The presenter of television show "Escape To The Country" "was blown away" when crew visited Malvern to shoot for a future show.

The crew visited properties in Leigh Sinton, Pershore and Malvern, and while making the interest piece for the show, they popped into a Malvern horse workshop and equestrian centre so presenter Nicki Chapman could fulfil a long-held ambition to ride side saddle.

The BBC crew visited Malvern Saddle Company Ltd, to film at the workshop in Little Malvern.

The former Pop Idol presenter then trotted with her crew over to Marlbrook Farm Equestrian Centre, in Castlemorton Common.

Here they filmed accomplished side saddle riders Marie Brown and Jess Collier putting their horses, Joe and Sam, through their paces in full costume against the backdrop of the Hills.

Before long the presenter was in the saddle herself.

Ian Coles, who owns the equestrian centre, said: "It was good having them here, and great fun. All of them were very nice indeed which meant a lovely experience overall.

"Nicki told me she had wanted to ride side saddle for a long time, so we gave her a go. She was very accomplished on the horse to be fair and seemed to really enjoy it.

"It's great to see Malvern given such a profile and featured on national television, hopefully the piece is used one it's been edited.

"Overall it was smiles all round and was a lovely time had by all."

The television presenter said: "This was the first time I'd filmed in this part of Worcestershire, and was truly blown away with the countryside.

"In my mind it has the best of both worlds, stunning scenery but also benefits from fantastic transport links to nearby towns and cities. To me the perfect combination."

The BBC have not confirmed an air date for the programme.