LOCAL producer Alexandra Hawkes is currently enjoying great success with her team of show ponies.

Based in Woolavington, Alexandra has a growing stable of successful horses and ponies, notably Bradmore, Mr Mephistopheles, Arthur the Great and her latest addition, Centan Black Pearl.

With the Royal London Show at the end of August fast approaching, all eyes on the yard are focused on Bradmore and Mr Mephistopheles who have taken championships in their categories in the last two years, as well as Arthur the Great, which was the ‘Supreme Veteran Champion of Britain’ at the show last year.

Centan Black Pearl will be new to the show this year and Alexandra has high hopes for her.

She said: "I am very lucky to have a great network of friends, owners, and sponsors, all of whom are a great help, from being at home to help plait the ponies before shows, to driving the lorry at 3.30am.

“Without these people I would not be able to attend all the shows I do, and have all the success.

“Preparations are well under way for this year’s Royal London Show and I hope everyone’s hard work will pay off."

Alexandra’s success has attracted sponsorship from prominent local businesses Pardoes Solicitors and Notaro Windows, both of whom she works closely with.

She said: “I am very grateful to both businesses for their ongoing support, both at home and at shows, and I am proud to be associated with them.”