A herd of approximately 100 Exmoor ponies is being gathered today, 18 October 2026, as part of an annual inspection. The Tippbarlake Exmoor Pony Herd, which lives freely on Brendan Common, is being brought together at Brendon Barton.
Kristina Auckland, who manages the herd with her family, stated that the annual gathering allows for a closer inspection to ensure the ponies' health and welfare needs are met. This tradition has been ongoing for generations.
Members of the public can watch the gathering for free at Scobhill Gate from 10:00. Donations are being collected for the Devon Air Ambulance, which Auckland described as "absolutely crucial" for people in rural communities, including farmers, local residents, and visitors.
Auckland also noted a steady increase in public attendance at the gathering in recent years, which she attributes to the rise of social media, alongside many local families who attend annually. She aims to raise awareness of the breed and its role in managing the common and contributing to conservation projects.