AREA 2 national riding club cross-country qualifiers were held alongside the Darlington and Yarm riding club's joint hunter trial and SEIB BHS qualifiers at Foxberry Chasers recently.

The weather held for much of the competition and the course stood up to more than 200 horses galloping over the four courses throughout the day.

A new open course had been built to accommodate the 3ft 7in height requirement of the riding club open qualifier, which the Yarm team won convincingly.

The clubs and competitors were very grateful to the generous sponsors who not only donated prizes, but also sponsor jumps annually on the course to ensure high standards are maintained.

Darlington club secretary Sara Metcalfe said: "These events could not run if it were not for the helpers on the day and a huge thank you must be given to them for their time and commitment to help raise club funds at these type of events".

Results. - Junior triers: 1 Nicola Thompson; 2 Sophie Moss; 3 K Metcalfe.

Senior triers: 1 Angela Clarke; 2 Erica Hockney; 3 K Henderson.

Novice: 1 Carla Thackwray (and BHS qualifier); 2 & 3 Jenny Smith (and BHS qualifier).

Open: 1 Lisa Turnbull; 2 Claire Chapman; 3 Katie Haynes.

BHS open qualifiers: Faye Buffey; Rebecca Reay.