A four-bedroom, three-bathroom country farmhouse style home has recently come on the market. How would you make use of the house and the equestrian facilities which include 13 acres and four stables?

Higher Tregawne Farmhouse can be found in the peaceful countryside location of Withiel, just outside the market town of Wadebridge in North Cornwall.

Nearby, Hustyns Woods offers beautiful walks and trails. Within just a few miles of the property is a wide selection of beaches including Polzeath, Daymer Bay, and Porthilly.

Local equestrian centres include: Gwealavellan Farm (34 miles), Tall Trees Arena (18 miles) and Colraine EC (20 miles).

Want to head out with hounds? Check out the North Cornwall Hunt.

Show locally with showing society BSPS Area 13A.

Cross-country facilities nearby include Chyverton Park (19 miles) or Lower Tokenbury EC (27 miles).

Offered for sale by John Bray and Partners, this Cornish dream is priced at £1.5m. Will you be seeking a viewing?

Higher Tregawne Farmhouse is set in 13 acres and is situated in stunning, picturesque north Cornwall countryside.

Paddocks comprise part of the acreage, and the property enjoys views across countryside and woodland, and provides immediate access to hundreds of acres of forestry to ride in.

The property is accessed from the public highway down a a 1.3 mile long unmade farm track. A 4X4 vehicle is recommended.

A four-box stable block in good working order sits adjacent to a converted stone two storey annex with integrated garage.

The spacious family home is laid out over two floors and boasts four bedrooms and three bathrooms. The main farmhouse frontage was extensively refurbished between 2010 and 2012 with the rear of the building built as new, along with the garage/annex and stables.

At the heart of the home is the impressive open plan living, kitchen and dining space with a mix of characterful features including wood beams, sash windows, stone walls and slate floors.

Relax and unwind in this beautiful bathroom complete with wooden bath and views out across the grounds and garden.

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The owner and rider of an 18hh purebred Shire who competes in hunter trials and hunts all day wants to promote the fact “heavy horses can do it too”.

Ben Colman bought Sampson as a yearling, having never owned a horse before, six years ago.

“He’s the real deal; the main man,” Ben told H&H. “I’m convinced there’s nothing like him.”

Ben has ridden since childhood; he lived in London but had “strong links” with Cornwall, where he first sat on a horse, then hunted on Exmoor as a teenager. London life put paid to riding for 10-15 years, but then he moved to Cornwall 10 years ago.

“I’d never owned a horse and didn’t know what the hell I was doing!” he said. “I saw this advert, and only went because the farmer was local.

“Sampson was standing in the yard, covered in mud, a yearling who wasn’t much handled. Two days later, the breeder said he had interest, and I said ‘I’ll come with the money’.

“I gave him £1,800 and he gave me a piece of rope with a horse on the end.”

Ben then went through a tough time, as he was made redundant, and Sampson’s breeder, Gordon Mugford of Treveor Shires, asked if he wanted his money back.

“But I wasn’t going to let him go,” Ben said. “I’ve always loved heavy horses, and this was a one-off opportunity.”

Later, Sampson was backed, and was “as good as gold” throughout, and “hasn’t put a foot wrong since”, Ben said.

“I’m lucky because I’ve got beaches within 15 minutes’ hacking, so we go there, and he’s good in traffic, but I really bought him because I wanted to hunt him,” Ben said.

“I started with autumn hunting, then he started jumping, and he loved it.”

Ben said he and Sampson have been to a number of hunter trials, always the only Shire of hundreds of entries.

“You see people looking and thinking ‘Really?’ but when they see him go, they understand,” he said. “He’s not the quickest, and he’s never going to win, but that’s not the point.

“I love him and he’s special, and that’s all I want.”

Ben says negotiating low branches in woods can be a slight issue, owing to Sampson’s height, but otherwise, he is responsive, easy to control and not fazed by anything.

“Luckily, in our country, we don’t gallop for miles on flat fields; we go for a run, stop and get our breath back and then go again, which suits him,” he said.

Continues below…

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“He goes for the full day and jumps everything all the others do, but he never pulls and is always in a snaffle. He’s never refused or anything, he’s a lovely horse.

“I’m not a betting man but I’d say it’s likely there’s no other horse like him; a pure Shire who does what he does. But heavy horses can do it; if they’ve got the right conformation, then yes, they can do whatever they want.”

Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday, is packed with all the latest news and reports, as well as interviews, specials, nostalgia, vet and training advice. Find how you can enjoy the magazine delivered to your door every week, plus options to upgrade to access our H&H Plus online service which brings you breaking news as it happens as well as other benefits.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A storybook horsey set-up situated near to the North coast in Cornwall has come on the market and is looking for a new owner with a love of the rural life.

Moor Cottage is nestled on the fringes of the village of Millpool and is only two miles from the A30 linking the cities of Truro and Exeter. It is in close proximity to the coast and offers panoramic countryside views over toward St Austell Bay.

The property is set with no near neighbours and is slap bang in the middle of scenic moorland.

Despite being rural, you will be in easy reach of several venues. Equestrian centres in the local area include: St Leonards EC (26 miles), Lower Tokenbury (14 miles) and Chyverton Park Equestrian (29 miles).

Tall Trees Arena is a 30 minute drive from the front door (15 miles).

If you like to hunt you can head out with North Cornwall.

There are cross country courses available at Scorrier House (35 miles) and Chyverton.

Don’t forget about the up and coming Royal Cornwall Show which is located 30 minutes away (13 mile).

Sign up to the Cornwall Dressage Group for a range of local competitions and training opportunities. If you prefer to hit the show ring, become a member of BSPS Area 13A or NPS Area 26.

This pretty property is being offered for sale by Bradley Estate Agents and is priced under the £1m bracket at £750,000.

Put your wellies on and we will show you around…

Set in 26 acres of land, the property is approached up a short track between gorse bushes and shrubby trees. It opens onto moorland to reveal Moor Cottage nestled into the the Tor.

The area provides some exceptional on and off road hacking. Included in the land at present are five paddocks of approximately six acres.

There is a parking area leading to a detached barn which incorporates a stable block. Within the adjoining paddock (with open access moorland) are two open fronted sheds. From this lower paddock is access to a bridleway.

The private garden wraps around the house…

The accommodation is set over two levels. One the ground floor you will find the kitchen which has a range of base and wall mounted units with timber work surfaces.

There are two bedrooms on the ground floor and two on the first.

Many traditional features are seen throughout the house, including ceiling beams and characterful fireplaces.

Could you set up base here?

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday

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A renovated country home in around six acres, set within unspoilt countryside just two miles from the sea, has come on the market just a slither under the £2m bracket (it’s £1.85m, to be exact).

There has been a settlement at Higher Polmenna, which is just outside the village of Tregony, since at least 1293, when the property was known as Penmere. Later becoming Higher Polmenna, the house became part of the Lanhydrock Estate before being bought by the Caerhays Estate in 1919.

Equestrian centres in the local area include: Newton Livery Equestrian & Leisure Centre (35 miles), Knightwood EC (18 miles) and Tall Trees Arena (41 miles).

Colraine Equestrian Centre (16 miles) is a 30 minute drive and it hosts a range of British Dressage and showjumping competitions throughout the season.

You will also be a one hour drive from Royal Cornwall showground and could head out hunting with either the East Cornwall Hunt or the Western Hunt.

Trebudannon racecourse is 18 miles away, while point-to-pointing can be found at Looe 33 miles away.

If you fancy doing some cross-country training, head over to Scorrier cross-county course (18 miles), while if showing is more your thing, sign up to BSPS Area 13A or NPS Area 26.

The property is being offered for sale by Savills.

Let us show you around this Cornish nest…

Surrounded by its own land of six acres, Higher Polmenna is located in an idyllic setting making use of the rolling Cornwall countryside.

The property is perfect for the equestrian family with a small squad of horses as there is beautiful stabling for three as well as a tack room and hay barn.

The house has been substantially extended from the original farmhouse. The owners have retained some of the original features.

On the ground floor you will find the kitchen/breakfast room with electric Aga and a utility room.

Imagine the summer evenings spent in this stunning orangery, which has countryside views and doors leading out to the grounds.

As well as six bedrooms, there are four reception rooms including this cosy sitting room complete with open fire.

The walls of an original stone outbuilding surround the outdoor heated swimming pool, while an old piggery houses the pump room and water filtration room.

For all the latest equestrian news and reports, don’t miss Horse & Hound magazine, out every Thursday

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Breathe in the sea air with our pick of properties in the county — from farmhouses to a converted mill

1. Wilton Mill Farm, near Looe

For you: a three-bedroom farmhouse, en suite studio apartment and three cottages, positioned just three miles from the south Cornwall coast. Outside there are ponds and an orchard, as well as potential for a small campsite (subject to planning). This is an ideal set-up for those looking for an income opportunity.

