CHRISTMAS came early for these horse-mad youngsters who enjoyed their annual festive party at Gracelands indoor arena in Droitwich.

Members of the Wyre Forest branch of the Pony Club spent hours washing and grooming their ponies before donning their special festive headgear for the popular "decorated hat" competition.

Father Christmas put in an appearance at lunchtime before the senior members of the club enjoyed an afternoon of jumping competitions.

Amanda Smith, district commissioner for the Wyre Forest branch, said there were some incredible creations that were judged by the owner of Gracelands, Chris Napier.

"I just don't know how they make such fabulous hats," said Amanda.

"There were lots of Christmas parcels and puddings and even a Father Christmas sitting on his sleigh, which was called Santa's last hunt. One youngster had even made a Christmas tree - complete with lights."

More than 40 children attended the event that took place on the Thursday before Christmas.

Does your horse's blanket fit? Try our five-point check

WHEN bundling up your horse this winter take a minute to check that his blanket and rug still fit.

We are halfway through the winter now and they might have stretched a bit or the fillings might need to be shaken about. You might need to get the rug cleaned and buy a second one in case of emergencies because we still have the coldest months ahead of us.

Changes in your horse's body condition can cause a cover that fitted perfectly at the beginning of the winter to be painfully ill-suited to his present profile.

The following five point blanket check will ensure that your horse is both warm and comfortable this winter.

n 1. Can you slip your hand easily between his blanket and his wither? Continual pressure in this area can produce discomfort or even lasting injury.

n 2. Is there room to slide a hand up into his shoulder area? Too tight a fit here will rub off hair and can cause painful friction injuries.

n 3. Is the neck cut so your horse can graze without pain? Place a tempting treat at floor level and watch for pressure from the front buckles as he reaches for it.

n 4. Does the tail flap lift easily when your horse passes manure? An ill-designed or too-heavy tail cover will get in the way and become a crusted mess.

n 5. Does the surcingle have to be adjusted tightly to keep the blanket in place? A blanket cut for your horse's body shape will stay in place without a tight, uncomfortable surcingle.

A "yes" to one or more of these questions means that your horse and his blanket are a poor match.

Simple alterations and creative use of fleece can fix some of the minor fit problems but the best solution may be to replace the blanket or rug altogether.

Measure your horse before you go shopping and consult with the seller about the right cut and styles for his particular body shape.