A decently sized crowd filled out South Hill as the Devon & Somerset Point to Point got underway.

The typical Exmoor drizzle was no put-off for the spectators who came to witness a riveting competition last Sunday.

It featured the winners of the men's national title, James King and Will Biddick.

Young talent, Billy Broomfield, showcased some impressive skills in what was only his second start in the race circuit.

His first win came just the day before at Flete Park.

Broomfield aligned with veteran Shantou Flyer and steered him to a breezy 15 length triumph in the Mixed Open.

He sealed the win with a good jump over the open ditch which put him further ahead of the 14-year old Shantou Flyer.

Despite an uncharacteristic miss by Shantou Flyer during the last game, Billy managed to overcome the odds.

Sam Loxton, the owner of Shantou Flyer, could not explain the lapse in Shantou's previous performance but was satisfied with Billy's effort.

Somerset County Gazette: Some action from last year's racing.

In another thrilling round of the Grass Roots Riders Race, Anna Johnston emerged as the winner on Walkin Out for Les Jefford.

The mare was selected as the odds-on favourite due to her victory in a Hunter Chase last season.

Jefford held the mare in high esteem, despite some initial hurriedness, but she outclassed her opponents to take home the win.

An unexpected turn of events occurred during the Maiden Race.

Mister Sky, with first-time blinkers, secured a 10-length lead pushed by jockey Charlie Sprake.

Sprake managed to halt a well-positioned Biddick, on runner-up Jambo, with a three-length lead.

Chris Barber, the trainer of Mister Sky expressed his surprise at the win: "It really was last-chance saloon for him as he kept disappointing but the blinkers and the positive ride from Charlie have made a huge difference!

"I was thinking about putting him on the transfer list but might have to re-think things a bit now!"

Reports from other events included Dr Rhythm's predictable victory at the opening Members race, and Steel Express's commendable 15-length win in the Conditions race.

Lavorante, guided by James King, clinched the Restricted race for trainer Luke Price.

The dark horse jockey, who wasn't expected to place first, navigated the winning horse smoothly as the race unfolded and the pace increased.

King said: "He jumped really well and is a strong stayer. The quicker they went the better he got."

The Devon & Somerset Point to Point was indeed a spirited display of emerging talents and seasoned jockeys, who defied drizzles and unexpected events to make for a thrilling race day.