THE grounds of Chawton House provided the perfect setting for the library’s third annual fun ride.

More than 100 horse riders enjoyed the opportunity to hack over a variety of terrain, including open fields and woodland, with several jumps dotted throughout. The seven-mile track traverses the estate and neighbouring farmland and is normally closed to the public but kindly opened by Paul Anderson for the event.

Head horsewoman Angie McLaren, who organised the event, was thrilled with the turnout, saying the event had, once again, “brought the estate to life”.

The library’s four shire horses were given the day off from working in the fields so their sponsors and other visitors could visit them in their stables.

The event attracted riders from the two previous years as well as first timers, some locals and others who had travelled across the county with their horses to enjoy the unique opportunity to take in the beautiful Hampshire scenery.

For many the stubble fields were the highlight of the course as it gave the horses, usually accustomed to road riding, the rare chance to gallop in the open countryside.

Angie said: “The word everyone consistently used to describe the event was ’lovely’, commenting on the friendliness of the staff, the professional organisation and the exciting course itself.”

Chawton House Library thanked St John Ambulance and its volunteers for making the day such a success.