A SHETLAND Pony that was saved from the slaughterhouse has helped a teenager win a national award.

Brownie, who lives in Great Warford, Mobberley, with owner Linda Rose, recently competed with horses nearly twice his size in a carriage-pulling competition.

The 12-year-old helped secure a national title for Mike Hodgson, 15, from Congleton, who has been driving Brownie since he was 10.

Mike competed with 40 other drivers to scoop the award at the British Young Drivers National Championships in Yorkshire for the second time after previously winning in 2008.

Linda, who has lived in Mobberley for 30 years, said: “Mike and Brownie were placed first by all three judges.

“It’s the ultimate test for driving and incorporates all the different aspects of the sport.

“Brownie is the smallest by far. We do get some funny looks and Brownie has to work extra hard – but he never stops.”

As previously reported in the Guardian, Brownie is lucky to be alive after being rescued from the slaughterhouse by Linda eight years ago.