MEPBG Blog

MEPBG - update and new appointments Oct 2023

Wed, 25 Oct 2023 17:58:23 GMT

How we are evolving Founder Chairman Nick Westcott's legacy

MEPBG - New Appointments and Update:
An MEPBG meeting was held at the Exford White Horse Inn (24 Oct). It was productive and proactive, with invaluable knowledge transfer. Topics discussed included the Exmoor Pony Genome Project and how to best progress the enormous opportunities opening up from mapping the genome of the Exmoor pony. Along with working with the Equus Survival Trust on DNA verified lineage tracking of authentic multi-generation Exmoor ponies outside of the closed stud book and those experiencing pedigree registration delays.

Appointment of new MEPBG Chairman, President and Treasurer:
Following the very sad death of the MEPBG’s Founding Chairman, Nick Westcott (Holtball Herd 11), in June, it was unanimously decided at the meeting to appoint Dawn Westcott (Holtball Herd 11) as MEPBG Chairman, Rex Milton (Withypoole Herd 23) as MEPBG President and Maria Floyd (Tippbarlake Herd 387) as Treasurer - proposed by Ben Williams and seconded by Nigel Floyd.

After discussing how best to remember the exemplary work Nick did in addressing issues within the Exmoor pony world and bringing moorland herd owners together to form the MEPBG in 2014, it was decided that the words ‘founded by Nick Westcott’ will be included with mention of the MEPBG, as a memorial tribute to Nick and his legacy.

Please feel welcome to read the Tribute to Nick Westcott .

We continue our work to identify issues that are causing long delays (and lost sales) with Exmoor pony pedigree registrations and passporting. We are also working on ways to improve recognition and status for purebred Exmoor ponies, where there is still no upgrading system in the closed stud book. As well as the ongoing EST DNA project, this includes issuing MEPBG Certificates of Authenticity for Exmoor MEPBG members ponies born and bred in Exmoor National Park . We feel more can be done to highlight the recognition and status of Exmoor ponies born and bred on Exmoor.

With MEPBG herd owners working together to explore and embrace advancements in science - which can potentially help to protect and safeguard the wellbeing and genetic health and diversity of Exmoor ponies - the future is looking very promising and we welcome your support and involvement.

The door is always open, so please get in touch with any questions, queries, thoughts, ideas, concerns - and help us to shape the MEPBG to be the best we can be for the ponies and future generations of Exmoor herd owners."

More about our work at www.mepbg.co.uk

Read the Western Morning News Article 9 Nov 2023 - "Exmoor Pony Group Pays Tribute to its Founder"

New Heritage Exmoor Pony & Equus Survival Trust DNA Project

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 10:27:19 GMT

Exmoor ponies in Exmoor National Park are to benefit from a new collaboration between the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) and USA-based Equus Survival Trust (EST).

The Heritage Exmoor Pony & EST DNA Project will enable DNA profiling and lineage tracking of MEPBG Exmoor ponies - particularly semi-feral Exmoor ponies who are excluded from the closed Exmoor pony stud book.

The Equus Survival Trust (EST) will provide funding and establish a DNA parentage baseline, where the new database of DNA markers and parentage relationships will provide pedigree and DNA test information to breeders, owners and potential owners. Ponies will be DNA profiled so that lineage can be established and, if necessary, foundation base lines created. Updating with future progeny will be ongoing and the EST and MEPBG will allow accredited genetic studies of the gene pool data.

“We’ve started by collecting DNA samples and field data from the long-standing Moorland Herd 99 on Molland Moor,” said Dawn Westcott, MEPBG project coordinator. “Almost all the Exmoor ponies in the herd are categorised as ‘non pedigree’ due to the fact that when DNA parentage verification was brought in for moorbred Exmoors as a pedigree registration requirement in the early 2000’s, a DNA baseline was not established. This caused confusion and ultimately, rendered the ponies and their progeny outside of the Exmoor pony stud book. As the stud book has no upgrading system, Exmoor ponies like these have no status or recognition. There are populations on Exmoor, in the UK and overseas in a similar situation."

"The new Heritage Exmoor Pony & EST DNA Project presents an enormous opportunity to authenticate lineage and recognise their moorland heritage.”

“Exmoor ponies are one of Great Britain’s most ancient native pony breeds and they are endangered. So maintaining the widest possible diversity in their tiny gene pool is vital. The free-living Exmoor moorland herds are particularly important in that the ponies retain the learned and genetic behaviours and characteristics of extensively grazing, free living animals. In other words - they remain true to type, hardy and resilient.”

Despite the previous DNA problems, the Dart family and Molland Estate have continued to safeguard their long-standing Exmoor pony herd. With increasing interest in rewilding and conservation grazing projects, for which these moorland Exmoors are suitable and desirable - as well as for riding ponies - they need status and recognition. Now there is hope.

Christina Williams, of the Molland Estate, comments, “When we gathered the Herd 99 Exmoor Ponies off Molland Moor last week, everyone was impressed with their quality. It is heartening to think that, with thanks to the EST, DNA profiling will enable these ponies to be lineage tracked and hopefully eventually included in the Exmoor pony stud book. These ponies are true to the Exmoor moorland type, move well and have the resilience to thrive in tough moorland conditions, making their genetics important in this critically endangered breed. If anyone who knows about pony breeds had been there, their heart would have been won over - now we can start to prove the science."

“The new DNA project will also help pedigree Exmoor ponies,” says Dawn Westcott. “More MEPBG herds are committing to the project and it is hoped that by establishing new and correct DNA baselines, it will also help to resolve anomalies affecting pedigree registrations. We are very grateful to the Equus Survival Trust for giving Exmoor ponies this opportunity.”
More information at www.mepbg.co.uk

This article appeared in the Western Morning News on Friday 27 November 2021.

Photography by Sarah Hailstone and Jamie Waters ( Shelduck Photography )

New DNA Profiling for MEPBG Exmoor Ponies

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 17:23:12 GMT

The new Heritage Exmoor Pony & Equus Survival Trust DNA Project

We are pleased to announce the start of The Heritage Exmoor Pony & Equus Survival Trust (EST) DNA Project .

The purpose of the project:

The Equus Survival Trust (EST) is to provide funding and establish a DNA parentage baseline for the moorland Exmoor Ponies stewarded by the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) i n the Exmoor National Park .  

The Equus Survival Trust will create a database of the DNA markers and the parentage relationships and provide pedigree & DNA parentage test information to breeders, owners, and potential owners. 

Statement of Intent / Scope of Project:

1) DNA Parent Test all ponies (until grant is exhausted). Owners of ponies will receive copies of DNA reports.
2) Solve relationships between the ponies sampled and/or create foundation base lines for ponies that cannot be fully parent verified due to missing parents, but who have been inspected by MEPBG and qualify as purebred moorland Exmoor Ponies.
3) Compile a DNA database with census information & DNA markers; MEPBG Liaison will receive a spreadsheet of this data to share with member breeders/owners.
4) Update database annually with any additional pony census /DNA
5) EST will allow accredited genetic studies of the gene pool data with appropriate accreditation of EST & MEPBG.

This project offers an enormous opportunity for the MEPBG Exmoor ponies to establish correct DNA baselines for their herds (pedigree, purebred, true to type Exmoor ponies) , in a format which allows accessible research by the herd owners and also to accredited experts, as agreed with the herd owners.

Molland Moor - Moorland Herd 99 Exmoor Ponies
The Heritage Exmoor Pony & EST DNA Project has started with DNA profiling and collection of field data from the long-standing Molland Moor herd of Exmoor ponies, Moorland Herd 99 . This herd has become stranded outside of the closed Exmoor Pony Stud Book through failure to establish a DNA baseline for the herd when DNA parentage verification was brought in as a pedigree registration requirement in the early 2000's.

However, the Dart family and Molland Estate have managed to maintain a healthy herd of resilient, robust, good quality, true to type, free-living Exmoor ponies to this day. With the tiny, endangered Exmoor pony gene pool, it is important to ensure that this moorland Exmoor pony herd receives appropriate recognition and status and is safeguarded for the future.

The Moorland Herd 99 Exmoor ponies retain the desirable learned and genetic characteristics and behaviours of extensively grazing, free living animals, through living on one of Exmoor's toughest moorlands.

These ponies are also awarded the MEPBG (Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group) Certificate of Authenticity - born and bred in Exmoor National Park by an MEPBG herd owner.

It is exciting to be DNA profiling the Molland Moor herd and establishing the all important DNA baseline for these lovely ponies.

Molland youngstock are available for sale now. More information and contact details for the Molland herd and the Dart family at https://www.mepbg.co.uk/moorland-herd-99

Withypoole Herd 23 Exmoor Pony Gathering

Sun, 17 Oct 2021 09:31:12 GMT

The historic gathering of the Exmoor Pony herd from Withypool Common, Exmoor

This weekend (16 and 17 October 2021) has seen the historic gathering of the Milton family's Withypoole Herd 23 Exmoor ponies. Foals will be inspected early next week and registered and entered into the Exmoor Pony Stud Book. Some will be looking for good opportunities - as future performance ponies and for quality conservation grazing and rewilding project.

