The Queen's 28-year-old granddaughter competed in different classes all day at the Isleham Horse Trials, coming first and third in the intermediate section on two separate horses.

This is the first time the prize-winning equestrian star, who was named BBC sports personality of the year and World Eventing Champion in 2006, had entered the event and thousands turned out to watch her in action as she competed in dressage, show jumping and cross country.

Miss Phillips, daughter of the Princess Royal, rode four horses on the day - High Kingdom, Silver Lining, Make Mine Music and Secret Legacy.

Former World and Olympic champion Mark Todd also competed at the show, riding into fourth place in the intermediate open section.

The annual trials were held at Whitehall Farm and raised money for the East Anglian Air Ambulance.

More than 400 competitors entered the charity show and travelled to Isleham from across the country.

Organised by father and daughter Clem Tompsett and Jackie Seddon, the event is held the first weekend in March to coincide with the first weekend of the British eventing season and has been running since 1991.

Mr Tompsett said the royal rider had spoken to different people on the day and said she had enjoyed a super day.

He said Miss Phillips' participation had drawn big crowd to the event.
"It went very well and we had a very big crowd – the biggest crowd we have ever had," he said.

"This is the fist time Zara Phillips has ever been to Isleham and hopefully will come back next year if she's still competing."