IT’s that time of year when former riders, missing the buzz of the action, and current riders, for whom the usual buzz just isn’t enough, are looking forward to participating in some of the classic cross-country races in Britain.

Tomorrow, the Melton Hunt Club ride takes place at Highfield Farm, on the Leicestershire side of the Belvoir country. The course covers at least 3.6 miles and there are 23 fences. This year’s renewal has received the highest number of entries for 10 years, among whom are four Irish riders.