AN Alresford family which makes trinkets out of used gun cartridges has won an award for its trade stand at the Festival of British Eventing.

Parkers Cufflinks was named best small stand at the outdoor sports gala, one of 20 events the father-and-son duo are visiting this year.

Field sports enthusiast Will Parker, wife Kate and father Richard use old cartridges to make cufflinks, tie pins and jewellery from their base in Upper Wield.

“I am absolutely chuffed to pieces,” the younger Parker said. “It was completely unexpected and I am immensely happy - there is going to be champagne all round for the three of us.”

Parkers took the award, sponsored by the British Equestrian Trade Association (BETA), in its second year of business.

BETA executive director Claire Williams added: The “Best Stand Awards are a fantastic way for us to reward trade stand holders for all their hard work in producing an effective and attractive commercial environment that provides visitors with a high-quality shopping experience."