Willy Wonka provides the sweetest result

A flashy Fell pony, a Welsh section B with keen comeback credentials and a wary Highland are all in the winnings

- ALEX ROBINSON

National Pony Society (NPS) Spring Festival, Three Counties Showground, Worcs

A HOME-PRODUCED Fell and his 11-year-old rider delivered the goods to secure their first ride in a Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) final.

Daisy May Ovens and her mother Francesca's flashy Melliver Willy Wonka were in the zone throughout a hotly contested junior large breeds qualifier, assessed by judges Stephen Howard (ride) and Madge Taylor (conformation).

After winning their class, Daisy and Willy returned to secure the junior title, ahead of small breeds winners, Esme Atkinson and Welsh section B Weydown Royal Consort.

"They were a beautiful combination, and the Fell was exactly what we were looking for in a junior pony. He was a great goer, but he still looked after his jockey," said Stephen.

Willy joined the Ovens family in December from his former owner Lisa Curant, who enjoyed much success with him on the flat and in working hunter classes.

Daisy and Willy are bound for the Royal International (RIHS) in July in Pretty Polly and young rider ranks, securing both spots on the first attempt.

Daisy, a former RIHS Pretty Polly winner with show pony Whiteleaze Secret Charm, is keen to continue Willy's jumping career; they returned home from Malvern with the junior working hunter tricolour on their tally too.

"Daisy was fortunate to ride Willy a bit last year, so when Lisa offered him to us I couldn't say no," said Francesca. "Daisy is so young compared to some of the other kids, but Willy sells himself while looking after her." Coveted HOYS passes were also on offer for open native ponies. Securing 50% of the qualifications, as well as the section title, was unstoppable producer Sarah Parker, whose championship ride was Sarah Weston's victorious Welsh section D Llynhelyg Mr Jones.