Neglected pony becomes showing star

A neglected pony who could barely walk has turned out to be a star in the showing arena.

Perfect pony

When Rosie came to World Horse Welfare’s rescue and rehoming centres at Penny Farm in Blackpool her feet hadn’t been trimmed in years. She was also suffering from laminitis.

The dun pony was carefully brought back to full health and has found a loving home with five-and-a-half-year-old Megan. According to her mum, Rosie is the “perfect pony”.

“Rosie and Megan are inseparable and have been since we rehomed Rosie in 2009,” said Angharad Jones. “She’s just so willing and incredibly calm – perfect for my daughter.

Sleepy head

The pair had the honour of taking part in the London New Year’s Day Parade 2014, where Megan was youngest ever side saddle rider to take part.

“Rosie is not fazed by anything,” said Angharad Jones. “We went down to the end of the horse line at the parade and stood still where the brass bands were playing very, very loudly and Rosie went to sleep right next to the bands – typical Rosie!”

Showing success

Megan and her 17-year-old pony have also enjoyed great success in showing. At the Nefyn Agricultural Show in North Wales earlier this month they came home with a bunch of rosettes including Reserve Champion for Side Saddle and Young Handler Under 21, and two firsts in Side Saddle Concours and Young Handler Under 10.

“I am glad that World Horse Welfare gave me my pony because I love her very much – other little girls and boys should get one from World Horse Welfare too because then horses who have no homes can be happy,” said Megan.