Prizes presented following Cowdray Sponsored Ride

The ride itself took place on Sunday, May 8, when entrants lined up beside Cowdray House for the staggered start.

Organiser Joan Langmead said: “The annual ride had a huge interest this year. A large number of riders set off at intervals throughout the early part of the day to negotiate a ten-mile course with 37 jumps at intervals around the beautiful Cowdray countryside.

“All that finished received a rosette and many were presented silver salvers for collecting set amounts of sponsor money.”

First prize, sponsored by Independent Talent Group, went to Richard Field.

Second was Mollie Sweeney, who received a certificate and cheque from Savills, and third was Victoria Ashbee, who received a book called Horn and Hound, donated by the Chiddingfold, Leconfield and Cowdray Hunt.

Joan said: “The three lucky winners were all within a few pounds with the amount they managed to raise, a very close call.”

Seven-year-old India Myers won the youngest rider prize, having ridden around the big course.

Joan added: “There was a very small course for tiny tots, who were lead around and negotiated very small jumps. Everyone thoroughly enjoyed themselves and the atmosphere was tremendous.

“A lot of work was volunteered to course build and steward the course and great helpers sorted the entries.”

Cheques were handed to Macmillan Cancer Support in Midhurst and the Chidingfold, Leconfield and Cowdray Hunt, after the profit of £11,000 was divided between them.

Joan concluded: “The Cowdray Estate was thanked for allowing such a successful day and the evening closed with enthusiasm for the same time next year.”