RACE-GOERS got a thrilling taste of the action as thousands headed to Lockinge for the annual Point-to-Point meeting today.

The popular day out at the racetrack near Wantage once again attracted its share of both hardcore racing fans and families as more than 7,000 enjoyed their Easter Monday.

With a passion for thoroughbreds Clare Warrender took her two daughters Nina, 10, and Zara Matthews, 12, from Sunningdale to the event for the first time.

She said: “It has been absolutely brilliant, we will definitely be coming again, it is a real family event.

“I think it is so fantastic because you get so close to the action, you get close to the horses and it is just a really great experience.

“I have got about 12 thoroughbreds, polo ponies, so I have always had this real passion for them and I am so pleased we came today.”

Keen riders both Zara and Nina said they hoped they would come back next year.

Zara added: “It has been amazing.

“I think my favourite part was getting to see the hounds.”

Going along with tradition, racegoers turned up hours before the first race to walk the course, often with drink and dog lead in hand.

Two pony races were held in addition to six further thoroughbred jump races.

The Old Berkshire Hunt has hosted the event since 1830.

For more information about the annual event visit: oldberkshunt.co.uk