A DARTMOOR-based charity has launched an innovative fundraising scheme which could be particularly appropriate during the coming festive period.

The Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust says its Adopt a Pony scheme is the ideal Christmas gift for anyone who loves horses and ponies, but for whom buying one is not an option.

The adoption scheme is run as part of DPHT's work to ensure that the traditional type of Dartmoor pony does not disappear.

Single-coloured with long manes and tails, Dartmoor ponies still run wild and free on Dartmoor, but their numbers are in serious decline.

A spokesman for DPHT said: 'By buying an adoption, you will be helping to fund the DPHT's work to support the ponies on Dartmoor, to ensure they can continue to thrive as a vital part of the preservation of the Moor and its traditions.'

The cost of pony adoption is £20 per year. The adoption pack includes a beautiful line drawing and an adoption certificate and updates on the development and progress of the pony you have chosen.

The spokesman said: 'The pony you adopt, whether male or female, will be one of a small traditional herd cared for at the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust Centre, at Parke, Bovey Tracey.

'These are ponies for everyone to enjoy and here you will be able to visit them, follow their interesting lives, discover their true value and how important they are to the Dartmoor landscape.

'These ponies, all of which are owned by the pony keepers and farmers on Dartmoor, are part of Dartmoor's heritage.

'Your valuable support will help to ensure the continuation of the wild native Dartmoor pony gene pool so vital to their survival.'

The trust is running a free 'Meet Your Pony' event on December 27, between 11am and 1pm. It will be an opportunity for anyone who has adopted, is considering doing so, or would like to find out more about the trust's work, to come and visit the two and four legged folk at the centre.

Hot drinks, mince pies and a walk with the ponies (weather permitting) will be available.

Booking is essential — please phone 01626 833234.

Anyone interested in adopting a Dartmoor Heritage Pony should write to: DPHT – Dartmoor, PO Box 397, Newton Abbot, TQ12 9AT or visit http://www.dpht.co.uk">www.dpht.co.uk or phone 01626 833234.

Donations are always very much welcomed, as are volunteers at the centre.