Just like Topsy our little herd is growing. We now have seven ponies at Brimpts. The new boy this month is Frosty; who is as his name suggests a lovely grey colour. We will start with him this time. Frosty has come to us from John & Kerry as did his friend Blue. He has been trained by Vanessa and Philip to carry a pack-saddle. He will not be an adoption pony at the moment but will be employed on the various walks around the farm with school groups and other interested parties. He has a very friendly nature, is eager to please in his work and has settled in well with the others.

Blue has established himself near to the top of the pecking order in the herd and is usually to be found with Frosty. He has a more alert attitude than Frosty and can anticipate intentions. He is sensitive to commands and is very obedient in harness. A superb asset to have as a pack-pony and is popular with visitors.

Golden Flame: still the boss but at one stage we thought Blue would usurp her position. She prevailed and has now assumed supreme command. Still a little on the podgy side so we are watching her food intake very carefully; we do not want laminitis. She will be going to various places during the summer representing the trust.

Starlight has come into the spring in good condition and her leg does not seem to be bothering her, at the moment. She will respond to gentle pressure and loves going for walks; especially if she is on her own. She would be a long term project for anyone, instilling confidence in her; we will not give up on her. The world would be a poor place if everything was easy and the same.

George took exception to Blue in the first few days and there were on or two heated moments between them. George thought he was number two in the herd but Blue used greater age (he’s five) and weight combined with his knowledge of living wild to subdue the youngster. Peace now prevails and they have settled down. George is sporting his best summer suit and looks absolutely superb.

Charlie has kept his winter coat again this year and he has had baths and careful grooming to loosen it. His temperament is almost childlike and you feel you have to protect him. He bumbles along in his own sweet way eating and having any fuss on offer. He has not been involved in the power struggles, takes up far too much energy and for what? He like the others has had a B12 injection to improve their general condition and help with their coats.

Rolo has fast become the swan from the ugly duckling we were hoping he would be. He has a magnificent new summer coat and his proportions are those of a true Heritage Pony. He has come through his castration without any problems and he has settled down into the gentle, trustworthy pony he was before the hormone elevation. He has been accepted by all the others and is treated as a juvenile and has been rebuked when he overdoes the teasing. He has a wonderful attitude with visitors and like Charlie, loves attention from them. He has just had his first birthday and we can report that out on the moor, he has a little sister; she is just as appealing and is a similar colour.