Herd 23 is the oldest family-owned semi-feral Exmoor pony herd and the ponies run on both Withypool Common and Anstey Common in Exmoor National Park. More information about the herd here https://www.mepbg.co.uk/withypoole-herd-23

See the new short film (below here) with some clips and photographs from the gathering. Thank you to everyone who has helped to create this film #ExmoorDay.

Some beautiful pictures Geoff Baylis to keep you going. The Exmoor ponies crossing the River Barle and then Bradymoor, in Exmoor National Park.

NEW Exmoor stallion joins Tippbarlake Herd

Thu, 11 Mar 2021 14:24:57 GMT

Stunning young Herd 23 stallion, Withypoole King, joins mares on Brendon Common

NEWS! The MEPBG is thrilled to announce an historic and exciting moment for the Exmoor pony breed. The stunning young moorbred Herd 23 stallion, Withypoole King , bred by the Milton family, has now joined the Tippbarlake mares out on Brendon Common . This truly semi-feral herd, owned by the Floyd family, contains some of the oldest and most prestigious Exmoor pony bloodlines.

Exmoor ponies are one of Great Britain's oldest and endangered native pony breeds. In recent years, moorbred foal numbers have been plummeting alarmingly, yet interest is increasing in these high quality, resilient, beautiful authentic moorland ponies - particularly from rewilding and conservation grazing projects, where the learned and genetic characteristics and behaviours of extensively grazing free-living ponies are highly valued.

It is great news to see this breeding combination of the famous Withypoole Herd 23 and Tippbarlake Herd 387 bloodlines. We'll be watching King's progress with the mares with great interest.

#ExmoorPonies #gonative Exmoor National Park Rare Breeds Survival Trust #exmoor #rewilding

Pictures thanks to Sarah Hailstone

www.mepbg.co.uk

MEPBG Runs Out of Patience

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 13:09:42 GMT

Five years and counting and STILL the same registration problems

Thank you to all the moorland farmers and landowners who attended the MEPBG meeting in Exford last night - and those who gave apologies due to clashing commitments. It was one of our most progressive meetings so far and incredibly heartening to see the dedication and commitment to doing the best for the endangered breed Exmoor ponies of Exmoor National Park.

Attending: Representatives from farmers/herd owners spanning Brendon Common, Dunkery Commons, Molland Common, Anstey Common, Withypool Common, Haddon Hill and North Hill.

However, the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group continues to be exasperated at:
1) Continued difficulties in registering perfectly good quality, authentic, moorbred Exmoor ponies.
2) A faltering Exmoor Pony Genome Project - a separate report will be coming out about this soon.
3) No progress on an upgrading system and supplement to a closed Stud Book.
4) Failure to audit the Exmoor pony DNA parentage verification system.

It's not good enough and The Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group is running out of patience.

Exmoor ponies are a tiny breed with a dangerously small gene pool and high inbreeding coefficients. In addition to pedigree-registerable Exmoor ponies, there is a significant population of perfectly healthy, beautifully conformed, well-marked, tough, robust moorland Exmoor ponies languishing outside of pedigree registration and recognition.

The moorland Exmoor ponies retain the genetic and behavioural characteristics and behaviours of extensively-grazing, semi-feral animals. In short, as we have been shouting about for years - they are the 'real thing' and knock spots off paddock-bred ponies in many respects. Yet they're not being recognised as 'Exmoor ponies' and they're breeding outside of the recognised gene pool - or being unnecessary slaughtered due to obstructions and negativity.

Exmoor ponies are proving very expensive to try to register and keep through the long delays in the registration process, and this is jeopardising the safeguarding of the small number of moorland herds. Farmers are fed up with tussling with an intransigent breed society that regularly discourages their breeding programmes and tells them there is no market for their ponies. The younger generation is seriously contemplating keeping profitable cattle and sheep stock instead of Exmoor ponies.

Case Study:
The owner of the oldest family owned herd of moorland Exmoor ponies has this year been told by a breed society representative that he shouldn't be breeding so many foals because 'there is no market for them'. The herd owner informed the representative that he had already agreed sales for over half his foals BEFORE the inspection day. There are just seven beautiful colt and filly foals left to find homes for, from two large moorland commons.

This year, he is organising basic ID passports for his foals so they can be sold quickly off the moor, rather than having to be contained in the barns for months, like last year. There is no turnout at this very wet farm when the foals come off the moors and they ideally must be passported and sold as soon as possible after gathering. Last year, there were extraordinary delays in waiting for breed society DNA parentage verification within a herd of pedigree mares running with one or other of two pedigree stallions. This disgraceful delay caused poor foals to be confined to the barn in some cases for 9 long months. The last foal eventually travelled to Scotland to his new home and is STILL waiting for DNA confirmation. That is a total disgrace and fail of the registration system. There are no crossbreds in this herd.

All of the beautiful moorbred Exmoor foals should be speedily pedigree registered within two weeks of leaving the moors, not months later due to an inefficient and incompetent process. Keeping foals shut away in barns waiting months for sometimes inconclusive DNA parentage verification is a welfare issue. If the system is not up to the standard then it needs to be changed.

When herd owners have to resort to basic ID passports in some cases, it risks these ponies being lost from the endangered breeding gene pool as new owners may give up trying to get the pedigree registrations finalised. It also incurs the herd owners yet more veterinary and passporting costs.

The question should also be asked why the breed society is failing perfectly good moorland foals for 'a few white hairs'? This is an endangered breed. Safeguarding genetic diversity is critical. These few white hairs can disappear within a couple of coat changes. Also, these 'few white hairs' have been in the breed since the breed was identified and recorded. A few white hairs can occur for many reasons in a foal, including nutritional issues in the mare. Isn't it time we stopped rejecting these foals as 'Exmoor ponies' and instead created a Section B category where they are registered as perfectly good, healthy Exmoor ponies, whose progeny can return to Section A if born with no white hairs.

Let's remember the breed society representatives who boast that 'no paddock born foals are failed for white hairs' while mentioning various hair colour brands, etc. It needs to be said.

There is a double standard in Exmoor ponies: The entire registration system, breed standard and reasons for failing foals needs serious discussion. Before a few selfish hobby breeders have a catastrophic effect on the preservation and conservation of real, authentic Exmoor moorland ponies - due to their rules and regulations and registration system. And self-serving aspirations that do not hold the interests - and survival - of the true moorland herds at heart. That also needs to be said.

So the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group has had enough and will be shouting about this from the roof tops, yet again. Remember, we first asked for improvements to the registration system, a supplement and upgrading system added to the stud book, and audit of the DNA system in 2014. FIVE years later and we're still in the same situation.

It's not good enough!

Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)
@RBSTrarebreeds Exmoor Pony Project Exmoor-Nationalpark

2019 Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival

Sun, 24 Feb 2019 15:16:23 GMT

Our Calendar of Exmoor pony events for this year's Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival is here!

This year, the Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival runs from June through to the end of September. We're currently adding events to the Calendar and already have a host of wonderful Exmoor pony experiences available, which you can find here http://www.mepbg.co.uk/2019-heritage-exmoor-pony-festival

The Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival is organised by the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) and the Exmoor Pony Project and its aims are to celebrate the Exmoor Ponies of Exmoor National Park and promote the moorland foals looking for good homes in the autumn.

This year, you can watch the magnificent Tippbarlake Exmoor pony gathering , enjoy watching (or taking part in) Exmoor pony classes at local and county shows (inc a special Exmoor Pony Parade) , treat yourself to a ' Connecting with Exmoor Ponies & Yourself' workshop, take part in a wildlife photography workshop on location, join the Wild Pony Whispering Walk on the Dunkery Commons, and the National Trust's amazing Foreland Herd Walk.

There's something for everyone and we look forward to welcoming you to our events.

2019 Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival Calendar of Events http://www.mepbg.co.uk/2019-heritage-exmoor-pony-festival

Inspecting the Foreland Exmoor pony herd

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Fri, 09 Nov 2018 10:49:19 GMT

An opportunity to see how the West Exmoor National Trust's Exmoor pony herd is doing - at their autumn gather and check

The West Exmoor National Trust's semi-feral Exmoor pony herd runs on around 500 acres of common land at Countisbury, where the moorland extends to dramatic cliffs leading to Foreland lighthouse. This week, it was time to bring the ponies in for their autumn check and the National Trust - a member of the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group - invited us along to look over the herd with them.

The mares are having a breeding rest, following the National Trust taking over the herd from farmer James Bryant in early 2016. While the NT team continue to evolve their plans for the area and its conservation through farming for nature, the rest has certainly suited the ponies. They came in looking great and with just the right condition to face what is always a challenging and bracing winter - in an area exposed to the full force of the weather.

After drifting in from the moor to the fields at Kipscombe Farm, the mares migrate quietly to the barn where the West Exmoor NT team have created a fantastic pen system. It's carefully designed to minimise stress and enable the ponies to safely travel into the holding areas and through the shute, where they can be checked, before being let back out into the large corral area. The curved panelling and solid sides help to keep the ponies quietly moving along without panicking.

