This impecably turned out Shire horse has just taken part in a Decorated Harness class. He has been rewarded for the hours of hard work and skilled presentation by his owner with several rosettes.  
 
There are two classes either the Traditional with horse brasses which were thought to ward off the evil eye or Regional style which can also include flowers, ribbons and wool.
 
Although there still seem to be many Shire horses around they are a Rare Breeds Survival Trust "at risk" breed.
 
This design is from my original acrylic painting by kind permission of the owner.  To learn more about Shire horses pop over to www.shire-horse.co.uk