THE British Show Pony Society Area 3a held their annual winter points party on May 1 at the Feathers Hotel, Helmsley.

A surprise presentation was made to Mrs Anne Furness, who had been chairwoman for more than 20 years and was retiring to be honorary president.

She was presented with a Beswick Black Labrador by junior member Anneliese Stonehouse and received a large bouquet of flowers from Emily Stead, both on behalf of the membership.

The new chairwoman, Mrs Janet Cox, gave a wonderful off-the-cuff speech detailing Mrs Furness's lifelong commitment to the area, along with her support for hunting, shooting, fishing and all countryside pursuits.

The evening was a great success, enjoyed by young and old alike.