JUMP racing makes a welcome return to Hereford Racecourse this Sunday when the North Ledbury Hunt stage their point-to-point.

Preparations have been very busy for the meeting, with a minimum of seven races taking place.

“The course has been beautifully prepared,” said secretary Sally Merrick.

“We’re running on the outside of the normal track, so the ground hasn’t been raced on at all, and there is a beautiful covering of grass.

"We’re really looking forward to racing returning to Hereford.”

The first race at 1pm will be preceded by two competitive pony races, scheduled to be off at midday, where many stars of the future will be learning their skills.

Tom Marquand, who was the Brightwells leading pony race rider for the 148cm in the Welsh border area last season, has graduated to become an apprentice jockey with Tony Carroll’s stable and already has a handful of winners to his credit on the all-weather.

A good entry is expected for the fixture.

Entry is £12.50, but a wristband will enable people to have a picnic from their cars the time-honoured point-to-point manner if they wish.