THE first of this year’s Point-to-Point races in the south-east takes place on Sunday at Charing, near Ashford.

Entries for the fixture have flooded in and the good-to-soft going should ensure plenty of runners.

In addition to the usual racing, which starts at 1pm, there will be two pony races from 11.30am. The main attraction will be the open races for the ladies and men.

Simon Tindall owned Fiery Ring and Sherriffs Friend are both entered in the ladies event and they will face strong competition from Carryonharry and Lord Euro.

Favourites among the men’s race will be Old Kilminchy, The Grey Baron and Rhythm King as well as Honourable Spider - if he runs.

Honourable Spider, ridden by Peter Bull and trained by wife Suzy, claimed honours in the Hunter Chase at Folkestone last week.

Other south east horses to have enjoyed success already this season are Fiery Ring, Sheriffs Friend, Control Man and Millenium Way.

In addition to the racing there will be numerous trade stands and a children’s play area.

Admission is £5 for pedestrians and £20 or £30 for cars, which includes all passengers.