EXPERIENCED horse riders are being given the chance to have a go at the point to point track at Saturday's Skipton Races.

Up to 12 riders will be able to take part in the Pendle Hunt Charity Challenge Ride which will be held over the same track used by competitors during the day.

It will take place at the end of the day's racing at Heslaker Farm, off the A59 at Carleton, with competitors completing one circuit of the track, over seven steeplechase fences.

But instead of going round as fast as they can, riders will be aiming to get as close as possible to a pre-set "optimum time".

Organiser Jo Foster said it was a great opportunity for anyone who had wanted to do point to point, but never achieved it.

"Everyone goes together and it'll be the same as a race, but instead of going as fast as you can, it'll be getting as close as possible to the optimum time.

"It's a once in a lifetime opportunity and will be a great deal of fun," she said.

Numbers will be restricted to 12, with all taking part receiving a bottle of Champagne and there will be special prizes for winners.

Half of the £60 entry will go to the Jack Berry House rehabilitation centre for injured jockeys at Malton, and Mr Berry himself will be at Saturday's event to present the winner's trophy.

The races itself promises to be a fun day out for all the family, with a variety of trade stands, refreshments and a chance to bet on the races.

There will be six races, starting at 2pm. Entry per car, with occupants, is £25, or the cost for adults is £10 with children under 13 being admitted free.