A YOUNGSTER receiving riding lessons at Steeton-based New Redcar Farm claimed a top-six finish in the prestigious Royal International Horse Show at Hickstead.

Isabelle Wilmot, aged ten from Skipton, and her pony May Day Lad jumped a clear round in the Nursery Stakes in a beautiful show to claim an impressive sixth position from a field of 30 youngsters who had qualified for the national event.

Heather Airey, who owns New Redcar Farm where May Day Lad is stabled, said: "Two years ago Isabelle was doing lead rein at Silsden Riding Club. What she has achieved in the Nursery Stakes at the Royal International is amazing."

The Greatwood Primary School pupil had also qualified at Hickstead for the Pretty Polly Show Hunter Pony class not exceeding 133cm.

In wet and muddy conditions, she again produced a lovely ridden show but did not get placed in the top eight in what was a large class.

Samantha Chadwick, who is Isabelle's riding instructor along with Heather, added: "We cannot express how unbelievably proud we are of Isabelle and Sparky (May Day Lad's stable name).

"She has worked very hard this year. Everything we ask she does. If we work on one thing in a lesson, she works so hard to make sure it's perfected for the next time and this hard work has paid off in the result they have achieved."