Following in both her parents' footsteps, Zara Phillips, the reigning eventing world champion and BBC Sports personality of the Year 2006, took centre stage before the start of the annual three-day event at Burghley House, near Stamford, yesterday.

The only daughter of Princess Anne, Zara was spotted with horses Glenbuck and Ardfiel Magic Star during the horse vets' inspection.

Last year's trials winner and Olympian William Fox-Pitt was also spotted among the stars as he returns to defend his title at the event which will crown the best rider and horse at dressage, cross-country and show-jumping.

Olympic team medal winner Mary King was also seen during the inspection with her horse, Apache Sauce.

Meanwhile, today, glamour model and keen horsewoman Katie Price, also known as Jordan, will be unveiled as the face of Hoof, a campaign run by the British Equestrian Federation, which hopes to deliver a generation of young horse riders.

The 30-year-old businesswoman will also officially launch her new range of clothing and horse accessories KP Equestrian, which includes a leisurewear line with a "horsey twist".

On Friday (5 September), Olympian and British dressage team member Laura Bechtolsheimer (23) will be performing two demonstrations along with a display of grand prix dressage to music with her former team ride, Douglas Dorsey.

More than 145,000 people are expected to attend the trials, which run until Sunday, and alongside the riding there will be 600 stands and food walks, with the event as well known for the quality of its shopping as it is for sport.

Tickets are available by calling the box office, on 01933 304744, and for more information, visit www.burghley-horse.co.uk.

More on PeterboroughToday.co.uk:
The Guide: Burghley House, near Stamford.