A former crime reporter and equestrian finished third after competing in his first horse race aged 58.

Steven Wright, who used to work at the Bradford Telegraph & Argus, raised more than £500 for charity after riding his horse Alexander in a race during a point-to-point meeting in Skipton.

Steven and Alexander, a 13-year-old former steeplechaser who ran under his racing name of Adelphi Warrior, led the race in the early stages and finished a clear third.

The race was held on Saturday 29 April to raise money for the Candelighters children’s cancer charity.

Steven, wearing yellow and purple, rides his horse Alexander in the race

Steven said: “It was the most amazing experience and I was thrilled to be placed, against very tough opposition. Alexander hadn’t raced for seven years, but he loved it. I hope we can give it another go next year.”

He added: “I’m delighted to have been able to help such a good cause. People have been very generous.”

The race will serve as the storyline for his new book, which he aims to release on Amazon later this month.

Steven, whose partner is current T&A court reporter Jenny Loweth, had his first book, Run With Your Heart, published as a paperback by Racing Post Books.

It tells the story of his first two years with Alexander.