CELEBRITY Noel Edmonds, who is the new president of the British Horse Society, says he wants to bring more fun into the organisation.

Noel, who lives at Jacobstowe, said: The British Horse Society has a well earned reputation for its excellent training and education programmes, and the other work it does for horses and riders.

?But we must not let the hard work necessary for passing exams squeeze out the opportunity for having fun.?

He said he was already discussing ways of enlivening and rejuvenating the society with chairman Patrick Print, and chief executive Graham Cory.

Noel also emphasised his long-standing concern for young people who have not enjoyed the most promising starts in life: ?The British Horse Society has already demonstrated in pilot projects, the real benefits which can accrue from introducing disadvantaged children to horses. I am keen to see the society expand this area of its work.?