Population: 400 breeding females, 1997 survey
Breed Society: The Fell Pony Society, North Craigs Cottage, Waterbeck, Lockerbie, Dumfriesshire DG11 3HA. Tel: 01461 600606 Secretary - Mr Ian Simper.

The Fell, like the Dales, is a north-country pony. Although separated by the Pennines the breeds are quite similar. The Fell pony has been recognised since Roman times, when they were used as draught animal. They were also the main form of transport for the raiding Picts and later the Border Reivers. Cistercian monks also used them and it is thought that they introduced the colour grey, as 'white' stock was the sign of monastic ownership.

They are a small native breed being under 14hh. Strong and hardy, they are now used for riding, driving and farm work. They are also useful for logging, being able to move in steep forested slopes that would be difficult for tractors. Colours are black, brown, bay or grey.

The Wellbrow Fell Pony Stud was formed using Heltondale bloodlines, particularly the Heltondale Polly, Polly Perkins and Lucky Girl lines. These are ponies of a true type - old fashioned and as hard as nails. Living and breeding out on the open Pennine moors straddling the three counties of Lancashire, Yorkshire and Greater Manchester, the bulk of the land being in excess of 1000ft above sea level.

We also breed grey fell ponies, which also stem from Heltondale. Our aim is to breed good quality, traditional type ponies, capable of doing a days work, pleasure riding or being produced for the show ring. We particularly want a sensible, level headed pony with a good temperament.