The National Pony Society (NPS) was formed in 1893, ‘to encourage the breeding, registration and improvement of riding ponies and Mountain & Moorland (M&M) ponies and to foster the Welfare of Ponies in general’.
The NPS runs two major shows each year. The spring festival is held each April and runs season’s first M&M qualifiers for Horse of the Year Show. August sees the NPS Summer Championships, traditionally held at the Three Counties Showground at Malvern in Worcestershire. This three day show offers a full range of classes for riders of all ages and ponies of all breeds and types.
Nearly 300 shows affiliate to the NPS over the course of a year, hosting qualifiers for both the summer and winter championship shows, and for the Royal International Horse Show (RIHS).
The NPS are the organisers of the NPS/Supreme Products M&M Working Hunter Pony championship held annually at the RIHS and are also the long term sponsors of the renowned NPS/Baileys Horse Feeds M&M Ridden Pony of the Year final at HOYS.
The NPS patron is currently HRH The Princess Royal while the president for the 2020/2021 season is Rodger James.
Catch up with all the latest news and reports from the NPS here:
‘Rules should be informed, practical, and evidence-based’ says Rebecca Penny after NPS outlaws a certain noseband
From STARS to HOYS: 13 show ring opportunities for amateurs in 2026
‘No fat ponies will be getting top marks from me’: meet HOYS mountain and moorland mini and working hunter judge Erik Mackechnie-Guire
From the dinky supreme to the majestic Clydesdale: meet eight stunning showing champions at Scone Palace
‘A native pony must scream type, including in its movement’: meet the 2025 Royal International M&M judge for conformation
Want to go showing in 2025? Find out which showing societies you need to join…
‘He was airlifted to hospital’: multi-talented Exmoor helps young rider bounce back from riding accident
Warning as ponies’ welfare put at risk by facial oils and gels in hot weather
Competitors reminded to not chase qualifiers after ‘ponies shown at opposite ends of the country in short time frame’
Showing societies launch fresh initiatives in reaction to declining British Riding Pony numbers
Body protector ruling changed after competitor reaction
Rider’s warning that ‘small mistakes can turn into something tragic’ after positive dope test
Great British In-Hand Show: Final foray for influential stallion
Young gem exceeds expectations at NPS summer championships
New in-hand championships to promote British breeds
‘I was crying like a baby’ — Welsh section B lifts NPS dressage supreme championship
27 stunning show ring moments H&H captured during the 2019 show season
9 novice ponies set to make waves in the show ring this season
12 things to consider if you’re completely new to showing…
