Bristol celebrates 25 years of My Little Pony

As attention turns to what will be the ‘must have’ toy for this Christmas, fans of the phenomenon that is ‘My Little Pony’ are trotting into Bristol this weekend to celebrate the toy’s 25th anniversary.

The International My Little Pony Convention (known as Ponyco) attracts hundreds of people of all ages from across the globe and comes to Bristol for the first time.

Organiser Freya Pointer said: "This is the fourth convention, and we have chosen Bristol in recognition of the large number of horse-mad people - young and not so young - in this part of the world. “

At one time the brightly coloured creatures, with names like Cotton Candy, Butterscotch and Blue Belle, were out selling Barbie and many fans of the toys have remained loyal.

Highlights of the convention, taking place this Friday and Saturday (26th and 27th Oct) at the Redwood Hotel and Country Club, include a celebrity pony auction with signed ponies up for grabs from stars including top British comedian, Bill Bailey.

Freya Pointer continued: "Events on the Friday are aimed at the collector while Saturday will include entertainment for families, budding artists and nostalgia lovers.

“My Little Pony manufacturer Hasbro will be there giving visitors an exclusive preview of pony merchandise due next year.

“There will also be display and trade stalls, an art exhibition and fashion show, as well as children's activities and competitions, including the chance to customise your own pony and create your own pony scene," said Freya.

Feisal Khalif, marketing manager for Destination Bristol, said: “It’s great to have so many international visitors to Bristol this weekend.

“The city has so much to offer as a short break destination. We welcome all visitors to the convention to sample Bristol’s range of attractions, including the famous Bristol Zoo, the ss Great Britain and not forgetting HorseWorld - for all the horse enthusiasts!”

For further information on Ponycon visit Mlpconvention.co.uk and to find out more about what Bristol has to offer, log on to Visitbristol.co.uk.