Hopping mad - Bunnies prepare for ‘Grand National of the rabbit world’

Bouncing bunnies are practising their hops and jumps ahead of the event at the Great Yorkshire Showground on January 24 and 25.

More than 3,000 small animals are expected to attend this event with the rabbit jumping event hotly tipped as a ‘must see’ spectacular.

Leading rabbit experts and their furry friends will showcase the natural speed and agility of these pets by doing what rabbits naturally love the most, jumping over hurdles and hopping round a course;

Richard Rockett, marketing manager at Burgess Pet Care, said: “We are delighted to be bringing the rabbit jumpers to the Small Animal Show this year. Popularity has grown since they first arrived on British soil in 2011, and this year’s Grand National of the rabbit world promises to be better than ever.”

The unusual sport started in Sweden in the early 1970s and has since spread to Germany, Norway, Finland, Australia and the USA.

Karin Molin, professional rabbit jumping trainer, said: “My rabbit Micro loves the events and has had several high placements from championships in Sweden and did very well in England this year.

“His record in high jumping currently stands at 85cm high, we hope to beat it in Harrogate this year!”

The show is sponsored by Burgess Pet Care and will host willow ball making classes for children, educational talks on how to best care for your small furry pets and demonstrations.

Tickets cost £8 for adults, £3 for children, £5 for concessions. See www.smallanimalshow.co.uk for more information.