A GROUP of riding novices have had to acquire saddle skills at the gallop.

Seventeen contestants put their horse-handling skills to the test to raise £10,000 for local charities.

The inexperienced horse riders underwent a punishing seven-week training schedule to turn them into riders in time for the gala.

They were all taking part in Only Fools on Nags, a charity challenge which saw them develop into deft showjumpers.

Each rider raised had to raise at least £250 for their chosen charity before showcasing their new-found skills at a charity jump-off.

All the riders were tutored by instructors from Quob Stables, Durley, which was also the setting for the champagne gala.

Organiser and stable owner Beth Davies said: "The competition was hot. The contestants all did well and were getting quite competitive.

"We had one lady who had never even ridden a horse before but everyone attempted a jump of some height at the gala. It's a really fun way for us to raise money for good causes."

Charities to benefit from the contest include Naomi House children's hospice, children's cancer charity Leukemia Busters and Southampton Multiple Sclerosis Society.