DRESSAGE competitor Chris Collier of Kelsall and his 11-year-old chestnut gelding Nilot were riding high after winning a trophy for being the most successful combination over the season.

Civil servant Chris, who works for the Ministry of Defence at RAF Sealand, was presented with the Ashworth Memorial Trophy for the horse and rider who earned most points in the open section of a series of unaffiliated competitions run by Reaseheath College, Nantwich, throughout 2006.

Chris, who won the restricted section last year, said: 'I was a complete newcomer to dressage two years ago but we've progressed hugely thanks to regular training sessions at Willington Hall, Kelsall, where Nilot is kept at livery and to Reaseheath's regular competitions.

'I really enjoy competing at dressage - the tests gradually get more difficult and that gives you something to aim for.'

Chris Watson, a community paediatrician from Crewe, and her 18 year-old dun pony Chocolate Chip, were also in the rosettes after being the most successful combination to compete in the restricted preliminary section.

They received the Sweet Meadow Feeds trophy from sponsor Ken Wooster of The Feed Store, Doddington, part of the Youngs Animal Feeds Group.

A relative latecomer to equestrianism, Chris said: 'I only learned to ride six years ago and I had never competed before I came to Reaseheath's competitions.

'I've found the relaxed atmosphere gave me the confidence to have a go and I've had a lot of fun.'

For further details about events at Reaseheath contact 01270 613216 or email dawnc@reaseheath.ac.uk