HUNDREDS of riders will be testing their skills at Askham Bryan College’s annual British Eventing fixture this weekend.

The event provides an ideal opportunity for riders who want to step up a level this year, according to Olympic course builder Adrian Ditcham who has overseen the design and build of the cross-country course.

He said: “The course is pretty straightforward in all classes and at this stage of the season it offers a great opportunity for anyone who wants to move up a level, including to Novice.”

The fixture has attracted more than 500 entries, including students on the equine courses at the college.

Over the course of the weekend, horses will be put through their paces in the disciplines of dressage, cross country and showjumping.

Around 150 students from a range of courses at Askham Bryan have been involved in the run-up to the event, from preparing jumps and removing stock fencing on the course, to providing flower arrangements for the arenas.

During the weekend they will assist the dressage judges, work as an arena party for the showjumping section and help with horsebox and car parking.