This is a semi-feral herd and the mares are naturally wary of being touched, so it's important to organise a safe handling system which allows the team to get close to each mare, without causing them to react and potentially hurt themselves.

Jennifer Rodliff, from Torch Vets at Barnstaple, was on hand to read microchips and examine the ponies. She has become a welcome and familiar face at various of Exmoor's moorland pony gatherings and inspections, where it's appreciated when the vets are experienced with the process and have the necessary specialist skills to deal with semi-feral herds.

Gradually, the mares came through the pen system, carefully guided by WExNT's expert stockman, Andrew Leworthy. Jennifer checked their microchips and looked them over with NT Ranger, Josey Field, who had the herd list to tick off, and me, Dawn Westcott, as the MEPBG representative. One by one, the mares were let back out into the corral. They all looked good, their winter jackets growing well, with their feet looking remarkably hard, well-shaped and healthy. The hard flinty tracks and moorland terrain, along with the grazing, really suits this herd. They've evolved to withstand the summer midges, flies and even ticks - with well-grown manes and tails showing no signs of allergies or itching, which with the warmer climate is increasingly prevalent across the equine breeds.

This is a lovely herd of quality mares, with James Bryant's careful choice of breeding stallions resulting in some beautiful heads, excellent conformation and a distinct type. Top quality moorland stallions like Hawkwell Great Gatsby, Tawbitts Golden Treacle , Acreswild Zeitgeist and others have all put their stamp on the herd.

Exmoors are highly intelligent and the Foreland mares understand the routine. Once the inspection was complete the herd stood calmly in the corral waiting patiently to be let back out onto the moor. It was great to be able to walk amongst them, saying hello to some familiar and - sorry! - favourite faces.

When Andrew opened the gate, it was impossible not to be moved by the sight of the ponies cascading back out onto the moor. I wished them all the best for the coming winter and it's good to know they are in excellent hands with the West Exmoor National Trust team.

Dawn Westcott

Below: The ponies can safely 'flow' around the excellent and well-planned pen handling system, into the shute - which helps keep them quiet and calm

NT farm manager Andrew is an expert stockman who carefully and expertly separates the mares so they can come through the pens.

Torch Vet, Jennifer Rodliff, and NT Ranger, Josey Field, examine and check the mares as they come through, before opening the shute to let them back out into the corral.

The tough moorland terrain and flinty tracks are a great environment for helping the ponies keep their hooves in tip top condition - well-shaped, hard and smooth.

Torch Vet, Jennifer, with Josey and Andrew from West Exmoor National Trust

After coming through the pens and finishing their check, the mares are relaxed and inquisitive

It's a beautiful herd

Now the mares are ready to go back out to the moor

Andrew opens the gate and off they go!

Find out more about the work of the National Trust at www.nationaltrust.org.uk

The National Trust - Foreland Herd 423

Location: Countisbury - Exmoor National Park

Contact: Ms Kelly Bezer MRICS

Address: The National Trust, Killerton House, Broadclyst, Exeter, Devon, EX5 3LE.

Telephone: 01392 881345

Email kelly.bezer@nationaltrust.org.uk

Beautiful Exmoor Ponies - NEW Short film

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Tue, 06 Nov 2018 11:05:23 GMT

Some amazing footage for Exmoor pony lovers - enjoy!

We've been so fortunate this year to capture some amazing footage of the awesome Moorland Exmoor ponies cascading down escarpments, galloping across the moor and generally showing off their amazing beauty and character!

Here's a short 5-minute film splicing together some of these clips and explaining more about how the Exmoor pony herds are managed in Exmoor National Park . Featuring the Milton family's Herd 23 (Withypool and Anstey Commons) and the Floyd family's Tippbarlake Herd 387 (Brendon Common).

Exmoor ponies are an endangered breed and people are working hard to safeguard their future. The moorland herds of Exmoor National Park are especially critical as this is their indigenous home - and this is where they retain their True Moorland Type .

The Exmoor Pony Project helps wild-born foals leaving the moors each autumn to find good opportunities. And we work with farmers, breeders, owners and enthusiasts to offer help and support, encourage compassionate handling of the ponies, campaign for welfare improvements - and promote this amazing, ancient native breed.

More info and contact details for herd owners working together for Exmoor ponies can be found at www.MEPBG.co.uk . MEPBG Breeder's Directory: http://www.mepbg.co.uk/about-MEPBG-directory

Thanks to Stefanie Schmidt and Millie Ker for help with footage and photos. Music thanks to www.bensound.com
Produced by Dawn Westcott - Exmoor Pony Project and MEPBG

Farmers gather in the Exmoor pony herds

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Sat, 27 Oct 2018 12:19:18 GMT

Finding good homes for the small number of Exmoor of foals is boosted this year by the NEW MEPBG Certificate of Authenticity

During October, the Exmoor farmers have been busy gathering in their Exmoor pony herds so the foals can be weaned and inspected - and it’s been a magnificent sight. Exmoor ponies are an endangered breed and an iconic part of Exmoor.

The pony gatherings have been taking place for many generations and one of the herds, Withypoole Herd 23 , is celebrating its 200th Anniversary. Owner, Rex Milton , said, “It’s tradition, every year we round up the ponies on Withypool Hill and Anstey Common and Herd 23 has been here for a very long time, since the 1800’s. We present the foals for inspection and registration and then hopefully find some good homes for them to go to. We’ve got to manage them in a traditional manner, they’re part of Exmoor and we’ve got to do the best we can for them.”

Herd 23 Exmoor ponies are famous for their bright bay and golden colouring. They're strong, up to height and retain the desired ‘true moorland type’ through living and breeding in their semi-feral, free-living environment. They make excellent riding and driving ponies as well as conservation grazers. The stallions Knightoncombe Royal and Combe Royal , run out on the moor with the mares. Unfortunately, The Aristocrat , who was running on Withypool Common is missing, presumed dead.

Rex’s brother, Robin Milton , co-owns the herd. “The family has been farming and keeping the ponies here for many generations. It’s part of the heritage and they’re part of Exmoor. It’s one of those iconic things that are specific to Exmoor. Pretty much every visitor and tourist you talk to wants to come and look at the scenery, the ponies and the red deer.”

Like other herd owners, the Miltons intend to keep one or two filly foals to perpetuate their herd. But colt foals cannot return to the moors and must find homes elsewhere as soon as possible after gathering. Exmoor ponies are an endangered breed and foal registrations are in alarming decline, with under sixty female foals pedigree registered for 2017 - worldwide. While care is being taken not to over-breed - and some herds are even taking a breeding rest - it’s also important to breed enough ponies to maintain a healthy gene pool. This autumn, MEPBG herds with some foals available include, Withypoole Herd 23 , Porlock Herd 100 and Tippbarlake Herd 387 .

With some of the farmers frustrated by lengthy delays in registering their ponies, which has in the past resulted in lost sales, this year the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) has decided to offer its breeders the opportunity to issue a special MEPBG Certificate of Authenticity for the pedigree and non-pedigree Heritage Exmoor ponies they have bred on Exmoor. It will feature a special ‘Born & Bred’ Exmoor National Park logo and map of the herds.

“The aim of the Certificate of Authenticity is to give the Exmoor ponies of Exmoor National Park better recognition and status - particularly the perfectly good population of Exmoor ponies currently languishing outside of pedigree registration through the absence of an upgrading system to the paper stud book.” said Dawn Westcott, MEPBG spokesperson and Exmoor Pony Project founder. “The general feeling within the MEPBG is that we should act to safeguard the ponies and this involves building their brand image and recognising their true type and authenticity. The new certificate will help to do that.”

If you're interested in finding out about the breed and this year’s foals, contact details for the herd owners can be found in the MEPBG Breeders Directory at http://www.mepbg.co.uk/about-MEPBG-directory

Short film Exmoor Pony Foals - A Good Future

https://youtu.be/Ox_6SH_zgO8

This article appears in the Western Morning News (26 October 2018) and the West Somerset Free Press (26 October 2018)

Photographs/film footage: Dawn Westcott, Millie Ker, Stefanie Schmidt

Short Film: Exmoor Pony Foals - A Good Future

Thu, 25 Oct 2018 11:42:39 GMT

Watch our MEPBG film featuring the amazing Herd 23 pony gathering on Exmoor

This weekend saw the amazing Withypoole Herd 23 Exmoor pony gathering on Exmoor! You can share the experience by watching our short film, below:

Exmoor Pony Foals - A Good Future
https://youtu.be/Ox_6SH_zgO8

Herd 23 Exmoor ponies run on Withypool Common and Anstey Common, in Exmoor National Park. A small number of beautiful filly and colt foals are now looking for good opportunities following their inspection this week, which they all passed. Colt foals particularly cannot return to the moors and must find roles elsewhere as soon as possible after gathering.