For the horses: four stables, a tack room and a store, as well as further outbuildings, overlooking a yard that is currently let on a DIY livery basis. Set in 13.1 acres.

What’s the damage? £995,000

Agent: Stags

Telephone: 01392 680058

Visit: stags.co.uk

2. Higher Polmenna, near St Austell

For you: a modernised country home that has been extended from the original farmhouse, with six bedrooms (five of which are en suite), an orangery and heated outdoor swimming pool, with an old piggery housing the pump room, water filtration room and a store. The drawing room has an impressive inglenook fireplace, bread oven and woodburner. It is just two miles from the idyllic Portholland beach.

For the horses: stabling for three horses, a tack room and a hay barn. Set in six acres.

What’s the damage? £2m

Agent: Savills

Telephone: 01872 243200

Visit: savills.com

3. Hallagenna Cottages, near Bodmin

For you: a holiday cottage complex in an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty on Bodmin Moor, that was originally a traditional working farm. There is a three-bedroom farmhouse and five holiday cottages, each sleeping between three and four guests. There is a games room, and above the double garage is a studio.

For the horses: 10 stables in a horseshoe-shaped yard, with excellent hacking on Bodmin Moor on the doorstep. Set in 4.5 acres.

What’s the damage? £1m

Agent: Stags

Telephone: 01392 680058

Visit: stags.co.uk

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4. Trethew Mill, near Lostwithiel

For you: a four-bedroom converted mill set within rolling countryside near the historic village of Lanlivery, with a one-bedroom annexe, home office and a large workshop. The impressive gardens and grounds featured in the 2016 National Garden Scheme.

For the horses: a stable, tack room and paddocks, set in 7.75 acres.

What’s the damage? £750,000

Agent: Savills

Telephone: 01872 243200

Visit: savills.com

Next week: Equestrian properties with river frontage

Ref: Horse & Hound; 20 July 2017

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Ponies involved in the Bodmin Moor crisis are receiving ongoing care following a large-scale round-up last autumn.

The Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA), Bodmin Moor Commons Council and multiple equine welfare charities took part in the major operation.

Passports and microchips were given to 169 ponies and dozens more, who were unclaimed and had no identification, were taken off the moor by charities and local residents.

Bransby Horses in Lincolnshire, which took in eight ponies at the time, has since taken in 10 more who were being kept by local residents until space became available at the charities.

Named by staff, Buttercup, Blossom, Camellia, Primrose, Ivy, Daisy, Lilac, Jasmine, Tulip and Snowdrop were assessed by vets on arrival on 14 January. Sadly Jasmine had developed an infection from an old injury, which could not be treated and she was put down.

It is hoped the remaining nine mares will move to the charity’s handling yard for rehabilitation and rehoming.

Blue Cross is another of the charities that has been helping with the Bodmin Moor situation.

It took in 26 unclaimed and neglected ponies for rehabilitation and rehoming and also helped with the round-up and identification of ponies on the moor.

“The ponies were in a dreadful state when they arrived,” said Vicki Alford, of Blue Cross, Burford.

“Most were very weak and underweight and terrified. We put them all in one large field as a group for a couple of weeks, to give them security and stability within their own herd before moving them into stables for castration, microchipping and passports.”

They were gradually introduced to hard feed and their handling and training has now started.

The round-up

On 12-15 September 2016, helpers from animal welfare charities the Animal and Plant Health Agency (APHA) and Bodmin Moor Commons Council rounded up and documented the ponies.

They worked with the British Horse Society, World Horse Welfare, Redwings Horse Sanctuary, the Mare and Foal Sanctuary, the RSPCA, Bransby Horses and Blue Cross.

It is estimated there are around 500-600 ponies running free on the moor, which has been used for livestock grazing for hundreds of years.

However, indiscriminate breeding, a shortage of grass due to poor weather and overcrowding has led to welfare problems.

Article continues below…

Related articles:

• Major round-up on Bodmin Moor following welfare crisis
• Bodmin Moor update: one pony put down and 21 rehomed
• ‘Miracle’ pony rescued from Bodmin Moor beats the odds to survive

While many owners who have grazing rights monitor their ponies, a lack of formal identification and enforcement of laws has led to other ponies being abandoned or illegally grazed.

Charities have been helping for years, with several major round-ups taking place.

“This was a huge task but one with a real impact as the ponies now remaining on that part of the moor are all microchipped, health checked and most importantly they all have an owner who is responsible for their care,” said Nicolas de Brauwere, head of welfare and behaviour at Redwings, who led the operation.

