WILTSHIRE riders have been included on the British Equestrian Federation's World Class Development programme for 2014-16

Among those on the 49-strong list of young athletes are eventers David Doel, from Reybridge near Lacock as well as Tom McEwen and Holly Woodhead, who are based with Sir Mark Todd at Badgerstown near Swindon, while Laura Collett, formerly based at Membury but now at Lambourn, is also included.

Harry Meade, who came back from injury to finish third at last year's Badminton Horse Trials, is also among the eventers named.

In showjumping, rising star Jessica Mendoza, from Tockenham near Calne, is included.

The programme looks to provide coaching and support to athletes – through human and equine sports science, nutrition and sports psychology – as part of an established training pathway funded by the National Lottery.

Gordon Burton, Head of Performance for the BEF said: “This year’s applicants raised the bar yet again and we saw some exceptional talent coming forward during our selection trials.

"It is great to see such a depth and breadth of ability coming up through the ranks and bodes well for the future of equestrian sport in the UK.”