New boy Archie did no put a hoof wrong when the Wadworth shire horses went on their holiday in Poulshot.

The three-year-old already stands 18.1 hands high but is still a baby in shire horse terms. But he acted like an old pro when he joined Max and Monty for the start of their two week holiday in the village near Devizes on Friday.

Marketing manager Paul Sullivan said everyone was keeping their fingers crossed that Archie would not play up in front of the huge crowd that gathered outside the Raven pub for the horses' arrival.

But he not only took to the busy gathering with aplomb he also enjoyed his first pint of Wadworth ale as is traditional at the start of the holiday each year.

Groom Hannah Miller said: "He has been a real star. We weren't really sure what to expect. He is very good in the yard but this was all a bit different for him."

Spectators were immediately taken by the big horse who showed off an elegant stride as he galloped around the field with Monty and Max.

The two older shires were a bit reluctant to let Archie join in their games but the new boy seem unfazed and enjoyed showing off to the crowd.

Miss Miller said: "He is beginning to know his place in the pecking order. Max is at the top but Monty is quite young in his ways and we think he and Archie will probably get along well given time."

Among those enjoying the spectacle was Helen Collier with her daughters Abigail, eight, and Samantha, five from Devizes. Mrs Collier said: "We have been coming for several years. The girls really enjoy it."

Wadworth head horseman Martin Whittle said that there was still a long way to go before the brewery would know if Archie will make the grade as a dray horse.

He said: "Archie is currently being schooled and broken in. His training will be a lengthy process. Archie must get used to everything from wearing a harness to pulling the dray and also working alongside Max and Monty."