HUMANS and horses have been jumping for joy in the Cotswolds.

The thunder of hooves was in the air when more than 50 people turned out to hone their cross country riding skills at the Cotswold Hunt course near Andoversford. All ages and abilities tackled a range of fences, from walls and hedges to water obstacles at the Foxcote Manor course.

The optional novice fences, up to the height of 3ft, were spread over a course of a mile.

Rosie Vestey, joint master of the Cotswold Hunt, said: "It was a very good opportunity for people to get in some practice before the hunting season begins or bring on young horses.

"There are lovely, inviting fences across springy old turf."

Mums accompanied their children as they schooled their ponies and racehorses, which are being retrained for other equestrian disciplines.

The course is also the venue for the upcoming Cotswold team chase event on October 31. The contest sees teams of four riders take on the course, with the fasting quartet taking the prize.

Cotswold Hunt supporter Victoria Schlesinger said: "The team chase is open to the public to come along and watch. It's a great day out for the family.

"There will be a hog roast and a bar, and there will also be CCTV images of the event.

"People are welcome to bring their dogs. It's a great day out in the countryside."

The Cotswold Hunt's autumn trail hunting season begins at the end of August, with the opening meet taking place on November 6.

For more information on activities run by the hunt, go to www.cotswoldhunt.co.uk.