‘If I had a fiver for everyone who reminded me that I haven’t ridden at Badminton for 16 years, I’d be rich,’ said British Olympian Daisy Berkeley who, at 54, is the senior rider this year.

She is currently in equal 23rd place after dressage on the 13-year-old Selle Francais chestnut gelding Diese du Figuier on a mark of 32.9.

‘I expect that by the time cross-country day comes, I will be wishing I am in my usual spot in the Radio Badminton commentary box.

‘Last time I was riding at Badminton, I was riding [my team horse] Springalong and wearing a top hat. We finished third and I didn’t think I needed to come back, but here I am.

‘When you have a good ride at Badminton, there is no feeling like it in the world, and I am looking forward to it. I’ve ridden a lot of horses in my time. This one [Diese du Figuier] is the sweetest, kindest horse I’ve ever had and I couldn’t be more proud of him.’

Daisy’s first ride at Badminton was in 1997 on her Young Rider medallist, Headley Bravo, and they finished seventh. Her British team career includes a team bronze at the 2008 Beijing Olympics, team gold at the 2007 European Championships and team silver at the 2006 World Equestrian Games, all with Springalong.