A NORTON woman who has previously competed in three flat races will be getting back in the saddle to raise money in memory of her dad.

Wendy Hoggard, 48, who owns White Rose Saddlery in Norton, has begun her extensive training regime as she prepares to take part in the Macmillan Charity Race Day at York Racecourse in June.

Back in 1989 Wendy, who has ridden since the age of 14, competed in three races as an amateur jockey for Ryedale racing legend Colin Tinkler, and now competes in dressage and other events on her own horse.

She said: "It was a great experience. Of course I will be hoping to win. All of the riders in the race are all competent riders so we are all competitive but of course the main thing is that we are all raising money for Macmillan which is such a worthwhile charity."

Wendy is hoping to raise a minimum of £3,000 for Macmillan Cancer Support, in memory of her father who died from cancer about 20 years ago. So far she has raised about £2,500 and says that she has been overwhelmed with the support.

She will be riding one of Brian Ellison's horses and as part of her training she is riding out twice a day to ensure she is fit for the race.

"I am riding out every morning at about 6.30am then I leave for work and then I ride my own horse in the evening," she said.

"I I have also had some race coaching from Tom O'Ryan and I have been riding my bike as well."

To sponsor Wendy for the race which will take place on Saturday, June 14 visit www.justgiving.com/Wendy-Hoggard