The heritage of the Shetland pony in 9 amazing pictures

Images show how the short, stout beast was central to island life.

A string of ponies on Fetlar, one of the North Isles of Shetland

It is thought that ponies first inhabited Shetland up to 4,000 years ago during the Bronze Age.

They have become on of Scotland’s most cherished breeds, recognised the world over for their cute faces and diminutive statures.

But as these pictures show these hardworking, loyal and docile animals could thrive in the toughest of terrains and were at the very heart of island existence.

The pictures are from the archive of The Pony Breeders of Shetland Association which works to preserve the breed and promote its charms around the world.