DALES Ponies from across the country returned to their roots to celebrate the centenary of the society that champions them.

The Dales Pony Society organised a special parade through Teesdale in County Durham on Saturday (July 30) to mark its 100th anniversary.

Members from as far away as Scotland and Devon attended to take part in the ride, which saw 70 Dales Ponies journey from Baldersdale to Barnard Castle.

Centenary secretary Anna Pennell, from Heighington, near Newton Aycliffe, said: “We wanted to ride through the town to remind people about the Dales Pony and its importance in the heritage of the area.

“In the past, every farm you came across would have had Dales Pony. They are working animals and great all-rounders, full of character. The Durham Dales are the traditional home of the Dales Pony, which is why we wanted to have the ride here in Teesdale."

To find out more about the society, visit dalespony.org