VISITORS who flock to Poulshot each year to see the Wadworth shire horses go on their holiday will have a new four legged giant to admire next week.

For the team of Max and Monty have been joined by new boy Archie who is just three years old but already stands at 18.1 hands high.

Archie is still in training and has a long way to go before he is allowed out on the roads of Devizes pulling a dray.

But he is already a firm favourite with Wadworth staff. Marketing and stables administrator Tricia Hurle said: "He is really loveable. He is very friendly but he is still just a baby really. It is still too soon to tell how he is going to get on.

"It will be interesting to see what he makes of going on holiday next week. It will be his first time in a field since he joined us a few months ago."

Wadworth head horseman Martin Whittle said: "Archie is currently being what we call schooled and broken in. His training will be lengthy process – but one that is necessary to ensure he is fully prepared for work. Archie must get used to everything from wearing harness, to pulling the dray, and also working alongside his colleagues Max and Monty.

"The role of a Wadworth working shire isn’t for every horse – and not all make the grade; but early indications are that Archie has settled in really well. He’s very friendly and loves meeting the visitors that come to the yard.

"We’re hopeful he’ll be delivering on the streets of Devizes and become part of the show team at some point next year."

This week he joined Max and Monty at the New Forest Show to get some experience of travelling and new surroundings but he did not go into the parade ring with Max and Monty.

The three horses will arrive atThe Raven in Poulshot next Friday at around noon where spectators can greet them and see them try a pint of beer.

They will then be walked to a nearby field where they usually kick up their heels in delight at the freedom and treat the crowd to a magnificent display of horse power.

They will remain in the village for two weeks.