A YOUNG horse fanatic from the Welsh borders has put university and caution to one side to start up her own equestrian business.

Francesca Reid-Warrilow decided against plans for a gap year and subsequent degree course after finishing at Bedstone College in Bucknell, and launched a stabling, horse riding and teaching centre at her home near Presteigne.

With a successful track record in three-day eventing already under her belt, the 19-year-old wants to pass on her knowledge of dressage, show jumping and crosscountry riding to others.

She said: “We have a large floodlit arena and 20 acres of pasture land, including a cross country course, and a unique hacking route along Offa’s Dyke – every facility that any keen rider could wish for.”

The venture is poised to become the latest in a line of successes for Francesca, whose father Neil also designs and builds equestrian arenas, since she developed a passion for horses at the age of three.

The teenager went on to represent Great Britain at under-21 level and hopes to combine her new business with regular appearances in cross-country events at Bromyard, Weston Park and Badminton.

“I am also training hard myself and my personal target is to represent Great Britain in European and world events at senior level,” she said.