THE first foal of 2009 has arrived at the Original Miniature Pony Centre at Moretonhampstead, just in time for Easter school holidays.

Luxton, born last week, is a Miniature Shetland bay colt who has thrilled and delighted visitors and staff.

Each year, the centre has a theme for naming new arrivals and the 2009 theme is Dartmoor tors, so the adorable colt has been named Luxton after Luxton Tor.

Luxton was born early evening on Thursday, April 2 under the guidance of the centre's stud manager Suzanne Dufty and the centre's owner Lisa Ginsberg.

Both Luxton and his mum, Louise, mother to nine foals, are doing well. 

With several more foals due to arrive before early June, the centre is open to naming suggestions and is encouraging visitors to help come up with ideas.

Joint centre owner Kevin Ginsberg said: 'We were delighted by Luxton's birth early Thursday evening and just in time for Easter.

'We never fail to fall in love with our tiny new foals and are sure visitors will find our new arrival absolutely adorable too.

'He is a beautiful boy, doing very well and very much looking forward to meeting everyone over the Easter break.'