By Victoria Wilkinson

Last updated 13:27, Thursday, 26 June 2008

ON SUNDAY August 3, horse riders from as far as Somerset will be travelling to Northumberland to take part in the Hexhamshire Trophy Ride, one of the major endurance events in the North.

Entries are now being accepted and some well known names from within the sport have already signed up, but the event is open for all horse riders to experience.

Endurance GB has a mission to promote and enhance the sport of competitive long distance riding within the UK by providing development opportunities, training, and competitions like this one.

The pleasure ride class, 21km, is open to non-members of Endurance GB and is suitable for all shapes and sizes of horse and rider.

The winner of class one, which is an 85km ride, will receive a £20 voucher and a rosette.

The horse which is in the best condition in class two (63km) will win a cooler rug.

There are also 51km, 42km, and 32km classes where novice riders can compete. In these classes the horse with the lowest heart rate will come first.

It is hoped this will encourage new competitors to keep their speed sensible and to work on the crewing aspect of the sport.

The 2008 Hadrian Challenge, which includes teams at every level, with rider or horse who is a member of the EGB, will also be hosted at this blue ribbon event.

The rules are available on www.egbnorthumberlandandtyneside.co.uk.

Team entries have yet to be sorted so any interested party should contact their group committees as soon as possible.