It's always a joy to see our ex-racehorses thriving once they retire from racing.

Williewinamillion is a four-year-old gelding by Charm Spirit, who was bred at Minster Stud by the legendary jockey Willie Carson.

We bought him as a yearling from Tattersalls Sales in 2019 and he ran on the flat in 2020 and also on the flat and over hurdles in 2021.

His final race was at Sedgefield in September 2021, where he trailed in second last in the 'Cazoo Juvenile Maiden Hurdle' beaten 126 lengths.

Willie didn't have the speed to win a race and we took the decision to retire him and find him something else to do.

Charlotte contacted us looking for an ex-racehorse and her timing was perfect, as we had just decided to make Willie available for rehoming.

She fell in love with him immediately and shoirtly afterwards he left the yard to begin his new life.

The progress has been amazing. He's a wonderful riding horse and has also done some jumping.

Now named Wilbur, he is thriving off the track and Charlotte says, "He makes it easy and everyone thinks he’s an angel. He's coming along really nicely, so happy with how well he's taken to learning new things. He impresses me everyday, under saddle and snoozing."

Wilbur didn't win a race but off the track he's won plenty of hearts since his retirement and we hope Charlotte and Wilbur spend many happy years together.

Racehorses offer so much beyond racing. So next time you see a horse tailed off in a seller at Catterick just think what he or she could become when they embark on a new career!

You might be watching a future polo star, an eventing champion or even someone's new best friend.