Phillips quits spring trial event

Phillips will not be competing at the Shropshire event

World champion Zara Phillips has withdrawn from the Weston Park Spring Horse Trials at the last minute.

But despite Phillips' absence from the event, held over 4-6 April, there is still a star-studded field of riders.

Phillips' European championship team-mates, Mary King, William Fox-Pitt and Oliver Townend head the entries.

Australia's Olympic gold medallist Matt Ryan will also be among the riders honing their skills ahead of Badminton and the Beijing games.

More than 600 horses are entered for this years event with Polly Stockton leading the local challenge.

The course, designed by Janet Plant for the last 23 years, is reported to be in excellent condition.