A CLEOBURY Mortimer event rider will be competing at the Cotswold home of The Princess Royal this Saturday.

Sophie Smyth will be riding onboard Mr Percival at Gatombe Park and will be hoping for a top 10 finish.

"I am really looking forward to it," said Smyth.

"Percy used to show jump with his previous owner, but he's had to learn a lot of new skills to take part in eventing.

"But we both enjoy the jumping and get a great buzz from it."

Smyth, who won last year's prestigious Royal Windsor Horse Show, will be sponsored by her employer.

The 32-year-old works for Ludlow law firm mfg Solicitors and she will be draped in the company's distinctive black and orange colours.

"I've ridden since I was young and my father is a commentator, having previously competed internationally," said Smyth.

"Horses have always been a big part of our family, so I'm delighted that mfg have agreed to sponsor me and Percy.

"This will help us to train up and really show what we can do."

Smyth also scooped a top 10 finish at the Solihull Horse Trials and competed at the Homme House event near Ledbury in Herefordshire.

Her links with the Shropshire equine and farming communities are deep-rooted, with her grandfather Tim Dwerryhouse once being a well-known vet practicing in Cleobury.

At work, she is carving out a career in the corporate and commercial team at mfg Solicitors and recently completed her first year exams to become a legal executive lawyer.

Justin Parker, partner and head of the commercial term at mfg Solicitors, said: "Sophie is building quite a name for herself in eventing and we wanted to support her by providing sponsorship.

"We are delighted to be playing a part in her on-going success."