“Meanwhile those that were abandoned to their fate will not have to go through yet another winter without the proper care and management they need.

“We are so thankful to the Bodmin Moor Commons Council, Blue Cross and all the charities, both those who assisted with the operation itself and those who have offered homes to these poor ponies.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A shocking video has emerged of shots being fired close to a hunt.

Followers of the North Cornwall were riding along a public road near Blisland in Bodmin on 2 January when a number of shots were heard close by.

A video, taken by one of the mounted followers, clearly records the sound of the shots. This is then followed by shouts from the riders and the field quickly moving on.

Click here to see the video *warning: contains some strong language*

Master and huntsman Ralph Mankee told H&H that this is the third year this has happened in this area.

He said that on this occasion he had taken the hounds a different route to avoid the area, so was not there when the shots were heard, but he has passed on a statement to police.

“He does it simply to intimidate and threaten,” Mr Mankee said.

“To actually use a shotgun to intimidate, I would say is threatening behaviour.

“I think he should have his shotgun licence revoked.”

Mr Mankee confirmed that nobody was injured in the incident.

A spokesman for Devon & Cornwall police said they received a call just before 11.30am on 2 January to reports of a possible hunt, and another call advising that shots were fired in Blisland, Bodmin.

“The incident concerned a dispute between a hunt party and a landowner,” he said.

“Police have made enquiries and spoken to the interested parties. No crime has been recorded.”

Polly Portwin, head of hunting at the Countryside Alliance, added: “However people’s views on hunting may differ, firing a gun in the proximity of where children and adults are riding is not an acceptable form of protest.

“The riders were taking part in a legal activity and were riding on a public highway. It is totally irresponsible and unacceptable behaviour.”

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Further ponies have been rescued from Bodmin Moor within months of two large scale round-ups.

On 16-17 June, Redwings Horse Sanctuary helped Bodmin Moor Commons Council rescue 14 ponies from the area in Cornwall.

Nearby Bolenowe Animal Sanctuary has taken seven in and the rest, which included an elderly Shetland mare, a mare and foal and two pairs of siblings, were taken to Redwings.

Redwings’ head of welfare and behaviour Nic de Brauwere said the ponies were “completely unhandled and visibly terrified of people”.

“The group were very dull and depressed, and thought to be suffering from fairly profound parasite burdens,” he said.

“Each of the ponies also has its own story of suffering to tell.

“One of particular concern was a chestnut foal rescued with his mother who had previously been found by a local farmer with his leg trapped between two boulders.”

In April the charity helped with another multi-agency round-up, in which 22 horses were removed from Eastmoor and given homes by nearby welfare organisations.

A second round-up was carried out in May, when 18 horses were removed.

Lincolnshire-based Bransby Horses took in eight animals, a further eight went to Shires Holt in Cornwall and the remaining two were offered a home at a local farm.

Mr de Brauwere warned that overstocking is having “catastrophic effects” on welfare on some of the commons.

“There are simply too many horses, and mares and foals are being caught in the crossfire of stallions fighting,” he said.

“Native ponies have found life on some areas of Bodmin Moor extremely challenging this past winter and into spring.

“As well as the consequences of relentless rain affecting grass growth and grazing, we have seen an increase in ponies affected by high worm burdens.

“A lack of frost has allowed parasites that would otherwise have been killed off by freezing temperatures to thrive.”

In March this year, the Bodmin Moor Commons Council was established and it is hoped this will help address welfare problems on the moor.

The charity is planning on helping the council with a three-day microchipping and passporting “operation” this autumn.

“Formal identification of horses will ensure those with grazing rights can do so and those who do not can no longer view the moor as a dumping ground, which has exacerbated the issue of overstocking,” added Mr de Brauwere.

He said working with the council and commoners can help make sure owners are aware of their responsibilities for the welfare of their ponies.

“That is not only in controlling breeding through gelding and prevention of parasite infestations, but also in ensuring their ponies can be handled to receive veterinary intervention should they need it,” he said.

Related articles:

• Anger after more dead and sick ponies found on Bodmin Moor
• Bodmin Moor update: one pony put down and 21 rehomed
• Ponies in very bad condition rescued from Poldark location

There have been numerous welfare crises in the area in recent years. Two years ago, more than 20 ponies died on the moor in a week and in 2011, Redwings was involved in the rescue of 19 ponies found in a severe state of neglect in the area.

