HE WAS dubbed the nation’s favourite racehorse.

Legendary steeplechaser Desert Orchid captured the hearts of millions by notching up an impressive series of victories in races such as the Cheltenham Gold Cup and the Irish Grand National.

A bold but erratic jumper, the gallant grey was affectionately known as Dessie and even had his own fan club.

He was trained by David Elsworth at Whitsbury, near Fordingbridge, where stable staff celebrated his wins by retiring to the village’s only pub, the picture perfect Cartwheel Inn.

Photographs of the horse in action still adorn the walls of the ancient building, which recently re-opened after being closed for 11 months.

Since it started trading again the pub has seen customers old and new including legendary motor racing commentator Murray Walker, who lives a few miles away.

During the shutdown the popular watering hole was given a major facelift by its owners, Select Country Inns.

The manager, Paul Somerville, 49, said: “It’s lighter and airier. We’ve also got new tables and chairs but the pub has retained its olde-worlde character and still has a horsey feel.

“I’d describe it as a friendly pub with a warm, relaxed atmosphere. We’re dog-friendly and quite informal.”

Many of the customers come from the Fordingbridge area but the popular watering hole also draws people from other parts of the New Forest, plus places such as Poole.

Situated in one of the Forest’s smallest and quietest settlements the pub is currently closed on Mondays, Tuesdays and Wednesdays.

But Paul is aiming to make it a destination pub for foodies and is already welcoming groups of walkers and cyclists keen to sample its mouth-watering menu.

Some of the walkers are attracted by the prospect of completing a circular route which includes the 14th century St Leonard’s Church and historic Breamore House.

Completed in 1583, the Elizabethan manor house was the headquarters of General George Patton during part of the Second World War.