The cross-country and jumping phases of the Blenheim Palace International Horse trials was abandoned over the weekend due to waterlogging on the course.

The decision was taken after the dressage phase, when further heavy rain fell on already muddy ground.

Director of the event, Mandy Hervieu said: “This is so disappointing, because a huge amount of work has gone into the organisation of Blenheim.

"The whole team has worked incredibly hard to cope with the conditions, especially David Evans and his course-building team, who have been working round the clock to try and improve the ground on the cross country course.

"However, the safety of horses and riders is of paramount importance.

"It was therefore decided that the ground conditions could not ensure this.”

Blenheim’s host, The Duke of Marlborough, commented: “It’s so frustrating, because we were set for a great weekend with a terrific cross-country course, which has been reversed for the first time.

"We had a very strong field of horses and riders due to tackle it.

"This is the first time we have had to cancel the event.