PUPILS in Burford jumped miles above other UK schools as they excelled at this year's eventing championships.

Burford School took part in National Schools Equestrian Association (NSEA) competitions for 10 years, and in April hosted an arena eventing competition at Wickstead Farm in Highworth.

A total of three classes were qualifiers for the national championships at Hickstead, and Burford School won two classes, qualifying two teams.

Staff, pupils and parents were delighted with the result and on June 2 made the long journey to await the competition, which was held on June 3.

In the 85cm jumping event the school team was one of only two teams that jumped clear and achieved sixth place out of 13 teams. And in the 90cm class the team achieved, again, sixth place out of 18 teams.

Teacher Clare Brown said: "We were one of only two state schools that qualified for the championships and the school assisted in funding for new kit and the costs of the overnight stabling. The students and parents loved the event."

Annabel Norton, a Year 12 student who was part of the evening team said: "It was an amazing opportunity and was the best thing I've ever done on horseback - it was an incredible experience"