TWO tiny miniature Shetland foals mark the end for Exmoor-based breeders Ben and Lynn Howe, who have decided to scale back their stud due to the recession.

Foals Pixie and Fairy were born last Tuesday and Sunday respectively - with Pixie standing just 18 inches high.

But the pair will be the last foals bred at the couple's Howetown Corner stud on the Brendon Hills.

Mr and Mrs Howe have already sold their stallion and plan to sell both the foals when they are old enough, as well as many of their remaining 15 ponies.

Mr Howe said: "We've only been doing it for a few years but have decided to scale things down because of the recession.

"People can't afford luxuries any more and, unfortunately, ponies are often a luxury for many people."

But until they have to part company, the couple are enjoying the sight of their tiny new charges trotting around the paddocks at their Exmoor farm.

Photo: Steve Guscott