VIDEO Otley College has opened its doors to the public for a 'big day out'. With activities ranging from horse riding to dog displays to making hanging baskets, students showed off their work and skills.

OTLEY College opened its doors on Saturday and hosted a big day out.

With activities ranging from horse riding to dog displays to making hanging baskets, students showed off their work and skills.

Jo Cartwright, the organiser of the event, said: “This is the third time that we have organised an event on this scale and the day was a great success.

“It was good to see so many people at the college and everyone seemed to have a great time.

“Even now, most people still think that we only do agricultural courses at the college so it was fantastic that so many people managed to get a flavour of the huge range of courses and activities that are currently taking place at the college.”

Karen Aerts, course leader equine, said: “We had a massive programme of events with various displays including vaulting, polo, show jumping, classical equitation and riding to music.

“It was a chance for us to show off our courses and a chance for the students to showcase their skills.”

Lynne Barrett, of Stowmarket, was practicing Bowen holistic therapy on willing volunteers.

She said: “I am qualified in Bowen for people and recently qualified in equine Bowen. Otley helped me with my equine training and today is a fantastic opportunity to show what I have learned.”

Elsewhere the college's animals were proving ever popular with families.

Rob Bamford, a lecturer in animal skills, said: “We've got Alpacas, Wensleydale sheep, Norfolk horn sheep and pygmy goats on display.”

In the college greenhouse visitors were able to buy plants grown by students and watch hanging baskets being made.

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