A SHETLAND pony will be trotting her way through a 5km charity run to raise money for cancer research.
Luna will tackle the Race for Life course at Hylands Park, Chelmsford, next month along with owner Leigh Perry, who raised the three-year-old from birth.
The 31-year-old home and leisure manager at Morrisons in Witham said: "She's quite a brave little lass and so outgoing. I don't think she's ever been scared by anything before.
"She really likes people, she is full of character, and sweet, and everyone will love her."
It will be the first time either has taken part in a charity event – Leigh decided to take Luna because "the novelty factor will hopefully raise more money than just me on my own".
Little Luna, who is 34 inches tall from her withers – the highest point on her back – will be wearing her sweatband and Race for Life fairy wings for the jaunt.
Leigh, of Honeysuckle Way, Witham, also has a personal reason for wanting to take part after her great aunt died of the disease only last week.
"It's got a bit more personal and given me an incentive to raise more money," added Leigh.
The duo will be walking together and the main challenge will be ensuring the cheeky pony does not get bored – or leave Leigh behind.
"The biggest danger will be if I slip up and she carries on without me.
"Everyone will want to stop and meet her so it could take me a long while to complete the course, but that doesn't really matter.
"It's all about taking part and raising as much money as possible."
Leigh has taken Luna her on long walks, including Frinton beach and Mersea Island, in preparation.
The pony lives with another Shetland, Herbie, 12, and three horses in Terling.
"I was always obsessed with My Little Pony so I have now got living ones," said Leigh, who hopes to train Luna to be a therapy pony, working with sick and elderly people.
Leigh is confident Luna will be able to do at least most of the Race for Life course, having once escaped from her field with Herbie and another equine pal and ended up covering about five miles.
Leigh and Luna have raised about £100 so far, but hope to get around £500.
To sponsor them for the race, visit www.justgiving.com/Luna-Shetland.
