Show Jumping titles included the prestigious title of Tack365.com Leading Show Jumper of the Year. This was won by Robert Maguire riding Two Mills Showtime.

Other major winners were Philip Spivey in the Horse and Hound Foxhunter, Leon Thijssen who won both the Vinopolis Stakes and the Golden Bear Classic, John Whitaker, Ellen Whitaker and Robert Whitaker.

The Riding Horse Championship of the Year was eventually won by Gosh, ridden by Natalie Lintott. The Supreme Pony of the Year for the Timberwolf Trophy was named as Broadgrove Chatterbox ridden by Jemima Walker. Bournebrook Golden Law, ridden by Shelley Perham, won the Pricewaterhouse Coopers' Supreme Horse of the Year award.

Bill Bryan, who has qualified horses at every Horse of the Year Show since its inception, was awarded the HOYS Equestrian of the Year in recognition of his lifetime’s achievements.

Over 55,000 spectators attended the 8,000 capacity arena over the course of five days. The crowds rose to the occasion as much as the riders and horses, producing a fine backdrop for the competition.

The fans were also treated to several new visitor attractions, including a new 8,000m square hall containing the new Retail Village, housing more than 215 stands.

The star-studded Gala Night, which was hosted by actress Susan George, attracted a variety of celebrities from the sport and entertainment worlds.

Gala Night visitors enjoyed an action-packed programme of entertainment. The world-famous Jean-Francois Pignon, whose performance with his beautiful grey horses has been described as the ‘best equestrian display ever to visit the country’ travelled from France.

The Metropolitan Police also made their first appearance at the Horse of the Year Show. Further entertainment was provided by internationally renowned dog handler Mary Ray, who linked up with dressage king Ferdi Eiberg in a unique, exclusive display with her dancing dogs.

This ensured that millions of equestrian lovers throughout the UK who were unable to attend the event didn’t miss out on the action. Such exposure should only serve to heighten the interest in equestrian events in the future.

This is cache, read story here