SOME of the smallest horses in the world have arrived at a Burnley rescue centre -- and the colourful bunch have already made their mark on staff.

Five Falabellas, similar to Shetland ponies, arrived at HAPPA's Shores Hey Farm Rescue Centre, Briercliffe, last week.

The tiny horses came to the centre after their elderly owner couldn't look after them any longer.

The five young cuties, Rambo, Pedro, Barney, Wendy and Dandy, have fitted in well but are already keeping staff on their toes.

The little rebels are all stabled together and Anne Carter, head girl at HAPPA, said: "The five new residents have certainly added some character to the rescue centre.

"They are already finding their feet and keeping the staff on their toes.

"We are slowly introducing them to the fields to avoid any colic, having gone from very little grass to a field of grass.

"This is a bit frustrating to Rambo, because he just wants to eat all the field has to offer and we often find he's escaped to find the grass opposite his stable."

The miniature horses are certainly proving that size is no obstacle when it comes to character.

Pedro is the youngest of the gang and the naughtiest. He loves to keep the HAPPA staff alert by being cheeky.

Rambo is the smallest of the bunch but makes up for it with his appetite.

Meanwhile, Barney and Wendy are both quieter and love the attention of being groomed and loved while Dandy is the poser of the group, always the first to have his picture taken, according to the workers at the centre.

The Falabella is a miniature horse. Although there is no "standard height" in this breed, most stand below 34 inches.

The breed is often confused with Shetland ponies even though they are of stockier build and do not possess the Falabellas thick, silky coats or the good nature of the Falabellas.

Fundraiser Annette Brown added: "We have not got the Falabellas on our sponsorship scheme yet where people can sponsor a horse, but if people want they can send in donations or just come along to the centre to have a look at them all because they are really gorgeous."