Herd 23 is the world's oldest family-owned herd of Exmoor ponies, which this year celebrates its 200th Anniversary!
The ponies are famous for their bright bay and golden colouring. They're strong and well put together, up to height and retain the desired True Moorland Type through living and breeding in a truly semi-feral, free-living environment. So they can make excellent riding and driving ponies as well as conservation grazers. The Herd 23 stallions Knightoncombe Royal and Combe Royal, run out on the moors with the mares.

You can read more about Herd 23 here http://www.mepbg.co.uk/withypoole-herd-23

Contact: Mr Rex Milton
email partridgearmsfarm@gmail.com

Address: Partridge Arms Farm, West Anstey, South Molton,

Devon EX36 3NU

Telephone: 01398 341217

The Exmoor pony breed is endangered and under 60 female foals were pedigree-registered world wide for 2017, so each and every Exmoor pony is important. If you're interested in helping to safeguard and conserve the indigenous Exmoor ponies of Exmoor National Park then please see the MEPBG Breeders Directory for contact details of herd owners working together on Exmoor. Link: http://www.mepbg.co.uk/about-MEPBG-directory

From this autumn, MEPBG herd owners will be able to issue a special MEPBG Certificate of Authenticity for their Heritage Exmoor Ponies born and bred in Exmoor National Park .

Exmoor Pony Foals - A Good Future
https://youtu.be/Ox_6SH_zgO8

Thanks to Millie Ker and Stefanie Schmidt for their help with the film and photographs.

Exmoor Pony Gatherings

Thu, 11 Oct 2018 09:41:36 GMT

A small number of Moorland Exmoor foals will be For Sale shortly

The Exmoor pony autumn gatherings take place this month (October). The foals will be inspected and passported and while some fillies will remain with their herds, the colt foals will be weaned and will be looking for good homes.

The Exmoor pony breed is endangered and foal registrations are in decline , so each and every pony is important. To put this in context, only 57 female foals were pedigree registered worldwide for 2017. With kind, patient socialisation and handling, semi-feral Exmoor pony foals make a successful transition from the moor and are the most rewarding and characterful ponies.

New owners help to conserve and preserve - and promote - this wonderful, ancient native breed. A very good time to connect with the foals is as soon as possible after the gathering/inspections, when they are newly weaned and appreciate some reassuring care in their new environment. So please contact the herd owners now.

MEPBG CERTIFICATE OF AUTHENTICITY: This year, MEPBG herd owners will be able to issue the new MEPBG Certificate of Authenticity for their ponies born and bred in Exmoor National Park - the indigenous home of the Exmoor Pony. Certificates will be issued for both pedigree and non-pedigree Exmoor ponies to accompany their passports, as an important recognition of their status and authenticity.

The MEPBG herds which may have a small number of foals or yearlings available are Westwillmer Herd 4 (Dunkery Commons), Withypoole Herd 23 (Anstey and Withypool Commons), Moorland Herd 99 (Molland Moor), Porlock Herd 100 (Porlock Hill) and Tippbarlake Herd 387 (Brendon Common).

Please contact the herd owners directly for more information - their contact details can be found here: http://www.mepbg.co.uk/about-MEPBG-directory

Thank you to the generous photographers who help us to promote the ponies with the help of their beautiful pictures

(Martin Buschmann, Geoff Baylis, Kirsten Bruns, Lisa and Jamie Waters, Maureen Harvey)

Report - 2018 Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Fri, 14 Sep 2018 14:46:48 GMT

Report on events and activities from this year's festival and upcoming Celebrating Exmoor Ponies Exhibition at Toucan in Minehead

The Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival, organised by the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) and Exmoor Pony Project, running throughout August, concludes with the Celebrating Exmoor Ponies Exhibition in Minehead during September and October.

Aiming to raise the profile of the endangered breed Exmoor ponies of Exmoor National Park, the festival kicked off in early August with author Dawn Westcott’s ‘Wild Pony Whispering Walk’ with real-life Exmoor pony characters Monsieur Chapeau, Monty and Princess Khaleesi. After a bracing climb up to Webber’s Post, walkers enjoyed lunch with spectacular views of Dunkery Beacon and the Horner River Valley.

Christina Williams led a walk and talk on her family’s Molland Moor to see the long-standing Exmoor pony herd there and learn more about the environment they live in and how it’s managed.

The spectacular gathering of the Floyd family’s magnificent free-living Tippbarlake Exmoor pony herd from Brendon Common drew an enthusiastic crowd, with the highlight seeing the ponies cascading down through Lancombe Crossing on their way up to Scobhill Gate.

Next came the MEPBG Exmoor Pony Show at Brendon Show , which went ahead despite an appalling weather forecast. Exmoor mare Yellowcombe Lapwing (Mr & Mrs NG Westcott) stood MEPBG Overall Supreme Champion and Overall Reserve Mountain & Moorland Champion, 2 year old gelding Farleywater Kenai (Mrs M Adams & Mrs H South) stood Overall Reserve Supreme and Moorbred Champion, gelding Monsieur Chapeau (Mr & Mrs NG Westcott) stood Non-Pedigree Champion and Reserve Moorbred Champion, and moorbred Que Sera Sera (Mrs B Rawle and ridden by Tara Hernaman-Wood) stood MEPBG Best Ridden Exmoor.

Local photographer Jamie Waters revealed how to get the best wildlife photographs at his popular workshop out on the Dunkery Commons, which included Red Deer and Exmoor ponies.

Later in August, West Exmoor National Trust Ranger Josey Field l ed a walk and talk on the breathtaking cliffs at Foreland Point , explaining how their Exmoor pony herd helps with the area’s conservation, and it was well attended despite another bout of inclement weather.

Jamie Waters led a wildlife walk out on Dunkery for people keen to understand more about the diverse flauna and flora within the dramatic 5000 acre moorland.

There was an amazing age range, from 16 to 90 years old, at Dawn Westcott’s Connecting With Exmoor Ponies Workshop , where participants explored herd dynamics and how to better understand and work with Exmoor ponies, building their trust and confidence. It was also a lovely opportunity to reunite the now thriving orphan foal, Tippbarlake Lady Luna , with one of the walkers, Rowan Wilde , who was in the group that discovered her during last year's Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival walk in the Hoar Oak Valley.

To conclude this year’s festival, from 18 September a group of photographers and artists will be displaying their work at the Celebrating Exmoor Ponies Exhibition at Toucan Wholefoods Cafe in Minehead for six weeks. Exhibits include paintings, canvasses, silk screen, felt artwork and photographic prints and some will be available for sale.

“The aim of the Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival is to promote awareness of the Exmoor Ponies of Exmoor National Park and, particularly of the small number of foals looking to find good homes after the autumn gatherings. This year the focus has been on getting people out and about to see the ponies, and better understand them, and we’re very encouraged by the interest, with some foals already being reserved to new homes.” said Nick Westcott, MEPBG Chairman . ‘The best time to purchase them is at weaning time in the autumn, when they need a helping hand to make the transition from the moor and become successfully socialised.”

More information about the Exmoor pony herds and how to handle and train Exmoor ponies can be found at www.mepbg.co.uk and www.wildponywhispering.co.uk .

Below: Images from the Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival Events. Our thanks to photographers - Geoff Baylis, Pandora Maund, Millie Ker and Dawn Westcott.

The Tippbarlake Exmoor Pony Herd Gathering

The Wild Pony Whispering Walk on the Dunkery Commons

The MEPBG Exmoor Pony Show Supreme Championship at Brendon Show

The Connecting with Exmoor Ponies Workshop

Rowan Wilde is reunited with rescued orphan wild-born foal Tippbarlake Lady Luna, who is now a yearling

The 'Celebrating Exmoor Ponies Exhibition' runs at Toucan Wholefoods Cafe in Minehead from 18 Sept to 30 October 2018.

The Amazing Tippbarlake Exmoor Pony Gathering!

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Fri, 10 Aug 2018 10:36:37 GMT

On 6 Aug, spectators and riders came to experience the Floyd family's Tippbarlake ponies gathered in from the moor

The Tipparlake Exmoor pony gathering enjoyed some amazing media coverage this week. Many thanks to SWNS and to BBC Spotlight, Ben McGrail at ITV, the Daily Mail, BBC North Devon Radio, Western Morning News, Somerset Live, Metro and everyone else who promoted the footage and photographs of the largest herd of Exmoor ponies in the world cascading down to Lancombe Crossing on Brendon Common, on their way to the Floyd family's farm at Brendon Barton .

Crowds gathered to watch the spectacle of over 100 beautiful Exmoor ponies being gathered from around 3000 acres of Brendon Common and coming off the moor. The event is becoming a popular draw for both spectators and riders and this year people came from all over the UK to experience it.

People have asked why the herd is being gathered in August and this is a very good point. One of the reasons for gathering moorland herds in August is to give the breed society more time to try and identify mares and foals from their DNA profiles in their database.

