A HORSE festival will go ahead next month, despite fears over foot and mouth.

The Jeep National Riding Festival is being run on Saturday, August 18, in conjunction with Moss Stud Arena, Astley, after organisers consulted leading equestrian and countryside organisations.

Festival chairman Jane Holderness-Roddam said: "We have taken a great deal of advice regarding foot and mouth disease from our supporting organisations, as well as organisations outside the equestrian industry.

"Our horsepower day in Astley is not in an infected area and has been deemed to be a permissible activity by all concerned. We are carrying out an on-going risk assessment for all our events and taking the necessary precautionary measures laid down by DEFRA."

Alan Fazakerly, manager of Mossbrook Stud Area said: "We're more than happy for the Jeep National Riding Festival to go ahead. Now more than ever, we need people to support the countryside and events like this, which are encouraging families to venture out together for a day of fun."

The festival includes equestrian displays and demonstrations looking at different aspects of horses, including Pony Club Mounted Games, showjumping and falconry on horseback.

There will be trade stands and visitors can take part in activities including archery, bouncy castle, pony rides, bungee run, and the mega Jeep off-road challenge.

Horse power of a different kind will also be on show including Trigger, the mechanical horse that emulates the feel and stride of a cantering horse, and a display of Chrysler and Jeep vehicles courtesy of the sponsors - Kings Liverpool, Kings Stockport and MTB Warrington.

To find out more call 0870 2411481. Now more than ever, we need people to support the countryside