considerably, until 1945, when a breeding "stallion enclosure" program and a grading-up system were started. The program was discontinued in 1970. In the affluent 1950s, riding for pleasure began to gain popularity, securing the future of many British native breeds. The number of ponies being registered with the Fell Pony Society has risen gradually. All Fell Ponies are registered through the society, with an annual stud book published each year. The society's patron was Queen Elizabeth II. See also Mountain and moorland ponies References External links The Fell Pony Society (United Kingdom) The Fell Pony and Countryside Museums, Dalemain, Cumbria, England Images of the Fell Pony and Countryside Museums at Dalemain, Cumbria, England Fell Pony Society and Conservancy of the Americas Fell Pony Society of North America Horse breeds originating in England Horse breeds Conservation Priority Breeds of the Livestock Conservancy Animal breeds on the RBST Watchlist