AN EAST Yorkshire college is to offer local businesses the chance to sponsor its acclaimed horse trials for the first time.

The two-day trials, starting on May 27, on the main campus of Bishop Burton College, have previously attracted some of eventing's biggest names, including Brook Staples, Jeanette Brakewell, Matthew Wright, Oliver Townend and Gary Parsonage.

Kim Knightley, director of the college's equine department, is in charge of organising the event, which is affiliated to British Eventing.

She said: "Because of our affiliation to British Eventing (BE) this competition is run to a very high standard, and many spectators come to see the demanding and ever-changing courses we have constructed, in partnership with BE, within our grounds."

Organisers have put together a collection of sponsorship packages.

Rachel Thackray, marketing manager at the college, said: "This is the first time we have offered sponsorship packages for our horse trials, and the response so far has been fantastic"

Potential sponsors should phone Rachel on 01964 553053.