My little pony: The tiny horse that wants a name for Christmas

[Guest guest]

But this little pony is 100 per cent natural - and ready to make friends

with anyone her size.

Born ten days ago at a stud in the southern state of , Australia,

the 15in miniature horse - which is yet to be named - has already formed a bond

with Sam Leith, 12.

Seeing eye to eye: The little horse has already formed a bond with

youngster Sam Leith

Going for a walk: Sam leads the way, followed by Bliss and her tiny new

daughter

Silver dun tovero in colour, she was given a clean bill of health - and

should reach 24in when grown.

The birth has generated such excitement in the community that local people

are entering a competition to give the horse a name in time for Christmas.

Owner Lee Scown said she wanted a name that reflected the tiny, unique

nature of the horse.

'It's the smallest horse I've ever had and she's so gorgeous,' Ms Scown

said.

The miniature horse snuggles up to mummy as local people try to come up

with a name for her

The horse, currently only a little taller than this book, is expected to

grow to about 24 inches

The horse is the smallest born at Riverdance and its arrival surprised

even its breeder.

'We got told the mare wasn't due for another four weeks but on Sunday

morning I walked outside and called her, and out ran the little foal behind

her.'

Tight squeeze: The horse is so small it can fit underneath her mother.