Crowds turn out for carriages at Newport parade

Horses and ponies trotted along Newport's cobbled streets on Boxing Day in a traditional annual carriage parade by the British Driving Society, formerly the Newport & District Driving Society.

They paraded along St Mary's Street and High Street before heading off to the Lamb Inn at Edgmond for sherry and mince pies.

Seven horses and carriages set off at about noon following the Boxing Day hunt.

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Organiser Ursula Dobrowolska said: "Our parade in Newport was once again very successful. We started on St Mary's Street and went along the High Street before heading off on a six mile stroll.

"This event has been going on for more than 30 years and our members look forward to it every time because we always have a very big crowd who stay and watch us following the hunt.

"We got a very warm reception this year with lots of clapping and cheering so it was very enjoyable."

Each year the society has street collectors who help raise money for Midlands Air Ambulance.

Mrs Dobrowolska said: "We always raise a very significant sum and the people of Newport are always keen to support such a great cause."

Avril Pluck from Cherrington, who took part, said: "The parade went very well. It was unusually mild which was nice and I think that helped draw a big crowd."