NO one could call Jaffa the pony a dumb animal - for when it comes to personality he has plenty.

In fact the little chestnut has so much character that he has been named northern finalist in the national Cuddly Pony of the Year competition.

Jaffa, who stands 12.2 hands high, is the much-loved companion of ten-year-old Camilla Irvine, of Newton-le-Willows near Bedale, North Yorkshire.

Camilla said she nominated Jaffa for the award because "he is so cheeky".

She said: "He has inspired me to try harder, jump higher and be more determined.

"Jaffa says please by pawing the air with his left leg and thank you by pawing with the right.

"He also drinks any left-over drinks from mugs or plastic bottles and sometimes sticks his head through the kitchen window for a chat.

"When my mum throws leftovers for the hens to eat, the big hairy chestnut hen - Jaffa - gets there first."

This week, Camilla and Jaffa received their prizes from Janet Rising, editor of the contest organiser, Pony magazine.

The competition is a national initiative supported by the UK's leading riders including top eventer Pippa Funnell, and is designed to inspire the next generation of riders.

Jaffa was picked as the cuddliest in the North by international showjumper Michael Whittaker and will now join other regional finalists to compete for the overall title of Cuddly Pony of the Year as voted by the public and readers of Pony.