Saddleworth sing-song

HORSING around . . . Nigel Toone and his horse Robby get into the festive spirit with Sam Toone on Fern

HORSE riders saddled up for a carol service with a difference when they enjoyed a festive sing-song on horseback.

Riders who regularly use the Friezland Arena returned to the site — but this time they left the trotting and fancy footwork behind and enjoyed a carol service instead.

More than 30 riders turned out to indulge in some mince pies and mulled wine, as local bands provided a musical backdrop. And the horses were joined by our other four-legged friends, as passing dog walkers and countryside lovers dropped in to swell the numbers attending to 100.

The annual service, which was also attended by the Council Leader Howard Sykes, raises money for the arena.