THE Welsh Pony and Cob Society (WPCS) has appointed a new chief executive officer and chairman.

The society, which registers some of Wales’ best-loved breeds, has appointed Rob Allen as its new CEO and John Kirk as its chairman. ?

The society, based in Bronaeron near Lampeter, encourages the breeding and improvement of horses and ponies, particularly the Welsh breeds, and oversees registrations, licences, transfers, and exports.

Mr Allen, from Aberaeron, Ceredigion, has a background in management in the charity sector, holding various roles during 11 years at a regional substance misuse agency and between 2007 and 2001 was chairman of Drug and Alcohol Charities Wales.

The 49-year-old said: “I am delighted to be appointed the new chief executive officer of the Welsh Pony and Cob Society.?

“I look forward to meeting the members over the coming weeks and months and supporting the council in encouraging the breeding, improvement and promotion of the Welsh breeds across the United Kingdom and beyond.”

Mr Kirk, meanwhile, has been a member of the society for 40 years and has been vice-chairman on three occasions.

“It is an honour to be the new chair of the WPCS, following in the footsteps of the late Tom Hughes, and continuing with the good work that Tom did for the society. I am also pleased to welcome Rob Allen as the new Chief Executive Officer of the Society,” he said.