PIPPA Ireland, a mature student at Bishop Burton College, is running a short story competition as part of her studies in equine management.

“The aim of the project is to be creative with an equine theme,” Pippa said.

The winner of the competition’s Pony Club section will take home the top prize of a Derby House Samber saddle or equivalent up to the value of £500, together with autographed saddle cloth donated by the 2009 badminton winner Oliver Townend.

Also up for grabs are a weekend pass for the 2010 Bramham international horse trials, VIP days at the races, a Jeffries English leather bridle, a polo lesson, saddlery vouchers and much more.

The competition judge is Penny Grubb, crime writer and local show judge. A first edition of her latest book, Like False Money, which is set in East Yorkshire, will be a prize in the competition’s special Yorkshire section.

Competition rules and entry forms can be downloaded from www.lascalastudios.photium.com or email shortstory@lascalastudios.photium.com or send an SAE marked 'Short Story Competition' to La Scala Studios, Eastfield Farm, Rise Road, Catwick, East Yorkshire, HU17 5PN.

The deadline for entries is May 15.