ONE of the biggest events in Yorkshire’s equestrian calendar is under way and promising a week of exciting competition for spectators.

The Bramham International Horse Trials began yesterday in warm June sunshine with organisers expecting up to 45,000 visitors over the course of the event.

Bramham Park, near Wetherby, has hosted the competition since 1974 and it has since grown into one of the most popular events in the UK.

Yesterday began with 76 horses and riders lining up for the first inspection in front of the house, before a day of dressage began with Izzy Taylor riding Thistledown Poposki.

A spokesman for the event organisers said: “It is amazing how quickly the park transforms; from just a few pegs in the ground marking out the site to barely a day or two later completed marquees, stables and shedding units everywhere.”

As well as a host of equestrian events, visitors to Bramham can expect food and rink stalls, trade stands and children’s entertainment.

• For details visit bramham-horse.co.uk