A LITTLE girl, who was left heartbroken after her loan of a pony was cut short, is looking forward to plenty of horseplay with her new hay-munching mate.

Eva Bowering, of Hewell Road, Barnt Green, is delighted with her new pony Briar after the Advertiser/Messenger stepped in to give her sad story a happy ending.

The eight-year-old was devastated when the birthday gift of a three-month loan of a pony was terminated without explanation.

However, kind-hearted Joan Baker read Eva's story in this paper and thought she might be able to lend a helping hand.

At 64-years of age Joan, who owns a field and four ponies, decided it was all becoming a bit too much work for her to manage alone.

She called us in the hope of contacting Eva to offer her the extended loan of one of her ponies and the use of the field near her Fiery Hill Lane home.

The pint-sized horse-rider and mum Leigh met with Joan last Saturday.

"Eva immediately fell in love Briar, a nine-year-old pony and has been riding her all over the weekend," said Joan. "It's been really wonderful."

Mrs Bowering added: "It has been lovely that someone can be this kind.

"It just shows that there are some nice people out there."

Joan is inviting other young horse lovers to get in touch if they think they can also lend a hand, particularly with ten-year-old horse Indie.

Anyone interested can call her on 0121 445 4785.