WHILE other children spent the summer holidays messing in the sun, Lucie Oakey has been adding cups and rosettes to her bulging trophy cabinet.

Lucie, nine, and her pony Robbie, 19, have won nine cups and trophies at a string of horse riding competitions this summer.

Among her wins was best turned out in every contest the pair entered, best pony, and show jumping, which included fastest time, remembering the course and getting a clear round.

Lucie, of Godington, near Bicester, who learned to ride when she was four on a Shetland pony called Archie, has so far amassed 20 trophies with Robbie in less than three years.

Events took place across the county and beyond including Stratton Audley, Haddenham, Charlton-on-Otmoor Show, Winslow and Wheatley. Each show had between 20 and 50 riders. Lucie, a pupil at Beachborough School and member of Bicester and Warden Hill Pony Club, said: “I’m so proud of Robbie. We make a great team together. He’s a pony in a million and is so kind.

I’d love him to sleep in my bedroom with me if my mum would let me.”

Mrs Oakey added: “We’re so lucky to have found such a lovely pony as Robbie for Lucie, he’s very special and I’m very proud of them both.

“Robbie has taught Lucie to ride and is truly adorable.

“He’s a much-loved member of our family.”