The trials, which is now its 22nd year and deemed as one of the best equestrian events in the region, sees Korean car manufacturer SsangYong UK as title sponsors, which is part of a three year agreement with organisers South Eastern Equestrian Services.
Olympic medalist and Rolex Grand Slam winner Pippa Funnel MBE has confirmed her place at the event, as well as top international Tina Cook also an Olympic medal holder for GB. Caroline Powell (NZ) and British eventer Oliver Town end will be riding as well as Blenheim International winner Francis Whittington. WellÂknown local riders taking part include Emily Baldwin, Georgie Strang and Tom Crisp.
As well as experiencing the thrills of dressage, the pressures of show jumping and the bravery of the cross country phase, there will be a country market with a strong cross section of over sixty stalls with something for everyone, from food lovers and fashion fans to those with an eye for homewares, gifts and arts and crafts. There will also be plenty for green fingered gardeners and obviously furry friends will be well catered for with doggy and equestrian stalls.
Stall holders new to the event this year include Pinkster Gin, Turners Cider, artist Katherine Jennings, Moonshine Lighting as well as French inspired interiors and accessories company, Mrs G-D Interiors.
There will be plenty of food vendors on hand to feed hungry mouths. The Mucky Duck Bakery will be onsite selling delicious delights from its mobile van. Vegan street food will be available from Loving Hut Express, with Bahji Bahji selling Indian snacks. Burgers, pulled pork, milkshakes and crepes will also be available.
The ever popular ‘Dogs in the Park’ will be taking place on Sunday. ‘Most Handsome Dog’, ‘Prettiest Bitch’,
‘Dogs Got Talent’ are just some of the categories owners can enter their canine friends into on the day. There will also be terrier racing and falconry displays taking place on Sunday afternoon.
A licensed bar for adults and tractor rides, face painting and soft play for children will be available throughout the weekend.
Joint event organiser Jenny Nolan said: “Eridge Horse Trials is well known for being a great family day out. There really is something to entertain the whole family. The country market is proving to be a popular addition to the weekend, making the event appeal just as much to the non-horsey crowd as those that follow the sport. Thanks to Marquess of Abergavenny who owns the estate for hosting the event and allowing us to grow it year-on-year.”
Admission to the show is £10 per car, including all passengers on Saturday and £15 per car on Sunday.
On purchase of a car park ticket, dog show competitors will receive up to five free dog class entries and Terrier racers two free heat entries.
Gates open to the general public from 08:30 on both days.
For further information and ‘Dogs in the Park’ schedule, please visit www.eridge-horsetrials.co.uk
