THE 70th meeting of Bedale Point to Point at its magnificent Hornby Castle location was a memorable one. Glorious weather helped to draw a record crowd to the event, with a crowd estimated at around 7,000.

The Point to Point meeting has been taking place for more than a century in various locations around the Bedale area, before settling in the parkland of Hornby Castle in 1947.

Racegoers enjoyed six competitive steeplechase races, with the Mens' Open and Ladies' Open races, both worth a total of £1,000 each, attracting quality fields, including a number of runners from outside the region.

The Hornby Challenge Ride, which allows non-racing riders the opportunity to tackle a lap of the Hornby Castle fences, has quickly become a popular addition to the day.

The fourth edition of this event provided entertainment, before the crowds concluded their afternoon in the sunshine, gathered around the giant screen to watch the Grand National live from Aintree.

Bedale Hunt Point to Point Chairman Stephen Swiers said: "The committee and I would like to thank all the volunteers and sponsors, whose hard work and support contributed to making the day such a great success."