Top International Riders and new innovations for 2011 at Toomer

Farming has always been the No 1 activity at 375-acre Toomer Farm at Henstridge on the Somerset-Dorset border, but it's the cross-country course, set within 12 acres of the farm and established for over 30 years, that attracts top international riders like William Fox-Pitt, Sam Griffiths and Lucinda Fredericks.

Toomer Farm's Peter Doggrell says: "William and Sam both live locally and use the course for schooling – William particularly likes our water jump. Lucinda travelled from Devizes to take part in our November hunter trials with her seven-year-old daughter Ellie, who absolutely flew round the 2ft 3in course like a professional. The course is open to anyone for schooling, although you must book in advance, and it attracts competitors from all equestrian fields. Colin Tizzard, who trains a couple of miles away at Milborne Port, schooled Joe Lively here as part of the horse's preparation for Cheltenham's November Cross Country Chase.

"William and his wife, Alice, have been a great help to us over the years", continues Peter. "William hosted a fascinating course walk for the public in July. Alice – Channel 4's Racing Presenter, Alice Plunkett – has held an adult camp and two pre-hunting clinics here".

The world's leading riders will be back in action again as Toomer Farm looks forward to their 2011 season. Alice will repeat her two-day camp in June, and will run her pre-hunting clinic towards the end of September. Sam Griffiths will hold a clinic in June and international trainer Shena Kozuba-Kozubska will run dressage clinics beginning in May.

Toomer will again be the venue for Riding Club and Pony Club rallies and camps, where activities often include flat work and show jumping in the arena, instruction on the cross-country course and an organised competition or display on the final day. Some Clubs incorporate outside visits into their schedule – William Fox-Pitt's Hinton St Mary stables, the Blackmore & Sparkford Vale kennels at nearby Charlton Horethorne, and Champion National Hunt trainer Paul Nicholls' Ditcheat yard are wonderful venues.

The ever-popular Hunter Trials – 230 entries took part on 7th November – return with the Blackmore & Sparkford Vale Pony Club event on 10th April, followed by trials on 1st May, 30th October, and a date to be confirmed in September – "probably the first weekend, but we're looking for a date that doesn't clash with my stepdaughter's wedding, as the reception is here", says Peter.

Contact details: 01963 250237 or via email toomerfarm@hotmail.co.uk.