Many foals from last year are still without parentage verification and proper passports so we hope better results c an be achieved this year , enabling these beautiful authentic true moorland type Exmoor foals to find good homes when they are gathered and weaned in the autumn. It is essential that foals have passports so they can leave the farms - and delays in receiving their paperwork can result in lost sales and at worst, the culling of subsequently unwanted foals.

If DNA parentage verification fails - despite the foals having been sired by a registered Exmoor stallion out of a registered Exmoor mare and meeting the breed standard - they are nevertheless not able to be recognised as an 'Exmoor pony' and this severely limits their opportunities, and value.

In this day and age, there is no reason or excuse for obstructing the registration and passporting of perfectly good quality, purebred but endangered breed Exmoor ponies.

Brendon Common is one of the largest and wildest moorlands of Exmoor National Park, where the ponies are truly semi-feral and have to be tough and robust to survive and thrive in the challenging conditions and terrain.

The Tippbarlake herd contains some of the oldest and consistently semi-feral bloodlines and safeguarding their future is a passion shared by the whole family.

The Tippbarlake herd gathering is part of the Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival . Organised by The Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group and Exmoor Pony Project . For more events please see the Calendar here: http://www.mepbg.co.uk/2018-heritage-exmoor-pony-festival

Filming and photographs by Dawn Westcott www.wildponywhispering.co.uk

#HeritageExmoorPonyFestival #MoorlandExmoorPonyBreedersGroup #MEPBG #ExmoorNationalPark #TippbarlakeHerd #ExmoorPonies #Exmoor

Pictured below: Members of the Floyd family during the Tippbarlake pony gathering. From left (standing) Wendy Floyd, Nigel Floyd, Chelsea Savage, Maria Floyd, Taylor Floyd, Andrew Floyd, Lexy Floyd and Ross Crang

Media Thanks and Links:

BBC Spotlight: https://www.facebook.com/bbcspotlight/videos/2070499193015568/

Ben BcGrail ITV: https://www.facebook.com/McGrailBen/videos/1130758287100590/

Daily Mail (click to view online article)

Metro News https://www.metro.news/running-free-exmoors-wild-ponies/1176037/

Somerset Live https://www.somersetlive.co.uk/news/uk-world-news/watch-ponies-herd-exmoor-somerset-1875949

Devon Live https://www.devonlive.com/news/devon-news/crowds-gather-britains-largest-wild-1874449#comments-secti...

Daily Mail http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/article-6039785/Huge-herd-wild-ponies-thunder-hillside-moved-Exmoor....

The Wild Pony Whispering Walk!

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Thu, 02 Aug 2018 19:52:50 GMT

The Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival's first event takes place.

The Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival kicked off with the Wild Pony Whispering Walk on Wednesday 1 August. We had a fantastic day with a lovely group of people, meeting at Holt Ball Farm and then walking out on the breathtakingly beautiful Dunkery Commons of Exmoor National Park.

The walkers were accompanied by real-life Exmoor ponies characters from Dawn Westcott’s Wild Pony Whispering books - Monsieur Chapeau, Monty and Princess Khaleesi, along with their handlers Dawn, Millie Ker and Kate Hele. The weather was gorgeous and after a couple of bracing hills leading up from Luccombe towards Robin Howe, they reached Webber’s Post for the glorious views across the Horner River Valley, Cloutsham Ball and onwards to Dunkery Beacon.

It was then time for a break to enjoy packed lunches and some welcome refreshments arriving in Nick Westcott's truck and it was clear this was a great group of people who all got on got on well together. The ponies responded by calmly grazing and going along with it all.

Returning through the glorious forestry to Holt Ball for a welcome cup of tea, our walkers then met orphan foal Tippbarlake Lady Luna and her chums, who all loved the attention.

Here’s some feedback from the walk…

“There is nowhere else I would rather be. A beautiful walk. Thank you.” Julia

“Just a brilliant walk with very nice people and animals.” Steve

“Amazing day with Dawn and her beautiful ponies.” Jayne

“Gorgeous ponies, fabulous scenery a really lovely walk. Thank you very much.” Hazel

“Wonderful walk with the ponies. Feel so grateful living in this divine area and being able to participate in these outings.” Heather

“Stunning scenery, amazing ponies, wonderful experience - to be repeated!” Annie

“Fabulous walk and so informative about the Exmoor ponies and how the herd are managed. Thank you so much.” Pandora

“Incredibly thought provoking - many thanks!” Sally

“Amazing day, wonderful views ‘God’s own country’ - Dawn and her team made the day perfect.” Julie

The next moorland walk is with the Molland Estate’s Christina Williams this coming Sat 4 August and the Tippbarlake pony gathering from Brendon Common is on Mon 6 August. More info and the Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival Calendar of Events can be found here: http://www.mepbg.co.uk/2018-heritage-exmoor-pony-festival

Photos thanks to Pandora Maund and Kate Hele.

Thank you for supporting the Exmoor Ponies of Exmoor National Park. The Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival is organised by local Exmoor farmers and land owners of the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group and Exmoor Pony Project.

Coming up - Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival

Tue, 31 Jul 2018 07:15:23 GMT

Starts 1 August - join us in celebration Exmoor Ponies of Exmoor National Park!

The fourth Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival will be celebrating the Exmoor ponies of Exmoor National Park during August and September, organised by local Exmoor farmers and land owners from the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) and Exmoor Pony Project.

This year, the focus is on encouraging people out onto the moor to see the ponies in their natural environment and understand more about this iconic, ancient native pony breed that we’re all working hard to safeguard. As an endangered breed, every Exmoor pony is important and with far fewer foals being bred, we’re keen to raise the profile of the ponies and connect with more people - so the foals who have to leave the moors in the autumn can find good homes.

On Wednesday 1 Aug festival goers can enjoy a walk with Exmoor pony characters from Dawn Westcott’s Wild PonyWhispering books, on the breathtakingly beautiful Dunkery Commons where orphan foal Monsieur Chapeau was rescued in 2014. On Saturday 4 Aug, Christina Williams from the Molland Estate will lead a special hour-long walk and talk on Molland Moor, explaining about the long-standing herd of Exmoor ponies and the moor they live on. On Monday 6 Aug, spectators and riders are invited by the Floyd family to join the magnificent Tippbarlake ponygathering from Brendon Common to the home farm at Brendon Barton.

There’s a day out for the whole family on Sunday 12 August at Brendon Show, which hosts the MEPBG ExmoorPony Show with its classes for both pedigree and non-pedigree Exmoor ponies. This year the Molland Estate has sponsored a hefty £100 cash prize for the MEPBG Supreme Exmoor Pony Champion and the M&M and Exmoorpony classes will be held in the main ring to celebrate the British Native Breeds. Brendon Show also offers horse and pony showing classes, show jumping (Cricklands qualifier), gymkhana, sheep show, dog show, stags horns, vintage machinery, bar, refreshments and trade stands at one of Exmoor’s longest-standing events.

If you want to improve your wildlife photography skills, then join local photographer Jamie Waters workshop on Wednesday 15 Aug, which starts at Webber’s Post on the Dunkery Commons. And on Sunday 19 Aug, West Exmoor National Trust ranger, Josey Field, will lead a walk and talk around stunning Foreland Point and explain the conservation role of the Exmoor ponies there. Don’t put your walking boots away just yet, because on Wednesday 22 Aug, Jamie Waters is meeting at Brockwell, Wootton Courtenay, to lead a wildlife walk out on the moor. On Saturday 25 Aug Dawn Westcott is hosting an Exmoor Pony Project workshop which offers participants the opportunity to meet the Exmoor pony herd close up and explore how to connect and build trust with the ponies and better understand them.

And finally, an eclectic display of Exmoor pony photography and artwork will be on display from 17 September for six weeks, at the Toucan Wholefoods Cafe in Minehead, with some of the exhibits and prints available for sale.

“Some of the events are free and others are fundraising for the Exmoor Pony Project. We hope people will come along and enjoy these unique opportunities to meet and find out more about Exmoor ponies.”

The full Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival calendar of events and contact details can be found at http://www.mepbg.co.uk/2018-heritage-exmoor-pony-festival .

Resolution served to Exmoor Pony Society

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Sat, 17 Mar 2018 14:06:06 GMT

To amend Rule 8(h) at the EPS AGM on 2 May to enable re-inspection of all affected Exmoor ponies after elements of the breed standard are changed

Following the decision at the 2017 Exmoor Pony Society AGM to no longer pick up the feet of foals during inspection, the colour of the ponies undersoles is no longer a reason for failure. However, this rule change allowed for ponies previously failed for this reason to be re-inspected and upgraded - but only if they had been inspected once, not twice.

This has created discrimination within the breed. Written requests to the EPS trustees to please re-inspect ponies who had been seen twice, before the rule change, have been refused.

So this means that, currently, there are Exmoor ponies inside and outside of pedigree Section One registration - for the same reason. That is not reasonable, particularly as the status, value and opportunities for ponies outside of pedigree registration are severely compromised. For example, they cannot be exhibited in affiliated Exmoor pony or Mountain & Moorland showing classes.

