Organisers lining up a right royal horse show

But 2012 is more special than most and, due to the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, this year’s show is on Bank Holiday Monday, June 4.

To honour both the Royal anniversary and the London Olympic Games even more has been packed into the Horse Show schedule.

The first celebratory class is for fancy dress on a diamond jubilee or Olympics theme, to be judged by 15-year-old Hayley Okines, who has the rare genetic condition, progeria, which causes premature ageing.

Horse show spokeswoman Jennie Cunliffe said: “ Hayley is inspirational and her bubbly personality made her the perfect choice to judge this class.

“We hope to see as much bling and medal adorned costumes as entrants can muster for this one.

“There are some fantastic prizes for this class and the winner will receive a framed photograph from our sponsor, Photo Events.”

Another novelty class to be included this year is Fun Dog Agility.

Taking place in ring two in the afternoon, the fastest canine and handler round the course of show jumps wins, but the more fun to be had and the more the pairs make the crowds laugh the better.

This class should prove a good wind down for performers in the dog show and for family pets alike. All entries for this class will be taken on the day, as will all dog show entries.

The dog show starts at 1pm and has something for everyone, from the largest pedigree canine to the smallest family pet, and both adult and young handlers are welcome.

All the usual crowd pleasers will be back this year, including the spectacular Parade Class which profiles breeds from around the world, some in traditional costume. The elegant driving horses in all their finery will be there, too.

There will be lots of jumping action in the main ring with British Showjumping classes, and ring two has unaffiliated jumping classes.

Then there is a whole host of ridden and in-hand showing classes, including a new class for ridden ex-racehorses.

Returning by popular demand are the Coakham Bloodhounds, and also parading in the main ring throughout the day will be gentle giants from the South Eastern Shire Horse Association.

Details at www.bexhillhorseshow.co.uk or e-mail: [email protected]