AT just seven years of age, Austin Davies has qualified to compete at the Horse of the Year Show (HOYS) with his pony Edith.

Austin and Edith – or Thistledown Special Edition to give her her proper name – wowed the judges at a qualifying competition in Lincolnshire where only the winner would book a place at the prestigious tournament.

The youngster from Littledean and his beloved Welsh mountain pony beat off competition from 47 other hopefuls to secure the place at the National Exhibition Centre in October.

He will be hoping to follow in the footsteps of parents Heidi Bennett and Justin Davies who have both tasted HOYS success.

Mum Heidi said: “He took his pony Edith to compete at Midland Counties Show at Arena UK in Lincolnshire where he was against lots of other boys and girls trying to be top of the line and gain a Golden Ticket to Qualify for HOYS.

“Austin and Edith did a fabulous show gaining top marks off both judges booking his ticket to the NEC.”

His proud parents, who run the Popstars Welsh pony stud and showing yard, say Edith’s temperament was one of the keys to qualification success.

Dad Justin said: “The horse has to be so kind to look after a child under eight.

“Both judges loved her. One was judging his riding ability and the other judges turn-out and presentation.”

Heidi said she did not think Austin had fully understood the scale of his achievement with a total of some 2,000 competitors around the country chasing just 24 NEC places.

Austin said he was “lost for words” when he was announced the winner of the competition which was a three and a half hour drive away in Grantham.

Heidi added: “He was trotting really well but we’ll need a bit of work on steering.”

A “bus full” of family are planning to be at the NEC on Wednesday, October 6 to see Austin in the mountain and moorland mini pony championship.

There may also be the odd Polo mint, Edith’s favourite treat.

Austin first rode Edith,who is now nine, when he was three and his parents are delighted he shares their love of horses.