Chester International Horse Show Confirmed For Five Years

Chester Racecourse was confirmed as the home for the Chester International Horse Show until 2007, today Thursday 18th July.

Chester City Council and Scope Promotions (Equestrian) Ltd have signed an agreement to ensure the continuance of the Chester International Horse Show at the Roodee. In partnership with Chester Racecourse Company this will see the event blossom as one of the key equestrian events in Britain.

Set in the idyllic surroundings of the old Roman city of Chester, the Chester International Horse Show has embarked on its second consecutive year, running from the 17th - 20th July, 2003. Lord Mayor of Chester Councillor Barry Cowper said of the agreement, "We are delighted that our beautiful walled city is to continue as home to such a prestigious international show jumping event. Chester Racecourse as the oldest racecourse in the country, continues its fine tradition of equestrianism."

"After the outstanding success of 2002 we have no hesitation in establishing a long term future for the Chester International Horse Show and look forward to working with Scope Promotions over the next five years, and hopefully more," commented Leader of Chester City Council, Councillor David Evans.

Jimmy Maguire, Show Director and a Director of Scope Promotions is delighted with the news, "Chester welcomed us with warmth and enthusiasm in 2002, and nothing gives us greater pleasure than being able to stage the largest dedicated show jumping event in the North of England in such exquisite surroundings."

Last years event proved a momentous success, with three fantastic days of show jumping, four hundred horses and ponies and over three hundred riders competed over the three day duration of the show. It is very encouraging for British show jumpers and has this year attracted riders from across Europe, Ireland, USA, Brazil, Jordan and New Zealand.

Organisers Scope Promotions (Equestrian) Ltd have made significant improvements to this years event with key emphasis being on the International Arena and the hospitality area. A fourth day of competition has been added to the schedule, and show jumping will continue into the evening in the floodlit International Arena.

With this new five year agreement Chester International Horse Show is now established as a significant annual event, not only in the north of England but for Britain as a whole. Show organisers Scope Promotions (Equestrian) Ltd and Chester City Council, have worked incredibly hard to make this show successful not only as an important show jumping event but also as a major regional attraction for the populous of Chester and the surrounding areas to enjoy.

Tickets are £5 for adults, £2.50 for children and OAP, car parking is free, and tickets can be purchased on the gate.

.