DESPITE current coranvirus restrictions an annual Dartmoor equine auction carried on has it has done for numerous years last week.

Although regarded by the Dartmoor community as a social event, things were a little different this year at the Chagford Pony Drift Sale with only buyers being permitted into the market and facial coverings being the order of the day.

The sale’s slogan is Wild to Wonderful and what despite restrictions is ddi prove to be a wonderful day for all involved.

Top price of the day was a remarkable £1491 for a coloured filly from Mr A Steed who averaged £909, while the very last pony in the ring, a black and white colt donated by Mrs A Cole to Cancer Research which made £68.25.

Auctioneers Rendells said they would like to thank all the vendors, buyers, staff and helpers, particularly Charlotte Faulkner and the Dartmoor Hill Pony Association whose perseverance over the years has helped to keep the sale going. They thank Devon Trading Standards and the Animal and Plant Health Agency for their guidance. Next year’s pony sale has been scheduled for October 14 2021.