RIDER William Grant described his second place finish in the 2015 Golden Button Challenge as “one of the best experiences in my life”.

The managing director of Fox Grant estate agent in Salisbury took to the challenging course in Manor Farm, Longdon (Tewkesbury) on his trusty steed Ferrari among 62 other competitors.

The challenging 28 obstacles, including large hedges and ditches over an arduous three miles, meant Grant was one of only 29 to complete the race.

Industrious Grant, a regular at the event, used his gumption on 14-year-old Ferrari to steer clear of a pile-up and gallop past Paul Scallon on Los Galacticos to move into second place behind overall winner Dominic Gwyn-Jones on Another Puzzle.

“It was quite honestly one of the best experiences of my life,” he said, “I am just so proud of Ferrari – he always seems to bring me home safely.”

“It’s the most amazing event and one which really gets your adrenalin going. I look forward to it every year and put hours of preparation into getting the horse and myself fit. This year, I’m glad to say, it’s paid off. I’m absolutely delighted with the result.”

Grant went on to be the veteran winner.