EUROPE'S largest equestrian touring theatre show, Spirit Of The Horse, brings its spectacular production of Chimera to York for the first time, from April 26 to April 29, on Knavesmire.

The equine fantasy show will be staged in the specially designed 2,000-seat Equestrian Touring Theatre, where the 30 equine stars will include Arabians, Friesians, Andalusians, Lusitanos, Russian Trotters, Mongolians and Shetlands, presented by international riders and trainers from seven countries.

Look out for the Eshimbekovy stunt riders, daredevil horsemen from Mongoliam the heartland of Genghis Khan; Black And White, the Spirit Of The Horse quadrille display team; Sir Robert Fossett's Arabian Stallions minuet in the court of St Petersburg; the Andalusian Stallions and riders of the El Capella Perez Academia Ecuestre de Valencia, Spain's classic dancing horses; the return of Pegasus, the winged horse; and new equestrian comedy and antics.

The classic legend of Chimera, the mythological beast of evil, is created for the first time in Britain by the Dutch display rider Katja Kossmayer.

Pegasus, the fantasy horse with the 24ft wing span, is back to rescue the beautiful Delphine and challenge the evil monster, part lion, part serpent, part goat.

Originating in Greek mythology, the legend is better known in Britain as the tale of St George and the Dragon.

The equestrian comedy will come from a new star, small in stature but with a big talent to amuse: Smartie, a six-year-old Shetland pony from Germany.

Performances are at 5pm and 8pm, April 26 and 27; 2pm, 5pm, 8pm, April 28; 3pm and 6pm, April 29.

Tickets cost £16 to £33, concessions £12 to £25, family tickets for four £32, on 0870 160 9559 or on line at www.equestriantheatre.co.uk