awww, thanks everyone for your lovely comments

Heather - I had broadband 'issues' recently and couldn't get onto the internet. It was horrible!!!
I am very proud of my oldie for looking so well - he is such a lovely chap and since he will only live out, its sometimes a worry through the winter. Still, turning him into a michelin horse with multiple rugs always makes me feel better!!!
Torsonin, we have no idea of my girl's breeding - we think she's part appy and possibly part connemara as she came over from Ireland (and has little connemara ears :P). She is the smartest horse I've ever known and loves to work so its a real shame she's retired. still she loves to show off her liberty work!! If I get a windfall, she'll be one of Bierzo's girls!!!
Must get a photo of the ginger lad - he is so shiny he almost looks like an Akhal Teke with a metallic sheen. (obviously all my grooming...honest....)
Thanks again everyone - I shall pass on your comments to them all !