ONE of the top equestrian showcases in Europe gets under way today with the official opening of the Discover Ireland Dublin Horse Show at the RDS in Ballsbridge.

THE stylish dash of uniformed Army officers on horseback, the elegant glamour of Miss Ireland Blathnaid McKenna and a background of rare and glorious sunshine made a cocktail to whet the appetite of any romantic.

The Dublin Horse Show was opened in fitting style today as the Lord Mayor of Dublin rolled up to the doors in a coach drawn by four black horses.