Rider's Paralympic hopes

Success at the event will boost his bid to qualify for the next Paralympic Games in Beijing, China, in 2008.

The former Thomas Telford school pupil from Lawley will be up against the top riders from across the world on his new horse Deacon Giorgi owned by Julia Lazzari.

Ricky, who has cerebral palsy, took up the sport more than 15 years ago at the age of four as part of his physiotherapy. He has gone on to represent Great Britain at numerous competitions.

He is a top contender for the 2008 games and is hopeful he will be selected for the Great Britain team.

His latest challenge also represents a chance for Ricky to stand out from the crowd as the World Championships are on home ground for the first time in more than 20 years. But competition will be stiff, with entries from 142 competitors spanning 33nations.

Ricky said he was delighted to be taking part in the event, which runs from tomorrow until Sunday. "Everything has been going so well and I feel confident we can do really well here.

"My horse, affectionately called George, is on great form and we make a formidable team."

By Tracey O'Sullivan