MORE than 700 entries have been received for the Whatley Manor International Horse Trials at Gatcombe Park on September 16-18.

This year the field, many of them top international names, can expect a very interesting test because Mike Etherington-Smith – responsible for some of the most prestigious eventing cross country courses in the world, including those at Olympic Games – has joined the organising team in order to work with Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal on the design of the international CIC** course.

Mike said: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to work with The Princess and her organising team at Gatcombe which is certainly one the most popular events in the UK horse trials calendar.”

Christian Landolt, the owner of the Whatley Manor Hotel, has agreed to continue his sponsorship of the event for a further three years – until September 2019.

The jumping course uses a different area of the Gatcombe Park Estate to that used by the Festival of British Eventing, which took place in early August.

Starting at 9am on both days, dressage, show jumping and cross-country phases run throughout. The event attracts many interesting shops and HRH The Princess Royal will present prizes.

Gatcombe Park is situated at Hampton Fields, mid-way between Minchinhampton and Avening; the event will be signposted from both directions. Spectator admission is £6 for a car and occupants and £4 for a programme.

For more details visit www.gatcombehorsetrials.co.uk.