I spotted these gorgeous rabbits at a show a few years ago and was captivated by their lovely colour and bright and breezy personality. The Thrianta is a Rare Variety which is becoming more popular both as a pet and a show rabbit. They are generally wonderfully clean and easy to keep and show, often needing very little attention before reaching the show table.

I was lucky enough to be given a superb breeding pair in 2002 by Steve Tolton of Tarax Stud. Steve's generosity is entirely responsible for my success with the breed. I only keep one show buck at a time, but all my bucks have been consistently placed in the challenges, resulting in my winning runner-up Best Fancy Member at both Didcot and Reading in 2004.

They are categorised as Fancy rabbits although many feel that they have more in common with rabbits in the Fur section. They certainly don't have an exceptionally long show life as their coats are at their best as young adults and much emphasis is placed on coat and colour. However, type is also important in the Thrianta and this tends to come to the fore as they mature.

I like shorter bodied, cobby, thickset animals and my breeding programme is working towards this.

Thriantas make charming pets for older children and adults. They are very active and intelligent, which means they must be kept occupied. They love to dig and explore their environment and, given half a chance, are great escapers! Bucks are particularly rewarding companions.