Cooper among Kerry stars

Kerry-born jockey Bryan Cooper’s (23) successful year will be officially recognised in his home county this weekend at the Kerry Sports Star awards.

The ceremony will take place in the Malton Hotel in Killarney on Friday 29 January. The talented jockey, who is the son of trainer Tom Cooper, made a winning comeback at Cheltenham last year after suffering a horrific double leg break during 2014.

According to organiser Ken O’Day: “Bryan Cooper is been honoured in the Horse Racing category for his superb achievements as the retained jockey for Gigginstown Stud in Co Westmeath.”

Guest speakers at this year’s event include Ireland South MEP Sean Kelly and Kerry TD Michael Healy Rae.

Tipperary Hunt Ball

The Tipperary Hunt is hosting its sidesaddle hunt on Saturday 27 February, followed by their legendary Hunt ball, hosted this year at the Minella Hotel in Clonmel. The sidesaddle hunt costs €50 per person or €100 inclusive of that evening’s ball.

Bookings with Jacqui Freyne at 087-2629950 or Trish Mulhall at 087-2750773.

Hickstead volunteers

The organisers at the All England Jumping Course are looking for keen volunteers who wish to be part of Hickstead’s two flagship summer events – the Equestrian.com Hickstead Derby Meeting (23-26 June) and the Longines Royal International Horse Show (26-31 July).

It’s the first time Hickstead has held an official volunteer scheme.

Hickstead Director Edward Bunn said: “Our volunteer scheme will give people the opportunity to be part of our shows, experience new things, add to their skills and get up close to the action.”

The volunteers will be required to work a minimum of two days at the show, with shifts generally lasting around nine hours. The volunteers will swap jobs every two hours, making the jobs more diverse. All applicants must be at least 18 years old by 22 June 2016.

For more details and to apply, visit www.hickstead.co.uk/about-us/volunteer-at-hickstead/