HORSE-lovers have the chance to saddle up and canter on down to the second Heart of the Counties Show at Worcester Racecourse on Bank Holiday Monday.

The eagerly-awaited event on May 31 aims to please equestrians of all ages and abilities while raising invaluable funds for Acorns Children's Hospice and the Air Ambulance.

Organised by area 12 of the National Pony Society (NPS), the event will play host to Croome Pony Club, which will be running a clear round show-jumping ring and a separate show-jumping classes ring.

"There has been nothing so comprehensive in Worcester since the demise of the Lower Wick Show, so we were delighted to be invited to participate in this new show's second year," said Carolyn Bull, district commissioner of the Croome Pony Club, celebrating its 75th anniversary.

"The show offers something for riders and breeders of all ages and the charities it supports are very close to our hearts."

The NPS, meanwhile, offers a further 88 classes, ranging from lead rein dressage for those aged under eight, to working hunter and in hand and ridden classes for different breeds, types and sizes of horse and pony.

Some are qualifiers but there are also 30 classes for which affiliation is not necessary.

Sponsorship and prizes have been kindly donated by businesses and societies from Worcestershire, Herefordshire, Gloucestershire and the West Midlands.

In addition, there will be numerous trade stands and refreshments at the show, which starts at 8.30am.

Spectators may attend free of charge, while class entry fees range from £2.50 for clear round show-jumping and cross country to £6.50 for show-jumping.

Entries for the showing classes close on Friday, May 21, although they can be entered on the day at a £3 surcharge.

Entries for the clear round and showjumping classes will all be taken at the ringside.

Schedules and entry forms are available from Janet Ball on 01684 592560 or by e-mailing ap.pr@tiscali.co.uk

For further information please contact Janet Ball on 01684 592560 (NPS) or Alison Harris on 01905 452183, mobile 07836 584400, e-mail ap.pr@tiscali.co.uk