IT was the parade of the blondes at the Three Counties Showground, Malvern, when 70 Palomino horses and ponies with their golden coats and white manes and tails came to town.

They were the entries in the 36th British Palomino Society National Championships held over two days at the venue in the shadow of the Malvern Hills.

The striking equines arrived from all over the UK to take part in a wide range of in-hand and ridden classes, which included sections for first-time exhibitors and young handlers under 16 years old and leading rein classes for the under nines.

There were also side saddle, western riding, sport horse, pairs and driven classes among the more traditional showing competitions “It was a tremendous weekend, “ said show secretary Ann Langley, who had herself travelled up from Stowmarket in Suffolk. “It was the 12th time we have been to Malvern and it is always popular.”

The championships proved a remarkable success for Sue Edwards, of Cwmbach, Carmarthen, who took the supreme championship and the reserve with a father and son combination.

Subar Bonanza, a two years old colt bred and exhibited by Mrs Edwards, faced his sire and stablemate Taffman Tiny Tittlemouse in the supreme championship showdown.

Eventually the judges plumped for youth over experience, putting Subar first and his 13 years old father second. Mrs Edwards not only received the supreme championship Bayliss Cup and the reserve Castle Gold Knight Cup, but also took home the Lloyds Bank trophy for the breeder of the supreme champion.

“It was a remarkable day for her,” said Mrs Langley. Presumably proving that blondes have more fun.