THE hardy souls who love to turn out for a day of point-to-point racing had been made to wait.

Two years ago, the popular meeting at Witton Castle, near Bishop Auckland, had fallen victim to the foot-and-mouth crisis.

Last year, bad weather meant it had to be cancelled again.

But yesterday, County Durham's first point-to-point of the season went ahead - and heavy rain and blizzards were not going to stop punters enjoying a thrilling day's sport.

A good crowd turned out for six hard-fought races, organised by The Old Raby Hunt Club, in the castle grounds.

There were brave rides, rousing finishes and some spectacular falls on view in testing conditions.

Angie Vaux, from the club, said: "It was a great start to the season, despite the weather.

"It went very well and it was good to be able to start the season in February.

"There was only one heavy blizzard and that was between races, so most spectators could shelter in one of the tents."

The first race of the season was won by Crimson Brocade, ridden by Nigel Tutty.