REBECCA RIDES TO TEAM GLORY

The Crawley and Horsham Hunt (South) senior open team of Jenni Burgess, Issy Brookes, Charlotte Morley and Rebecca Longhurst jumped off 19th out of 27 teams, assisted by team trainer Nicki Bedford, who was a team winner in 1996.

After round one, with only one pole lowered between them, the girls went through on a score of 0. Round two proved more taxing for many teams, with poles on the ground all around the course.

Spokeswoman Caroline Morley, who is Charlotte's mother, said: "Prior to the Crawley and Horsham South team, the best score so far was two teams on equal four faults to jump off. Our team did us proud and equalled four faults to jump off in round three.

"Rebecca was chosen to jump off, and was fortunately last to jump. First to go had eight faults, and second ended up with four faults '“ not too much pressure on Rebecca! Last to go, all we needed was a clear round. Rebecca and Caradog rode for their life and crossed the finish line clear. The team, parents and supporters whooped, screamed and clapped loudly, and there were a few tears."

A delighted Nicki was very proud of their performance, which was another great achievement for the team.