A veteran pony more used to herding sheep than winning prizes has helped his owners take home an armful of rosettes and trophies.

Chestnut, aged around 20, belongs to the Smith family, who were delighted to win three championship classes and no fewer than 12 first places at the St Dominic Gymkhana.

The hard-working pony is more used to rounding up livestock than taking part in competitions. But Chestnut carried all four members of the family - ten year old Sophie, Ben, nine, dad Darren and his partner Emma - to various successes at the community event.

The St Dominic Gymkhana and Dog Show was hailed a great success despite Sunday’s downpours. The event, now in its 48th year, raises funds for charities such as Riding for the Disabled and other local good causes.

More pictures, results and a report from Sunday’s show will be in this week’s Cornish Times out on Friday.