Chagford Pony Sale has been a great success with more than double the entries and higher prices reached than last year’s sale.

The sale, organised by auctioneers Rendells saw more 213 ponies through the ring going for high prices.

The proportion of those which sold was slightly down on last year, with some colts remaining unsold. Michael Pedick, who has managed the sales for many years was auctioneer for the day.

A spokesman for Rendells said: ‘The sale was very well-attended by a large crowd of purchasers and spectators, helped no doubt by the fortuitous sunny weather.’

‘Demand for the ponies remained high with 76.52 per cent sold, which is only 3.48 per cent down on last year, despite the higher entry. This year’s average was £69.45, up £9.77 on the previous year.

‘This was helped by some very strong prices for good spotted fillies and colts, with the trade across the board being more variable and little demand for some of the traditional colts.’

The spokesman added: ‘We would like to thank Charlotte Faulkner and the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association for all their support and assistance with the sale, without which the sale would not be possible.’

The top price was achieved by Mr J Shears for a white and brown spotted filly foal which sold for £357.