A YOUNG rider from Builth Wells and her Welsh Mountain pony have become champions at the prestigious Royal Windsor Horse Show.

Poppy Jenkinson, 22, and her 10-year-old mare Dukeshill Piquante clinched the overall Section A Welsh Mountain title championship at the UK's largest outdoor horse show on Friday, May 10.

"It was amazing," Poppy said, "I was over the moon."

"It was quite an experience, and I would definitely do it again."

The annual event in the grounds of Windsor Castle was Dukeshill Piquante first show of the season.

Despite the "absolutely horrendous" weather and wading through four inches of mud, Poppy, a dressage rider in Glasbury, and her horse won the first-place rosette in the Welsh Mountain four years old and over class then landed the title championship.

County Times:

The Builth Wells duo progressed to the main arena where the best of the Welsh Pony and Cob breeds competed for the overall Supreme Champion title. Ten horses from "absolutely everywhere" including America and the Philippines were in the ring but Ireland clinched the title and were rewarded by Princess Anne.

"It was so scary," Poppy said, "but we were in the top six. That was amazing."

Poppy now has her sights set on the Royal Three Counties Show and her home show, the Royal Welsh Show which is celebrating its 100th anniversary in July.

"It's given me a confidence boost. I want to apply for everything!"