A COTSWOLD horse rider received a mounted blessing at the Cotswold Hunt after getting married in Cirencester.

Horseman Jonty Evans, from near Andoversford, and his partner of three-and-a-half years Jane Edmunds were married at Cirencester’s Registry Office on Friday.

They received the blessing from lay minister Tim Ormond at the Foxcote Estate on Saturday just before the meet got underway.

"The blessing was my idea as we wanted to get married in a place that meant a lot to us," said Mr Evans.

"It went really well, the hills were covered in snow, the sun was really bright and the sky was blue - it could not have been better," he added.

"The turnout was huge and it was amazing to have friends and family around us. My wife Jane hunted side saddle for the first time ever and she looked amazing, jumping hedges and timber in fine style.

"We are very grateful to Lord and Lady Vestey who gave us permission and supplied refreshments."

Mr Evans has competed at Badminton and teaches and produces horses up to four star level from his base near Andoversford.