A £250,000 new equestrian facility in Gwent will be opened by a member of Jordan's royal family.

Princess Haya of Jordan, daughter of the late King Hussein and also a star in the equestrian world, will be the guest of honour at the opening ceremony of a world-class all-weather arena at the David Broome Event Centre next month.

Olympic bronze medallist David Broome and his family were given the go-ahead to create the equestrian centre at their home near Caldicot last year.

The family have achieved quite a coup by clinching the princess's visit - taking time out from her busy royal schedule and equestrian training.

The arena, which was awarded a grant of £125,000 from The Sports Council for Wales' Sportlot fund, will measure 7,200 square metres - enough for three international dressage rings plus a warm-up area.

James Broome, David's eldest son, pictured, said that this was a breakthrough for equestrian sport in Wales and Great Britain.

He said the opening ceremony, on Tuesday, August 5, would be a celebration of the arena and the enhanced training it would offer.

David Broome, said: "At present the vast majority of showjumpers practise over two or three jumps and are then expected to perform over a full course of jumps against the clock in competitions.

"It means riders rarely train properly for the task. The new ring will enable them to train over a full set of jumps and learn how to cope with the technical challenges that course builders present them with."

James Broome said: "The opening ceremony will include displays from various equestrian disciplines, including carriage driving, showjumping, mounted games and dressage.

"The evening will conclude with a seven-a-side rugby match by Caldicot RFC."

He said that the opening ceremony was a chance to experience the events that take place at the centre as well as an opportunity for families to enjoy the spectacle of horses from a close range.

* For more information on the opening ceremony or any other events contact the show office on 01291 420778.