A SPLENDID performance by the Sedbergh Equestrian Team saw them finish third placed nationally at the Royal Windsor Horse Show.

The team of three competed against 38 qualified schools from across the country in the Land Rover Inter Schools showjumping tournament.

Alicia Newing, from Kendal, joined Kate Sanderson and Miki Crossley to form the Sedbergh team which qualified for the event back in February in Northallerton.

And towards the end of a day of brilliant performances, the trio were leading the way until two of the last three teams nudged them off the top, but they held on for that very credible third place.

Team manager Faye Barker was absolutely delighted with the result.

“The riders and support team of family and friends are buzzing with the final result,” she said.

“Our riders were nervous with the large crowds and on very excited horses but handled the pressure well.

Memories have been made for life competing at this prestigious event, seeing the Royal Family and in the company of international riders.”

The team were honoured to walk the course with William Funnell, one of the UK’s leading showjumpers, who provided them all with indispensable advice and encouragement ahead of their round.

“We are very thankful to William Funnell, who took time out of his busy competing schedule to walk the course with our riders,” said Ms Barker.

And the day ended in fine fashion with a spectacular pageant celebrating the 200th anniversary of the birth of Queen Victoria.

“We thoroughly enjoyed the Pageant in the evening on the life of Queen Victoria in the company of Queen, Prince Philip and Prince Harry,” Ms Barker added.

“It was a truly magical weekend.”