This was the finale` for the group, the Christmas lunch and awards presentation. This attracted 85 group members and their guests, and all had a wonderful time in the beautifully tranquil surroundings of an old Manor House known as the Holbrook House Hotel.

The hotel was decorated with Christmas trees, the log fire was lit and  likeminded  friends  gathered  to have a good time. The  hotel staff made us feel really welcome and did a really good job ensuring that we were well served, fed, watered and well alcoholed!

The morning commenced with a ‘get together’ in the hall and drawing room, providing a human buzz of conversation and laughter. It was fantastic to see so many people, some who had travelled long distances to be with us, in the relaxed atmosphere away from ponies and the anxieties of the show ring.

A welcome drink flowed into a lovely three course meal of the usual Christmas Food and drinks, party poppers and Christmas crackers provided amusement, especially some of the gifts!

The annual auction was conducted by Mr Tom Mellor of Greenslade Taylor Hunt from the Bridgwater Auction Centre. There were some fantastic items to be purchased including fresh festive fruit and vegetables, Christmas items, soft toys, floral arrangements, fresh poultry and clothing.

We must again thank everyone who generously gave us such wonderful items to sell and also to everyone who bought from the auction and tickets for the raffles, again we had great fun with the aid of Jenny and her annual hamper auction.
This was not just our Christmas Lunch but it was also the event to host the presentation of the awards to the winners. These awards are the culmination of everyone’s hard work and devotion to their ponies and to the breed.
As we all know, showing our ponies at group shows, at local and County level shows and the National Breed Show promotes the breed, enhances general knowledge of the pony, and the wonderful things that we can all do with them.

The Award Winners were:

•    Junior Young Handler: Olivia McHale
•    Joint Reserve Junior Young Handler: Shannon King & Gini Basta
•    Senior Young Handler: Stephie Hill
•    Reserve  Senior Young Handler: Felicity Back
•    Best Senior Miniature  Pony: Wytchlife Maximus
•    Best Junior Miniature  Pony: Wotknotts Buccaneer
•    Best Senior Standard  Pony: Eynhallow Star
•    Best Junior Standard  Pony: Samber Scholar
•    Best ridden  Pony: Dryknowl Branzil ridden by Olivia McHale
•    Best Newcomer:  Laura, Susannah & Andrew Willment
•    Winner of the accumulator Award: Samber Scholar – Mrs B Rae

We look forward to seeing you all again at the shows in 2011 when we will be able to start the process all over again!