Thwaites' world famous Shire Horses are toasting yet another trophy-winning year.

The distinctive Blackburn brewery horses have proved to be the 'mane men', winning success in more than ten national competitions in a wide range of disciplines.

Led by head horse-keeper Charles Beardmore, groom Richard Green and driver Andrew Whetton, the all-conquering equines have travelled the length and breadth of the country to strut their stuff in front of thousands of spectators.

During months of tough competition, Classic, Regent, Royal, and Captain have faced tough categories including walking, trotting and appearance -- and passed them all with flying colours.

Charles said: "We've come away with victories and runners-up spots from every tournament we've entered.

"From Shropshire to Peterborough, Staffordshire to the Royal Lancashire Show the horses have award rosettes to show for their efforts."

The singles, pairs, team and best brewery turnout prizes have all gone the way of Thwaites at one event or another, and Charles, who has worked with the horses for 33 years, is immensely proud of the team achievements.

He said: "Andrew, Richard and myself put a lot of effort into making sure the horses are well cared for and look immaculate whatever the occasion.

"They're extremely well behaved and content in their surroundings which really comes across when under the judges' gaze."