ENTRIES are open for this year’s Barbury International Horse Trials, which runs from July 4 – 7.

More than 1,000 horse and rider combinations will be competing over the four days, including many of the biggest names in the sport - from five-star winners and Olympic medallists to young horses in the early stages of their competitive careers.

Last year’s winners included long time British team member Nicola Wilson, French favourite Thomas Carlile, Australian Burghley winner Christopher Burton and this year’s Badminton champion and World Games team gold medallist Piggy French.

Barbury International is located on the Wiltshire Downs, approximately five miles from Marlborough, and features a challenging cross-country course inside the Downland bowl.

The eventing segment of the weekend is the most challenging test for both horse and rider and can be likened to a triathlon in terms of difficulty – It features dressage, cross country and show jumping.

Aside from the serious competition, Barbury will also feature the Champions Challenge on the Saturday 6.

Some of the best event riders will face off against some of the nation’s best National Hunt jockeys in a relay race over fences.

Sunday will see the return of the world-famous Shetland Grand National, which made its debut at Barbury last year.

There will also be a dog agility display, and ‘have-a-go’ dog agility where visitors can put their own four-legged friends through their paces, as well as Arena Eventing and Pony Club show jumping.

Away from the equestrian events, Barbury International hosts a kids zone to keep young ones entertained and shopping opportunities for parents at trade stands.

The stands will sell items such as clothing, hand-crafted jewellery and original artwork.

The usual food and beverage outlets will feature, while hospitality can be purchased for between £70-£100, depending on the day.

Spectators can purchase tickets online in advance or in person on the day and prices range from £7 to £10 for adults across the weekend.

Entry is free for all on Thursday July 4, and more ticketing information can be found online at www.barburyhorsetrials.co.uk.

Hospitality tickets can also be purchased and include admission to the event, forward parking, morning coffee, afternoon tea, a complimentary bar, event programme and access to the Tri-Star Cross Country Pavillion.