LEADING Northern jump jockey Brian Hughes was helping to nurture the next generation of talent yesterday as he delivered a riding masterclass at Kirklevington Riding Centre, near Yarm.

Hughes, who is based at Carlton-in-Cleveland, has had another stellar season, and is set to reclaim his champion jumps jockey title.

The 36-year-old is also set to become only the fourth jump jockey to ride 200 winners in a British jump season, following in the illustrious footsteps of Peter Scudamore, Sir Anthony McCoy and Richard Johnson.

He went back to his roots at Kirklevington, helping a group of local children to develop their riding talents in a community initiative backed by Great British Racing.

Hughes said: “I grew up with horses on the farm at home, but I never got the chance to go to an actual riding school. Something like this is an amazing facility, and a brilliant way to get kids into riding that might otherwise not get the opportunity to sit on a horse.

“It’s important that children get introduced to riding and racing, and it’s important they get a chance to learn in a safe environment. Hopefully, places like this will help make sure that jockeys come through to ride lots more Northern winners in the future.”

Hughes watched four local riders receive a riding lesson yesterday morning, chipping in with his own advice and encouragement. He then took part in a question-and-answer session in which he was quizzed on various aspects of his riding career.

While he was born in Ireland, the 36-year-old has spent much of the last decade living in the North-East, having first worked as a conditional jockey under Crook-based Howard Johnson and Sedgefield-based John Wade.

He now rides for trainers based all over the North of England and Scotland, and is proud to be flying for the flag for Northern racing.

Hughes, who followed up his early-morning coaching session by riding the first winner at Wetherby yesterday afternoon, said: “I’m lucky to have the support of so many great Northern trainers. I’ve had winners for 32 different trainers this season, and it’s been a brilliant year. Hopefully, I’ll get to the 200-mark and finish as champion jockey.”