SHARING a quarter of a pony makes practical sense and can provide a whole new experience in equine care.

Riding instructor, Hazel Ray, from the Barton Hill Riding School in Kentchurch, has developed the scheme so she can help as many children as possible to own their own pony.

The scheme allows a child access to their pony twice a week when they will learn general horsemanship and riding skills.

Hazel said: “Most children want their own pony, but this involves a lot of expense and responsibility for parents. That’s why it makes more sense to have a pony share scheme.”

The school has 32 places and eight ponies with 100 acres of off-road riding, and Hazel has carefully thought out how four children can take turns with their pony.

“They will get one weekday and a half day at the weekend. The ponies won’t be going off the yard unless there is a group outing, and I will be arranging activities and fun days during the holidays.

“The main aim is for the children to enjoy themselves and it’s important that they have lots of fun and learn to communicate with their ponies in a safe environment,” she said.

If you’d like to find out more about the pony share scheme, give Hazel a call on 01981 580577.