SKIPTON Races on Saturday promises to be a white-knuckle ride for 19 amateur jockeys taking part in the charity flat race.

The strictly non-professional riders on a range of horses including a racing Clydesdale will kick off the event with the Candlelighters Charity Race.

And with each contestant having to raise a minimum of £250 sponsorship, it is proving to be a major fundraiser.

Julia Mulligan, seeking re-election as Police and Crime Commissioner, will also be taking part on her horse, Grace.

Jo Foster, clerk to the course, said the original one race had to be divided into two because of the high level of entries.

"We've got everything from ex-racehorses, hunters, cobs and even a racing Clydesdale taking part, it's going to be quite a sight," she said.

Immediately following the two charity races at 1.15pm, will be the proper point-to-point races over fences.

Race-goers will be able to bet on the races, including the charity races, while enjoying a licensed bar and a variety of stalls.

There will also be a charity tombola in aid of the Injured Jockeys Fund, run by nine-year-old Felix Foster. Donations for the tombola will be gratefully accepted on the day.

Skipton Races takes place at Heslaker Farm, off the A59 near Broughton. The gates open at 11am and admission is £10 for adults and £5 for children.