POOCHES and ponies paraded at the park in Cwm for the annual Blaenau Gwent Horse and Dog Show at Cwm Welfare Ground.

Around 600 people came to the park throughout the day to watch the riding classes, Welsh Ponies and dog with the waggiest tale.

There were refreshments on offer including a burger van while shoppers could also browse stalls including traditional Welsh jewellery.

Welsh pony Butleigh Violet, owned by the Langford family, was crowned the overall champion at the show, which lasted from 10am until 4pm on Saturday.

Karl Hale, sports facilities manager with Blaenau Gwent Council, said: “The show is well supported by the local community. The Valleys are renowned for their horses and from the local community of both Cwm and Blaenau Gwent generally the event is well supported from spectators and exhibitors.

“People have been sitting in the glorious sunshine all day. It’s been a massive success.”

The local Scout branch got involved by collecting money at the gate, while families and young people wandered the grounds admiring the horses.

Throughout the day there were 44 classes including classes for young handlers at the traditional show.

Dog lovers also brought their pets for the Kennel Club affiliated dog show. Alongside the prized pedigrees there were some novelty classes including dog with the waggiest tail, with around 35 dogs entered in total.

Dave Hartley, attending the council-run show, said this year was its 60th anniversary.

Mr Hartley said: “There’s quite a crowd. Most of the village is out to watch; the weather has been fabulous – it’s warm but there’s also a breeze.”

He said the young handler classes were among his favourites: “It’s promoting the future generation of people to show.”

In addition there were mountain ponies, cob ponies and large horses at the event.