Last year H&H also reported that three ponies — a stallion, mare and foal — were rescued from the moor.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

If you fancy heading south-west to find your ideal horsey home, here’s some equestrian properties for sale in Cornwall.

1. Higher Langdon Farmhouse, Cornwall

For you: a five-bedroom period farmhouse within the Draynes Valley, with outstanding views over the surrounding countryside.

For the horses: a modern stable block with three loose boxes, water, power and light connected, plus a large workshop and further outbuildings. Set in 2.25 acres, with excellent hacking in the area.

What’s the damage? £475,000

Agent: Fine & Country

Telephone number: 01566 771919

Visit: www.fineandcountry.co.uk

2. Porthledden, Cornwall

For you: a Grade II listed, 10-bedroom property with magnificent views of the sea, coast and Isles of Scilly on the horizon. There is a walled garden, three-bedroom apartment and underfloor heating.

For the horses: the stable block houses four loose boxes, a barn area, tack room, three paddocks and a school. Set in 7.2 acres.

What’s the damage? £3m

Agent: Savills

Telephone number: 01872 243200

Visit: www.savills.com

3. Lanjeth, Cornwall

For you: a spacious and recently renovated four-bedroom period farmhouse, plus a two-bedroom mobile home and two holiday cottages with oil-fired central heating. The property is being marketed as an equestrian holiday centre.

For the horses: a modern block of five loose boxes, a large open, double pole barn and a well-enclosed all weather manège to the rear. Set in 11.4 acres.

What’s the damage? £735,000

Agent: Fine & Country

Telephone number: 01208 76800

Visit: www.fineandcountry.co.uk

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4. Bolotho Mews, Cornwall

For you: a collection of barns around a courtyard. The main barn has four-bedrooms, with two others having been converted into self-contained holiday lets. The property is approached by a long private lane shared with one neighbour.

For the horses: two loose boxes and a tack room as well as covered storage for cars and other equipment. Set in 12.5 acres.

What’s the damage? £1.25m

Agent: Savills

Telephone number: 01872 243 200

Visit: www.savills.com

Next week: Equestrian properties near Badminton Horse Trials

Ref: Horse & Hound; 28 April 2016

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

A petition launched by a Cornish rider to get drivers to slow down for horses has had more than 17,000 signatures in four days.

Debbie Smith launched the petition on 14 September after numerous run-ins with drivers going too fast on the local lanes around Penzance.

The latest incident occurred last week when she was out hacking with her 17-year-old daughter.

The car towing a small trailer stopped when he saw the pair riding but as soon as they started to walk in single file he “drove at us and went straight past ignoring my hand signals to stop,” said Debbie.

There was just one foot between Debbie’s horse Noel, a 16hh Andalusian cross, and the car.

The incident was recorded on the camera on Debbie’s hat.

Last year another driver came up behind her horse. She said they revved the engine and roared past.

“It was unbelievable,” she said. “But when I say to people why don’t you slow down they say we don’t have to.”

Another Cornish rider in nearby Marazion was interviewed on the local radio station after she successfully sued a driver for driving into her horse cutting his legs.

“The roads are becoming much more dangerous,” said Debbie. “There’s heavier traffic using the country lanes and drivers are going too fast and don’t slow down for horse riders.”

The petition will then be presented to local MP, the Conservative Derek Thomas.

Last month another campaign to get drivers to slow down for horses was launched by Kent-based rider Lauren De Grunchy (as reported in H&H 18 August)

Hundreds of riders posted pictures of themselves on social media leading or riding their horse in their underwear with the caption “Will you slow down for me now?”

To sign Debbie Smith’s petition, click here

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Ponies in Cornwall are continuing to be monitored following a strangles outbreak earlier this month.

Three ponies were found to have the contagious disease on 8 July in the Minions area of Bodmin Moor.

The infected equines were removed from the moor in a bid to stop the disease from spreading.

Julie Dowton, secretary to the Bodmin Moor Commoners and the Association of Bodmin Moor Commons Landowners, is coordinating efforts to contain the outbreak.

Yesterday (Monday 20 July) she confirmed to H&H there were no further cases.

“We are still monitoring them daily, checking all of the animals in that area,” said Ms Dowton.

“By removing the three we have taken away the most serious threat.

“Obviously we are still urging people to be vigilant and to report anything.”

She added Redwings Horse Sanctuary has been “brilliant” with the help it has given them.

This includes distributing flyers with advice about strangles to owners in the area.

At the time of the outbreak, a spokeswoman for the charity encouraged calm among horse owners on the moor and the surrounding areas.