The list of current EPS trustees and officials can be found here: http://www.exmoorponysociety.org.uk/the-society/the-committee/

There has therefore been no alternative but to serve the Exmoor Pony Society with a Resolution, for the AGM on 2 May, to please amend Rule 8(h) to allow: '...an Exmoor pony which at previous inspection(s) did not meet the required standard for an element or elements that are no longer applicable shall be entitled to a single further re-inspection'.

If you are an Exmoor Pony Society member and you would like to support this Resolution, please email MoorlandExmoorGroup@hotmail.co.uk. We will then email you a copy of the Resolution letter which you will need to:

1) Email to the secretary@exmoorponysociety.org.uk by close of play this Tuesday 20 March and;

2) Confirm in that email that you will also be posting a signed hard copy of the letter to the EPS.

If you are not a member of the EPS, and would still like to add your name to support this Resolution , please feel welcome to also email us at MoorlandExmoorGroup@hotmail.co.uk and we will email you a copy of the Resolution letter and add your name to the list of supporters.

Thank you for your support.
Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG)

Moorland Exmoor Ponies in Crisis

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Sat, 10 Mar 2018 14:01:33 GMT

Article in the Minehead & Exmoor Chronicle looking at registration issues

The March 2018 issue of the 'Moorland Exmoor Ponies in Crisis' includes an article on pages 14 and 15 looking at the situation regarding registration of moorland Exmoor ponies.

You can read the article here:
https://issuu.com/mineheadexmoorchronicle/docs/minehead-and-exmoor-chronicle-march

Sky News https://news.sky.com/video/farmers-forced-to-cull-endangered-ponies-11266929

ITV News West Country TV feature https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q30abIACryg

BBC Points West TV feature https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=otxdmJerH1U

The Tippbarlake Gathering

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Wed, 15 Nov 2017 09:25:56 GMT

Bringing the Exmoor ponies in from 5500 acres of the Brendon Commons

Sunday saw the gathering of the magnificent Tippbarlake Herd 387 from Brendon Common and the surrounding moorland areas, which amount to some 5,500 acres, by the Floyd family.
With hail and wind initially lashing the riders and spectators, there was some doubt if the gathering could go ahead, but the weather cleared a little to allow the riders to head out to Hoaroak Valley and Cheriton Ridge to begin sweeping the moor and rounding up the ponies. The various social bands had spread far and wide, but they were gradually all brought across Lancombe Ford - this time also accompanied by some of Nigel Floyd's enthusiastic Red Devon cattle - and driven up to Scobhill Gate.
There, they left the moor onto the lane leading down past Brendon Manor and Brendon Manor Riding Stables, along to the home farm at Brendon Barton. They rested in the holding paddock, giving the spectators the opportunity to view these lovely ponies at close quarters, before being directed up into some large fields, where they'll remain until the foals are weaned and inspected.

The Tippbarlake herd was established in 2002 when Bob Westcott bequeathed Nigel Floyd a number of his top quality Exmoor mares, bearing ancient and important bloodlines. The herd has evolved to breed quality ‘true moorland type’ Exmoor ponies, capable of surviving and thriving in an authentic semi-feral situation, on some of Exmoor’s wildest and most challenging terrain. These ponies are incredibly hardy, strong, resilient and resourceful - retaining their desirable characteristics and behaviours. Interestingly, living and breeding in their natural indigenous environment also enables them to retain their striking good looks, including dramatic mealy-coloured markings around their eyes, muzzle and underbelly, often with flashes of bright blond highlights in their manes and tails.

Nigel Floyd is related to George Molland (of Simonsbath), who was a co-founder of the Exmoor Pony Society in the 1920’s and the ponies are woven into the history and heritage of a long standing Exmoor farming family. The Tippbarlake herd, like others, is maintained for reasons of tradition and passion rather than agricultural income, and safeguarding the herds can be a challenge. Moorland grazing quotas are strict, so some of the foals must find good homes after being brought in and weaned. With kind and patient handling, these intelligent ponies have enormous ability and can excell at the equestrian disciplines, from jumping to agility.

This year, the Tippbarlake herd has a small number of colt and filly foals available. To find out more, contact Maria Floyd on 01598 741201 and email mariafloyd@gmail.com.

FOR SALE: Quality Moorbred Exmoor Foals

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Tue, 17 Oct 2017 18:08:59 GMT

The autumn Exmoor pony gatherings are taking place now

The Exmoor pony gatherings are now taking place in Exmoor National Park and there are a small number of beautiful quality Exmoor pony foals coming up for sale. They are looking for considerate new owners who can help them to make the transition to life off the moors - or perhaps to join conservation grazing projects.

Exmoor ponies are a charismatic, endangered, ancient native hill pony breed and we welcome new owners to help safeguard their future. The MEPBG members are working together to breed carefully and ensure that the 'True Moorland Type', authentic Exmoor ponies continue to survive and thrive in Exmoor National Park - and beyond. If you are interested in becoming the owner of an Exmoor pony or two, then please feel very welcome to contact the MEPBG members for more information about their herds and ponies. Their contact details can be found in the MEPBG Breeders Directory . Exmoor pony foals will be available following the various pony gatherings and then inspections. There will be pedigree and purebred Exmoor pony foals available.

The MEPBG includes:

Westwillmer Herd 4 (Dunkery Commons)

Holtball Herd 11 (Porlock Vale)

Withypoole Herd 23 (Anstey and Withypool Commons)

Exmoor National Park Authority Herds 42 and 52 (Haddon Hill and North Hill)

Moorland Herd 99 (Molland Moor)

Porlock Herd 100 (Porlock Hill)

Farleywater Herd H67 (Buscombe)

Tippbarlake Herd 387 (Brendon Commons)
Foreland Herd (Countisbury & Kipscombe).

Herds with foals definitely available include:

The Milton family's Withypoole Herd 23 (sired by The Aristocrat and Knightoncombe Royal);

The South family's Farleywater Herd H67 (sired by Wortleberry);

The Coldicutt family's Porlock Herd 100 (sired by Zeus);

The Floyd family's Tippbarlake Herd 387 (sired by Tippbarlake Jamie);

Moorland Herd 99, (sired by Knightoncombe Royal).

Link to the MEPBG Breeders Directory: http://www.mepbg.co.uk/about-MEPBG-directory

The Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) was established by Exmoor farmers and land owners to improve breeding practices, herd management, handling of ponies, knowledge transfer and communication, welfare, marketing, promotion and opportunities for the pedigree and purebred Exmoor ponies of Exmoor National Park - and to address issues regarding their classification and registration. The group was also established to give the farmers and land owners a collective voice with regard to safeguarding their Exmoor ponies.
The group has already achieved a significant amount of progress in all areas - including extensive improvements in moorland management, the establishing of the MEPBG Exmoor Pony Show and the Heritage Exmoor Pony Festival , campaigning for recognition of all suitable moorland genetics, embracing DNA genomic purity testing (the MEPBG is a main stakeholder in the Exmoor Pony DNA Whole Genome Project ), working for improved foal sales, safeguarding of herds, and establishing the Heritage Exmoor Pony Register .

More information about the MEPBG at www.mepbg.co.uk .

Reading List: More information about the herds, the Exmoor ponies of Exmoor National Park, the MEPBG and also detailed tips and practical help on how to socialise and handle, care for and manage wild-born Exmoor ponies can be found in books Wild Pony Whispering, Wild Stallion Whispering and Wild Herd Whispering - find out more at www.WildPonyWhispering.co.uk

MEPBG Meeting

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Wed, 11 Oct 2017 14:36:55 GMT

A well attended MEPBG meeting & welcome to new herd owners

There was an excellent and well-represented meeting of the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) at the Rest & Be Thankful Inn on Exmoor last night.

We are delighted to confirm the new memberships to the MEPBG of the North Devon National Trust and the Foreland herd , and also Malcolm and Sheridan Westcott and their Westwillmer Herd 4 , which runs on the Dunkery Commons.

The autumn pony gatherings are now taking place and there will be a small number of excellent quality Exmoor pony foals looking for good homes. For more information about the MEPBG and contact details of the herd owners, please visit http://www.mepbg.co.uk/about-MEPBG-directory .

The MEPBG represents:

Westwillmer Herd 4 (Dunkery Commons)

Holtball Herd 11 (Porlock Vale)

Withypoole Herd 23 (Anstey and Withypool Commons)

Exmoor National Park Authority Herds 42 and 52 (Haddon Hill and North Hill)

Moorland Herd 99 (Molland Moor)

Porlock Herd 100 (Porlock Hill)

Farleywater Herd H67 (Buscombe)

Tippbarlake Herd 387 (Brendon Commons)

Foreland Herd (Countisbury & Kipscombe).

The MEPBG is a collaboration of progressive Exmoor farmers and land owners working together to promote the excellence of the Exmoor ponies of Exmoor National Park. The group is also working to improve breeding practices and moorland management, communication and knowledge transfer, welfare and opportunities for the ponies and particularly the foals looking for good opportunities who need to leave the moor each autumn.

