Along with other native British breeds the origins of the Fell Pony date back to pre-Celtic times, although it is likely the type was firmly established by the Roman period when these sturdy animals would have been used as both for riding and as beasts of burden. In later centuries the ponies were used in farming and mining, but their numbers dwindled as powered transport took over after the Industrial Revolution.

It was not until the 1950s that the breed saw a revival, sparked by an interest in riding for pleasure when so many other smaller native breeds where also in demand. These days the Fell Pony Society ensures the continuation of the breed, ‘fostering and keeping pure the old breed of pony which has roamed the northern fells for years’.

This book celebrates these endearing and popular animals through the superb photography of Fleur Hallam. It will be a treasured memento for all those who have a passion for ponies.

Fleur Hallam was born in Dorset, but grew up in theWest Midlands and Cumbria, she went to a Rudolf Steiner School, and moved to rural France with her family in 1999 finishing her school life with a year at a French school. Having had a mainly Rudolf Steiner education, Fleur's passion for creative arts started at an early age. To further her knowledge and love of photography, Fleur successfully completed the Art of Photography course in 2006/7 through the Open College of the Arts.

Fleur Hallam captures the "spirit" of the countryside and equine life through her superb photographic illustrations.

Imprint: Halsgrove. ISBN: 978 1 84114 670 6, hardback, 110x155mm, 64 pages.

REVIEWS: The Cumberland News.