A FARRIER from just outside Droitwich is counting his lucky horseshoes after scooping a top scholarship from an equestrian charity.

Craig Hopkins of Wychbold has won a bursary from the International League for the Protection of Horses (ILPH) and in return for the charity's support he will be trotting across the globe to help horses in developing countries.

Craig, of Worcester Road, had been a farrier for four years and has a forge in Fockbury Road, Dodford. He was chosen out of 15 candidates and is now gearing up for the oral, practical and written exams he faces in October.

He'll study subjects including foot balance and advanced shoe making, and will have a chance to obtain the Worshipful Company of Farriers' coveted qualification in corrective and therapeutic farriery.

"The exam is very hard to pass but this is a great opportunity," said the 40-year-old.

"Initially, I expect to spend two to three weeks in a Third World country, training young farriers and supporting the ILPH equine rehabilitation programmes.

"Some of the horses' feet will probably be in terrible condition but usually that's not because of cruelty but ignorance.

"If I can educate people in countries like India, they can share the knowledge and improve standards. I will definitely be making one trip but I imagine there could be more," he added.

ILPH director of operations David Mountford said he was extremely happy the bursary had been awarded and hoped more farriers could help the charity run its farrier training courses in the developing world.