ISLE of Wight equestrian sportsman Wayne Lightbown is taking the world of reining by storm after coming first in his class at a UK para-reining event — despite only taking up the discipline four months ago.

Reining is a Western style of riding where the horses are guided through a precise pattern of circles, spins and stops at a slow canter or gallop — and it’s all done one-handed.

Having competed in dressage for many years, Wayne was invited to try reining by a friend who thought it would suit him due to reining's particular style of riding.

Following a shoulder and arm injury in a riding accident several years ago, which left Wayne with reduced movement in one arm, he now competes in para and able-bodied classes.

At the recent International Garden of England Show, Wayne saw off his closest rivals to win his class.

“I was over the moon to come first. Reining is quite a change from dressage, but I am enjoying the new challenges this style of riding presents," explained Wayne, who has a haulage business, with outlets in Merstone and Eastleigh.

“I’m really looking forward to competing with the British team at the forthcoming Para World Games in Lyon.”

Wayne is supported in his travel to sporting events by Wightlink.