THE Exmoor Pony Society is launching a series of competitions for writers and artists to celebrate its centenary next year.

In April, there will be competitions for short story writing, photography, painting and drawing, sculpture and crafts and this will be followed by a September competition focusing on poetry and song writing.

The focus is on the world of Exmoor ponies – past, present and future – and the winners of each category will receive a prize to the value of £100.

The formal guardian of the Exmoor pony breed, and a registered charity, the society legally maintains the Exmoor pony stud book and is an approved Passport Issuing Organisation for the ponies. It also helps educate, inform and engage the public around this rare native breed.

Secretary Sue McGeever said: “We’re thrilled to be celebrating our centenary next year, and the competitions along with future projects will help to produce a positive legacy for the society for the next 100 years.

“Selected stories will form part of a ‘supper and storytelling’ evening, and art competition entries will be part of an exhibition that will tour the UK during 2021.”

The competitions are open both to Exmoor Pony Society members and non-members. The deadline has been extended to August 31. Full details and application forms can be found on the Exmoor Pony Society website.

* For details of ponies for sale and foals available following the autumn gatherings contact [email protected].