Students learn how to handle wild Dartmoor ponies

THE Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust (DPHT) has linked up with a local college to help students learn how to train and handle wild Dartmoor ponies.

The two-day training event, for equine and animal care students at Bicton College, was run by the DPHT in conjunction with Devon training body, Positive Horsemanship.

Dru Butterfield, DPHT charity manager, said: “The process of taming a wild pony herd can have a profound effect on the individual taking part and the bond of trust that is gradually created, can have long-lasting impact for both pony and handler.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this type of training to people who are entering the equine and animal care industries.”

Students learnt how to catch, lead, load, tie-up and handle the feet of wild ponies.

Later this term, students will observe the ponies’ behaviour in their natural environment on Dartmoor.

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