KIRSTY Clarkson was smiling at the weekend after retaining a title she had won last year on her favourite horse.

The former Knutsford High School student, riding Oliedunit, was a victor again in the BE100 category during the Keyflow UK Arena Eventing Championships at Kelsall.

“Olie is the best horse I’ve owned and it means so much to us to win,” she said.

“We were neck and neck going in the final round of competition, and I was beginning to feel the pressure.

“However it’s wonderful to celebrate another victory at what is an amazing venue.”

Clarkson, who is sponsored by her parents’ Knutsford-based company Equine & Pet Feeds, joined a record number of competitors from across the region at Kelsall Hill Equestrian Centre.

Their skills were tested against the clock over a course of show jumps and cross-country obstacles with points scored over a series of seven fixtures.

The duo now turn their attention on qualifying for the Badminton Horse Trials, scheduled for May.