Professional jockey Lilly Pinchin visited Park School in Oxfordshire with her ex-racehorse, Joey, and companion pony, Bella.

The visit was part of National Racehorse Week, which runs from September 7 to 15.

National Racehorse Week is a nationwide celebration of thoroughbred racehorses and aims to educate the public about the care provided to racehorses by the sport’s trainers and staff.

This year marks the fourth year of the event, and it features more than 100 free events across the country.

The children at Park School had the opportunity to meet Joey and learn about life as a racehorse and the career of a jockey.

Ms Pinchin, 25, said: “It was lovely taking Joey and his companion pony Bella to meet the children.

“Joey has never done anything like this before but he was so calm and really enjoyed the fuss, so it is something I would love to do more.

“I was asked some great questions, and everyone got really involved trying on my riding gear and giving the horses some treats and a brush.

“It was even more amazing to see those who had never met a horse up close before interacting with Joey and Bella, which is why National Racehorse Week is such an amazing incentive for the general public to get this experience too.”

Since Friday, more than 55 open days and community events have taken place across the country, engaging more than 6,500 members of the public.

The week aims to bring racing closer to people of all ages and backgrounds, particularly those in city locations who may not have had the chance to meet a horse before.

The community visits provide an opportunity to learn about the racing industry and the lives of current and retired racehorses.

The 50 community events include school visits by jockeys, as well as visits to hospitals and youth groups.

During the open days, members of the public can experience the day-to-day workings of a racing yard, with the opportunity to meet the horses and the support team that cares for them 365 days a year.

Further activities and demonstrations vary from yard to yard, and include seeing the horses exercising on the gallops, treadmills and swimming pools; welfare demonstrations like horse physio and farriers, as well as offering light refreshments.

Ms Pinchin added: “Anyone is welcome to come into the racing yards and see the care and hard work that goes into looking after our racehorses.

“I will be attending Charlie Logsdon’s open day on Saturday (September 14) too as I ride for him often, which I am really looking forward to.”