The annual point to point at Badbury Rings returns on February 26

The event at Badbury Rings takes place on Sunday, February 26, and will include six races, including the Wessex National, plus two races that are part of a national series - the Restricted race and the Ladies’ Open.

Thousands of visitors are expected to attend the annual event, with racing fans coming from all over to see more than 100 runners take on the famous three-mile course with its uphill finish.

But as well as the racing there will be a bumper programme of countryside activities.

New for 2017 is the Rural Crafts tent, which will promote the work of local craftsmen, showcasing their work. These include chutneys & jams, homemade dog treats, photography, watercolours, cheeses , Harris tweed, cartridge coat racks and even feather headpieces, brooches and hat pins, plus face-painting for the children.

In the run up to this year’s event there will be an online Silent Auction of experiences, apprenticeships and workshops. Bidding has already started online at www.galabid.com/point2point. Approximately 40 lots are being offered covering a huge range of opportunities, including a walk-on part in the ‘Doc Martin’ series with Martin Clunes, a visit to Harry Fry’s racing yard and a day with a point to point Starter. The auction culminates in paper bidding at the Point to Point itself. 

Countryside Alliance chief executive Tim Bonner said: “Our Badbury Rings event goes from strength to strength and we are looking forward to a great day of racing. We would like to thank our sponsors, including Savills and we are also very grateful to those who have donated so many exciting lots for our Silent Auction.”

David Cross, director of Southern Rural at Savills, added: “Savills is delighted once again to be supporting the Savills Countryside Alliance point to point at Badbury Rings. This event grows in popularity each year and we look forward to welcoming visitors onto our stand for refreshments.”

The event’s chosen charity is Weldmar Hospicecare.