RICHMOND Equestrian Centre is celebrating a national coup which will bring hundreds of riders to North Yorkshire next year.

It has been selected for the national finals of the British Horse Society's Cross Country Championships - formerly the BHS Hunter Trials Competition - on September 7 and 8, 2002.

Mr Nick Marlow, who owns the centre, said: "They are looking to run a competition over the two days with probably 460 competitors.

"We are holding our first affiliated horse trials next year and we are building two affiliated cross country courses. Both will be used for the cross country finals.

"We are absolutely delighted to be chosen because it is very difficult for northern venues to get this type of event.

"We have put so much work into the last 18 months, it is nice to be officially recognised.

"We had the chief executive, Kay Driver, up this year when everything went just like clockwork. It was a good competition and everyone enjoyed it."

The cross country qualifiers are open to BHS members and non-members and, to celebrate the BHS jubilee year, there will be a young riders' championship for those aged 25 and under.

BHS county committees are being asked to run the qualifying rounds in their areas.

The committees will receive support from BHS headquarters, but they will need some input from BHS members.

Angela Harris, BHS regional chairman, said: "The county committees are already overstretched carrying out vital work such as access and welfare.

"We are therefore appealing to BHS members who have a special interest in cross country to offer their help in setting up competitions in the five areas in Yorkshire.

"We are also asking for suggestions for suitable venues."

If you think you can help, contact Angela Harris on 01977 795450