A WORCESTERSHIRE legal secretary has jumped over hurdles to win her first top title at a prestigious horse show.

Skilled horsewoman Sophie Smyth, who is part of the conveyancing team at Kidderminster law firm mfg Solicitors, scooped the Retained Racehorse Challenge title at the recent Royal Windsor Horse Show while under the watchful eye of the Queen.

It was the first time the delighted 31-year-old had entered the contest, held in the grounds of Windsor Castle, with her ex-racehorse Present For You, after qualifying for the renowned event during trials in Moreton-in-Marsh last year.

“I am still in shock,” said Sophie, who has been riding since she was three. “It’s the first time I have entered the event so to win is fantastic. Riding in front of the Queen was an amazing experience and one I will never forget.

“I hoped my horse would jump well as he competes at intermediate eventing but sometimes the smaller fences are a disadvantage. But he relaxed and gave an amazing performance in the quite intimidating Castle Arena.”

Sophie was presented with her trophy by members of the Balding family, who have trained horses for the Queen.

As well as carving out a career in the conveyancing department at mfg, the busy mum wakes up early each morning to clean out the stables and ride her horse, also known as Mickey, before doing the school run.

The 14-year-old horse, given to her by George and Anne Barlow, organisers of Bradwall horse trials in Cheshire, has also competed at the Retraining of Racehorses (RoR) Barbury event and the RoR Dressage Final.

Sophie also entered for last year’s RoR Hunter Challenge at Cheltenham but the event was cancelled due to the bad weather.

She said: “I rely on a lot of support from my husband Jon and my parents who have helped logistically and financially to make my hobby possible.

I am extremely grateful to Mr and Mrs Barlow, Mickey is such a versatile retrained racehorse. I am very lucky.”

Peter Simner, partner at mfg, added: “Everyone at the firm is very proud of Sophie’s achievement.

“To win such a prestigious title and to do it in front of the Queen is a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

“We are delighted for her and are sure she will go on to win more national titles.”