THREE novices from Parley Equestrian Centre have claimed top-six berths in their first competitions.

Katie Walters took top spot, Dawn Bailey came third and Jessica Locke sixth from a field of 16 at an open event at their home centre.

The trio have been under the watchful eye of Spanish expert Robert Bellido with etiquette lessons proving fruitful.

Parley's Mel Maclean said: “Beginners can be a little daunted by dressage etiquette and view it as a little complex but it really isn’t.

"We would like to encourage more people to join in and enjoy this fantastic sport. We have more lessons planned alongside show jumping lessons.

"In the future, we plan lessons in all disciplines and for all standards. There are lots of people out there who do a bit of recreational riding but might really enjoy learning some new skills.

“Those riders who have taken part in Roland’s lessons have really enjoyed it. We hold them in the evening so working people can come along.”

Bellido said: “Since the Olympics in 2012, there has been much more interest in dressage, show jumping and cross country. It’s great to see my students picking up rosettes after just a few lessons.”

For more information, visit parleyequestrian.co.uk