“We would ask everyone to be vigilant and take reasonable precautions to help prevent any spread of the disease,” she said.

She added it is “vital” to call a vet if you think your horse or pony may be showing signs.

Strangles is primarily spread between horses by direct contact or sharing things such as water troughs.

It can also be passed on by people’s hands, clothing, tack and yard equipment.

Signs of strangles include a plus 38.5°C temperature, depression, loss of appetite and thick, yellow mucus draining from both nostrils.

Hot, painful abscesses may develop on the sides of the head and throat, which may burst and discharge pus.

However, signs vary from mild to severe and are not always typical.

Ms Dowton also welcomed the news that the government will be forming a new Bodmin Moor Commons Council.

She said it means they are able to plan about how they would deal with future outbreaks.

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now

Three cases of strangles have been confirmed in ponies on Bodmin Moor.

Horse owners in the West Country are being urged to look out for signs of the highly contagious infectious disease.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary — which suffered an outbreak itself earlier this year — is supplying strangles information to be distributed to horse owners in the area.

A spokeswoman for the charity said: “We are aware that three cases of strangles have been confirmed in the Minions area of Bodmin Moor.

“We are encouraging calm among owners of horses on the moor and surrounding areas, but we would ask everyone to be vigilant and take reasonable precautions to help prevent any spread of the disease.”

She added it is “vital” to call a vet if you think your horse or pony may be showing signs.

Signs of strangles can vary from mild to severe and are not always typical.

Usually, a horse with the condition will have a temperature of more than 38.5 degrees, depression, loss of appetite and thick, yellow mucus coming from the nostrils.

Painful, hot abscesses may appear on the sides of the head and throat, which may burst – discharging puss.

Horses may also have difficulty eating or extending their head.

The disease is spread through contact with infected mucus, either directly between horses or indirectly with contaminated objects such as water containers.

It is not airborne and is not infectious to humans or other animals.

The spokeswoman said that although dogs cannot act as carriers, they can physically spread the disease via their bodies and urged dog walkers to be vigilant and heed any warning notices.

“We are happy to support the Bodmin Moor Shadow Commons Council having worked together on several rescue operations, including that of the recent Poldark Ponies in April 2015,” she added.

Julie Dowton, secretary to the Bodmin Moor Commoners and the Association of Bodmin Moor Commons Landowners is coordinating efforts to contain the disease.

Ms Dowton said the ponies with strangles have been removed from the moor.

“We have no ponies on the area of moor we are talking about with any signs of strangles at all,” she said.

Contact Julie for information on 07703468628 or juliedowton@btinternet.com.

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Beach riders are being warned about venturing into the sea after a horse drowned in Cornwall last week (23 July).

The horse died after his rider took him out into the sea off Marazion beach, Penzance.

“The rider had managed to get back to shore unhurt, but the horse had disappeared from view into the sea,” said a spokesman for the Maritime and Coastguard Agency.

Jo Winfield of the British Horse Society (BHS) said this incident highlighted the dangers of riding in the sea.

“If a rider parts company with the horse, the horse’s natural instinct will often be to swim in a straight line — which may be out to sea,” she said.

“Horses find it very difficult to turn in water, which can lead to devastating consequences.”

The week before, Cornwall Sea Horses, based near Marazion beach, was featured in a local paper, promoting sea riding sessions.

The horse that died was not associated with the centre.

Vikki Timmons of Cornwall Sea Horses told H&H she was “distressed” by the incident.

“We are being bombarded, as if this is our fault,” she said.

“We have strict safety measures. Our horses are used to swimming, plus we use short ropes rather than reins and wear wetsuits, not riding gear. When it’s done safely, it’s an amazing experience.”

Former Household Cavalry riding master Richard Waygood used to take troopers and horses on the beach in Norfolk during summer holidays. “We used to have someone in a canoe, to ensure a horse couldn’t swim off. I wouldn’t recommend swimming alone,” he said.

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound magazine (1 August 2013)

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A family-run riding school near Redruth, Cornwall has been given a silver award by the Cornwall Tourist Board.

Cornish Riding Holidays — which is run by Janet Dallimore and her daughter Karen Trezise — came second in the “Tourism activity, sport and experience of the year” category at the awards ceremony on 8 November.

“I can’t believe it,” said Janet. “I have never heard of a riding school being successful with something like this before. It is the first time we have entered and we are thrilled.”

Karen added: “Everything has gone so well this year — we seem to be on a bit of a roll. But much of our success is due to the wonderful staff and volunteers we have, some of which have been with us for over 20 years.”

