Two South Hereford and Ross-on-Wye Harriers Pony club members, John Howard and Jay Tolley, have had a great year with their ponies, winning some big awards.

Both boys and their ponies qualified earlier on in the year for the Royal London Champions, the Midland Championships, the High Horse Gala Championships and the Sunshine Tour finals.

John Howard, age six years and his dun pony Ilex Pal Joey have had a brilliant end to a phenomenal showing season. At the Royal London, which is held over the four days, the pair earned the right, on several occasions to ride in the glittering evening performance. The pair scooped the overall alternative coloured champion, which was a massive achievement as they were on the lead rein competing against adults, in hands and other juniors. It was a very happy surprise to recieve a beautiful sash, trophy and a stunning rossette.

On another evening they won the adult and child pairs, only meeting up with their adult pair Callum, and his stunning Palomino horse, Barley, during the show. Joey and Barley were impeccably behaved and went round so comfortably together it was as if they had known each other for years.

Jay Tolley, aged just five years, and his pony Lowland Bolero, aged eight, are still getting to grips with each other but managed good placings during the Royal Championships, gaining second, two thirds and a fourth. They took similar placings at the Midland Championships and then took the Sunshine Tour league table reserve champion.

They were also talent spotted and picked to compete at the High Horse Gala finals but were sadly unable to attend due to Bolero having a serious illnes. Thankfully Bolero has now recovered and they are setting their sights on next year’s adventures.

For the full story, see this week’s edition of the Ross Gazette.