THE world's best horses and riders attracted thousands of visitors to Gatcombe Park, at the weekend for the Festival of British Eventing.

The magnificent grounds of Princess Anne's home in Minchinhampton played host to the annual horse trials for the 23rd year running.

As the sun shone, spectators watched in awe as the elite of the equestrian world took the thrills and spills of the competition in their stride.

For the serious horse fan there was eventing, dressage, cross-country and show jumping.

But for those looking for a little light entertainment there was also plenty on offer including John Whiteley and his sheepdogs, a demonstration from the Beaufort hounds, a terrier racing roadshow and the Shetland pony grand national.

A fantastic example of what can be achieved with horses and the disabled was shown during a display from the Riding for the Disabled Association.

And anyone in search of a little retail therapy wasn't disappointed either as row upon row of shopkeepers from around the country set up their stalls and threw in a few bargains to boot.

Eight nations took part this year in The British Open Championships, the most prestigious title of National Champion eventing which was won for the fourth time by William Fox-Pitt.