Lynn Russell entered the world of the show ring almost by accident, after winning a working hunter class with a horse she had been trying to show jump.

She then bought a cob from the local paper, qualified for Wembley and, bitten by the bug, started to combine showing with her career in marketing and PR until she eventually saw the light and gave up the day job.

Since then she has become renowned for her success in all manner of ridden classes, with particular success in cob classes. Her current superstar (all her horses are named after stars) is Polaris, who won the Supreme Championship at the British Show Hack & Cob Association Championships last year - bringing his tally to well over 50 titles to his name.

Polaris

Lynn is able to see the potential in even the most undeveloped frame, and she has produced more winners from ugly ducklings than Hans Christian Andersen! She is always eager to share her knowledge and expertise, which is why she will be providing a demonstration on horses' form for showing in the Top Equestrian Arena at the Southern Equine and Country Fair, Shepton Mallet, on 25 and 26 October.

Lynn does most of the riding and schooling herself, and she likes to start the season early so that her younger horses can have plenty of opportunity to learn the ropes and settle in the ring. She is convinced that anyone can make the most of their horse through correct turnout, presentation and groundwork.

She also believes in correct feeding, which is why, as possibly the only fully sponsored show rider on the circuit, she is sponsored by and uses exclusively Baileys Horse Feeds - whose experts will also be available for advice at the Southern Horse and Country Fair.

Lynn has already clocked up several wins this season and has high hopes for her team, which includes the lightweight hunter, Baileys Pukka Tukka, and a new coloured cob as well as seasoned campaigner, Polaris.

The Southern Equine and Country Fair will take place at the Royal Bath & West Showground, Shepton Mallet, Somerset, on Saturday 25 and Sunday 26 October 2003, 9.00am to 5.00pm on the Saturday and 9.00am to 5.00pm on the Sunday. Ticket costs are: Adults, £9.00; Under 16's £6; Under 5's free; OAP's £8.00; Family Ticket (two adults and two children) £25.00. Advance booking discounts are available. Please call 08700 115007 or log on at www.contour.uk.net.

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