IT is the greatest pony show in the south.

Hundreds of travellers from across the UK descended on Wickham for the annual horse fair.

There was a party atmosphere as horse traders came to parade their stock and trade, with every horse there potentially for sale for the right price.

Reports from sellers varied with some saying trade was slow and others selling almost all their stock, but all agreed the turnout was down on previous years.

Chris Pugh had come from Surrey to sell horses which were all originally destined for the knacker’s yard.

“It’s been a good day, I brought down 11 horses with me and have so far sold ten.

“All my horses are rescue animals that would have been put down otherwise.

“This way they get to go to good homes.”

“Most are interested in younger horses because they are easier to work with.”

Police on the scene said there had not been any trouble.

The RSPCA was also on hand supporting, members of Hampshire Constabulary’s Wildlife Crime Unit, with vets to make sure that the horses on sale were in good condition and not being abused.

RSPCA chief inspector, Paul Williams said: “The horses this year have been in pretty good shape and the vet who has been checking them has said they have all been well looked after.

“In the past we have had problems with people over riding the horses but today they have been sensible.

“There hasn’t even been any dogs left in hot cars,” he added.