THE Devon membership of the British Horse Society (BHS) reached a milestone this year when it claimed its 2000th member.

Kirsty Ellis, who lives with her family on the edge of Dartmoor, began her journey toward membership after taking in a horse, Socks, from a local riding school which closed earlier in the year.

Socks, who had become a much loved friend of Kirsty's two children while taking riding lessons at the school, was soon joined by Milo and BB when her children's love for riding re-ignited her own passion for riding.

BHS Devon Chairman, Carole Mewton said: 'To have reached this level of membership in Devon is wonderful.  The British Horse Society works so hard on behalf of riders and their horses and to have this level of support in the County shows how relevant the Society is to them.'

To celebrate their achievement Kirsty and her family will be part of a special presentation by the society at this year's South West Christmas Equine Fair.

The fair, at Westpoint Arena, Exeter on Saturday December 5 and 6, is the biggest equestrian event of its kind in the Westcountry and will feature international riding icons Pippa and William Funnell who will present the award to Kirsty in the arena on the Sunday of the show.

The BHS will also be one of the 150 exhibitors at the show. Anyone interested in learning more about membership will be able to visit them on stand 21.

Information on the show and all the exciting features can be found by visiting http://www.contour.uk.net">www.contour.uk.net or by calling 01392 421500.