Safeguarding Exmoor Pony Genetics

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Sun, 01 Oct 2017 10:44:04 GMT

Why it's not as simple as just having pedigree registered ponies in your herd

Did you know that over the years, a significant number of Exmoor ponies have been excluded from pedigree registration through various reasons that are not their fault? That there are perfectly good quality purebred Exmoor ponies who are currently outside of the breeding gene pool and Exmoor Pony Stud Book?

This has caused many Exmoor ponies to be needlessly culled with the loss of around 50 mares from some herds. Reasons for exclusion from pedigree registration range from ponies evading gatherings in the wilder moorland areas; mix-ups with DNA samples and in correctly identifying stock; insufficient markers being used with DNA testing to sometimes successfully distinguish between closely-bred endangered breed ponies within a tiny gene pool; errors in data-capture/administration; anomalies in source pedigree breed data, etc.

Some herd owners have culled these ‘anomalies’ irrespective of the quality of the ponies. There is boasting from some quarters of having only ‘pedigree-registered’ ponies in herds - but it’s interesting to understand how some of these herd owners arrived at having only ‘pedigree registered’ ponies in their herds.

Other herd owners have kept good quality purebred ponies, irrespective of difficulties with registration, and continue to safeguard the genetics of good, purebred stock. This can be difficult, frustrating, expensive and also heart-rending.

So please spare a thought for herd owners who preserve and conserve good quality Exmoor ponies - despite these issues - and who don’t just cull stock in order to make administration and registration easier.

Our enormous and heart felt thanks to the Exmoor farmers and herd owners here in the UK and overseas, who continue to protect and safeguard Exmoor ponies - whether inside the stud book or alarmingly outside of it.

There is currently NO supplement or upgrading system to enable any of these ponies to re-enter the stud book and pedigree breeding gene pool. The Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group has been asking for a supplement and upgrading system to be created since 2015. Other breeds offer this, like the Dartmoor breed.

The Exmoor Pony DNA whole genome project is waiting for final samples to be collected so that first phase whole genome mapping can commence. The intention is for this testing and analysis of the breed to provide a baseline against which Exmoor ponies can have their purity confirmed. We’ll keep you posted regarding how it develops.

In the meantime, if you’d like more information on Exmoor farmers and land owners who are collaborating and working together for the greater good of both pedigree and purebred Exmoor ponies, then please visit www.mepbg.co.uk.

Working together is the way forwards and these people and organisations are doing it. Ponies and also entire herds are being saved and safeguarded through MEPBG communication, cooperation, knowledge transfer, collaboration and looking to the welfare of the entire Exmoor herd, not just individually-owned ponies.

Pictured below: Holtball Black Bess, granddaughter of Herd 23 The Highwayman, who passed his stallion inspection but could not be registered because early DNA testing (thought to be using only about 9 markers) could not identify one or both of his parents. He and most of his progeny died. He was thought by some to be one of the best moorland Exmoor stallions ever seen and he had fought his way to covering most of the mares in a large free-living herd with a number of entire males running in it at the time. If ever there were bloodlines to preserve and conserve, surely the genetics of The Highwayman are important? We have been advised to breed from one of the very few daughters of The Highwayman to try to safeguard these moorbred Exmoor pony genetics.

MEPBG Letter to EPS re Picking Up Feet

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Thu, 04 May 2017 10:42:30 GMT

MEPBG welcomes rule change to stop picking up feet during foal inspections

MEPBG letter to the Exmoor Pony Society 4 May 2017:

Dear Mr Brewer (EPS Chairman)

Re: EPS rule change to cease picking up feet during foal inspections

The MEPBG is delighted to hear that the members voted at yesterday's AGM that the feet of foals will no longer be picked up during EPS inspections.

"This is a major step forward in both pony welfare and in stemming the exclusion of important genetics from the stud book and breeding gene pool, through no longer rejecting ponies for the colour of sole plates. It also vastly reduces the risk of damage and injury to both handlers and ponies.

"It would be good to address the issue of retrospective inclusion of Exmoor ponies previously 'failed' for the colour of sole plates, as there is a significant number of quality ponies, both on and off the moor, that can now be upgraded to pedigree status. Both with regard to the breeding herds and also in enabling ponies to take part in affiliated showing classes.

"We understand the trustees are discussing this at their forthcoming meeting in June and we look forward to hearing how the upgrading will be progressed.

Regards
Nick Westcott
MEPBG Chairman
Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG)

MEPBG Health & Safety letter to EPS

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Thu, 13 Apr 2017 12:22:02 GMT

in response to Emma Wallace's letter in Horse & Hound 13 April 17

4 May 2017: UPDATE TO THIS BLOG and MEPBG statement:

The MEPBG is delighted to hear that the feet of foals will no longer be picked up during EPS inspections (ref Exmoor Pony Society AGM on 3 May 2017). This is a major step forward in both pony welfare and in stemming the exclusion of important genetics from the stud book and breeding gene pool, through no longer rejecting ponies for the colour of sole plates. It also vastly reduces the risk of damage and injury to both handlers and ponies.

Nick Westcott, MEPBG Chairman.

BACKGROUND:

Further to Emma Wallace's letter published in Horse & Hound (13 April 2017 issue), we would like to make the following information available to Exmoor pony breed supporters and the public:-

Emma Wallace's letter:

"Sir - With regard to whether Exmoors with pale undersoles should enter the studbook (news, 16 March; letters, 30 March), I wish to remind breed supporters that the trustees of the Exmoor Pony Society (EPS) do their best to support the breed as well as uphold the breed standard. My family are guardians of the Anchor herd that holds almost 25% of the entire Exmoor pony population's gene pool. We have managed and upheld the breed standard since World War II, as have other owners of free-living and "upcountry" bred ponies.

The Exmoor Committee of Herd Owners (ECHO) work to support breeders at gathering time and always managed to inspect even the wild moorland foals safely. I feel concerned that a threat of "criminal liability" was cited towards the trustees of the EPS by the chairman of the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG) and that MEPBG feel the need to dictate their own terms for inspection.

The genetic pool of the ponies is small, but failing to inspect all criteria of the breed standard will weaken the breed long term. Only thoughtful breeding programmes will strengthen the breed for the future. The EPS are investing in a genome project, which could be useful in determining the "no white markings" rule and the purity of ponies who "fail on inspection" and whose parentage cannot be DNA proven."

Emma Wallace, Dulverton, Somerset

Ends

Perhaps we can draw Mrs Wallace's attention to this recent moorland inspection (see picture of the Herd 423 inspection below) and the traumatised, up-ended colt being grappled, restrained and having his feet forced up, inside a cattle shute? Every one of the twelve foals inspected showed trauma and distress during this practice (of picking up feet) at the inspection. Also, at this same inspection, one of the inspectors (Rob Taylor of ECHO) received a hard double-barrelled kick to his legs, doubling him up in pain. At another moorland herd inspection (Herd 23) the herd owner Rex Milton - a ‘keyman' at his Exmoor farm - received a severely blackened foot that caused him pain for over 3 weeks. Shall we also talk about the foals who break their necks and legs and tails - and have to be PTS as a result of EPS inspections?

As Mrs Wallace has publicly accused the MEPBG of 'threatening' the EPS trustees, when this group of farmers and landowners of Exmoor is actually simply trying to point out another dangerous and unnecessary EPS practice - which is now thought to potentially leave the trustees 'criminally liable' - we would like to take this opportunity to allow people to read the letter sent to the EPS trustees in February, concerning health and safety of the pony inspections, from the MEPBG (see below).

With regard to the apparent 'misinterpretation' of the no white markings rule to fail foals for the colour of their sole plates (something that only EPS does) - perhaps the ‘folklore' should be examined regarding which herd owners/managers apparently noticed that their showing competitors had paler-soled ponies and that, as a result of introducing the failing of these kind of ponies at inspections, left themselves with fewer showing competitors and perhaps a better chance of winning rosettes - and perhaps also, a greater opportunity to dominate the Exmoor pony market?

With regard to the Exmoor Pony DNA Whole Genome Project, it is still in the very first stages of collecting the first phase of DNA samples and the project is a long way from completion. The open access data would then be available for potential further research, if and when funding could be secured, that may or may not include research into ‘white markings’. So putting off dealing with the loss of genetics until an uncertain date in the future is, to many, completely unacceptable and detrimental to the breed.

In the meantime, we would draw your attention to the serious concerns of many that, through the failing of foals for colour of sole plates, we are seeing the eradication of perhaps the most ancient Exmoor ‘type’ of all - the dun/dun-coloured ponies with a dorsal stripe and also pale gold/redder-coloured Exmoor ponies.

Many of us feel that the picking up of feet (health and safety and trauma to the ponies) and failure for colour of sole plate (unreasonable loss of genetics and quality) should therefore be stopped immediately, as too many good Exmoor ponies are being excluded from pedigree registration, showing and the breeding gene pool, and too many ponies are being adversely affected by the handling/treatment, as a result of this practice.

