THE horse-riding champions of the future have had their first taste of competition with the second Little Leagues at Friars Hill Stables in Sinnington.

The league, which ended last Saturday, is aimed at younger, novice riders. The league encompasses six competitions incorporating activities for the children including pole-to-pole, gymkhana games, jumping, obstacles and "handy pony".

The stables say that these tests are designed for the children to have fun while learning, and gently introduce the children into competing without having to go up against those who have been there and done it.

The children were separated into two groups, one for the older, slightly more experienced children who are eight to11 years and one for the younger five to eight year olds.

At each competition the children were placed as to how well they performed, rosettes were awarded and points given. The points were then collected and added up at the final session, known as the Championship. Rosettes were awarded at each competition and sashes were presented to the winner of each group.

Tracy, who works at the stables, said: "Well done to all the children who took part, this activity does take them slightly out of their comfort zone but they all seem to have enjoyed themselves and gained more confidence. Our new season of Little Leagues will start in October 2016 when we hope to see lots of new smiley faces."

Results for competition six were:

Majors

1st – Harry Thompson

2nd – Libby Bailey

3rd – Abi Garbutt-Blacker

4th – Alice Langdale

5th – Evie Duell

Minis

1st – Alex Hill

2nd – Brooke Gibson

3rd – Lauren Harris

4th – Max Bailey

Overall the Championship placings were:

Majors

1st – Harry Thompson

2nd – Libby Bailey

3rd – Alice Langdale

4th – Harvey Brackley

5th – Abi Garbutt-Blacker

6th – Evie Duell

Minis

1st – Lauren Harris

2nd – Brooke Gibson

3rd – Max Bailey

4th – Eve Stanley

5th – Alex Hill