More than 800 equine competitors galloped to the Bath and West Showground, near Shepton Mallet, as the Royal Bath and West of England Society finally hosted their first show since 2019.

Despite the high winds and relentless rain on day one, competitors were ready and raring to go with a full complement of in-hand and ridden classes, together with qualifiers for the Royal International Horse Show and the Horse of the Year Show, plus the Price Family Supreme In Hand Qualifier.

While many commented it was "great to be back out showing", none were more pleased than producer Craig Elenor making the long trip down to Somerset worthwhile when claiming the first ticket of the season for the Price Family Supreme In-Hand Championship of the Year with Sandy Anderson's two-year-old colt Thistledown Harper Royale.

"We were so pleased to finally welcome competitors back to the showground," said Alan Lyons, head of shows.

"It was a fantastic two days, which wouldn't have been possible without the support of our volunteers, who have worked tirelessly in supporting the Bath and West team with the organising and running of the show."

To ensure the safety of competitors, this event took place behind closed doors and was held under the guidelines of the Showing Council blueprint for hosting Covid-19 compliant equine events.

Full results from the Bath and West Equine Showing Show can be found here.