AROUND 3,000 punters are expected to attend Dorset's annual Point-to-Point at Badbury Rings near Wimborne on Sunday, February 24.

There will be six point-to-point races, including the Wessex National, terrier racing, a shopping village, as well as a licensed bar and bookmakers.

The Howden Countryside Alliance Point-to-Point is a staple of the Dorset sporting calendar.

Around 100 runners will take part in races over the day, including men’s and ladies’ opens and a CA Club race for novice riders.

Countryside Alliance chief executive Tim Bonner said: “The CA point-to-point is always a fantastic day out and I would like to thank everyone who returns year on year.

"We are also very appreciative of our sponsors who help make it such a great success. We are delighted to welcome specialist insurance brokers Howden as our headline sponsors for 2019 and Strutt and Parker as sponsors of the patrons’ area."

The event is raising money for three causes – the Weldmar Hospicecare Trust, which offers specialist care for patients with progressive conditions across north, south and west Dorset, the Dorset & Somerset Air Ambulance and the Countryside Alliance.

Wildlife and countryside photographers - including Charles Sainsbury-Plaice, Sarah Farnsworth and Piers Belmont – have donated exclusive prints to the event, which will be available for sale on the day, with money raised going to the three causes.

Entry to the event is £30 per car or £15 for single occupancy and pedestrians. Patrons’ tickets – providing premier parking and day-long hospitality in an exclusive marquee (sponsored by Strutt and Parker) with access to a viewing platform - are also available at £40 per head or £70 for a couple.

For tickets and all point-to-point enquiries, contact sara-rutherford@countryside-alliance.org or 01380 831068 and 07974 141933.