A WORCESTER entrepreneur is hoping his horse trailer awnings will be a runaway success at shows this summer.

"I've been going to shows for years with my wife Colette and daughter Rebekah who shows her pony Harriet," said Steve Wintel, of Lower Broadheath.

"I've noticed on many occasions that there are so many garden gazebos, lorries and trailers that the field becomes a real obstacle course with the guide ropes and vehicles.

Sometimes at a show even the canvas flapping around will spook a nervous horse, and I am amazed I haven't seen anyone getting injured.

"With Show Shelters there is no flapping fabric to upset or cause alarm to horses or ponies. There is a clear working space around the trailer and no risk of a horse getting entangled in the awnings. You can tack the horse up under the shelter, and when it's not performing you can relax under the shelter yourself."

The Show Shelter awnings are designed to fit the full range of Ifor Williams and Wessex trailers, and fitting kits are in development for other popular trailer types.

Steve's innovative idea caught the eye of the Princess Royal when she saw the awnings at the National Pony Society Show in Malvern last year.

He said: "I wasn't on the list of exhibitors due to get a visit from the Princess, but when she saw the awnings she went out of her way to speak to me. I do hope the Princess wants some Show Shelters. It would be an honour."