Neigh bother to Alex!

The stallion was overall winner of the Cawdor Cup at the National Stallion Show in Scotland last month.

There were 15 in the horse's class and a total of 50 showing.

Only four horses bred in Northern Ireland have scooped the prestigious gong since the competition's launch in 1947.

John Drummond brings his horse to stud at Alex's farm every year and it was this connection led to the birth of Bratlach Dillon last year.

At three months old the animal was sold to a Scottish owner.

But as breeder, Alex can take special pride in his input to producing a champion.

"Both the trainer and the breeder get awards so I received a silver cup," he said.

"I'm very, very proud. I've won competitions in Northern Ireland before but never one in Scotland.

"It means a lot and is something I'll always treasure."

The 65-year-old says he has been keeping horses since he was "a wain" and hopes for more success in the not too distant future.