A SCHOOL equestrian team has enjoyed the excitement of taking part in the prestigious Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Competing against many older riders, Amelia Murray, 14, Dee Ormston, 16, and Maisy Wilson, 13, from Queen Mary’s School, between Ripon and Thirsk, jumped in the 90cm team showjumping class and came a very respectable 14th out of 38 teams.

The girls were also proud to walk the course with international showjumper Guy Williams, who gave them hints and tips ahead of the class.

The school said that the girls thoroughly enjoyed the experience and also saw the Queen,

Prince Philip and Prince Harry during the weekend earlier this month.

Emma Swinburn, Queen Mary’s riding and yard manager, said: “I am so proud of the girls. They showed great horsemanship and determination and over a very tricky course

we had two clears and two unlucky poles to finish on eight faults.”

The Royal Windsor Horse Show has been held annually since 1943 for five days in Windsor Home Park.

The show is the only one in the UK to host international competition for dressage, showjumping, carriage driving and endurance riding.

In addition, there are more than 130 showing classes.

Carole Cameron, head at Queen Mary’s School, said: “Congratulations to the girls and our equestrian centre staff including Emma Swinburn and Robert Blane for their year-round dedication.

“Qualification for the Royal Windsor Horse Show is a fantastic achievement in itself but for a team where all the girls are aged 16 or younger, the qualification is even more impressive.

“Queen Mary’s provides girls with the opportunity to compete at a high level from a young age.”