Skelton impresses in France

Great Britain's Nick Skelton continued his preparations for London 2012 with a strong showing at the Global Champions Tour grand prix in Chantilly, France.

Skelton, who will be part of the British showjumping team at Greenwich Park alongside Ben Maher, Scott Brash and Peter Charles, finished fifth on Carlo.

It saw the Warwickshire-based rider increase his considerable earnings this year by just over £13,000, while Michael Whitaker - a non-travelling British reserve for London - was eighth.

German Hans Dieter-Dreher landed the top prize of £87,000, edging out Beezie Madden in the jump off. Madden will feature among America's showjumping quartet in London.