Neigh problem as parade fun begins

Horse-riding enthusiasts donned colourful bonnets and took to the streets of a north Shropshire town with decorated boxes and trailers for an Easter parade with a difference.

The annual North Shropshire Driving Club Easter Parade took place yesterday and saw horses and ponies travelling through Whitchurch with Easter bonnets along with decorated horse boxes and trailers.

The colourful group congregated at the town's Tesco car park where they were met by the mayor of Whitchurch, Councillor Alan Chesters, other members of the town council and crowds of onlookers.

There was a welcome toast followed by the presentation of an Easter rosette and brass to each driver.

Councillor Chesters said: "It was the Easter parade of the North Shropshire Driving Club when they all dress in Easter bonnets.

"They arrived at the Tesco car park at midday where they were given a drink and Easter eggs courtesy of Tesco."

He added: "I presented a cup to the winner for the best turned out outfit and presented each person with a rosette and brass to commemorate the event."

The winner of the best turned out pony and carriage went to Cathryn Buckland with pony Louis, while prizes also went to the winning ladies bonnet, children's bonnet and decorated vehicle.

Councillor Chesters added it was a bit disappointing in terms of turnout as there were just seven participants but there was a good crowd of spectators who turned out to watch the event.

"There was a nice crowd of people who were there to look at the horses and passengers," he said.

Following the presentations, the group went on a special parade of part of the town and the nearby countryside.

Councillor Chesters added: "I think it's a thing that's well worth keeping up. "

Organiser Dot Moreland puts a lot of work into it – she has been doing it for donkeys years.

"The people there enjoyed it," he said.

"It's part of the Whitchurch Easter Monday and has been going for a long time."

Mrs Moreland said: "The Easter drive is always a colourful sight and the children around love to see the horses and ponies."