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Top action ahead at Blair Castle International Horse Trials

Big crowds attended the opening day.
Big crowds attended the opening day.

The eyes of the equestrian world are on Highland Perthshire, with one of the country’s top events under way.

The Blair Castle International Horse Trials began on Thursday, with some of the biggest names in the sport present.

More than 40,000 people are expected to pass through the event’s gates before it draws to a close on Sunday.

Spectators faced mixed weather, as Scotland’s summer served up a mix of bright sunshine and heavy downpours.

Over the next three days the stunning surroundings no matter the weather will provide a fantastic location for some top competition, bringing together the finest riders and best horses.Click here for a full photo galleryNow in its 26th year, Scotland’s leading equestrian event offers talented amateurs the chance to compete alongside Olympic medallists in four International event classes.

There will also be British Showjumping and showing classes to provide a platform for riders in other disciplines to compete.

Top riders will be challenging for the spoils, including British World Equestrian Games squad member Nicola Wilson who will then be heading straight to France.

Olympians Lucinda Fredericks and Mark Kyle both have good records at Blair and are expected to be in the mix.

A spokesperson for the event said: “With showing, British Showjumping and Pony Club classes running alongside the main event, there will be equestrian entertainment to suit all horse enthusiasts, with some very competitive classes to look forward to.”

Alongside the equestrianism will be the Bruadar Country Fair, offering visitors a wide range of demonstrations each day.

Performing this year will be Ridgeside Falconry and Dogs, the Quack Commandos and Highland Perthshire-based equestrian stunt team Riders of the Storm.

There will also be a vintage and classic tractor cavalcade, while some more modern vehicles will be on show during the quad bike stunt riding.

The shopping village, meanwhile, is housing more than 200 trade stands, including a food hall showcasing the best of Perthshire and Scottish produce.

Handmade chocolates, organic and rare breed meats, pastries and baked goods will all be available to sample and purchase.

Equestrian shoppers will also find plenty on offer, with tack, clothing, horseboxes, jumps, feed and bedding all on show.

Admission is £14 on the gate today, £20 tomorrow and £15 on Sunday, while children aged 10 and under will be admitted for free when accompanied by an adult.

For more information go to www.blairhorsetrials.co.uk.