AN incredible horse with a strong constitution has proved himself to be one of Britain's top golden oldies.

Just Robin -- known as Robin -- galloped away with first prize in a national veteran championship.

The 27-year-old's excellent condition impressed judges at a regional show and owner Caroline Griffin was asked to send his portfolio to Super Solvitax R-A Formula national judges.

They placed him top in the 26-30 years category.

Proud Caroline, aged 31, has owned 16 hands 1ins Robin for ten years.

He was imported from Ireland, aged four, and served as a riding school mount for many years.

The gelding is still exercised five days a week and he loves summer shows.

Despite suffering several bouts of colic and coping with a pollen allergy, Caroline says he always bounces back to health.

The married Showell Grove resident said: "His character is similar to Seth Armstrong's from TV soap Emmerdale.

"He likes creature comforts but still plays the cheeky chappy."

Robin, an Irish thoroughbred/Irish draught, is stabled at a Copcut farm with Caroline's two other horses.

She added: "Robin proves older horses have so much to give.

"They don't need to be written off, they just need a little more care and consideration."

This year, Robin scooped three prizes at the Veteran Horse Society 2001 Championships and was a celebrity guest at the Horse of the Year Show, at Wembley Arena.

Caroline, now the Veteran Horse Society's national show co-ordinator, said the organisation is teaming up with Super Solvitax to run a joint 2002 veteran championship.

For details, call (01905) 621900.