John Allan and his police horse Ypres receive their award from Julianne Aston, founder of the Veteran Horse Society, and Carrie Davis, patron of the charity Veteran Horse Welfare.

Ten veterans recently competed at Olympia for the title of Veteran Horse Society (VHS) supreme champion.

Horse aged from 16 to 31 took part and the task for judge Nigel Hollings was extremely tough.

The competition consisted of a group presentation and individual shows, with two in-hand horses showing their paces with their handlers.

The supreme champion was Gill Bailey-Machin's 16-year-old Bowlands Diplomat, the second Irish sport horse to take the championship.

Gill said: "To be able to compete at such a prestigious event on my own horse, who is now 16, is even more special.

"I know when I return home, he will be the star of yard, he is a lovely and gentle horse to be around and I am so lucky to own him."

The reserve champion was Colliyers Eclipse, otherwise known as Nobby'.

Julianne Aston, founder of the society, said: "It has been a difficult year for the society, and we have had to overcome some awful situations, but this final shows the world that we are a truly professional organisation and the new showing committee has done a fabulous job in bringing ten truly beautiful veterans together.

"As ever, we are grateful to Olympia for allowing us to show why it is so important that veteran horses are given the opportunity of continuing to compete at an international level."

The achievement award winner also made an appearance in the ring during the competition.

This year the award wet to Ypres, the Metropolitan Police horse aged 16. He is a dark bay gelding standing at 16.1 hands and he and rider John Allan had a standing ovation.

The presentation was made by Julianne Aston and Carrie Davis, patron of the charity Veteran Horse Welfare.

Julianne added: "Ypres is just incredible and for 16 he is a massive ambassador for the veteran society and I hope many other horses continue to bloom like he has."

The society, which is based at Hendre Fawr farm, St Dogmaels, encourages new members and offers a further 50 area qualifications for shows wishing to hold the successful VHS classes.

Applications are available from 01239 881300 or by e-mailing them info@veteran-horse-society.co.uk Applications for membership are also available by visiting the website www.veteran-horse-society.co.uk.

3:20pm Tuesday 26th February 2008

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