I’d like to say a massive well done to the five girls of the brand new Matravers Equestrian Team, who took part in their first ever event on Monday, April 1.

The team and their supporters, consisting of parents, staff and students, had an early start to get to Holt for the show jumping event, braving the cold and windy conditions.

In a class of 135 individuals, 26 teams and Matravers being the only comprehensive school there, the girls managed to finish in a magnificent fifth place, even beating Stonar School.

The team has recently come together under the management of headteacher Mrs Martin, who has brought her own passion to the school.

I think the equestrian team is a fantastic new addition and something that the school and the community should be very proud of.

When Mrs Martin sadly leaves us in the summer, the team will be taken on by Mrs Lee, Mrs Hardiman, myself and others, as we want to make sure it continues and shows off how good Matravers actually is.

The girls did extremely well and should all be very proud of themselves, as I know all of us that watched were very proud of them. I’m very much looking forward to the next event and seeing what other goods the Matravers Equestrian Team can pull out the bag.

Hayley Wheeler, Matravers School Sixth Former.