MP’s daughter scoops title

The daughter of North Shropshire MP Owen Paterson has won a major horse eventing championship.

Sixteen-year-old Evie Paterson, who lives near Ellesmere, won the British Junior Eventing Championships at Chepstow Racecourse at the weekend.

The young rider took the title despite having to juggle her training with studying for her GCSE exams.

Just hours after lifting the trophy, Evie was back at school to do her exams. The three-day championship was won on her horse Direct Opposition - fondly known as Chips.

The competition involved dressage, cross country and showjumping sections.

Mr Paterson said his daughter had been competing against older riders and those with much more experience.

The MP added: “We are very proud of her. She has worked incredibly hard, putting in endless practice to win the championships.

“It is a great achievement, particularly as she has also been studying for her GCSEs.”

He said Evie now hoped to be selected for the junior British three-day eventing team.

Last year Evie competed at a Weston Park International three-day event and impressed with her performances.

She came third in the KBIS Junior Regional Novice Championship, for up-and-coming riders aged 18 or under.