LETTER TO THE EXMOOR PONY SOCIETY CHAIRMAN, TRUSTEES, OFFICIALS AND OFFICERS
23 February 2017

Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group Chairman: Mr NG Westcott; Treasurer: Mrs BM Floyd; Liaison: Mr R Milton; PR & Comm: Mrs D Westcott; Mrs C Allen; Mr J Bryant; Mr M Coldicutt; Mr W Dart; Mr R Dart; Ms S Dart; Ms J Floyd; Mr N Floyd; Ms R Leworthy; Mr I South; Ms K South; Mr B Williams; Mrs C Williams, Exmoor National Park Authority

c/o Holt Ball Farm, Luccombe, Minehead, Somerset TA24 8SZ. Tel 01643 862466 or 01598 741201. Email MoorlandExmoorGroup@hotmail.com.

Mr David Brewer & The Exmoor Pony Society Officials, Trustees & Officers
Exmoor Pony Society
c/o Woodmans, Brithem Bottom, Cullumpton EX15 1NB

Dear Mr Brewer & EPS Officials, Trustees and Officers

Re: Health & Safety - Requirement to Inspect Sole Plates for Registration

This letter is to accompany Maria Floyd's letter to the EPS Trustees of 21 February and the 'White Markings Rule' Resolution, for discussion at the EPS Trustees meeting on 27 February 2017.

Following a recent MEPBG meeting, the herd owners have agreed that they are no longer willing to accept the requirement to pick up the feet of foals for the Exmoor Pony Society physical inspection, nor allow anyone to pick up the feet while on their properties. They consider it unnecessary to examine the underneath of the feet and to pass or fail a foal on the basis of the colour of the sole. No other pony breed requires this for registration purposes. The horn colour can be assessed without picking up the feet.

It has been agreed that picking up the feet of Exmoor ponies at inspection time, particularly those which are semi-feral and unhandled, causes unnecessary risk to the herd owner and handlers, particularly compromising ‘key’ men or women, on whose health and fitness farming income depends. Engaging in unnecessary dangerous activities like this may also void any insurance cover and place Criminal Liability on the Exmoor Pony Society trustees if any injury occurs - which it frequently does.

Further, while foals and older ponies will usually tolerate standing in a shute or small pen to be inspected for white markings; have a DNA sample taken; have their teeth checked; and receive a microchip - they invariably become distressed and explosive when they are grabbed hold of and restrained as attempts are made to lift their feet. The resulting traumatic behaviours are unacceptably dangerous to both ponies and handlers.

Examples:

1) Mr Rex Milton incurred a badly injured foot at his 2016 Herd 23 inspection, which remained black and blue and painful for three weeks after being stamped on by a semi-feral colt he was forced to restrain while the feet were lifted. �

2) At the recent Herd 423 inspection on 16 February 2017, the inspectors got inside the shute with the ponies, resulting in dangerous behaviour from ponies being inspected, and a painful kick to Mr Rob Taylor’s legs.

[included in letter] Pictures of the Herd 423 Inspection - Mr David Brewer and Mr Rob Taylor are inside the shute with a semi-feral and unhandled yearling who is distressed.

There is no reason to reject foals for the colour of their undersole, the quality of which is not affected in any way by variation in pigmentation. In fact, the MEPBG is seriously concerned about the eradication of the Exmoor dun- coloured and pale-red/gold/red ponies, who can be predisposed to paler soles, as a result of this misinterpretation of the ‘no white markings’ rule. Variation in pigmentation can also be caused by foals stepping on sharp stones, etc, which does not compromise the quality of the foot and should not be a reason to fail inspection.

We therefore ask that the EPS trustees please remove the requirement to lift the feet of foals/ponies from the inspection criteria, with immediate effect, and allow retrospective pedigree upgrading of ponies previously failed for this reason. Certainly, the MEPBG members can no longer accept the risk to themselves or their staff, or to anyone inspecting ponies on their farms/properties, to lift the feet of foals/ponies during inspections.

A note on the implications under Health and Safety at Work, etc. Act 1974 and Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999

(a) Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999.

The Management of Health and Safety at Work Regulations 1999 place a duty on employers to assess and manage risks to their employees and others arising from work activities. This duty of care extends beyond employees to all persons reasonably affected.

(b) We are not aware of any risk assessments being done to cover the gathering of wild ponies on Exmoor in recent years.

(c) The particular area that worries us is the requirement to lift hooves. Using the standard method of :-

(i) identify and classify the severity of risk possible - Severe (ii) Likelihood of risk taking place – Probable
(iii) Ways to mitigate risk – Do not lift hooves

(d) This leaves us with the conclusion that the liability of this requirement, given the current interpretation of the rules by the committee, lies with the Exmoor Pony Society.

(e) Health and Safety breaches are dealt with under the Criminal Code. This has the effect of rendering insurance invalid (it is not possible to insure against an illegal act).

(f) The persons who will be criminally liable will be the Officials and Trustees of the Exmoor Pony Society. Sanctions will range from prison through to heavy fines and not being allowed to hold a shotgun licence.

Yours sincerely
Mr Nick Westcott
Chairman
The Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group (MEPBG)

Ends

This letter was sent by the MEPBG Chairman, after unanimous agreement of the members at the last MEPBG meeting.

Also,

This letter (below) was published in Horse & Hound (30 March 2017 issue) from MEPBG following the article "Rare Native Breed Genes at Risk" published in the 16 March issue of H&H (see below) :

Dear Horse & Hound,

Firstly, congratulations on the new H&H look, which is great!

With regard to the article 'Rare Native Breed Genes at Risk' (16 March) the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group first served resolutions asking for clarification of the 'no white markings' rule, and the addition of a supplement and upgrading system to the Exmoor Pony Stud Book (EPS), in 2015.

The Exmoor Pony Society asked for the resolutions to be withdrawn in return for forming a working party of EPS and MEPBG representatives to progress discussion of both. Unfortunately, due to the lack of progress made, the no white markings resolution was re-served in February this year. But after the society left the names of various people off the list to circulate to members, the resolution has been withdrawn once again, while the proposers obtain further hard copies of signatures to avoid omissions.

The EPS also received a "health & safety" letter pointing out that, due to the dangerous and unnecessary practice of forcibly lifting the feet of unhandled semi-feral Exmoor ponies, the trustees may be criminally liable and the MEPBG herd owners no longer want the feet to be picked up during inspections. Good genetics continue to be wasted as a result of failing foals for the colour of sole plates.

Nick Westcott - Chairman, MEPBG

Ancient Exmoor pony colouring in danger

exmoorponyclub@hotmail.co.uk (Dawn Westcott) — Wed, 23 Nov 2016 14:41:16 GMT

Are we endangering the dun & reddish-coloured Exmoor ponies? Herd 23 owner thinks yes

They are a sight to behold running on both Withypool and Anstey Commons and the oldest-family-owned herd of Exmoor ponies in the world. The Milton family recently gathered in Herd 23 to wean and inspect the foals.

The Exmoor pony breed is endangered, with only about 2000 worldwide and a few hundred on Exmoor. Herd 23 ponies are particularly important due to their ancient bloodlines and unique dun, reddish and bright bay colouring, which has become a rarity and something Rex Milton is pushing hard to retain. But he’s frustrated with the Exmoor Pony Society’s interpretation of the ‘no white markings’ rule, which rejects foals with paler (under) soles.

“This is a misconstrued rule that is endangering these lines. The duns have almost gone because they nearly always had paler soles, and duns and reds have paler pigmentation,” says Rex, “In the past, some of the best ponies in the show ring had pale soles.”

This year the best filly foal from Withypool Common, with beautiful red colouring, failed inspection for having a paler sole. Rex is nevertheless keeping her in the herd and is holding out for a rule change, which the Moorland Exmoor Pony Breeders Group, of which Rex Milton is a founder member, is currently negotiating with the Exmoor Pony Society.

With regard to foal sales, Rex Milton acknowledges that the equine market is experiencing harder times, but points out, “The Exmoor is a hardy, lower maintenance pony and more affordable to keep. They make excellent companions, riding, driving and showing ponies.”

The answer is not to stop breeding and Rex explains why. “The whole ecology of the moor is affected if the herds don’t breed and it’s not straightforward. You can take stallions off and have some older non-breeding mares to help keep the herds together and control numbers, but mares in season can break out to find a stallion despite best efforts. Getting the numbers right is a fine balance. You don’t want to produce too many, but if you don’t breed enough you can’t supply a market, or pick the best, and the breed demises. Through generations of good farming, Exmoors have evolved by survival of the fittest and keeping the best ponies.

“Herd 23 needs support because these traditional rare ponies will be lost unless we can get more of them out there and into the show ring. Now is the time for people to come and choose because foals ideally need to be bought fairly quickly after weaning - and we have some lovely ones this year.”

Please contact Rex Milton on 01398 341217 email partridgearmsfarm@gmail.com.

This article appears in the Western Morning News Fri 11 Nov in Western Morning News Horses: http://www.plymouthherald.co.uk/ancient-exmoor-colours-on-show-at-herd-23-gathering/story-29886734-d...