Zara Phillips tops an all-star cast at the Burnham Market International Horse Trials, which gets under way at Sussex Farm today.

Zara Phillips tops an all-star cast at the Burnham Market International Horse Trials, which gets under way at Sussex Farm today.

There will be dressage, show jumping and cross country on all three days of the competition, culminating with the World Cup on Saturday afternoon.

World and European champion Phillips, who capped a stella year by being selected as BBC Sports Personality of the Year, is in an advanced field which also includes world No 1 Andrew Hoy, world No 2 William Fox Pitt and a number of other leading equestrian stars including Mary King, Pippa Funnell and Andrew Nicholson, Jeanette Brakewell, Rodney Powell, Leslie Law and Matt Ryan.

There will be falconry displays, terrier racing, children's magic shows and much more as well as over 40 trade stands so fans can come and enjoy a great day out for all the family.

Admission is £6 for adults, £4 for children or it is £18 for a family ticket.

“We are thrilled to have so many top names and we expect a last minute rush,” said event organiser Alec Lochore.

“The going is ideal, which is rare in the UK after all the rain over the last two months.

“One of the best things about our course is the fact that we are one of the few events that practically guarantees a run, which at this critical stage before Badminton, is vital for many competitors.

“We are hoping that a good number of people will take advantage of the fact that it is a bank holiday to come and see the action. We are also looking forward to our Spring Event (April 19-21), when we anticipate a much higher number of entrants and spectators.”

Tuesday's South Norfolk Pony Club Hunter Trials at Bergh Apton was the first under the wing of new DC Sara Rawlings.

Best South Norfolk member and winner of the 2'3 Class was Milly Hepworth on Spike, while Thomas Kidner, on Another Pippin, also won his class.

Georgina Wood from Thetford Chase PC proved just how good a rider she is by winning two classes on Mrs Cranston's Dykebeck Wild Daisy.

Another Thetford Chase member, Lily Gibbs on Riva Celebration, won the 2'9 class.

Forthcoming events for South Norfolk PC at Blackwater Farm include the Senior Hunter Trial on April 10 and an ODE on April 29. Full details on www.PCUK.org under South Norfolk.