Every aspect of the equine world was covered as the Blenheim Horse Trials rode into town.

Away from the top-level competition that spanned four days, the estimated 60,000 visitors enjoyed a host of attractions, including learning how mules are helping British soldiers in Afghanistan.

Mules R Us brought along three horse-donkey hybrids – Muriel, Major and Ruby – who proved a hit with the crowds.

Trainer Paul Kitchen said: “We’ve got normal 8am to 5pm jobs and this is part of our holiday, to come here and promote what mules are used for.

“The mule, whose mum is a horse and whose dad is always a donkey, is still away with the British Army in Afghanistan.

“They’re stronger than horses – 25 per cent stronger than a horse of the same size.”

In Afghanistan, the animals are used to haul weapons and supplies over difficult terrain.

Fellow trainer Janice Prior said: “It’s often adults rather than the children who keep coming back to see us. They follow the mules around like mule groupies.”

Elsewhere on site, Lindsay Bisiker from Oxford was cheering on friend and competitor Vittoria Panizzon with the help of golden doodle Alfie.

She said: “It’s my first time here and it’s incredible. It’s a phenomenal event.”

The event’s chosen charity this year was the Riding for the Disabled Association and 11-year-old Molli Horan and her 10-year-old sister Summer enjoyed an ice cream in front of a demonstration from disabled riders. Mum Louise Cartwright-Orr said: “The kids are horse mad so it really is a great day out for them.”

Seven-year-old Zoe Hay, from Newbury, was able to meet some of the horses in the open stables. She said: “The best bit is all the horses.”

Her mum Sarah said: “It’s the first time we’ve been to Blenheim, although I’ve been to Badminton.

“It’s a lot smaller and easier to get around as there aren’t as many crowds. It’s organised and well laid out.”

Fourteen-year-old friends Lydia Graham, Beth Hunt and Ashlie Powell were return visitors to the event.

Lydia said: “We always come on cross-country day and we love visiting the shops.

“We all work in the same yard together and we all work on Sundays so this is the Sunday helpers’ trip to Blenheim.”