NORTHUMBERLAND County Show has announced the name of its 2017 light horse champion judge.

District commissioner for South Northumberland Branch of the Pony Club, Heather McDonald, has accepted the role.

Heather, who lives at West Causey Hill, in Hexham, said she was ‘very flattered’ to be asked, but admitted: “I was a bit scared by the responsibility initially and was inclined to turn it down, but Judy, the event organiser, persuaded me that it was very easy and would be lots of fun.

“Now I’m really looking forward to it!”

Equine secretary Mandy Charlton said: “Heather is a well-respected horsewoman in the Northumberland area and runs a very successful branch of the Pony Club, with over 140 members.

“She will also be known to many others as Master for the Haydon Hunt. We’re delighted to have her on our judging team!”

Heather has a long history of equestrianism; her father bought her a pony when she was only two years old, and she has been involved in the Pony Club since she was six.

She keeps several horses that will be well-known to regulars at the Pony Club or at Park End Equestrian Training Centre, including her faithful hunter, a 16.3 hands dark bay called Ben; 15.3 hands mid-bay, Bb; two adorable Welsh ponies, Mindy and Tinkerbell and the irrepressible Welsh cross pony, Joey.

“It’s a very busy Pony Club branch, and we have lots of events going on all year round,” said Heather.

“We promote good manners, sportsmanship and horsemanship, but it’s not just about the training camps or games; there are lots of opportunities for socialising and making friends.”

The Light Horse Championship is once again supported by Kielder Organic Meats of Bellingham.

When asked what she will look for in her choice of champion, Heather said: “My winner will have just that little extra sparkle that catches my eye.”

Show schedules are now available for competitors and exhibitors at www.northcountyshow.co.uk. Entries can be made online for most sections.