Locals riders dominate on World Class Development Programme

David Doel (17) from Lacock and Tom McEwen (19) from Swindon have both been chosen for eventing after enjoying successful seasons in 2010.

Last year, McEwen came 14th at the Young Rider European two-star event at Pardubice in the Czech Republic, while Doel was named the winner of the 2010 TopSpec Eventing Scholarship.

Eventers Harry Meade (27) from Chippenham and Laura Collett (21) from Marlborough have been reselected after previously benefiting from the development programme.

In dressage, 17-year old para-equestrian dressage rider Alex Sutton from Swindon has been selected to represent his sport.

Minety-based Olivia Oakeley, also 17, has been picked for dressage.

Olivia has been working with Carl Hester at his yard in Newent, Gloucestershire. After training with the dressage superstar in July 2009, Olivia was asked to stay on as a working pupil.

David and Alex were previously part of the BEF’s South West Regional Foundation Squad.

Charlie Hutton, from the Talland School of Equitation near Cirencester has been reselected to represent dressage.

The 21-year-old has had an extremely successful year, including a win in the Inter 1 Winter Championships. He also performed at the Horse of the Year Show.

Dressage rider Gemma Green (27) from Malmesbury, has also been reselected.

Funded by UK Sport, the Development Programme works with talented riders to maximise their potential by giving them access to world class trainers and facilities. The 2011 programme runs until 2013.

World Class Performance Director, Will Connell said: "The selection process was slightly changed this time and carried on over a longer period of time allowing applicants to be viewed ‘in competition’.

"The standard of rider applying was higher than ever and the selectors had a difficult job, but that’s excellent news for us as a nation as it reflects the wealth of talent that we are fortunate to have."