BLACKY the horse had a starring role in the funeral of his doting owner Beverly McDonnell.

Bev, who had a lifelong passion for horses, requested that her beloved horse play a key part in her funeral, which was held at Poole Crematorium yesterday.

Family and friends were urged to dress up in their party clothes and bring a carrot for Blacky.

Bev, of Avon Run Road, will be remembered for her “bubbly, strong and inspirational” personality, who was determined to stay positive and give hope to others.

An accomplished rider and trainer, the 32-year-old was devastated when doctors advised her to give up horse riding because of the strain it would place on her bones.

But she bought and decorated a carriage and started offering horse-drawn carriage rides along the beach to raise money for charity.

And she also managed to compete in this year’s New Forest Show, coming sixth in a strong field, and travelled to Birmingham for the Horse of the Year Show just a fortnight before she passed away.