Despite rain of biblical proportions outside Ballavartyn Equestrian Centre, it didn’t dampen the spirits of Manx Harness Club at its Christmas indoor event last Sunday.

There was a real enthusiasm following last month’s event cancellation as the participants were put through two disciplines: dressage and arena challenge.

A keenly-contested event, there was a great festive mood as some of the competitors were dressed up as Santa Claus and their little helpers.

The presentation took place afterwards in the cafeteria and chairwoman Libby Priest gave a quick speech, thanking everyone for braving the weather and turning up for the event.

She also thanked the hard-working committee members, Jess, Linda and Alli for serving the refreshments, judges Jane Attree and Kate Priest and their writers, plus Kendra Lace and Barbara O’Leary for scoring.

Lynda Christian - who had two of her Shetland ponies competing - was the overall winner, coming out on top in both disciplines, with Sue Corlett second and Sharon Maternaghan third.

Jess Clague won the best fancy dress prize and was therefore presented with a bucket of festive treats kindly sponsored by Natural Equine Isle of Man.

Manx Harness Club recently held its annual general meeting and all but one of last year’s committee stayed on.

Michelle Atherton has stood down and she was thanked for all of her hard work over the past few years.

The club now welcomes Hilary Cleverley onto the committee.

A series of events have been planned for 2021 - further details can be found on the club’s Facebook page.