Did you belong to a pony club as a youngster, and compete in gymkhanas around Suffolk?

Sudbury Mercury: A gymkhana at Tollgate Riding Stables, Felixstowe, in October 1979A gymkhana at Tollgate Riding Stables, Felixstowe, in October 1979 (Image: Archant)

Or did you go along to watch the riders battling it out?

Sudbury Mercury: Young competitors at Barking Gymkhana in October 1968Young competitors at Barking Gymkhana in October 1968 (Image: Archant)

Our latest nostalgic picture gallery looks back to equestrian events around the county in the 1960s, 1970s and 1980s.

Sudbury Mercury: Ringshall gymkhana in April 1973.Ringshall gymkhana in April 1973. (Image: Archant)

One of the most unusual photos shows riders wearing fancy dress at Creeting St Mary Show and Gymkhana in August 1979.

Sudbury Mercury: Fancy dress outfits at Creeting St Mary Show and Gymkhana in August 1979Fancy dress outfits at Creeting St Mary Show and Gymkhana in August 1979 (Image: Archant)

And there are also pictures of proud winners showing off their rosettes and trophies after a successful ride.

Sudbury Mercury: Earl Soham Fete and Gymkhana in August 1970Earl Soham Fete and Gymkhana in August 1970 (Image: Archant)

The word "gymkhana" originally referred to displays of athletics and equestrian events in 19th-century India.

Events where horse and pony riders showed their skills went on to become very popular in the UK, and many were held around East Anglia over the years.

To order copies of photos, visit our website or call Diane Townsend on 01603 772449.


Sudbury Mercury: Eastern Harriers' gymkhana at the Suffolk Showground, Ipswich, in August 1964Eastern Harriers' gymkhana at the Suffolk Showground, Ipswich, in August 1964 (Image: Archant)