Cornish Riding Holidays was established in 1984 and is run as a riding school and holiday centre with students staying from across the world.

For more information visit www.cornish-riding-holidays.co.uk

Two horses have been killed and two people seriously injured in a road accident in north Cornwall.

The crash, which involved three cars, happened at about 7.20am this morning on the B3277 between Chiverton Cross and St Agnes.

Devon and Cornwall Police said the occupants of one of the cars, a Peugeot, were badly hurt. The road was still closed at 3pm.

One of the horses died at the scene, the other had to put down as a result of its injuries.

Local reports said a father and daughter were traveling in the Peugeot – which appeared to have collided directly with the horses.

The female driver of another car was treated for shock, while the male driver of the third vehicle was uninjured.

Mark Glanville from Truro Community Fire Station said the Peugeot appeared to have hit one of the horses head on.

“The bonnet was crushed and it appeared the horse had come up and hit the windscreen, which was lying in the laps of the male driver and the female passenger.

Police are investigating why the horses were loose on the carriageway.

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A Cornwall man who killed his sister’s donkey has been jailed for 56 days.

Darrel Duffill, 54, a recovering alcoholic from Duloe, south east Cornwall, had reportedly drunk half a bottle of rum before shooting the donkey in the head on 28 February.

He appeared before Bodmin Magistrates for sentencing on 23 March following pleading guilty on 2 March to shooting his sister’s donkey with an air rifle.

Magistrates described it as a “particularly nasty and callous offence, which had a horrendous impact”.

His sister Carolyn Jones found the 10-year-old donkey Claude, lying in a pool of blood in his stable.

The pair had reportedly had an argument earlier that day in which he’d said: “You better watch out. You might have a dead donkey, chicken or pony in the morning.”

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A man from Cornwall has appeared in court charged with killing his sister’s donkey.

Darrell Duffil stood before Bodmin magistrates on Wednesday (2 March).

He pleaded guilty of shooting his sister, Carolyn Jones’, donkey Claude in the head with an air rifle after an argument on Monday (28 February) in Looe, Cornwall.

Ms Jones found the 10-year-old donkey in the stable in a pool of blood.

The 54-year-old man had reportedly drunk half a bottle of rum before the alleged attack.

He has been remanded in custody until 9 March.

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A Cornwall-based rider was taken to hospital on Saturday after an accident she says was caused by England flags mounted on a passing car.

Sarah Cox was hacking six-year-old mare Maixie near Stithians on Saturday (5 June) when she was overtaken by a car with two flags of St George on the bonnet.

The noise of the flapping flags caused the horse to break into a “flat bolt gallop” and the pair came down on the road, inches away from a second car.

“Sarah has gravel burns on her arms and back, a 2-inch cut on the top of her head (despite wearing a hat) and serious concussion,” her mother Faith told H&H.

Sarah, 29, was taken to Tellisk Hospital and has been signed off work.

The mare suffered cuts to her stifle and elbow and is very nervous after her ordeal.

Mrs Cox said she has since heard of another rider whose pony was scared by car-mounted flags.

“The flags are a real nuisance as people who are driving do not realise the noise they make as they drive along. They really frighten horses,” she said.

“I have a horrible feeling Sarah’s accident won’t be the last.”

Has your horse been spooked by flags? Email charlotte_white@ipcmedia.com

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Retired Cornwall riding school pony Scribbles, aged 51, may be the oldest pony in the world.

Scribbles, was bought by Jill Power of Strawberry Gardens Riding School in Camborne in 1978 as an already “long in the tooth” 20-year-old for a mere £125.

He worked for 24 years and was retired in 2002, going to live with current owner Alison Eathorne and now spends much of his time lying down in the field.

Mrs Eathorne said: “The vet is always amazed at how fit and healthy he is. He is a real character even if he is slowing down. I think he could have another five years in him.”

She is sending all of his official documents to the Guinness Book of World Records team in the hope that he will become a record breaker and be officially recognised as the oldest pony in the world.

The previous official oldest pony was a Shetland Exmoor gelding named Sugar Puff. He reached the grand old age of 56 and died in 2007.

Domestic horses have an average lifespan of 25 to 30 years, and few live much beyond 30.

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A part-bred Arab bloomed in front of a packed audience to land the Horse of the Year Show Cuddy Breeders’ Supreme in-hand ticket at the Royal Cornwall Show — marking a first major win for her owners.

