THE POSSIBILITY of an extensive cull of ponies is likely to be raised at the annual meeting of the Dartmoor Livestock Protection Society.

Such a measure could be necessary to ensure the future of the pony population on the moor, in the face of the farming crisis and the collapse of the market price for the animals, it is argued.

'We are hoping that the meeting will attract people with viewpoints on this issue,' said vice-chairman Georgina Dale. 'We know what the problem is, but we don't know the solution.'

A dwindling number of farmers has carried on supporting ponies on the moor, despite making a loss on them and being criticised for not maintaining them properly.

The DLPS does not own any ponies and up to now has only offered first aid. But the deteriorating situation is pushing it into a role in a debate which it is not used to.

The number of ponies on the moor has dropped from 20,000 20 years ago to around 2,000 now, but auctioneers say that most of the remainder are almost valueless.

Interbreeding has lessened their usefulness. Many are unsuitable for children and many are not up to moorland conditions. Pure Dartmoor ponies, ideal for children, are now a minority and may not be attractive as likely competition

winners.

One of the few hopeful signs, according to DLPS secretary Ann Anderson, is the introduction of territory designated as an environmentally sensitive area, which should mean fewer cattle and sheep and a better chance for ponies.

Some form of public funding for the support of Dartmoor farmers who have ponies and possibly for the breeding of more pure Dartmoor ponies could be considered as a policy by the DLPS.

Both the Dartmoor Commoners' Council and the Dartmoor National Park Authority believe that the market can still be resuscitated.

'We're looking at all the options,' said Mrs Dale. 'Something must be sorted out so that the animals do not suffer.'

The DLPS annual meeting is at the Cherrybrook Hotel, Two Bridges, on November 11 at 2pm.