JOSH Hutchins made his mark at the Hand Equestrian Centre junior premier show, Bristol where he clinched two tickets to the Blue Chip championships in the Horse Quest UK Coral qualifier riding Horse Heaven Saddlery Charlie XIII and My Time IV.

"I was really chuffed with both ponies," said the 14-year-old from St Wenn, who is supported by Sara George of Horse Heaven Saddlery.

"I've only recently taken the ride on My Time and I can't thank Graham and Jennifer Hudson enough for giving me this opportunity."

Josh is fortunate to come under the wing of the Hudson family who have a wealth of knowledge in the sport and are in a good position to mentor this up and coming young rider.

"At the moment we meet up at shows," said Josh. "They live in Shropshire and I'm hoping to spend some time with them during my school holidays and take Charlie with me.

"There are a lot of second rounds and qualifiers where they live and it will be good to take advantage of being based close-by with such a knowledgeable family."

Josh also picked up his ticket to the Scope Festival in the Pony Adventurer qualifier on the Hudson's seven year-old piebald gelding.

"He's completely different pony from Charlie to ride," he said. "I need to learn to adjust to him and having Graham in the collecting ring warming me up has been brilliant."

Josh also made a promising step up in the Hickstead 148cms winter qualifiers with his mother Suzanne's seven year-old Arab x New Forest gelding, Horse Heaven Saddlery Charlie XII.

"Having qualified Charlie for both the Coral and Sparkle Blue Chip championships I felt it was the right time to step him up to the bigger tracks.

"We had a lesson with Claire Rushworth in the lead up to the show and her help was invaluable. Charlie jumped lovely but I need to gain more experience at this level.

"When I do I'm confident he'll come into his own and I'm looking forward to contesting the HOYS newcomer and foxhunter second rounds with both ponies."

The highly respected show rider and panel judge, Bridget Millington, who is based in Scotland, is taking time out from visiting her family in Cornwall to hold a showing clinic at Tall Trees Arena, Davidstow, Cameford, on Sunday February 12.

Bridget has produced countless winners at county level and ridden at numerous high profile championship shows such as the Horse of the Year Show on many occasions.

"This is a great chance to come along and learn from one of the best," said Abi Lutey who is co-ordinating the clinic.

"We hope people will come along and watch on the day even if they don't have a horse to bring along. At present there are sessions for lead rein and first ridden combinations followed by a group of larger ponies. There will then be a short break and if popularity demands an in-hand session followed by groups for ridden horses."

Light refreshments will be available on the day and for further details or to book a place on the clinic call Abi Lutey on 07790 392273.

Show and event secretaries together with equestrian businesses wishing to include their fixtures, dates and details in this year's popular Horse Show and Gymkhana Guide should contact Teresa Chapman on 07752133233 or 01872 560337.

"We're getting very close to our deadlines," said Teresa whose work in compiling this important show guide handbook raises much needed funds for the Riding for the Disabled.

"I would be grateful to hear from anyone wishing to advertise in this year's Horse Show and Gymkhana guide as a matter of urgency."