guinness Special, which was bought from Scotland only three weeks earlier.

Daniel had already been placed on the pony, but this was his first win and he hopes it will be the start of regular success over the next two years.

The talented young rider, trained by Peter Allen of Stainsby Grange, also won the Scope progressive qualifier on his novice pony Euro Flash and the national 128cm on his other pony Sligo Lucky.

His sister Laura Neilson also rode Sligo Lucky in the Golden Bears Tiny Tots and jumped a double clear to qualify.

Daniel is now looking forward to his first visit to Hickstead for the Royal International Horse Show in July. He has two 128cm ponies qualified, but knows the competition will be strong.