HORSING around will be positively encouraged in Tamworth this summer when around 40 steeds arrive to take part in a derby.

But these won't be any ordinary nags – they'll all be pantomime horses – and will all help to boost the funds of The Tamworth Pantomime Company.

Each horse needs to be made up of two people and the group are hoping plenty of horses will take part.

They are calling on clubs, pubs, schools and community groups to rustle up a homemade costume and enter the fun event to raise funds for future productions.

Organiser Ian Gibbons said: "I'm hoping the Tamworth Pantomime Horse Derby will become an annual fixture in the town's summer calendar, and what better year to start than a British Olympic year!

"It's all about people enjoying themselves and letting their hair down for a very good cause. Those taking part can of course hire a panto horse (or cow if that's what you want to do) but they do tend to be quite expensive.

"So we hope the creative types will make their own.

"Each panto horse taking part will be encouraged to get sponsorship. We're also hoping that a children's hobby horse race will feature on the day."

He added: "The annual pantomime which takes place at the Assembly Rooms brings a lot of fun and enjoyment to the whole community – not only for the cast, but for audiences young and old.

"But it costs a great deal to produce – each year we have to spend in the region of £8,000 to stage it. There's great pressure to raise such funding.

"The minute we finish one panto, we start on the next."

The date for the derby has not been finalised, but it will take place in the summer.

Ring secretary Tina McBain on 07572 452680.