King’s troop commanding officer

Sharon Thomas on the appeal of local shows, an ill-timed back flip, the joyful chaos of entertaining children – and smuggled dogs

Rupert Bell on “earning his spurs” in frontline journalism, family ties to racing, hunting and royalty – and the spy in his midst

Martin Coakes on flying horses around the globe, “shuttle stallions” – and the day Black Caviar wore a compression suit

Rosemary White recalls the gritty mare who won 15 races and survived a gallop down a dual carriageway – and eating humble pie in front of the Duke of Beaufort

With a new yard and a Group One winner already in the bag this season, George Boughey has Royal Ascot in his sights. Martha Terry spends a morning at Craven House Stables

Graham Fletcher watches Nations Cup action and shares a favourite story