Sportsmanship at its very best

It also helped that the school's first team to challenge for the junior championship managed to finish in equal second place behind Queen Margaret's School, York.

"Sportsmanship at its very best was the hallmark of the day," he said.

"What impressed me most was the terrific spirit shown by everyone. Every competitor had worked extremely hard and foregone a great deal to achieve the standard required to represent their school or club at this great national event.

"Yet, whatever their result on the day, all were generous in their support and praise for those against whom they were competing."

The Hurstpierpoint College Preparatory School team had the best of help to get there. Ellie Brown, daughter of Hickstead director and show secretary Lizzie Bunn, rode a horse owned by her uncle, international showjumper Shane Breen.

For full story, picture and results see West Sussex Gazette, Sussex Horse World, August 20