Countdown to Countryside Day at Cheltenham

The Cheltenham Countryside Race Day (Friday 13 November 2015) is in aid of The Countryside Alliance Foundation and Equestrian Team GBR

Don't miss any of the action from this year's Cheltenham Racecourse Countryside Day on Friday 13 November, the first day of The Open. Alongside the top class racing action, Equestrian Team GBR athletes - with Rio in their sights - will be on parade at the event to celebrate and participate in a variety of fundraising activities.

Vital monies raised will go towards supporting the dressage, eventing, showjumping and para-dressage squads as they prepare for next year, helping them to arrive in top condition to compete alongside the world's best combinations.

Before racing commences, one of the hottest attractions of the day promises to be a unique display which sees the legendary jockey AP McCoy take the reins of a Grand Prix dressage horse, under the watchful eyes of Olympians Carl Hester and current World Number One, Charlotte Dujardin. The demonstration is due to take place in the parade ring at 11.30am before racing commences.

"Really looking forward to seeing AP try Dressage," Charlotte said, "I bet he's a natural – it's set to be a great day I think!"

Tim Bonner, chief executive of the Countryside Alliance added: "The Countryside Day at Cheltenham is a must-do event in the country calendar and this year will be extra special as we are also raising money for our prospective Olympic and Paralympic riders, many of whom will be there. It promises to be fantastic day of racing and rural fun, so please do come along to help us raise money for them and for the campaigning work of the Countryside Alliance."

The demonstration is one of a number of fundraising initiatives that will take place during the day in aid of The Countryside Alliance Foundation and Equestrian Team GBR. Race goers will also be able to bid for unique prizes through a silent auction and cheer on some of GBR's 2015 equestrian medallists as they take to the course for a hound parade. If you're heading to Cheltenham to take in the racing action, why not drop by the Equestrian Team GBR Tradestand (No.52) and show your support for the British teams.

Every donation received on the day, however small, would be hugely appreciated.

For more information on the Race Day and to book your tickets visit their website: www.cheltenham.co.uk