TOP equestrian names are due to be out in force at the 2010 Barbury International Horse Trials, which were getting underway today.

A total of 575 horses from 18 countries are in action over the next four days in the St James’s Place Wealth Management-backed event, with sections including Novice, CIC**, Young Rider Trial, Retraining of Racehorses Championship and the three-star (CIC***) international one-day event.

The showcase class climaxes on Sunday afternoon, when riders tackle the final cross country phase in reserve order, which makes for a thrilling finish.

This year’s entry is led by 2009 European champions Kristina Cook and Miners Frolic, and fellow European team gold medallists William Fox-Pitt, the inaugural Barbury CIC*** winner, and Oliver Townend.

Last year’s winners Daisy Dick and the Spring Along return along with 2008 winner Lucinda Fredericks, from Great Cheverell, on Prada, and 2007 winner, Chris King, of Tytherton Lucas near Chippenham, on Silver Machine. Other local hopefuls include Paul Tapner, the Highworth-based Aussie who has entered his 2010 Badminton winner Inonothing and Tiger Flynne and in-form Marlborough-based New Zealander Andrew Nicholson, on both Armada and Avebury.

Lower Stanton St Quinton’s Kitty King on General Opposition, Swindon’s Rodney Powell on Zin Zan II, Pewsey’s Fiona Hobby on Roma M.L., Clayton Fredericks on Brookleigh and Hinton-based South African Alexander Peternell also feature.

Novice horses and riders compete on Saturday, when one section of the CIC** will be completed. The second CIC**, the Retraining of Racehorses Eventing Championship and CIC*** finishes on Sunday.

The Wiltshire County Show will take place at the venue on Sunday, featuring international level show jumping and equine and country attractions.