Leading Wycroft Passion Flower to the top in-hand accolade was Andrew Pitman, who described the moment he was called forward with the two-year-old bay filly as “something he had always dreamed of”.

Passion Flower, also known as Flora, won the two and three-year-old class on her way to claiming the Anglo and part-bred Arab championship.

“I’ve never won it before and we are absolutely delighted,” said Andrew, who led Flora for her owners Lynda Goodall and her mother Jacky Upward. “As a breeder it’s very difficult to get recognised — it’s all my breeding which makes it even more special,” he added.

Eighteen breed champions made it back for the Cuddy on the second day of the show, all closely inspected by judge Frances Cash, who made the trip to Cornwall from Ireland.

“She’s very elegant and a lovely model,” said Frances. “She has the makings of what I would like to think will be a very nice child’s show pony,” she said.

Don’t miss H&H’s full report from Royal Cornwall in a forthcoming issue of H&H

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Chukkas are coming to a Cornish beach on Tuesday (9 September) with an evening polo match at Watergate Bay.

The beach near Newquay is home to Fifteen Cornwall, Jamie Oliver’s beach restaurant, as well as a luxury hotel and extreme sports academy.

Three-man teams will play under arena rules on a pitch marked out below the high-tide mark. The match starts at 6.30pm, following the outgoing tide.

On one side, sponsored by Knight Frank, three-goal professional Richard Blake-Thomas teams up with Barbara Zingg, manager at Sandhurst Polo Club, and Andrew Burgess, also from Sandhurst.

They will face Kier Western, with young professional Ed Olof, Tim Vaux of Vaux Park Polo Club in Somerset and young player Patrick Selfe, also from Vaux Park.

Like Cowdray Park’s Gold Cup, the match is backed by longtime polo sponsors Veuve Clicquot.

Last year’s launch event drew a crowd of 1,000. The game is free to watch from the sands, but for an elevated view spectators can try to bag a table at Fifteen, or splash out on a hospitality ticket.

Watergate Bay Hotel has packages for £90 per person, including a champagne reception, jazz band, a bird’s eye view from the hotel’s deck, a barbecue and post-match party.

Beach polo is gaining popularity around the world, with established tournaments in Miami and Dubai. The first British Beach Championships, with six teams, grandstands and corporate hospitality, took place at Sandbanks in July.

For more details of Tuesday’s event, visit www.watergatebay.co.uk/polo.htm

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Cornwall’s first equine veterinary hospital was opened officially last month, after four years of planning.

Penmellyn Veterinary Group in St Columb Major has facilities including an operating theatre, X-ray and ultrasound facilities, an intensive care unit, an isolation unit, and an equine consultation stable for non-invasive procedures.

“The practice started before 1900,” said Peter Murrish, one of five partners at Penmellyn. “We moved in here last September, but it was opened officially by the Princess Royal on 29 May, after the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons [RCVS] designated us an accredited equine hospital.”

The mixed practice has 36 staff, with equine nurses providing 24hr supervision and four equine vets.

Mr Murrish added: “We’re already having a lot more horses coming in — people seem to want to come and get everything done at once, vaccinations, teeth and so on, and it’s much easier to do lameness tests and X-rays at the same place.”

The hospital cost £1.8million to build — 60% of which was funded by the Penmellyn Group and 40% from an Objective One grant — consisting of European and DEFRA funding.

“To get the funding, we have to fulfil a number of criteria over the next two years, including reaching the RCVS equine hospital standard — now achieved,” said practice manager Anne Thompson.

There are only 14 accredited equine hospitals in the UK. A spokesman for the RCVS confirmed that Penmellyn is accredited to the highest standard on the RCVS Practice Standards Scheme, a voluntary scheme launched in January 2005.

Local stud owner Angela Wise, from Dalcotes Stud in White Cross near Newquay, told H&H the hospital was a “definite plus” for all owners in Cornwall. She uses Penmellyn for studwork, and used to have to travel up to Bristol for hospital facilities.

“It’s bad enough having a sick animal without being referred up country with it for treatment,” she said. “Penmellyn is now just a 10min drive away for me.”

This news story was first published in the current issue of Horse & Hound (21 June, 07)

Stay in touch with all the news in the run-up to and throughout the major shows and events during 2026 and beyond with a Horse & Hound subscription. Subscribe today for all you need to know ahead of these major events, plus online reports on the action as it happens from our expert team of reporters and in-depth analysis in our special commemorative magazines. Have a subscription already? Set up your unlimited website access now