A LEADING Catholic boarding school has opened a new equestrian arena to improve facilities for students.

The new arena at Ampleforth College, near Helsmley, has been installed by local company Hymas Arenas with Dressage and Show Jumping facilities. The school currently has several riders representing them at major events, including up and coming star Issy Saxby who has been selected to join the British Eventing Under 18 Development squad.

The arena was opened by Christopher Bartle, British Eventing’s High Performance coach. School Head, Deirdre Rowe said it would provide new opportunities for students. Louis Pern gave a show jumping display to mark the event.