WHEN Douglas Bunn opened the All England Jumping Course at Hickstead, he dreamt it would be among the best showgrounds in the world. He was innovative and ahead of his time and helped turn rural West Sussex into a horse haven.

A walk around the grounds last Tuesday during Breen Equestrian’s open day sees Bunn’s vision realised. There are not many show grounds in the world that continue to hold their charm like Hickstead, with its beautiful old architecture, yet it holds its own in terms of footing, arena improvements and attracting the best riders in the world.