Windsor Lions’ biggest annual fundraising event the Horseride in the Great Park had reached its target of 750 riders a full four weeks before it takes place.

Since then the reserve request list has been swamped as well for the ride which takes place on Saturday and Sunday, September 8 and 9.

The event has been running now for 42 years and over that time has raised more than £2.5m for local charities and good causes.

Event Organiser Lion Mark Fraser enthused: “We are delighted with the huge interest in our Ride once again. It is unprecedented that we have had to close the event for entries so early – even earlier than last year - and to establish a strong Reserve List bodes well for future years."

The nine mile course through lovely parkland consists of three courses running side by side – advanced, novice and non- jumping.

The jumpers can face up to 30 fences of varying heights but can just ride if they prefer.

Mr Fraser said: “We are so very grateful to Windsor Great Park who make our event possible and The Shanly Foundation for sponsoring the event which helps us enormously. We now look forward to welcoming our riders and horses in early September."