IT WAS a dazzling display of military horsemanship that attracted the biggest crowd in the event’s history.

More than 105,000 people poured through the gates of last year’s New Forest and Hampshire County Show to watch the Household Cavalry perform its world-famous musical ride.

The soldiers staged a series of cavalry drill movements set to music to illustrate what battles were like when conflicts were fought on horse-back.

Now show bosses have lined up another demonstration of equine excellence for this year’s event.

The main attraction will be a display by the Metropolitan Police Service Mounted Branch, which performs a series of spectacular stunts at shows across the country.

Horses brave rings of fire and leap through paper walls as well as completing fast “crossover” manoeuvres in the centre of the arena.

Riders attached to the unit demonstrate their own prowess by removing their jackets, stirrups and even their saddles as they complete a series of jumps.

It will be the first time the Metropolitan Police Activity Ride has been staged at the three-day show, first held

in the early 1920s.

A show spokesman said: “The ride was established in the 1950s to display the skills of mounted officers and the incredible training of the horses.

“Despite ceasing for a short while to enable officers to concentrate on policing the 2012 London Olympics, the

ride has been reformed into the training regime of the mounted branch.

“It provides a fast-moving display demonstrating a high level of skill and agility by both horse and officer.”

The huge arena at New Park, Brockenhurst, will also see a world record attempt, with visitors invited to smash

the existing record for the most wellington boots thrown simultaneously.

The Daily Echo-backed event is officially rated one of the top ten agricultural shows in the UK.

As reported, this year’s president is Sophie Countess of Wessex.

In 2013 Sophie and her husband, Edward, the Earl of Wessex, toured New Park and presented some of the prizes.

Sophie was praised by show bosses for her “warm and approachable manner” and the genuine interest she took

in the event.

This year’s show is taking place on July 26, 27 and 28.