A RIDING club launched by two friends a few weeks ago in Teesdale has quickly proved to be popular, as it has 52 members already and has been given national affiliation.

Lezley Aldrich, of Mickleton, and Viv Dent, of Lartington, called a meeting to get the venture started as they felt there was a need for a club in the area.

Ms Aldrich said yesterday: "We are delighted to have signed up so many members. We have now become affiliated to the national body, which means we have insurance cover and can enter teams in competitions."

The club, the Barnard Castle and Teesdale Riding Club, is for adults who have their own horses. It meets for show-jumping lessons at Streatlam Park and for flat work at Keverstone Forge.

It is holding an open day at Park House Farm, Balders-dale, on Sunday, June 10, from 10am to 4pm, when there will be free demonstrations on the Alexander technique and T Team.

There will be a pleasure ride on Saturday, June 30, and a tack and togs sale on Thursday, July 5.

Anyone wishing to join the club or hear more details can call Ms Aldrich on 01833-640926 (mobile 0789-166-0317) or Ms Dent on 01833-628385 (mobile 0783-762-8130).