A FOUR-YEAR-OLD rider has won a place at this year’s Horse of the Year Show with a top performance at the Scottish Horse Show.

Aston Potter-Firth, of Thornton-le-Dale, was competing at the show held at the Royal Highland Showground on Tuesday, July 18.

He won the lead rein mountain and moorland category, being led by his mother Anouska.

Aston was riding his five-year-old pony Heniarth Yes Sir, known as Eddie.

Sally Potter of Allerston, Aston’s grandmother, bought Eddie as a two-year-old after admiring him as a foal.

Anouska said: “He was already sold to France although that sale did fall through.

“After receiving a phone call out of the blue from the breeders to say he was for sale we just knew we had to have him and immediately went to look and returned home with him.

“Eddie is a true child’s pony who Aston can do anything with.”

Aston, who is into cricket and football as well as riding, will start school in September.

He said: “Whoopee - me and my Eddie are going to the big show.”

The Horse of the Year Show is held from October 4 to 8 at the NEC Birmingham. Aston and Eddie have also qualified for the Royal International held at Hickstead on the July 30.

Anouska added: “We’re very excited for both the Royal International and Horse of the Year Show and Aston will be one of the youngest jockeys competing in his section.”

The Longines Royal International Horse Show is one of the biggest outdoor shows in the country.

The Horse of the Year Show is the finale to the showing year and the domestic show jumping year. For more information,go to hoys.co.uk