A NEW riding club has enjoyed instant success at a local show jumping competition.

Middleton Riding Club's junior and senior teams both claimed victories at the Area 2 novice winter league show jumping held at Stainsby Grange last weekend, when 11 junior and 18 senior teams took part.

The junior blue team of Lauren Pederson on Delphi, Faye Bailey riding Juno, Jess Bennison on Dangermouse and anchorman Alice Watts riding Millie were the winners, while the junior red team finished sixth.

The senior team of Emma White, Carla Bolam, Fern Holmes and Brad Valks were also successful.

The Middleton club, which is affiliated to the British Horse Society, was only formed in January, but already boasts more than 40 members.

It has its own riding centre at Middleton St George, near Darlington, with extensive facilities and a team of dedicated, professional instructors.

Although centre owner and club chairman Janet Valks is a stranger to riding club activities, she has plenty of experience in team show jumping.

Both her sons, Brad and Adam, have competed on English show jumping teams for several years.

Middleton Riding Centre is still under refurbishment, but is almost ready to begin spring activities and competitions.

A points scheme will operate over a period of a few months with weekly prize money and the final winner in each section will win a top quality close-contact saddle.

Concessions will be given to club members. To join call the centre on 01325-333600 or Janet Valks on 07841 416970.