A Shetland pony who takes to the show ring in fancy dress and even goes indoors to be measured for his outfits has been crowned the 2010 pony of special merit by an Ilkley riding club.

Tiny Shetland pony gelding Kes, known to many on the local show circuit for his eye-catching wardrobe, has won this year’s coveted Biscuit Memorial Trophy from Ilkley and District Riding Association (IDRA).

The trophy, first presented in 2003 by Barbara Montford in memory of Biscuit, a brave horse who battled painful hoof condition laminitis for many years, is given to a pony of special merit by the club each year.

Kes’s true talent comes to the fore in fancy dress classes at shows. To date he has not objected to wearing any costumes, and apparently even enjoys going into the kitchen to be measured and fitted by his rider’s gran, who does not like doing it outside in the cold.

Far from his glamorous showing career, however, Kes spent more than ten years living on an allotment in Pontefract, with children riding him bareback up and down the high street.

He was bought to work as a riding school pony at Acrecliffe Equestrian Centre, near Otley, as his previous owner thought he would be ideal for a riding school.

But Kes decided it was not the life for him, and he became notorious for his tricks – including a swift exit from the riding arena underneath the pole blocking the entrance.

Then he met Ilkley girl Sophie Fawcitt, who would lead him round for only five or six minutes at a time, and soon the pair became firm friends.

Kes moved to Sophie’s home in Ben Rhydding almost three years ago, and found a lifestyle that suited him well. These days he enjoys the occasional trip to the park or down to the shops, sometimes heads to the Cow and Calf for Sunday lunch, or a trip to the hunt for the Boxing Day and New Year’s Day meet.

Kes is also known for his talents in pulling a sledge.

IDRA said: “This little pony has given Sophie so many wonderful memories and long may he continue to do so.”

The association held its annual presentation evening on Friday at the Craiglands Hotel, handing out awards to competitors and members who have competed throughout the season.

More than 50 trophies were given out to champions, and overall champions were given special sashes. Despite the recession, the club is going strong, with more than 200 members.

The club aims to teach riders about the discipline of showing and the etiquette one must follow, encouraging competitors to conduct themselves properly at all times and most importantly to have respect for their horse or pony.