THE Princess Royal proved she is never happier than when she is among friends in the horse world when she made a surprise appearance in the North-East yesterday.

With husband Tim Lawrence and her son, Peter, she spent the day at Witton Castle, near Bishop Auckland, County Durham, following her daughter Zara's progress in intermediate horse trials.

A skilled horsewoman herself, the Princess was happy to be a spectator as Zara put on an impressive performance, finishing third.

There was also time to share Olympic experiences with British three-day event silver medallists Leslie Law and Jeannette Brakewell, taking part in their first competition since Sydney two weeks ago.

Anne has enjoyed a taste of Olympic competition herself as a rider and was in Australia for the early stages of the games as Britain's representative on the International Olympic Committee.

The Princess presented Law with the prize for first place in the advanced section.

One of the trials' organisers, Richard Shield, said: "The Princess was just like any other mother helping her daughter.

"She stayed in the area with friends. Although she has been to Witton Castle before, it was a long time ago and we are delighted she came back."

The competition raised money for the Butterwick Children's Hospice and Riding For The Disabled.