NEW hands have taken up the reins at Bolton and Bury Riding Club.

After eight years John and Audrey Collier have stood down for health reasons. Now businessman Gary McClung and his wife Sandra, together with veterinary surgeons Gus and Rosie MacKenzie, have taken over the running of the club.

Mrs MacKenzie, club secretary, said: "More qualifying shows for both national and local competitions are to be included in the schedule for 2002 which starts on April 6.

"There are several new additions to the programme including dressage days, show jumping classes and gymkhana games."

The club has also forged links with Bolton RADAR (Riders and Drivers Awareness on the Road Scheme) and hopes to arrange training dates in the near future.

The next club meeting, which is open to newcomers, is on February 6 at 7.30pm in the Royal Oak, Bradshaw.