The Peterborough Shire Horse Society spring show attracted dozens of entrants from across the country at the weekend, and the top winner was five-year-old Shire stallion Boothay Richard.

Owner Richard Bedford said the 18.1hh bay with four white socks was in a strong class of senior stallions. He took first place then went on to win the coveted King George trophy – the highest accolade for the breed.

Mr Bedford said: "We've had him since he was a foal and he's never come below third in his class. He's been a fantastic horse for us."

The horse was bred by the late Tom White from Derbyshire and has been at the Bedfords' farm, Hartshead Hall, since he was six months old.

In 2006 Boothay Richard was reserve champion and took second place last year. In 2007 he also took the championship at four other major shows.

But despite the stallion's success, Richard said nothing was guaranteed going into his latest challenge.

He said: "We're never confident of anything going into a show but he looked a million dollars.

"My son, Robert, showed him and did a fantastic job. Robert has been brought up in a world of horses and he's the best little showman out there."