A COUNTY Durham rider is on the long list for a £2,000 training scholarship offered by Armathwaite Hall in Cumbria.

Lucy Bell of Darlington is one of 42 riders throughout Britain competing for the training grant.

The Armathwaite Hall Rider of the Future Scholarship was first presented in 1999 to Emilie Chandler, who has enjoyed a tremendous season with her string of horses, using the grant to further her ambition of achieving international successes at the highest level.

After more detailed consideration, a subsequent short list will be announced, with the winner chosen by the selection committee at the end of the eventing season.

The prize includes a long weekend with a top British international rider at their yard, where the emphasis will be on hands-on stable and horse management, plus advice on running a professional eventing yard.

The remainder of the prize is to be spent on training with approved BHTA trainers of the winners choice.

The remaining riders on the short list will be invited to attend a cross country course walk with the British international rider at a major three day event.