Public banned from New Forest Pony drifts

The Verderers in charge of conservation and protection of ponies in the New Forest have banned the general public from this year’s “drifts” or round-ups, as they are becoming too popular.

The picturesque spectacle of owners and officials on horseback has become a popular event, with the dates, from August to November, published on a website.

But this year the dates have been removed amid fears onlookers are causing disruption.

A spokesman for the Verderers said: “The drifts are not a spectator sport and we have no option but to strongly discourage the public from attending.”

www.newforestpony.com/forestbred.html

This news story was first published in Horse & Hound (25 October, ’07)

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