CHAGFORD-based TV presenter, journalist and naturalist Nick Baker will be opening the Dartmoor Pony Showcase Day and Private Sale this weekend.

Nick, who lives in Chagford with his family, is a strong supporter of the role played by the native Dartmoor ponies in preserving the ecology and history of Dartmoor.

Ponies at the sale, held at the Dartmoor Pony Heritage Trust's new centre at Parke, Bovey Tracey, will range from unbroken, lightly handled yearlings to mature animals broken to ride and drive.

Full details of each pony, its history and herd, will be provided and all will have a minimum basic level of handling to enable them to go on to become established family ponies for children and light adults, for riding and driving or as conservation grazers.

Owners will be present to talk to potential buyers, giving advice on pony care, management, training and general responsibilities of ownership.

The showcase will take place on Saturday (July 2) from 11am to 3pm.

Those interested can find out more by contacting Dru Butterfield on 01626 355314 or visit http://www.dpht.co.uk">www.dpht.co.uk